A little clown’s talents revealed
Above: The many faces of Reg Varney, by cartoonist SPARK After the revised edition of Fairlynch Museum’s publication The Budleigh Salterton Railway, something rather different. Work is in progress on a souvenir booklet which will accompany next year’s centenary exhibition to mark the birth of entertainer and former Budleigh resident Reg Varney. With a Foreword by the Museum’s Patron Lord Clinton, the booklet will cover more than just the comedy actor’s successes in shows like ‘The Rag Trade’ and ‘On the Buses’. Born in Canning Town, in London’s East End, Reg Varney first made his name as a pianist and singer in working men’s clubs and cinemas. He is seen here, aged 15, in a gypsy costume made by his sister Bella in preparation for his first public performance at the Plumstead Radical Club in south-east London. His secret ambiti...