Tommy Cooper's magic robe to go under the hammer

Tommy Cooper, seen here in a fez performing one of his magic tricks. Behind him is a red curtain.
Image caption,

Tommy Cooper was famed for his "just like that" catchphrase and for wearing a fez onstage

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A robe worn by comedy legend Tommy Cooper during his final performance is set to go under the hammer in North Yorkshire.

Cooper, who combined intentionally disastrous magic tricks with slapstick humour, donned the red silk robe for a TV performance at Her Majesty's Theatre in London on 15 April 1984.

As part of the act, objects increasing in size were passed from the stage curtain through a panel in the garment, as if they were appearing by magic.

The comedian suffered a heart attack on stage during the performance and was later pronounced dead at Westminster Hospital aged 63.

Cooper, whose television shows attracted audiences of millions, was also known for his catchphrase "just like that".

Tennants Auctioneers, in Leyburn, will be auctioning the robe on 23 July, with the item set to fetch between £4,000 and £6,000.

Two side-by-side images of a model wearing a red silk robe and a red fez.Image source, Tennants Auctioneers
Image caption,

The red silk robe will go under the hammer on 23 July

Kegan Harrison, from Tennants, said the robe could end up fetching more than its estimate, depending on interest.

One of Cooper's signature fezzes recently went for £7,000 at auction, which was double its estimated worth.

"It sort of came around by chance because the vendor was on a walking tour here," Mr Harrison said.

"We got chatting and he asked if we would be interested in selling this item, which of course we were."

The current vendor acquired the robe, created to fit the Welsh comedian's 6ft 4in (1.93m) frame, from the late magician Paul Daniels in 2003.

"The staff have been very keen to see it," Mr Harrison added.

"We have very high hopes for it and hope it will find a good home to go to."

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