It is with deep deep sadness that my Slapstick colleagues and I have learned of the passing of Tim Brooke-Taylor from COVID -19 related illness last night.

Tim was first and foremost a dear friend, both personally and to the Bristol Slapstick Festival. Tim’s passion, enthusiasm, love for classic comedy and, in particular Buster Keaton, meant that Tim and Slapstick Festival was a perfect pairing, with Tim becoming a Patron for us in 2008. Each year Tim would tell us that Slapstick was his favourite festival and expressed regularly how much he looked forward it. 

As one-third of the legendary comedy team The Goodies and through his work on such shows as I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue, Do Not Adjust Your Set, At Last the 1948 Show and more, Tim’s contribution to the history of comedy is notable and significant.

Tim first appeared at Slaptick in 2007 with Graeme Garden and has been a special guest almost every year since – appearing in and hosting countless events over the years. He was with us again in Bristol in January 2020, taking part in no fewer than four events with his usual enthusiasm, passion, charm and energy to the delight of full house audiences. 

Everyone involved with Slapstick joins me in sending sincere and heartfelt sympathies to his wife Christine, his family and friends. 

Given the present global situation, we are in the process of rescheduling our special fundraiser The Big Comedy Bash which was due to have happened at The Hexagon Reading on 29 April 2020.

We are discussing new dates with the same comedy stars who were booked to play the now-cancelled show, as well as some of the festival’s other celebrity fans, to present a rescheduled event towards the end of this year, hopefully in October and November.

We will announce the new date as soon as it is safe/possible. Watch this space for updates or keep an eye on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram feeds.

Thanks for your understanding and continued support.