ALL joke-tellers know that the old ones are the best - and Sydney Smith, 85, is no exception.

Syd, a comedian and singer, is through to the north of England final of the Whitbread Senior Citizens' Talent Contest.

He was one of 11 finalists due to perform yesterday (Wednesday) in front of a capacity audience at Morecambe's Dome theatre.

A top prize of £150 and the chance to go through to the national final were on offer to the winner.

Great-grandfather Syd, of Carradice Close, Nelson, told the Citizen: "I tell a few jokes and sing two songs, I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen, and I'll Give The World To You.

"I get a bit nervous before I go on stage, but I love doing it."

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