BAFTA-nominated entertainer Richard Digance appears in Oswaldtwistle on Sunday. He can sing, play guitar, tell stories and make his audience laugh — talents that make him a rare performer who is respected by comedians and musicians alike.

The well-known artist has supported Steve Martin, Robin Williams and played a guitar duet with one of the world’s best guitarists, Brian May of Queen — a performance that he will never forget.

Richard’s loyal following confirms his wide appeal; from the younger generation attracted by his guitar playing and the fact he has inspired many of today’s comedians, to the fans who have followed him since his own ITV series graced TV screens, and even further back to his folk club days.

“I never really liked showbiz,” he said. “I liked music and wasn’t interested in TV, but I had to appear on gameshows because it was in my contract and financially it was very rewarding.

His work has been recognised with awards from both the music and entertainment industries including a Gold Award from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters.

Richard’s also known for being one of the most regular guests on Countdown’s Dictionary Corner — he was even on the shortlist to host, after the death of Richard Whiteley.

“When I was 60 I said I was going to go back to do what I wanted to do when I was 20,” he said.

“I yearned for my own crowd and it’s nice to be back performing as a one-man show.

“I never dreamed my career would go as it has done. I didn’t want a proper job that’s why I started to play the guitar.

Richard, who is included in The Virgin Anthology of Songwriters for his contribution to British comedy songwriting, cites his influences as Steve Martin and Billy Connolly — and has had the pleasure of working with them both.

“Steve Martin taught me how to slay an audience in five minutes,” he said.