Today’s speaker was Malcolm Johnson. He was scheduled to talk about the 1970s but the committee considered asking him to give this talk at the 50th Anniversary dinner. Instead he talked about 1950s Children’s Favourites.
Malcolm apologised but he had brought his notes for the 1970s talk so was having to extemporise. He said he was pleased to see so many members, not used to taking to a 40+ audience. He praised the club for its welcome and organisation.
Children’s Favourites began in 1952 on the Light Programme and was on air from 5 past 9 for 50 minutes, stopping in time for “Thought for the Day”. The signature tune was “Puffin Billy” which when Malcolm played it was instantly recognised by everyone.
The same can be said about all the other tunes that Malcolm listed, together with the singer, including some biographical notes, and an airing of the song. Even 60 years later, members were remembering the words and singing along.
For example, Nellie the Elephant, The Teddy Bears’ Picnic, The Banana Boat Song. Incidentally, Malcolm related how playing the Banana Boat song for his grandson resulted in the question “Why was the song about the Taliban? (Come Mr Tallyman, tally me banana)”.
Malcolm also included songs featuring cartoon characters such as Sylvester and Tweetie Pie, the theme tunes from Western series such as “Champion the Wonder Horse” and comedy songs like the “Ying Tong Song” by the Goons.
He ended his talk by playing “Don’t Jump of the Roof Dad” by Tommy Cooper whilst wearing a fez and conducting everyone in the chorus.
A thoroughly enjoyable trip back in time.