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Ken Goodwin

Blue Collar Rat


Rats Register No. 747. Initiated on 17 November 1985

Proposer: Wyn Calvin. Seconder Clive Stock

Water Rat Ken Goodwin was born in Manchester on 7th April 1933. Standing well over six feet he could have found fame as a goalkeeper for Manchester City F.C. had not injury changed the course of his life.

Ken started his Show-biz career in what he called 'The Killing Grounds' of the Northern club scene, a daunting prospect for any fledgling comedian. Few would have guessed that, one day, this likeable lad would be voted 'Comedian of the Year' and be awarded the supreme accolade of appearing before Her Majesty the Queen.

Although he made a winning appearance in 'Opportunity Knocks', his first big break came with the Television programme 'The Comedian', a popular series that produced many of today's top comedians and which is still being shown regularly on Granada satellite TV. From that point on there was no looking back. Ken went on to top the bill at the London Palladium for three months. He appeared in two Royal Command Performances and was also invited to perform privately for the Royal Family at Buckingham Palace.

Apart from his natural, gentle art of comedy, Ken's singing and 'George Formby' style of ukulele accompaniment made him a favourite with the summer holiday audiences up and down the country.

Ken also made five records and spent many happy hours singing with the BBC Radio Orchestra. His travels took him to Nairobi, Hong Kong, Australia and on QE2 cruises. Whilst in Australia, Des O'Connor invited him onto his TV show which was repeated later as one of the funniest interviews of the year. He also entertained the soldiers, widows and relatives on the Falklands pilgrimage.

Ken and his wife, Vicki moved to Spain where he continued to work selected cabaret venues and straight acting. He appeared in the BAFTA Award winning film 'Treacle'. He also did a U.K. tour of 'No Sex Please, We're British'.

Due to ill health Ken was forced to retire and with Vicki they returned to their beloved Wales and Llandudno.
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