Comic quits Masons over complaints

Jim Davidson has quit his Masons' lodge after causing offence with a string of dirty jokes at a ladies' night.

He said he was hacked of with the organisation after attracting complaints about his material.

The comic helped raised around £8,000 for the British Forces Foundation by performing a 20-minute routine to 850 people at the £70-a-head party in London's Hilton Hotel.

But his use of the F-word and choice of blacks and Jews as targets offended some of the guests.

Masons spokesman John Hamill told the Sunday Mirror: "There was an incident at the party and Jim was challenged about it.

"He has now apologised unreservedly to those concerned and resigned from the lodge in view of the embarrassment."

No one took issue with Davidson at the time, but seven complaints were later received.

Organiser Tony Chaperlin said guests should have known what to expect. "There was a little naivety regarding his act - people should know what the contents are by now," he said.

Davidson, who had been Worshipful Master of the Chelsea Lodge, said: People always complain about me but we had a brilliant night.

"A good time was had by all but I've had enough. I've got the hump with them so I resigned."

Published: 7 Jul 2002