Tickled, we were

I was saddened to learn of the death of Ken Dodd. His life over the years has really made people laugh and brought a great deal of joy to many. His career lasting over 70 years was a sign of the legacy that he leaves as a consummate professional who remained true to his Northern roots, dying in the same home he was born in.

With his tickling stick, wild hair and protruding teeth he was very distinctive. And who can forget the humour of his tax evasion trial where his barrister said “some accountants are comedians but comedians are never accountants”. Rest in peace Sir Ken, you will be missed. GORDON KENNEDY Simpson Square, Perth There are said to be only three group naturally funny groups of people in Britain – Liverpudlians, Glaswegians and London’s Cockneys.

One of the best known of the first group, Ken Dodd, arguably the last great music hall entertainer, followed the reverse path from his younger Glasgow equivalent Billy Connolly, going from standup comedy into singing.

He had a remarkably fine light baritone voice and his song Tears topped the UK charts for five weeks in 1965 and remains one of the UK’S all-time biggest selling singles.

His tax evasion case was hilarious and as it was held in Liverpool there wasn’t the remotest chance of him being convicted. I was pleased to see that the Establishment finally forgave him, awarding him a knighthood in the 2017 New Years Honours.

It was also delightful that he married his partner of 40 years two days before he died thus avoiding our brutal inheritance/death taxes. (REV DR) JOHN CAMERON

Howard Place, St Andrews