Plaque unveiled in late Goon's honour

Showbiz friends have paid tribute to Sir Harry Secombe at the unveiling of a plaque in his honour.

Nicholas Parsons, John Inman and Bill Pertwee were among the celebrities at the event at the BBC Radio Theatre in London's Broadcasting House.

His plaque, provided by the Heritage Foundation, was placed next to that of Goon Show colleague Peter Sellers.

Sir Harry died from prostate cancer in April, at the age of 79.

Disgraced former minister Neil Hamilton also attended, with his wife Christine.

A service of thanksgiving is to be held for Sir Harry Secombe at Westminster Abbey on Friday.

The life of the former Goon, and presenter of religious show Highway, will be celebrated the service, which starts at 11am.

And a compilation of Sir Harry's songs, The Gold Collection, is released on CD on Monday.

The double album, released by Philips, contains 52 tracks - most of them hymns but also including I'm Walking Backwards for Christmas and the Ying Tong Song from The Goon Show

Published: 21 Oct 2001