The comedy stalwart has been entertaining since he turned professional in 1954 and the show at Mansfield Palace Theatre on 28th May is just one of his many stops in 2008.

After more than 50 years as a top entertainer, Ken says he still loves nothing better than making audiences laugh.

He says: "Laughter is the greatest music in the world, and people come to my show wanting to be entertained and to escape the cares and worries of everyday life for a couple of hours.

"They certainly don't want to be embarrassed or insulted with below the belt humour. They want to laugh and have a good night out – and so do I, which is probably why it works!"

Away from his hectic touring schedule, the 80-year-old Liverpool-born comic became the first recipient of the prestigious 'Living Legend' award from The British Comedy Society.

He has also received a Lifetime Achievement Award in the British Comedy Awards and has been voted 'The Greatest Merseysider' of all time – beating John Lennon and Sir Paul McCartney to top spot.

He's been a bill-topper throughout most of his career and has starred in numerous Royal Variety Shows and in sell-out record-breaking seasons at theatres like the London Palladium and Blackpool Opera House.

And on television and radio Ken has enjoyed success with countless series', been honoured in a special one-hour 'This Is Your Life' tribute, and seen his hugely successful 'An Audience With Ken Dodd' TV special become a best-selling and award-winning video.

Ken has achieved practically everything he set out to do in show business and life – but still refuses to give up the comedy circuit.

"I've never even thought about retirement. Why should I when I love every second of doing my job? Anyway, it's not really a job. I've been doing it for over 50 years now and it's more like a hobby, because I love it so much."

"As long as people keep coming to my shows and laughing their heads off and enjoying themselves, then I will continue touring this great country of ours. It's my love. It's my life and I enjoy every single minute of it.

Ken Dodd is performing at Mansfield Palace Theatre on 28th May from 7pm and for more information or any possible last minute tickets contact the venue directly on Mansfield 633133.