The funeral service for beloved Northern Irish comedian Jimmy Cricket took place at Salford Cathedral in Greater Manchester on Friday, drawing a notable gathering of television personalities and close friends to pay their final respects. Jimmy Cricket, whose real name was James Joseph Mulgrew, passed away at the age of 80 after a period of ill health. He had previously announced a temporary break from his touring commitments to undergo medical treatment.
Tributes from Television Greats
Among the prominent figures attending the service was Roy Walker, the 86-year-old former host of the popular game show ‘Catchphrase’. Walker, known for his own catchphrase, was among the first to arrive at the cathedral. He was joined by other well-known entertainers, including Tommy Cannon, 88, one half of the iconic comedy duo Cannon and Ball, and Syd Little, 83, who formed the other half of the celebrated comedy pairing Little and Large.
Syd Little arrived with his wife Sheree, while Tommy Cannon was also seen making his way into the historic Salford Cathedral. The attendees were seen carrying funeral order of service booklets, which featured a smiling photograph of Jimmy Cricket, reflecting his enduring connection with his audience.
A Career Defined by Laughter and Catchphrases
Jimmy Cricket rose to national fame during the 1970s, becoming a household name with his unique brand of gentle, often surreal, comedy. He was instantly recognizable for his signature catchphrases, including “And there’s more!” and “Come closer!”. A memorable visual gag was his habit of wearing Wellington boots with the ‘L’ and ‘R’ labels on the wrong feet, a quirk that endeared him further to his fans.
His career spanned decades and multiple platforms. He toured extensively across the UK, sharing stages with major artists such as The Osmonds and Brotherhood of Man, as well as fellow comedians like Paul Daniels and The Krankies. His television show, “And There’s More,” was produced by Central Television, and he also hosted his own radio series for BBC Radio 2 titled ‘Jimmy’s Cricket Team’. Notable television appearances included an episode of ‘Bullseye’ in 1984, a segment on ‘This Is Your Life’, and participation in the Comic Relief cover of the hit song ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’.
Family’s Heartfelt Tribute
A statement released by Jimmy Cricket’s family following his passing conveyed their profound grief and celebrated his life. “Our beloved Jimmy has passed away this morning after a short illness,” the statement read. “He spent his last few days surrounded by his family, love, laughter and songs.”
The family highlighted his immense contribution to entertainment: “Jimmy brought so much laughter and happiness to countless audiences in his career over the years. Whether on stage, screen or radio, or if you met him in person as well. But that was nothing to the happiness he gave to his family.”
The tribute continued, painting a picture of a devoted family man: “A devoted husband to May for fifty two years. A wonderful dad to his four children and very silly grandad indeed to his four grandchildren… He was our greatest champion and loved us all loudly. He also just loved people and he absolutely loved being a stand up comedian. What a life he lived…”
His family also spoke of his remarkable spirit in his final days: “Forever our clown, he was cracking jokes to the wonderful NHS staff and to us all, right until the end… His courage, dignity and positivity through all he endured was inspirational. A force for joy, we are just all very sad that the world is a far less sillier place today…”
The family acknowledged his strong faith, noting his papal knighthood: “We were going to end by using his famous catchphrase and say, ‘There’s no More’. But Jimmy was a man of great faith and a Papal Knight of the Catholic Church… He believed that death is not the end and was looking forward to eternity, so really… And there’s more.”
Other Notable Attendees and Tributes
The funeral service also saw the attendance of other figures from the entertainment world. Comedian Stu Francis, known for hosting ‘Crackerjack’, was present. Actor John Henshaw, recognized for his role as Ken Dixon in the television series ‘Early Doors’, also attended. Tracey Dawson, widow of the late comedian Les Dawson, was seen arriving at the cathedral.
Fellow comedian Freddie Davies, a longtime friend of Jimmy Cricket, shared his memories. Davies, who first gained public attention on the talent show ‘Opportunity Knocks’ in 1964, recalled their long association. “Jimmy Cricket (James Mulgrew) was a dear friend and we were in contact many times over the years,” Davies stated. He mentioned their shared beginnings as Butlin’s Redcoats and how their paths frequently crossed throughout their careers. Davies recalled working with Cricket on ‘Snow White’ in 2014, describing him as “a delight to work with” and praising his “gentle comedy.” He fondly remembered Jimmy’s devotion to his wife, May, whom he affectionately called “Mrs. Cricket,” and their last meeting at a Ken Dodd memorial lunch in Liverpool, where Jimmy had the audience in stitches. Davies concluded, “He was a true funny Bones comic, a throw back to Variety days. I will miss you Jim, god bless you and RIP.”
A Life of Service and Honour
Born in Cookstown, County Tyrone, James Joseph Mulgrew began his entertainment career as a Butlin’s Redcoat. He achieved significant recognition in 2015 when he was awarded a papal knighthood by Pope Francis, one of the highest honours bestowed by the Roman Catholic Church. Cricket expressed his humility and honor at receiving this award, stating that he was “humbled and honoured” and considered it a blessing to receive an honour for doing what he loved.
He had informed his fans earlier in the year about his need for a health-related sabbatical and the commencement of treatment. In a message posted on his website, he wrote: “Hi there my friends. I have to take a little sabbatical for health reasons and have started treatment, so I hope to catch up with you all via live performances in the Autumn of 2026.” This message underscored his dedication to his craft and his anticipation of returning to live performances.
The funeral service at Salford Cathedral was a poignant occasion, bringing together colleagues, friends, and family to celebrate the life and legacy of Jimmy Cricket, a comedian who brought joy and laughter to generations.
