A century after Reg Varney’s birth, an East Devon seaside town is celebrating the life and achievement of one of Britain’s best-loved comic actors.

Exmouth Journal: Reg in 'The Boltons Revue'Reg in 'The Boltons Revue' (Image: Archant)

The On The Buses star retired to Budleigh Salterton after a showbiz career, that began with his performances as a 15-year-old in the working men’s clubs of London’s East End, singing and playing the piano and accordion.

In July, Budleigh residents are planning a two-night celebration of Varney’s early life in the 1930s.

It comprises a show featuring Reg’s favourite songs and hits of the time. Stories from the actor’s own life, based on his autobiography, will trace how he became famous in the West End and built a reputation as one of Britain’s leading entertainers.

The show includes news bulletins of the period. It’s a time of post-war excitement and sudden crises, with the age marked by the Great Depression, the abdication of Edward VIII and the rise of fascism, but there are also references to life in Budleigh in the 1930s.

The show, staged at Budleigh Football Club at 7.30pm on Friday, July 1, and Saturday, July 2, is a professional production, written and directed by Steve Andrews. It features players Maddie Pearce and James Cotter, accompanied by Budleigh-based musician Kevin Hurst.

Profits from the show are being donated to the British Heart Foundation, Children’s Hospice South West and Fairlynch Museum.

Tickets are £8, available from Budleigh TIC (01395 445275) and Budleigh Football Club (01395 443850).