The fourth annual ‘Best of British Comedy’ luncheon in aid of the Cinema and Television Benevolent Fund was held at B.A.F.T.A. Robert, who has served on the committee from the outset, enjoyed the company of George Layton, Liz Fraser, Valerie Leon, Barry Cryer, Amanda Barrie, Hattie Hayridge and Sanjeev Bhaskar. Rufus Hound proved a perfect master of ceremonies and the highlight of the cabaret was on-fire ventriloquist Paul Zordin. Here’s to next year!

The 4th birthday of Soho club Zebrandos, was celebrated with an invitation-only ‘Best of British’ party. The sweetest moment was the continual screening of Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels throughout the evening with Robert’s dear friend, Vera Day, being on screen when he walked in…having just enjoyed a lengthy lunch with her!

Robert journeyed to Retford in Nottinghamshire to guest at the second Telly Nation convention. Held in the historic hotel, Ye Olde Bell, it was a fun weekend spent in the company of old friends (Valerie Leon) and new (Cheryl Hall and Phil Rose), while all being held in aid of the very worthwhile charity S.T.E.P.S.

Robert travelled down to Brighton for the second Carry On convention at the New Madeira Hotel. Headliners were Bernard Cribbins, Kenneth Cope, Margaret Nolan and Albert Moses. Laughs, autographs and a quick gin ‘n’ tonic were fitted in before a hasty departure and further laughs with Bernard en route home to the home counties. Many thanks to Brett Trimble, Paul Stephen and the gang for splendid organisation.

After a long but enjoyable process of putting the production together, Robert settled down to record seven audio commentaries for the Madman DVD release of the classic 1970s situation comedy ‘Mind Your Language’. With writer Vince Powell, the ever stunning Francoise Pascal and fellow stars George Camiller, Ricardo Montez and Albert Moses it proved to be a hilarious and enlightening reunion. Thanks to engineer extraordinaire Andre Jacquemin, production assistant Henry Holland and everyone at Redwood Studios for making the day run so smoothly. The only downer on the day was that Arsenal lost to Fulham during the evenings pub-based fun!

The Heritage Foundation Garden Party at the home of chairman David Graham in a slightly damp but enjoyable Buckinghamshire. Familiar faces Liz Fraser, Philip Madoc, Vicki Michelle and Nina Baden-Semper mingled with friends of the foundation in an attempt to raise money and awareness for a permanent tribute to Bomber Command. A spitfire flyover bought gasps of amazement.

A grand day at Earls Court 2’s London Film and Comic Con marred only by the absence of Graeme Garden. Sadly, Graeme was severely delayed on a flight back from Menorca and couldn’t attend the signing. But Tim and Bill enjoyed the experience, being interviewed on stage by Robert and interacting with the weird and wonderful citizens of the LFCC. As usual the most surreal moments happened in the Green Room: thanks to the likes of Claudia Black, Christopher Lloyd, Margot Kidder and Peter Davison. Here’s to the next Showmasters event.

A reminder that Robert will be attending the London Film and Comic Con at Earls Court 2 on Saturday 19th July. An outstanding line-up of guests including David Warner, Charles Dance, John Hurt, Peter Davison, Sylvester McCoy and Christopher Lloyd, are joined by a full reunion of the Goodies. A talk with the legendary trio will be hosted by Robert from 11am while, in-between signing duties, an official photograph session will also take place.

Robert was a guest of the British Comedy Society, alongside Robert Lindsay, Zoe Wanamaker and other cast and crew, at an unveiling of a blue plaque to mark the 100th episode of popular BBC situation comedy ‘My Family’. Situated in Pinewood Studio’s Hall of Fame, the event was also attended by delightful BCS director Jenny Hanley. Hugs and laughs assured!

Robert is attending the ‘Bad Wolf’ convention in Birmingham this coming weekend; along with his Big Finish Doctor, Colin Baker, Fifth Doctor, Peter Davison, the Doctor’s daughter, Georgia Moffett, and many other great guests from Doctor Who and Torchwood. On Saturday 19th July Robert will be at the Earls Court London Film and Comic Con, representing those glorious Goodies Tim Brooke-Taylor, Graeme Garden and Bill Oddie.