Jimmy James's sidekick was 91

Comic Eli Woods – best known as Jimmy James’s stuttering stooge – has died at the age of 91.

The comic, from Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham, performed sketches on the variety circuit, where he played on his thin, bony features and speech defect.

After James died in 1965, he tried a solo act in the clubs and in panto. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, he also starred in Eddie Braben's BBC radio comedy shows, which harked back to the music hall tradition.

Among those paying tribute today were Paul Daniels, who tweeted: ‘RIP Eli Woods from the Jimmy James brilliant comedy act.’

Fellow magician Pete Firman added: ‘Sad to hear Eli Woods passed away yesterday. I've always been a fan of The Box Sketch. RIP'

Here he is in is that sketch:

Published: 2 May 2014