Legendary Leeds comic Barry Cryer has OBE has sadly passed away, aged 86.
The Yorkshire writer and comedian, best known for his work wtih Morecambe and Wise, David Frost and The Two Ronnies, had also been a fixture on the panel of BBC Radio 4 show I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue since it began in 1972.
The circumstances surrounding his death are currently not known, including the cause.
Throughout his career, he worked with icons like Bruce Forsyth, Bob Hope, Spike Milligan, and the aforementioned Two Ronnies, and wrote a number of episodes for Doctor in the House, the 1969 TV comedy starring Simon Cuff and Barry Evans.
Born in Leeds and educated at the local grammar school, he then went on to continue his studies here - reading English Literature at the University of Leeds.
Having appeared in the University revue, he was then offered a week's work at the Leeds Cities Varieites theatre. At the time, the theatre was the home of iconic show The Good Old Days, which ran for 30 years from 1953 to 1983 - becoming the longest-running TV show of all time.
After learning his first-year results, however, Cryer left Leeds and university life for London -where he began his career at London’s Windmill Theatre after making an impression on Vivian Van Damm.
A short stint as an actor at the theatre ended rather promptly after several hospitalisations, caused by eczema, led to Cryer being released from his contract - at which point he decided to focus his attentions on writing over performing.
He went on to become a regular collaborator with David Frost, writing for The Frost Report from 1966 and 1967, a move that cemented him as a name to watch in the world of writing.
However, despite being a recognised talent, he mostly preferred to write in partnership and collaborated regularly with John Junkin. Together, the pair wrote two Christmas specials for The Morecambe and Wise Show, which aired in 1972 and 1976.
He also acted as a host on the ITV comedy panel show Jokers Wild between 1969 and 1974, and even had a hit song in Finland - with a rendition of Sheb Wooley’s 1958 novelty song Purple People Eater taking the number one spot in the charts the same year.
He married his wife Theresa in 1962 and is survived by four children - one of whom he launched a WW2 podcast called Now, Where Were We? with, shortly prior to his death.
As the news has broken, there has been an outpouring of emotion from friends, family and fans, with famous names including Stephen Fry, Piers Morgan, Jon Holmes and Richard Herring all taking to social media to pay tribute to the great man, his life and his work.
Richard Herring wrote: "Losing Barry Cryer is like losing a member of the family. Utterly gutted that I’ve had my last birthday joke.
"He was one of my absolute comedy heroes and kept working right to the fucking end. A life well lived and a connection to every great comedian of the last 60 years. RIP."
He later tweeted, "He made me laugh so much that I suppose it's only fitting he should finally make me cry."
Stephen Fry said: "Such sad news, one of the absolute greats of British comedy, Barry Cryer, is no more. A glorious, gorgeous, hilarious and gifted writer and performer who straddled all the comic traditions. Universally beloved … farewell, Baz."
The North is full of amazing artists, and we’re spotlighting one every single month – it's time to go 'Rollin' with Cole LC
Leeds' own Cole LC has got very far doing his "little music thing" and has seen him reach all new heights as his upcoming project suggests with its title West Yorkshire to Westend Show
This musician has built a pretty distinctive artistic style that fuses rap, all while making sure his West Yorkshire identity was kept in the forefront.
That's because, all of Cole's visuals have been filmed across the city at some pretty recognisable spots like Kirkgate Market, City Varieties and Belgrave Music Hall.
So far, this local lad has captured the attention of music lovers with songs like 'Westbrook' and 'Your Tings My Ting' both having over one million streams.
Now, Cole LC sits down to talk all about being Audio North's ‘Artist of the Month’ and shares more teasers about his highly-anticipated EP.
An interview with Cole LC - Audio North's Artist of the Month
Audio North's Artist of the Month: Cole LC | March 2026 / Credit: Supplied via Press shots
What can we expect from your upcoming EP?
This is my first big release in quite a while after the release of Favourite Version in 2023 and I've done a lot of growing. I started writing last Summer when I was going through a tough period but it's gone onto create some of my best songwriting stories. It's a one big note to self that I hope helps other people out.
What is it like being a Northern independent artist?
I grew up in Roundhay with my family and Leeds as a city has had a monumental impact on what I do as an artist. By being close to the city centre, it has allowed me to be exposed to different types of music, soaking up all these genres has helped influence what I do now.
How do you think Leeds is shaping the UK music scene?
This city is a big credit to music and it's a testament to the musicians of Leeds having that talent but also being hardworking. It's also about authenticity and that's what we've got. The climate of music in general is very intense and there's lots of competition but the sheer talent here in Leeds makes it impossible for us to go unnoticed.
Cole LC has played a key part in Leeds' music scene / Credit: Supplied via Press shots
Who are some up and coming artists you're checking out?
Ellur and you spell it "Ell-uh" because she's from Bradford. She's an Alt-pop artist who I've been listening to a lot. I've also loved Charlotte Plank, especially her latest single 'crybby blue'. There's even Aaron Rowe who supported Lewis Capaldi.
What does a performance day look like for you?
I don't have a specific routine before a show. Practicing my lyrics is a big one and having a mint tea too.
What is your ultimate dream musically?
I'd love to perform whenever I like and just know people would be there and support me. I'd love the financial freedom to be able not worry and creative new tracks whenever whereever I want. Music is so powerful and speaks to everyone, I want to keep improving my quality and progress.
If you could collaborate with anyone who would it be?
Probably Justin Bieber because of how much I love him, he's the greatest of all time, he just is. When I was 14 I was so fuming watching him and seeing how good he is, I thought he'd put be out of a job forever. He has some unreal albums.
What's next for Cole LC?
I can guarantee you new music every single month for 2026. I know a lot of people have been getting in touch regarding a headline show so I'm hoping to organise a gig. I'm also going to make sure I keep the connection with people who enjoy my music whether that's in person or online.
A popular Caribbean street food restaurant is coming to Leeds this spring
Clementine Hall
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
The Hoot -
27th January 2022 
