Graham McCann's biography, Frankie Howerd:Stand-Up Comic, has now been published by Fourth Estate, price £18.99. Drawing on previously unseen material from the BBC archives, and new interviews with Eric Sykes, Galton and Simpson and others, the book chronicles the many setbacks and comebacks experienced by the much-loved comedian, and also analyses and celebrates his special art as a distinctive stand-up comedian.

As with his previous books on Morecambe & Wise and Dad's Army, McCann treats his subject with genuine affection and respect, backing up his account with exhaustive research and well-chosen quotes from Howerd's classic routines. For any fans of Frankie Howerd who have been irritated and angered by all of the gossipy stories and studies since his death, this book represents a refreshingly honest, accurate and respectful antidote.