subsequently on the nationwide BBC Light Programme, then television (with ITV, produced by ABC Television in their Manchester studios) from 1963. During the 1940s, Clitheroe appeared in pantomime and summer season dates, and in films, with stars of the day including Arthur Lucan (as Old Mother Riley), George Formby, Vera Lynn, and Frank Randle. In 1959, Clitheroe was invited to take part in the Royal Command variety show, in the presence of the Queen Mother. His long-running radio programme on the BBC, The Clitheroe Kid, was broadcast from 1956 until August 1972. His catchphrase was "Don't some mothers 'ave 'em!" Two versions of the radio series were produced for television on the ITV network: That's My Boy! (which ran for seven episodes in 1963), and Just Jimmy (which ran for 5 years, between 1964 and 1968). Mollie Sugden, who had worked with Clitheroe in his stage shows, played his mother in the latter series. Clitheroe owned a bookmaker's shop on Springfield Road, Blackpool, and the Fernhill Hotel at Preesall. He appeared on the Blackpool stage from 1936 until 1971. In September 1972 The Clitheroe Kid was cancelled by the BBC after a 16-year run. Personal life From 1960 onwards, Clitheroe lived in a bungalow, 118 Bispham Road in Blackpool with his mother, to whom he was devoted. His father had died on 9 January 1951, from complications arising from injuries sustained in the First World War. Jimmy was godfather to co-star Diana Day's daughter. She named her son James after him. Clitheroe himself never married. For many years he drove a Mercedes car, with blocks on the pedals, adapted by mechanic Michael Darbyshire so that his feet could reach them. Appearing to be an underage driver, he could seldom complete a journey without attracting the attention of the police. Illness and death On 30 March, 1973, Clitheroe collapsed in his hotel room in Plymouth, while touring in a variety show, and spent four days in hospital. Jimmy Clitheroe died on 6 June, 1973 from an accidental overdose of sleeping pills, combined with seven brandies, on the day of his mother's funeral. He was found unconscious in bed by relatives, and died later that day in hospital in Blackpool. His mother had died five days before, aged 84. His funeral was held at Carleton Crematorium, Blackpool, on 11 June 1973, where for many years he was commemorated by a plaque attached