Dodd started his career as a ventriloquist - and indeed still uses the Dicky Mint dummy in his act.

However, his success came through his exaggerated on-stage persona - the manic hairstyle, protruding teeth and, of course, trademark tickling stick - combined with a relentless stream of one-liners, peppered with nonsense words like 'tattifilarious', that can - and do - entertain audiences for hours.

He built his reputation as a live performer on the variety stage, and famously logs audience reactions to jokes every night, building up a picture of what plays well where.

His career was boosted with appearances on TV, often just guest roles, but his bizarre appearance would always stick in the mind. He also has a penchant for sickly ballads, as well as his signature tune Happiness, recording several albums of love songs and notching up 19 top 40 hits, including the 1965 chart-topper Tears.

Dodd became embroiled in a tax-dodging case in the Eighties, and was eventually cleared, but the case revealed much about Dodd's eccentric private life, too.

CV

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I took my wife and mother to see Ken at The Lowry in Manchester last Sunday, and although he was looking his age at 79 and a little tired, He gaves us the funniest 4 hours of entertainment we have seen in a long time. Our ages range from 25 to 57 and is humour was universal and loved by all. God bless you Ken, the Greatest Diddyman of all

Jason and Faye, June 2006

I went to see Ken Dodd on Boxing day, and my main impression was how old fashioned the whole experience was. Most of his material seemed to date back to a time well before I was born, something that was particularly apparent in his very traditional, coy use of innuendo. I understood a lot more about the era he came from as a result, but I wouldn't call it great comedy

Michael, April 2006

I discovered Ken during a wet weekend in Australia, staying with English friends. I was flabbergastered and amazed at his wit and natural British hilarity, such a talent. I can't get him out of my mind. I love him already.

Rosalie Tasker, March 2006

I went to see Ken Dodd at the Parr Hall Warrington. He started at 7.30 and we were still laughing well after midnight. Where I was sitting I could see that off stage were lots of props still unused. He could have gone on all night, and probably would have. The best value for money I have had in a long time. Keep it up Ken

John Newall, March 2006

There is only one word to describe Ken Dodd - brilliant! He is one of the few comedians who can perform for hours without a rude word passing his lips. There is plenty of innuendo, but as someone once said, it's all in the mind. Doddy suits all ages - my ten year old granddaughter laughs at him too. It's incredible to realise he will be 80 next year. don't suppose I shall ever go to one of his shows again, as I now live in Orkney, but I shall certainly take it if the opportunity presents itself

Kathy Danby, February 2006

As I now live in exile in the USA I really do miss the comic genius of Ken Dodd and for that matter his wonderful singing voice

Curmudgeon, February 2006

A genius! A man who had dedicated his life to making people laugh. God bless you Ken and thanks for sharing your gifts with us.

Gary Weston, January 2006

The funniest man on earth

Hannah Ward, January 2006

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