HE is fondly remembered as the wacky host of the 80s children's TV programme Wacaday, but Timmy Mallett is rapidly carving himself another talented career.
Timmy, 53, is an accomplished artist — and now there's a chance to meet the man and view his colourful works of art at a gallery in Tavistock.
He will be at Tavistock Picture Framing Gallery on Saturday November 8 from noon and all are invited to come along and see him at work on paintings inspired by the local area.
The visit is yet another coup for gallery owners Martin and Nina Hawkins and follows a visit by a leading art agent.
Martin said: 'He knew of our reputation for successful exhibitions and asked if he could show us some pictures, but would not tell us, who they were by until we had given our verdict.
'We thought the quality of the work was superb, and the prices incredibly reasonable, with 20ins x 24ins framed oils retailing for only £795. Our decision was a resounding yes — only then did he reveal that the artist was Timmy Mallett of Wacaday fame.'
Art had always been Timmy's first love, said Martin, but it was only recently and with the encouragement of his great friend Rolf Harris that he decided to exhibit.
'Because the art world is associating Timmy and Rolf, our hunch is that now is the time to buy.
'During the last couple of months, he has visited the Tavistock area, gaining inspiration for local scenes for the exhibition.'
There will be not only originals, but alsolimited editions available to purchase. Martin added: 'It is hoped that Timmy will be bringing his famous Mallett's Mallett!'
As well as TV presenting and art, Timmy notched success as a singer with a No 1 single in 1990, 'Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Polka Dot Bikini'.
Timmy, whose TV Cathchprase was 'Utterly Brilliant!', will be at the art gallery on the Plymouth Road Industrial Estate from midday. Complimentary wine and nibbles will be served and everyone is invited. 'Bring your camera.' said Martin.
Tavistock Picture Framing Company tradtitionally donates a painting as the main prize in the Lions Club Christmas draw. Martin said that this year's painting would involve a Timmy Mallett picture.