'I just love that theatre' - Ken Dodd calls for Dudley Hippodrome to be saved

The comedian, who did stand-up at the venue more than half century ago, is calling for discussions to begin again over reopening the theatre.

He has even said he would be prepared to perform a show for free to boost fund-raising efforts.

The building has run into a state of decline since being boarded up in 2009 and ambitious plans to once again have a thriving theatre in Dudley appear to have hit the rocks, with an £8 million rescue deal on the brink of collapse.

The Liverpudlian was speaking ahead of his visit to the town this weekend. He is bringing his variety show Happiness to the town hall on Saturday, and the veteran comic, aged 87, said his return to Dudley evokes memories of his time at the Hippodrome.

He said: "I love the theatre. I have played there several times.

"A theatre isn't like a greengrocers, it isn't just a shop, it is the hub of a city's life and can be used for all sorts of things, lectures and festivities, and of course comedy."

The entertainer, who is famous for his toothy grin, said it was a shame that the Hippodrome currently finds itself in a derelict state.

He called on Dudley Council to once again allow it to be at the centre of Dudley's nightlife.

A deal that appeared to be on the table from developers The Rok Group was then snatched away following a disagreement with Dudley Council.

Bosses at the company, which is led by Wolverhapton businessman Joanthon Kendrick, claimed the deal fell through after they failed to reach an agreement over shared use of the car park serving Dudley Zoo and also for financial reasons – one which included the cost of removing asbestos.

However, the zoo last week provided a glimmer of hope for the restoration plans after bosses said they were open for discussions about the use of its car park.

Dodd appeared on stage in Dudley during his formative years as a comedian and also attended a birthday bash in 1957.

He said: "Why are they messing about with the Hippodrome? I had a letter describing that it was all set to go but someone said they couldn't use the zoo car park and there were problems with asbestos."

Dodd will be back in Dudley on Saturday and is promising laughs all the way during his variety show which also includes performances form a musicians and a magician.

He said: "I'll be singing songs and telling jokes. Everybody likes a laugh, particularly in the Midlands. I like coming to Dudley. The Midland audiences are the greats."