Tony Capstick
Folk Singer, Actor, Comedian & Broadcaster
Tony Capstick, comedian, actor, folk singer and broadcaster died at his home in Hoober, near Wentworth, South Yorkshire, in 2003, aged 59. He was born in Mexborough, South Yorkshire which actually makes him a Doncaster lad but What the Heck! One of my espondents tells me that he was actually born in York but I have not been able to confirm this.
Tony was a multi-talented man but like many others of this kind had a tendency towards self-destruction. He was a popular singer and guitarist who was a regular performer on the folk circuit. In 1981 he reached No.3 in the UK singles chart with "The Sheffield Grinder"/"Capstick Comes Home".
As a comedian Tony had an eight-part television series called Capstick's Capers, on Channel 4.
For for over 30 years Tony was a presenter on BBC Radio Sheffield BBC. He was sacked by Radio Sheffield in January 2003 who considered that his drinking was affecting the quality and standards of his broadcasting. Rumour has it that he insulted somebody he should have been very polite to - but that's a Yorkshireman for you - open your mouth and stick your wellie in it.
He wrote a regular column in the Rotherham 'Advertiser' musing about a variety of subjects.
Tony Capstick was also a TV regular, with many minor roles such as the brewer Harvey Nuttall in Coronation Street and one of the policemen in the sitcom Last of the Summer Wine. Being cast in this latter part amused Tony very much as he was man renowned for being vertically challenged.
Tony co-wrote with Paul Donoghue a book about Appleby Horse Fair.
He is survived by second wife Gillian, son James and daughter Vicky.
A BBC spokesman said:–
"We are shocked and saddened about the news of Tony Capstick's death and our thoughts are with his family. Tony's health problems were such that he was unable to work after the New Year. This is always a matter of great regret and sadness to the BBC. We are sorry that Tony lost his battle with his health. Generations of BBC Radio Sheffield listeners will remember Tony with warmth, gratitude and affection."
In 2004 a fund-raising concert has been held to finance a permanent memorial to Tony. I understand that this is to be in the grounds of Swinton Bridge School where he was educated. January 2005 a blue plaque has now been unveiled.