Hockney’s charitable works

Approached by Bridlington council officials to appear as a town tour guide during a summer charity weekend, David Hockney generously consented and, to the great amusement of the crowd, threw in a hitherto unknown talent for gurning. “He was easily the great attraction of the weekend, like the Pied Piper,” said council leader Bill Cumming. “I had a marvellous time actually,” added the greatest landscape painter since Altdorfer. “I was even able to introduce local youngsters to the life-enhancing joys of smoking. They loved it when I took a drag and gurned at the same time. Aye, there’s a lot to be said for community engagement.”

The Jackdaw October 2012