Not long after TV celebrity Bob Monkhouse was mobbed at the anniversary celebrations at Ridley Road Market, he was mobbed yet again – this time at the opening of a shop in Bethnal Green Road.

The Gazette reported that “not even an extra police guard” could prevent the popular comedian from being harangued by the huge crowd at the launch of kids’ clothes shop Iris. and as soon as he arrived he was apparently besieged by autograph hunters.

Inside, Bob posed for photos and “wisecracked his way through a range of frilly children’s dresses, rolling up his trousers to model the more exclusive garments”. He proved himself “quite a salesman”, helping to deal with the first rush of customers who “smothered” him at times. The tallest stilt walker in the world, Henry Levendowski, looked in. The Gazette was told he was in the area publicising Bertram Mills’ circus and wanted to see Mr Monkhouse.