Lenny Henry, Pavilion, Bournemouth

WHEN you grow up with Lenny as one of the most prominent comedians of your generation, you're reluctant to see him live. I thought it could only lead to disappointment.

I was worried for him. This man brought us Tiswas, created that bird-like "a-ah-a-ah" sound and is the face of Comic Relief. He's like your favourite uncle.

His stand-up observational comedy hasn't lost its originality, his characters as scarily convincing as they ever were and his impressions? Just plain daft!

Lenny was on top form, and the audience was with him every step of the way.

The front row was the butt of most of his jokes. His political, racial and religious gags were close to the knuckle, but not enough to cause offence.

Lenny had done his research. He said people from Christchurch were too posh to wee in the bath, commented on the Wave FM "spaceship" in the gardens and when two people arrived late, he asked if they'd ended up at The Pier and seen The Krankies.

Classic. Lenny Henry hasn't lost his touch. He knows where we're from.