A unique collection of Tommy Cooper memorabilia is set to go under the hammer in Woburn, offering fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own personal items from one of Britain’s most beloved comedians. Hanson Ross will auction the collection on Saturday, 15th March at the Woburn Hotel, with proceeds supporting a cause that ensures Tommy’s legacy of laughter continues to help those in need.
Among the highlights is Tommy’s last fez, gifted to Clive Greenaway by Cooper’s wife, Gwen, as a good luck charm. Also included is the evening dress suit Tommy wore to meet the late Queen in 1977, complete with a letter of authenticity from his daughter, Vicki. Fans can also bid on a set of his famous bottle-glass-glass-bottle trick and one of his classic magic tables with appearing legs, both believed to have been used by Cooper himself.
But this auction isn’t just about celebrating comedy history—it’s about ensuring that Tommy’s gift for laughter continues to bring joy to people who need it most. The money raised will fund training for laughter yoga leaders, helping those struggling with mental health find relief through laughter. Even decades after his passing, Tommy’s cherished items will be playing a role in bringing smiles to faces, proving that laughter really is the best medicine.
In addition to the funds raised from the sale, Hanson Ross will be donating a percentage of its auction fees to train carers from Julia’s House Children’s Hospice in laughter yoga. Julia’s House provides vital care for children with life-limiting conditions, and this initiative will give their dedicated carers a new way to bring moments of lightness and joy into the lives of the children and families they support.
Amanda Butler, Operations Director of Hanson Ross, said: “Tommy Cooper was an icon. His humour was timeless, and his ‘mistake’ magic inspired generations of comedians and magicians. It feels incredibly fitting that his personal items will now support two causes rooted in his greatest gift—laughter. Not only will the money raised help train laughter yoga leaders, but our donation will also allow the carers at Julia’s House to use laughter therapy in their incredible work.”
For Clive Greenaway, the UK’s number one Tommy Cooper tribute artist and a Guinness World Record holder for the fastest comedian, the auction brings his journey full circle. “As a child, I used to cheer up my mum, who suffered from depression, by impersonating Tommy Cooper with a flower pot instead of a fez. Who could have imagined that, years later, I would own Tommy’s actual fez and be able to auction it for causes that use laughter as a force for good?”
Even now, Tommy’s legacy continues to bring joy. His fez, his tricks, his props—they all still have the power to make people smile. And on 15th March, those very items will once again be at the heart of something magical. Just Like That! The Tommy Cooper Auction will start at 10am on Saturday 15th March. You can bid in the room, by telephone or online
Auction Information
Auction: Tommy Cooper Auction
Auction date: 15th March 2025 | 10am
Location: The Woburn
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
