KEN Dodd's shows were a festive tradition for many Bradfordians.

Doddy brought his variety show to the city most years leading up to Christmas, and early in his career he starred in the longest-running Alhambra panto, Jack and the Beanstalk.

In 2014, when the Alhambra celebrated its centenary, Ken wrote a message for the theatre that had a place in his heart: "I have had the pleasure of appearing at the Alhambra Bradford on many occasions in variety and pantomime. I’m proud of the fact that the 1959/60 Jack and the Beanstalk is the (Alhambra's) record breaking panto run. I remember giving out Easter eggs from the stage!"

Doddy's last Bradford appearance was in October 2017, when he brought his Happiness Show to the Alhambra, shortly before his death in March, 2018.

The much-loved entertainer is pictured here opening J Boardman's after John Street Market's in 1977. Crowds of fans turned out for the truly tattifelarius occasion.