John Claridge’s Clowns (Act Two)

A fortnight ago, Contributing Photographer John Claridge & I attended the 67th Annual Grimaldi Service at Holy Trinity Church, Dalston, as guests of Clowns International, the world’s oldest clown club founded in 1947. This rare gathering of so many clowns offered the ideal opportunity to take a set of portraits and this week it is my pleasure to publish a second vivid selection from the startling pictures John took that afternoon, recording some intimate encounters with memorable buffoons and pranksters.

Mr Woo – Clowning since 1950. Performs in a double act with Uncle Colin as The Custard Clowns.

Toby Jingles – Clowning for forty years.

Benzy – Clowning for eight years, Benzy is Mickell’s grandson.

Joey the Clown – Clowning for four years.

Pippa – Children’s entertainer for thirteen years, clowning for six years.

Mickell – Clowning for fifteen years.

Snoozy – Clowning for four years, married to Mr Mudge.

Crazy Bananas – Clowning for seven years, with her son (Crazy “Dan”anas) and daughter (Squeak).

Photographs copyright © John Claridge

You might like to take a look at

John Claridge’s Clowns (Act One)

and read my account

At the 65th Annual Grimaldi Service

or read these other Grimaldi stories

Celebrating Joseph Grimaldi

Joseph Grimaldi, Clown