CRACKERJACK is coming back, much to the delight of Bolton’s own Stu Francis.

The light entertainment legend, who presented the massively popular teatime show from 1980 to 1984, said: “I think it’s great news because I never understood why it went away.

“It was pure family entertainment. It had slapstick, competitions, comedy plays and music. It was a proper variety show with something in it that appealed to everyone.”

He added: “People have such a lot of fondness for it. I’m sure they will bring it up to date but I hope it keeps its family appeal.”

Although he doesn’t appear in the new series, for many thousands of viewers Stu, with his “I could crush a grape” catchphrase, was THE face of show.

Originally he co-presented it with The Krankies, who he is still great friends with today. But after the first series he became it sole presenter.

“It was great fun and I really enjoyed the ride,” said Stu, as former pupil of Smithills School who still lives in the area.

Although now 71, Stu continues to have a busy career.

For decades he has starred in Bolton Albert Halls ‘ Christmas pantomime, and it was only because of another work commitment that he was absent from the most recent show.

“I’ve been on tour with Cannon and Ball in a play called The Dressing Room,” he explained.

“It was set onstage and backstage at a club and I found it really enjoyable. I played the compere who introduced the other acts. My character was a bit deluded and behaved as if he was working at the London Palladium.”

In reality, Stu has played that legendary venue which he regards as “the Wembley of showbusiness”.

The play enjoyed a good reception and one performance was attended by an impresario.

“He really liked it, so much so that he has asked us to take it to Fuengirola for a week. There’s a big ex-pat community out there and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Despite his showbusiness schedule, Stu remembers his Bolton roots and still manages to support local causes.

“I’m a patron of a charity called Daytrippers Bolton. It provides days out for disabled children and their families.”

In his free time Wanderers fan Stu enjoys a round of golf with former player Roy Greaves.