Comedy legend Frank Carson to be honoured with blue plaque at former Belfast school
The much-loved comedian behind the catchphrases 'It's the way I tell them' and 'It's a cracker' will be remembered at the school where his remarkable story began.
Belfast comedy legend Frank Carson is set to have the last laugh as a blue plaque celebrating his extraordinary life is unveiled at his former school.
The much-loved funnyman, famous for his catchphrases "It's the way I tell them" and "It's a cracker", will be honoured at St Patrick's National School in the Northern Ireland capital. The tribute, organised by the Ulster History Circle, comes on the 100th anniversary of Carson's birth and celebrates a man who brought laughter to millions during a career spanning five decades.
Carson became a household name through television favourites including Opportunity Knocks and Tiswas, winning legions of fans with his unmistakable Belfast humour and lightning-fast one-liners. Born Hugh Francis Carson, he died aged 85 at his home in Blackpool in 2012 following an illness.
His funeral in Belfast attracted huge crowds, with mourners paying tribute to the comic described as the "prime minister of fun". Now his family say the blue plaque will bring him back to the city where it all began. His son Tony said: "For the Carson family, this blue plaque brings dad back home, fixing his legacy where Hugh Francis Carson's story began." He added that his father had helped people laugh together through Northern Ireland's darkest years, taking Belfast wit to audiences around the world.
Playwright and performer Dan Gordon, who created the one-man show Frank Carson – A Rebel Without A Pause, said the comedian had thoroughly earned the recognition. He described Carson as a cornerstone of comedy for 50 years, whose career took him from performing on Blackpool Pier to the London Palladium and Royal Variety shows. Gordon also recalled fellow comedian Spike Milligan's cheeky description of Carson: "The difference between Frank Carson and the M1 – is you can turn off the M1."
Chris Spurr, chairman of the Ulster History Circle, said Carson had delighted millions with his comic timing while raising money for charitable causes. The organisation thanked Belfast City Council, St Patrick's Parish and the Carson family for helping make the tribute possible.
A century after his birth, Belfast is ensuring one of its funniest sons will never be forgotten.