LADIES and gentlemen, it's . . . The Comedians! Remember those heady days in the 1970s when a selection of funnymen -- many with huge sideburns, kipper ties and shirts with enormous collars -- made us laugh with their quickfire wit?

The show was compulsive viewing for millions, but what happened to the comics who provided a small-screen warm-up act to our Saturday nights out on the town?

Many of them went on to do other things. One of the most notable successes was Mike Reid, who went on to play the part of Frank Butcher in EastEnders, and others enjoyed further fame and fortune when the long-running series drew to a close.

The hairstyles and suits they possessed then would probably make us chuckle now.

And the men who wore them are planning to do the same again this year as they are reunited and take to the stage for a season of midsummer merriment at Blackpool Opera House.

The Comedians, produced by Johnnie Hamp, will be tickling holidaymakers' funnybones every Sunday night from July 7 to October 27 (except Sunday, September 29) at 7.30pm.

On the bill are several of the original comedians who went on to do other series -- for example, East Lancashire's own Jim Bowen, now a successful radio presenter, who made a cult show out of the darts contest TV series Bullseye.

Also starring in The Comedians is Roy Walker, who hosted the popular Catchphrase game show series, and Vince Earl, probably better known to many people as Ron Dixon from Brookside.

Other names which will bring a host of memories flooding back include Stan Boardman, Duggie Brown, George Roper and Ken Goodwin.

And do you remember the musicians who were a constant feature of the TV show? They're also enjoying a revival, and Shep's Banjo Boys will be providing the backing music to the comedians' show throughout the summer.

Ticket prices are £16.50, £14.50 and £12.50, with discounts for groups of 10 or more. Tickets are available from the box office on 01253 292029. Visit the website www.blackpoollive.com for more information.