Comedian Richard Herring has been described as “one of the leading hidden masters of modern British comedy”. Famously one half of “Lee and Herring” with Stewart Lee, Herring was a regular feature on TV, radio and stage during the 90s.

Since ending his partnership with Lee, Herring has written a number of books, writes a popular daily blog which is now 7 years old, has a popular podcast with 6 Music presenter (and other twitterview interviewee) Andrew Collins, and is currently enjoying success with his “Hitler’s Moustache” Edinburgh comedy show.

What came first the ‘tache or the idea for the ‘tache show? And why?

The idea was 1st. I am not sure quite how it came about, but started wondering why tache had taken rap for Hitler and if that could change.

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John Thomson is probably best known for his roles in the hit TV shows “The Fast Show” and “Cold Feet”, but his career has also seen him appear alongside Steve Coogan in “Knowing Me, Knowing You … with Alan Partridge”, “Coogan’s Run” and the film “24 Hour Party People” – the pair also won the Perrier Comedy Award for their act at the Edinburgh Fringe in 1992.

His role as Pete Gifford in “Cold Feet” led to a Best Tv Comedy Actor nomination, and his “Hobson’s Choice” stage role earned him an award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. After a guest stint on “Coronation Street” in 2008, John has returned for a six month contract on the Street.

You turned down a scholarship in the US to study at Manchester – what do you think you’d be doing if you had accepted?

I turned down a drumming Scholarship in the states ,so if I had taken it I’d be drumming, rather than acting for a living.

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Gail Porter first came to public awareness via her television presenting work on such programmes as “Fully Booked”, “The Movie Chart Show” and “Live and Kicking”. She shot to even greater heights after she began to pose for photos for mens magazines such as FHM, including a shot of her nude from behind that was beamed onto the side of the Houses of Parliament as a PR stunt.

Since 2005 Porter has suffered from Alopecia causing her to lose much of her hair, which she refused to hide with a wig but instead became a prominent figure in raising awareness of the condition. Her autobiography was published in 2007.

Wikipedia says you tried to join Blue Peter? True? Who got the job instead of you?

I went for an audition for blue peter but I didn’t make it. Quite glad as it was a bit too goodie goodie for me.

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