BRIAN Murphy was never a Teddy Boy, wore a leather jacket or rode a motorbike rather noisily to the annoyance of others.

But at 66 he is about to rectify those omissions in his life.

Not for real, as it happens, but as the leader of a gang of pensioner degenerates who regress to their youth in Ron Aldridge's new comedy You're Only Young Twice.

It plays Malvern Theatres next week, so look out for a Harley hurtling up Church Street.

"I was never allowed to have a motorbike when I was young," confessed Brian.

"My father decided they were too dangerous for the likes of me.

"I've had a few wild times, but not on the back of a motorbike!

"And I was never a Teddy Boy. I was never a victim of fashion."

That said, Brian will be forever remembered for the 70s sitcom George and Mildred, in which he starred with the remarkable Yootha Joyce.

"I'd always wanted to be an actor for as long as I could remember," he added.

"As a child, I used to go to drama classes and loved being on stage."

Doing his National Service stint as a clerk at RAF Northwood - hardly the most rebellious of images - Brian met up with Richard Briers and together the pair appeared in several service revues.

They were spotted by producer Joan Littlewood, who took them under her wing and really launched Brian's professional career.

"I've done just about everything, from Romeo and Juliet to George and Mildred," he laughed.

"But this new play takes a look at life as I've never seen it before. It's been great fun."

The cast is particularly strong, as it features some of our top comedy performers - Carmen Silvera from 'Allo, 'Allo, Judy Cornwell from Keeping Up Appearances and the multi-talented Victor Spinetti.

Together they make up the gang led by Brooksie (Brian Murphy).

Their antics nearly get them barred from the Over 60s Club and terrify the life out of Brooksie's daughter and her husband.

"It proves you're as young as you feel," said Brian. "Look out Malvern, here we come!"

You're Only Young Twice plays Malvern Festival Theatre from Monday, October 22, until Saturday, October 27. Tickets £18-£10. Box office 01684 892277.