The Hippodrome Theatre in Halifax Road, which is owned by Todmorden Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society, hosts its Centenary Celebration Old Time Music Hall on Friday, September 26, and Saturday, September 27, and have secured the Rochdale-based comedian to top the bill.

Cricket, who is originally from Northern Ireland, appeared in the original BBC television series of the Good Old Days, the hugely popular programme which reprised the heyday of when theatres were a "palace of varieties".

The theme fits in perfectly with the Edwardian theatre's aim of featuring, during its 100th year, entertainment of every sort which has appeared there over the last century.

The famous mis-shapen hat which forms part of Jimmy's image was given to him for the Good Old Days and he was regularly on television through the 1980s with his own show. He says the theatre is close to his heart and a vital part of live entertainment.

A spokesman for TAODS said they were delighted Jimmy Cricket, who still works a hectic schedule, had agreed to appear and send a message of support for the theatre ahead of the September show.

"It is a great opportunity for our own members to work alongside such a long standing professional artist. We are thrilled to have a comedian whose humour is so infectious and appeals to all ages.

"His support for our theatre is a welcome bonus. Note that this is only a two day event and we anticipate that tickets will be in great demand so please reserve them in good time," said the spokesman.

The show is one of several events in the next few weeks as the theatre approaches its 100th birthday date, beginning with next week's production of The Diary of Anne Frank, then the Music Hall event at the end of September before the Hippodrome Centenary Open Day which will be on Sunday, October 5.

Tickets for all events can be reserved by contacting Sylvia on the box office telephone number 0870 770 5681.

Jimmy has sent his own message of support to the theatre and says he is very much looking forward to the Music Hall event.

He said: "Hi folks, It's me Jimmy Cricket - come closer! I want to say a big Happy 100th Birthday to the Todmorden Hippodrome, and to say how thrilled I am to be part for the anniversary show. But I know why they booked me, some of my jokes are 100 years old! Hey don't knock it. I'm doing my bit for the environment, I'm recycling old gags.

"But let's get back to the star of this tribute - The Hippodrome itself and the stories that building could tell.

"Theatres like the Hippodrome are in the community's DNA. It has helped them through two world wars and reflected the change in society. I can imagine it packed to overflowing in the thirties and forties with the stars of the day. I bet there is people today who remember going to the Hippodrome as a child with their folks and being enthralled.

"You see to me the theatre is the most tangible part of the entertainment world.