Basil. Part of issue WAGGERS AND JOKERS.

Probably filmed in the Pathe Studio, London.

The "well-known entertainer" Basil stands in the studio in a great art deco set decorated with balloons, wearing white tie and tails and playing a national steel resophonic guitar - it is hanging over his shoulders by a strap and is played like a Hawaiian guitar. The tune sounds familiar but I can't place it. Basil gives us knowing glances throughout!

Basil says "Every motorist carries a musical instrument..." and produces a pump (tyre or wheel pump), "...the motorist's delight". An unseen piano starts playing 'Stars and Stripes Forever' while Basil starts pumping, then he plays the tune on the pump. This really makes me laugh as the sound of the pump is very high and squeaky!

For our further pleasure and entertainment, Basil takes "an ordinary balloon", blows it up and plays a tune on it. He has a very concentrated and intense look on his face which makes it even more funny. Commentator says "Thank you Basil, and may you never get a puncture".

Note: this is a very funny item. One to watch if you are having a bad week!