KEN Dodd and his money have been the butt of many jokes, many his own, but the comedy legend showed his generous side helping fund much needed repairs at St Helens Theatre Royal.

Several weeks ago the lift broke down restricting access to the upper floors for disabled theatre goers.

Enid Pennington chair of the Friends of the Theatre Royal said: "After getting a quote from Stannah Lifts I decided to enlist the help of Ken Dodd who not only loves performing at the theatre but has genuine passion for the 130 year old building.

"After hearing my story he promised to ask his charity if they could help and shortly afterwards I received a cheque for £500 from them. With the donation from Regal Entertainment, the tenants and the balance paid for by the Friends, the lift was repaired.

"Ken Dodd is appearing on the 17th of this month and I would like the people of St Helens to know how he has helped the theatre. So many artists profess their love of the theatre but few actually do anything about it and I would dearly love to see his charity acknowledged.

"His name has been put on a seat in the theatre in recognition of his help."

Ken, who last year celebrated 60 years in showbusiness, performs at the Theatre Royal around twice a year and has told the Star in the past of his genuine affection for it.

In an interview last October he said: "The fact that St Helens has kept its theatre is wonderful. It’s the heartbeat of a town and reflects what the people are like.”