Les Dennis chooses his Tracks Of My Years

Actor, presenter and comedian Les Dennis chooses his Tracks Of My Years this week, starting with songs from Tony Bennett and The Beatles. Plus, two listeners take on Vernon's mid-morning music quiz Ten to the Top and Vernon delves into the BBC archives for Vernon's Vault. All amongst some great music to keep you smiling through the morning.

Les was born in 1953 in Garston, Liverpool and describes himself as a quiet kid who shone during school plays and holiday camp talent competitions. His comedy career started in the 70s in working men's clubs before he won the TV show New Faces and formed a double-act with Dustin Gee. The pair worked together until Dustin passed away in 1986 and the following year Les began one of his best known TV roles, presenting Family Fortunes. Whilst hosting that show for fifteen years he became a household name, and away from the studio he took on theatre roles - his credits over thirty years including Hairspray and Spamalot, various pantomimes as well as productions for the English National Opera and Royal Shakespeare Company. He is currently starring in the current UK touring production of Waitress, playing Joe. The musical tells the story of Jenna, a baker and waitress who unexpectedly becomes pregnant and feels trapped in an unhappy marriage – so enters a pie contest, hoping the grand prize will help.

Listen to Vernon’s full conversations with his guests for Tracks Of My Years on BBC Sounds, and watch on BBC iPlayer and Radio 2's YouTube channel, just search for 'Tracks Of My Years'.

A BBC Audio production for BBC Radio 2.