Wilfred Pickles (1904–1978)

What a delight to discover this autobiography of the actor and BBC Radio personality Wilfred Pickles (1904-1978) in an unassuming charity shop in the south of England a couple of years ago.

The book covers Halifax-born Pickles' life from childhood in the years immediately before the first World War, via elocution lessons and amateur dramatics, to Southport and marriage to Mabel Myerscough, then on via a series of contracts and an announcer's job at the BBC, first in Manchester then, during the second World War, London, where he became famous for reading the news in a northern accent.

That is followed by a much longed-for return to the north of England and Manchester, and a move back to Pickles' first love - the stage. Then, finally, Pickles is able to combine all his talents hosting the BBC radio programme for which he became world famous all over again - the quiz show "Have A Go", which featured interviews with ordinary folk going about their daily lives.

Pickles relates some interesting, behind-the-scenes tales from the programme, and includes some letters which grateful listeners sent him. One of the most moving of these, from Jeanette Linkova of Czechoslovakia, is reproduced in full on pg. 179. Given that the letter is tucked away here, it's quite possible that Linkova's descendants have never seen it. So, if you read this review and you know the family, you should draw their attention to Pickles' book.

In fact, this autobiography is rich in references to the people Pickles grew up with and met during his life, and anyone seeking to plot the author's life or family tree will find much reference material here.

This was a surprising, good and nostalgic read. It may not suit everyone, but I reet enjoyed it!… (més)