BOLTON comedian Mike Lancaster was one of the last people to work live in Britain with Dudley Moore, whose moving story was told on TV this week.

He says he could not hold back the tears as he watched Monday's heart rending Omnibus programme as Moore tried to cope with the advanced stages of a terminal neurological disease.

Mike appeared on the same variety bill as Dud when producers persuaded him to come over from America for a one-off appearance with his old sparring partner Peter Cook.

Even though it was 20 years ago, Mike can remember every detail of rehearsals for the ATV Wednesday night Starburst variety show.

He said: "Pete and Dud brought the house down with a simple sketch that had Dud ironing plastic macs.

"When I watched TV on Monday night I couldn't believe the terrible state he is now in.

"He came over and shook hands with me and then he left in his little Mini Cooper. As far as I know it was the last time he and Peter performed as a double act."

"I remember Peter Cooke coming into the bar and drinking Moet Chandon champagne from a pint glass as soon as Dudley had left.

"He soon got very drunk and he was still there drinking champagne as we left"

"It is terrible how this disease has affected Dudley. He really is a genius. He could be funny without really doing much."

Mike is part way through a nationwide tour with Joe Longthorne, which is due to finish on December 20.