Tarbuck's namesakeis a monk (From Stroud News and Journal)

Tarbuck's namesakeis a monk

FANS of Jimmy Tarbuck may wonder where he is at times - but he can be found in a monastery near Painswick.

The famous Scouse comedian's namesake is a monk at Prinknash Abbey, Cranham where he makes cider.

The Benedictine monk, 69, is better known as Brother Giles but he uses his real name from time to time.

"The other members of my community know my real name but I don't use it often - except when I go to vote," said Brother Giles.

"Of course I am down on the electoral roll as Jimmy Tarbuck and people in the polling station always have a laugh about it.

"I know there is a famous Jimmy Tarbuck but I don't know much about him.

"We don't watch TV here but I did once see him on a television show somewhere - and I didn't think much of him, I'm afraid."

He added that he had since heard that the comedian is cheerful and a much-loved figure with a ready joke and that has raised his opinion of his namesake.

His real brother Bernard met comedian Jimmy at a show and he was said to be quite amused that the real Jimmy Tarbuck is a monk.

Brother Giles comes from Southport, near Merseyside but does not believe he is related to the comedian.

He joined the Benedictine Order after 18 months of RAF National Service and has been at the abbey ever since, where he helps produce 1,200 gallons of cider a year.