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Diddymen Collectables – Collecting The Diddymen

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Ken Dodd, one of Britain’s most beloved comedians, brought joy to audiences for decades with his quick wit, unique brand of humour, and his famous troupe of diminutive helpers known as the Diddymen. These whimsical characters, originating from the fictional town of Knotty Ash, became a cornerstone of Dodd’s act and a cherished part of British cultural history. We take a look at their origins & development, and of course some of the Diddymen Collectables and merchandise that have been created over the years.

Ken Dodds Diddymen Annual 1973 and five plastic Diddymen figures
Ken Dodds Diddymen Annual 1973 and five plastic Diddymen figures. Sold for £20 at The Auction Centre Ltd, November 2023.

The Diddymen were created by Ken Dodd in the 1950s as part of his stage and radio performances. Initially conceived as a way to engage younger audiences, the Diddymen quickly evolved into a multi-generational phenomenon. Dodd often described the Diddymen as “small workers” who lived in Knotty Ash, his fictionalized version of his hometown in Liverpool.

Doddy and The Diddymen Prince William Pottery Dish
Doddy and The Diddymen Prince William Pottery Dish. Sold for £9.99 on ebay, November 2024.

These characters were inspired by Dodd’s childhood imagination, combining playful whimsy with relatable working-class professions. The Diddymen represented various trades, such as Jam Butty Mines, Treacle Wells, and the Broken Biscuit Repair Works. This grounded them in a working-class ethos that resonated with post-war Britain, while their quirky personalities appealed to children and adults alike.

Mick The Marmaliser Diddymen Toy Figure
Mick The Marmaliser Diddymen Toy Figure. Sold for £10 on ebay, November 2024.

Key Diddymen Characters

Each Diddyman had a distinct identity, often characterized by their profession and unique quirks. Some of the most popular included:

  • Dickie Mint: Known as Dodd’s right-hand man, Dickie Mint was a central figure and often took the lead in sketches.
  • Mick the Marmaliser: The marmalade maker with a penchant for sticky situations.
  • Sidney Seed: The hardworking gardener of Knotty Ash.
  • Hamish McDiddy: A proud Scottish Diddyman who added a touch of tartan humour.

These characters were brought to life through a mix of puppetry, costumes, and live actors in Dodd’s television shows and stage performances.

Hamish McDiddy Diddymen Toy Figure
Hamish McDiddy Diddymen Toy Figure. Sold for £50 on ebay, November 2024.

The Diddymen gained widespread fame in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly through Ken Dodd’s television specials. They became a highlight of his children’s shows, where their antics, songs, and slapstick humour captured the hearts of millions. Their theme song, “We Are the Diddymen,” became iconic, with its catchy lyrics and cheerful melody. The Diddymen also performed other memorable songs, including “The Song of the Diddymen” and “The Knotty Ash Song.” These tunes became staples of Dodd’s live performances and children’s parties across the UK.

Signed Ken Dodd and the Diddymen vinyl 25 Diddy Hits
Signed Ken Dodd and the Diddymen vinyl 25 Diddy Hits. Sold for £38 at Tim Davidson Auctions Ltd., September 2023.

The Diddymen became a symbol of British humour, embodying a sense of nostalgia for simpler, more innocent times. They were a reflection of Ken Dodd’s ability to blend traditional music hall comedy with modern entertainment formats. Their popularity extended beyond television and stage. Diddymen merchandise, from figurines to books, was widely sold, and they even featured in pantomimes alongside Dodd. They became a cherished memory for those who grew up during their peak popularity.

Although Ken Dodd passed away in 2018, the Diddymen remain a significant part of his legacy. Knotty Ash, while fictionalized in Dodd’s act, has become synonymous with his comedic genius. Fans continue to celebrate the Diddymen in retrospectives and tributes, highlighting their role in Dodd’s long and illustrious career. The Diddymen exemplify the enduring appeal of light-hearted comedy and the power of imaginative storytelling. They are not just a testament to Ken Dodd’s creative brilliance but also a reminder of a golden era in British entertainment. To this day, they hold a special place in the hearts of those who experienced their charm first hand.

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