Big Finish Productions presents a classic radio reunion of new sketches and songs, staged and recorded on Sunday, 14 May 2023 at The Sondheim Theatre in London’s West End. The cast, writers and producers of BBC Radio’s longest-running audience comedy programme, The News Huddlines, gathered for a one-off tribute performance.  

Fans and admirers of the late, great Roy Hudd OBE now have the opportunity to commemorate his life and legacy with a special memorial CD and digital release of the reunion.  

The special recording, The Roy Huddlines, is now available to pre-order as a limited edition double-disc CD (+ download edition and extras) for just £12.99 exclusively here. 

Early-bird bonus: the first 150 customers who place an order for the CD will also receive a unique Roy Hudd enamel pin badge plus a copy of the full-colour 64-page theatre programme from the stage production. This offer is now completed. 

A download-only edition of the recording is also available for just £10.99.  

The production features over two hours of the reunited radio-style stage performance as a tribute to Roy's impact on the entertainment industry and a testament to his enduring appeal. The Roy Huddlines is not only a heartfelt homage to one of the UK's most beloved comedians but also a fundraising effort to erect a statue in Roy Hudd's memory, ensuring that his legacy lives on for generations to come. 50% of the profits from the sale of this recording will be donated to The Roy Hudd Statue Appeal.  

About Roy Hudd OBE  

Roy Hudd, an icon in the world of entertainment, left an unforgettable legacy with his work in comedy, acting, and broadcasting. He graced the airwaves, stage and screen for over six decades, captivating audiences with his impeccable wit, warm personality and incredible talent. Sadly, Roy Hudd passed away in March 2020, leaving a void in the hearts of comedy enthusiasts everywhere. 

Roy had a profound effect on all who worked with him – he was a unique combination of comedy genius, wise mentor and cheeky uncle.  

About The Roy Huddlines Stage Production 

The cast, reunited here for a live performance and one joyous hurrah in his honour, include The News Huddlines originals Chris Emmett, Alison Steadman, Nichola McAuliffe and announcer Richard Clegg, plus Kate Harbour (Bob the Builder) and the brilliant actor and impressionist Jon Culshaw who takes Roy’s centre microphone with the blessing of Roy’s widow, Debbie Hudd. 

Also assembled for this gala event are the writers who cut their comedy teeth working on The News Huddlines from 1975 to 2001, including Geoff Atkinson, Martin Booth, Paul B. Davies and Roger Davison, to name but a few. 

The production is directed by legendary radio writer/director/musician Dirk Maggs (most recently working with Neil Gaiman on Good Omens and The Sandman), who said: “Roy Hudd inhaled the lore and tradition of classic British comedy, from the slapstick of Dan Leno to the surrealism of Spike Milligan. 

“His gifts for timing and landing a gag, combined with young writers and producers who would reinvent humour for a new millennium, made The News Huddlines the longest running audience comedy show on BBC Radio. This is their tribute to a much missed, warm, funny, cheeky genius.” 

Please note that Big Finish is currently operating a digital-first release schedule. The mailout of collector’s edition CDs will be delayed, but all purchases of this release unlock a digital copy that can be immediately downloaded or played on the Big Finish app from the release date.