This is the story of a little boy called Leigh Francis who became a naughty bear. And then a man called Keith Lemon, and also Avid Merrion and whoever else you may or may not know me as (but not Mick Hucknall). All this time behind the neckbrace, bandage or whatever costume I’ve worn, I was still just that little boy called Leigh Francis.

From the moment I stepped out in front of the camera, I’ve always been in character. Now the time has come to lift the mask (literally) and reveal myself (not literally): from growing up in Leeds obsessed with TV, films, toys, clothes and dressing up as my favourite superhero,* to my wild adventures,** my first relationships*** and moving to London to pursue my dream of being silly and having a laugh. Oh, and there’s a bit about making it in the wonderful world of telly – the highs, the lows and everything in between.

So here it is, my memoir! Expect a chuckle, a thoughtful pause and maybe even a tear or two. I can’t lie, I’m a little bit nervous about it as this isn’t like all the made-up stuff I’ve done in character – this is my story. A true story about Leigh.