• Thu. Mar 28th, 2024

North East Connected

Hopping Across The North East From Hub To Hub

“Him off the Viz” conducts another ‘once only’ Toon bus tour

Simon and Paul IrwinA one off bus tour featuring a Tyneside comic book hero was so full of sniggers and snorts that it is to be repeated by popular demand.

Simon Donald of Viz fame teamed up with TyneIdols to tell the story of his career and the comic he helped to create in a brand new bus tour of Tyneside.

Around 65 lucky Viz fans boarded the bus in Newcastle and visited places associated with the comedian and the magazine’s history. Places visited included Simon’s childhood homes in Jesmond, the pub where the very first Viz Magazine was sold and places associated with some of the magazine’s most popular characters. There’s even a very special Sid the Sexist link too.

Two pubs associated with the magazine were also visited with one hosting a question and answer session with Simon about the magazine’s colourful past.

Paul Irwin who runs TyneIdols with ex Lindisfarne drummer, Ray Laidlaw was delighted at the success of the tour:

“Right from the start, the passengers on the bus were creased with laughter. Simon and Viz cartoonist Alex Collier were on top form in an informative and hilarious three-hour tour of the city. We’ve had so many positive comments and e-mails that we’ve had no choice but to run the second “once only,” Him off the Viz tour.

”It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the comedy culture of Newcastle and hear the Viz story from the man who helped to create it. It’s a great night out, especially if you’re not easily offended.”

The next tour will take place at 7pm on Wednesday 12th October from Bewick Street, Newcastle. Tickets are £15 and are available from Julie Clay on 0191 2531618.

By admin