STEEPLEJACK Fred Dibnah's come a long way since the days he trundled around the streets of Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley, toppling the factory chimneys of our industrial past.

Character and steam fanatic Fred is to recall the hilarious stories from his career on stage.

My dad recalls fearless Fred sinking a few in the Victoria on Ben's Brew then scaling J and J Heyes' chimney without batting an eyelid. Of course that was before the days of health and safety laws.

Now a celebrated TV documentary maker and author he is to star in "An Evening with Fred Dibnah" at the Opera House, Manchester, on Saturday, October 18.

I'm sure his appealing down to earth personality, unique sense of humour and brilliant storytelling will guarantee a successful and entertaining evening. I just love him.