THE 2016 Thornbury Arts Festival got off to a fine start thanks to the relaxed, eloquent comedy performer Tim Brooke-Taylor providing the audience with a thoroughly engaging and entertaining evening.

Tim was ably presented and supported by his friend, the writer and broadcaster Chris Serle of That’s Life! fame, who provided the shape for a mostly autobiographical occasion revealing the realm of strands in Tim’s lengthy, varied and hugely successful career.

Their recollections and anecdotes were punctuated by hilarious archive television and film clips, possibly the finest being where Tim was cast in the role of Maggie Thatcher in The Goodies’ spoof version of Evita.

Audience participation, via questions composed during the interval, was welcomed and revealing. During this session, as throughout the entire evening, Tim’s gentle skill with pace and timing proved both admirable and enviable.

Sadly, many of the original recordings of The Goodies have not been saved but one felt that these festival-goers would clearly welcome return showings of the classics.

By Phyl Dykes