BOBBY Pattinson, the Godfather of North-East comedy, has been given an award for his dedication to charity work.

The 79-year-old comic, from Gateshead, was honoured at a star-studded tribute organised by Variety, the Children’s Charity.

Bob Gladwin, vice-chairman of Variety, northern region, said: “Bobby has worked closely with Variety for around six years now, giving his undeniable attention to helping sick, disabled and disadvantaged children across the North-East but most specifically in and around the Gateshead area.

“Due to it being his hometown, Bobby felt a close connection with these schools and from the start pledged to raise enough money to fund one of our Sunshine Coaches for each of the five specialist schools in the area.

“We couldn’t be more grateful for his continual efforts and support, which is why we decided to present him with the outstanding tribute event.”

The event took place at the Marriott Gosforth Park Hotel, Newcastle, last Thursday and was hosted by Paul ‘Goffy’ Gough.

Among the 400 guests who attended were famous faces including Denise Welch, Jack Charlton, Brendan Healy, Freddie ‘Parrot Face’ Davies and Paralympic gold medallist Stephen Miller.

Mr Pattinson was presented with Variety’s highest accolade, the Silver Heart, and the evening raised around £15,000.

Mr Pattinson said: “When I was told I was going to be presented with this award I couldn’t believe it, knowing a few of the names that have received it in the past, but I am so grateful.

“So far, I have raised around £100,000 for Variety which has funded four coaches for local schools and I’m now on the way to a fifth, which was my initial aim but who knows, there could always be a sixth.”