Johnny ball

Johnny Ball inspired thousands through his children’s TV career. He was one of the hosts of BBC’s Play School from 1967 onwards and a regular fixture on kids TV throughout the 1970’s and 80’s with science and technology programmes including Think of a Number and Johnny Ball Reveals All.  But it didn’t all start that way.

From watching the comedian George Formby when aged 11, Johnny cut his performing teeth as a Butlins Redcoat before joining the Northern Club circuit and going on to tour Singapore and Aden with Harry Secombe and Mombasa with Pan’s People.

In his new memoir, Johnny talks about an extraordinary career, his encounters with The Beatles, Roy Orbison, The Bee Gee’s and Ken Dodd, and helping start Freddie Starr’s career. Plus the time the Duke of Edinburgh suggested a wife swap (and he’s got the pictures to prove it…).