Norman Collier was a British comedian who achieved popularity following television appearances in the 1970s.
14 Facts About Norman Collier
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Norman Collier was best known for his 'faulty microphone' routine and for his chicken impressions.
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Norman Collier grew up in the centre of Hull as the eldest of eight children.
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At age 17, Norman Collier joined the Royal Navy and served as a gunner towards the end of the Second World War.
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In 1948, while he was visiting Hull's Perth Street West club, an act failed to turn up, and Norman Collier volunteered to fill in.
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Norman Collier felt natural on stage and started to work a few local clubs.
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Norman Collier got his initial break at Hull's Perth Street club when a scheduled comedian failed to show, and Collier raised his hand when an audience volunteer was requested.
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Norman Collier initially began working the local clubs around Hull and further inland in Goole.
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Norman Collier easily won the final by a unanimous decision of the panel.
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Norman Collier came to national media attention after a successful appearance at the Royal Variety Command Performance in 1971.
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Norman Collier was the originator of the 'club chairman' character later popularised by Colin Crompton in the ITV series Wheeltappers and Shunters Club.
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Norman Collier was married to Lucy, and together they had three children, several grandchildren, and a growing number of great-grandchildren.
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Norman Collier's autobiography, entitled Just a Job, was published in 2009.
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Norman Collier died on 14 March 2013, aged 87, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease.