Paul Shane

Paul Shane was born 19th June 1940 in Rotherham.
His real name being George Frederick Speight.
He had an accident at Silverwood Colliery in 1967 by slipping in the pit-head baths on some soap.
A double slipped disc wasn't funny at the time, but looking back it seems a suitably comic exit from the mining industry for a man destined to become one of clubland's favourites.
Paul was pensioned off from the pit at the age of 27, but he knew exactly what he wanted to do - make people laugh.
Two years later he made the decision to turn professional.
He had already had 10 years experience as a part time entertainer around the pubs and clubs in South Yorkshire.
His first appearence, as a straight singer, was at the Grafton Pub on St Ann's Road, Rotherham, now demolished.
"Two pints of ale and 20 Park Drive a night".
Paul's first club booking was at St Ann's Club in Rotherham, for 30 bob (�1.50), not much, but in wasn't bad for a beginner in those days.
Paul's transformation from singer to comedian was a gradual one, starting with his rendition of Green Green Grass of Home, straight at first, but ultimately a hilarious send up of Tom Jones which marks the start of the Paul Shane act