Tributes paid

Lee Evans dad Dave – a former nightclub comic in his own right – has died.

Fellow entertainers paid tribute online. ventriloquist Steve Hewlett called him ‘a true variety, musical & comedy legend’.

Comic  Jeff Stevenson said: ‘ Dave was one of the funniest characters in the business and in my opinion should have had his own series for many years. He was what I call a proper pro.

Dave had been unable to perform for the past seven years due to health problems. And last month, he started a fundraising page to gather cash for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation.

Lee spoke about his father in 2012 when he announced his retirement from stand-up. He told Jonathan Ross: ‘My dad always said to us, "You’ve got to work," so I’ve just continuously worked, done comedy, toured, but I’ve ignored, I think for far too long, my missus, and I want to spend a lot more time with her. I’m a nightmare to live with because I’m always working."’

Here is Dave in a 1980s TV appearance:

Published: 10 Jun 2019