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Actor Phil Silvers took the bookies to the cleaners in true Sergeant Bilko fashion
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Actor Phil Silvers took the bookies to the cleaners in true Sergeant Bilko fashion
Actor Phil Silvers took the bookies to the cleaners in true Sergeant Bilko fashion. The man who immortalised Bilko, the loveabler American army spiv, gave a real life demostration of how to make a fast buck at Gosforth races in Newcastle.
Phil, who was starring in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum at Newcastles Theatre Royal, backed Record Run in the 3 o clock race. It Stormed home at 6-5 on. But the bookie who paid out Phil, Mr Alec Lewis, was still smiling. A chat with the 63 year old star made his day - even though it was at the wrong end of a bundle of fivers.
3rd April, 1974
NCJ
NCJ Archive
Mirrorpix
England
Media ID 21672187
© Mirrorpix
Betting Bookmaker Gambling Horseracing Two People Bookies Mixed Age Range
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo print, we see actor Phil Silvers, famous for his role as Sergeant Bilko, outsmarting the bookies in true Bilko fashion. The beloved American army spiv showed off his real-life skills at Gosforth races in Newcastle. This momentous event took place while Phil was starring in "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" at Newcastles Theatre Royal. With a keen eye for opportunity, Phil confidently placed his bet on Record Run in the 3 o'clock race. To everyone's delight, it stormed home with odds of 6-5 on. As Mr Alec Lewis, the bookie who paid out Phil, handed over a bundle of fivers with a smile on his face, he couldn't help but feel privileged to have shared a conversation with the 63-year-old star. This snapshot from April 3rd, 1974 captures not only an exciting gambling victory but also showcases Phil Silvers' charm and wit that endeared him to audiences both on screen and stage. Known for his comedic talent and memorable performances in films and television shows throughout the 1970s era, this image is a testament to Silvers' enduring popularity among fans of all ages. This nostalgic photograph transports us back to an era when horseracing held great excitement and humor could be found even amidst intense betting moments. It serves as a reminder of how entertainment icons like Phil Silvers brought joy into people's lives through their talents both onstage
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