Series 1
Cannon and Ball first appeared on the show in Series 1 episode 6, aired 18th May 1974
The act is introduced by compere Bernard Manning as simply ‘Tommy Cannon’, who comes on and starts singing. Meanwhile Bobby is sat among the audience and starts waving and shouting Tommy, “That’s my pal, I’ve come to see him” – prompting a request for quiet from chairman Colin Crompton and Bobby getting heckled by members of the audience.
Eventually Bobby joins Tommy on stage – to further audience heckling. Their act continues, to the point of Bobby gaining the audiences sympathy when Tommy sends him away.
Bobby conducts the band while Tommy sings, and the act ends with the two dueting in the song.
The same show also featured Springfield Revival, Julie Rogers, Eric Delaney, Tina Townsley and The Bachelors.
Series 5
Cannon and Ball also appeared on the show in Series 5 episode 4, aired 5th June 1976
To begin with, Bobby acts as though he is shy, hiding in the wings before coming out.
He then claims to be a big fan of Tomys, asking for an autograph and a photo
After some stand-up, Tommy sings ‘He Ain’t Heavy’…
…during which Bobby falls asleep and is carried off.
This episode also featured three other 1976 Club Mirror magazine National Club Acts Awards winners: Mark Channing – Best Male Singer, Paul Daniels – Best Novelty Act and Pete Price – Best Compere
Series 6
Their final appearance was in Series 6 episode 6, aired 19th May 1977. In a change to the previous series, this one gave a single ‘star turn’ per episode.
Initial stand-up includes the duo interacting with the audience
Tommy upsets Bobby so he leaves
Before returning with his coat and bag
The final part includes Tommy helping Bobby to smarten up
The following article appeared in the TV Times, 4th June 1979, when the show was repeated.
DVD Releases
Series 1 was released on DVD in September 2009. | Series 5 was released in April 2012 | Series 6 was released in July 2013 |