Bobby Thompson DVD ad banned

A TV advert to promote legendary North-East comedian Bobby Thompson has been banned - because he is seen smoking in the footage. The comedian, who was known as "the little waster", was famed for his flat cap, his broad pitmatic and his trademark cigarette. But an advert to promote a DVD using old footage of shows has now fallen foul of advertising rules, which bans cigarettes and smoke.

'Little Waster' tribute on its way to the Tyne Theatre

Bobby Thompson's woodbine smoking 'Little Waster' alter ego became a folk hero across the North East, yet hid a man troubled by drink, gambling debts and the tax man.

Performed expertly by Pete Peverley, a stage show celebrating his life is coming to the Mill Volvo Tyne Theatre in Newcastle on Thursday 30 October.