The grouping of the characters that figure in the story is purely fictitious, but not the characters themselves. Benny and little Nell, Perks and Joe Wrag, Granny and Eva Lawrence, are drawn from life. I knew them well. Some of them are alive to-day, others have gone to their rest. And so year by year they bid defiance to all law and authority. The police rarely, if ever, venture into this neighbourhood alone, or if one should be so foolish enough to do so, he has generally to pay dearly for his indiscretion.

Both the show and the production have a wholesome vintage feel; it is a remnant from a time of simpler and less spectacular musicals; in its current form it can’t compete with the glamour and grit of the contemporary theatre scene, though potentially has a future in the catacombs of the amateur dramatics repertoire. With a full revamp and some new songs, the heart of this Liverpool Tale could be revived for another 25 years. “Everyone deserves the chance to dream.” Then there was silence between them for awhile, and Joe went out and heaped more fuel on the grate, while Nelly kept her eyes steadily fixed on the fire. What did the child see as she gazed into its glowing depths? For ever and anon a sweet smile played around the corners of her month, and spread over her pale thoughtful face, lighting it up with ​a wonderful beauty, and smoothing out the lines of care that at other times were only too visible. And this could be the year that Her Benny joins an exclusive theatrical band made up of the esteemed likes of Shirley Valentine and Blood Brothers. If I were to choose a reading list for those younger people interested in what life was like and still is for many on the streets of our cities even today, this book would be top of the list.Wish I could keep it for mysel'," he muttered; "but it's no go— the guv'nor will 'ave to 'ave it. But the coppers I'll keep 'ginst bad times. Here, Nell," he said, nudging his sister, "you keep these 'ere coppers; and then if the guv'nor axes me if I has any more, I can tell him no."

In the next street they caught sight of the glowing grate of Joe Wragg, the night watchman, and of Joe himself, sitting in the doorway of his little wooden hut.Huyton-born Sam, who became a firm favourite with TV viewers after starring in Brookside, Coronation Street and Emmerdale, said he was looking forward to teaming up with his old pal, Bernie Nolan for the show. The 25th Anniversary sees a masterful musical score with elevated orchestration brought to life by talented and revered vocalists. The vibrant opening number plunges us into the hustle and bustle of Victorian Liverpool streets accompanied by lively, energetic movement. As well as directing and starring in the Wycombe Swan Theatre’s panto, Snow White (where he will be joined by his glamorous wife) the father-of-two is preparing for another stint in the popular play, Hot Flush, described as a “celebration of the menopause”! All right, Benny." And again the great round eyes sought the glowing grate, and the sweet smile played over her face once more.