Roy Walker, the former host of the game show Catchphrase, led mourners at the funeral of Northern Irish comedian Jimmy Cricket, held Friday at Salford Cathedral in Greater Manchester. Among the notable attendees paying their respects were television personalities Tommy Cannon, of Cannon And Ball fame, and Syd Little, known for the comedy duo Little And Large.

Jimmy Cricket, whose real name was James Joseph Mulgrew, died at the age of 80 on August 3. His passing followed a brief period of ill health that led him to take a sabbatical from his tour. He had informed fans via his website that he was undergoing treatment and hoped to resume live performances in Autumn 2026.

A Career in Comedy

Born in Cookstown, County Tyrone, Jimmy Cricket began his career as a Butlin's Redcoat before achieving widespread recognition in the 1970s. He became known for his signature catchphrases, "And there's more!" and "Come closer!", and his distinctive style of wearing Wellington boots with the 'L' and 'R' on the wrong feet. He toured extensively with prominent artists, including The Osmonds and Brotherhood of Man, and comedians such as Paul Daniels and The Krankies.

His television credits include appearances on Bullseye in 1984, being the subject of the show This Is Your Life, and participation in the Comic Relief cover of "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)". His show "And There’s More" was produced by Central Television, and he also hosted a BBC Radio 2 series titled "Jimmy’s Cricket Team".

Tributes and Final Wishes

A statement released by Jimmy Cricket's family described him as a "devoted husband to May for fifty two years," a "wonderful dad to his four children," and a "very silly grandad" to his four grandchildren. The family noted his ability to bring laughter and happiness to countless audiences, both on stage, screen, and radio, as well as in person. They shared that he continued to tell jokes to NHS staff and his family until his final days, highlighting his "courage, dignity and positivity."

Jimmy Cricket, who was a Papal Knight of the Catholic Church, had a strong faith. The family's statement concluded by referencing his famous catchphrase, noting that while they could say "There’s no More," his belief in eternity meant "And there’s more."

Fellow comedian Freddie Davies, a longtime friend, recalled meeting Cricket when both were Butlin's Redcoats. He remembered Cricket as a "delight to work with" and a "true funny Bones comic, a throw back to Variety days." Davies last saw Cricket at a Ken Dodd memorial lunch in Liverpool in December, where he had the audience in "hysterical laughter."

Other notable figures attending the funeral included actor John Henshaw and comedian Stu Francis. John Linehan, known for his drag queen character May McFettridge, and Tracey, widow of comedian Les Dawson, were also present. Brian and Maxine Warner, formerly of The Lemon Tree Band, and comedian Katie Mulgrew were in attendance as well.