Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
News

Big Issue vendor Clive has been named on Plymouth’s Happy List

The Theatre Royal vendor raises a smile locally by acting in shows with his dog Geezer – and that has earned him a place on Plymouth Live’s list

Credit: Trevor Burrows

Big Issue vendor Clive spent last week wowing audiences at the Theatre Royal Plymouth and has now been named on Plymouth’s Happy List.

The seller, 56, starred in the show CITIZEN last week – along with pet dog Geezer – after beating alcoholism and conquering his mental health demons, partly by taking part in Our Space and Project X classes at the theatre.

His remarkable transformation has also captured the attention of news site Plymouth Live which included him on their 119-strong Happy List.

Clive takes pride of place on the list packed with “inspirational people from our city who go above and beyond in their respective fields, or carry out random acts of kindness to spread cheer to others”.

Ahead of his turn in CITIZEN– where he told stories inspired by his past, The Big Issue and his customers on stage – Clive told The Big Issue how his latest achievement should be a shining example to others.

“It’s a massive step up for me. The scale is immense,” he said. “From humble beginnings at the Our Space programme at the theatre I’ve got stronger and stronger.

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty

“It’s a big thing for the theatre, it’s big for me and big for The Big Issue. There’s a lot resting on my shoulders because I’m representing The Big Issue, representing the homeless and representing people on the outside of society.

“When I do these things, I want to give a performance that is good enough for other people who are on the streets to have a way to follow and find a path for themselves to build a future.”

Image: Trevor Burrows

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty

There’s more than one way to make a difference

Big Issue vendors need you more than ever this Christmas.

Recommended for you

View all
Sophie Morgan: 'We need to be able to make this country inclusive for everybody'
Sophie Morgan, writer, broadcaster and disability advocate.
PM For The PM

Sophie Morgan: 'We need to be able to make this country inclusive for everybody'

A bit of Beethoven can ensure we’re not deaf to the dangers of falling into poverty 
An 1820 portrait of Beethoven by Joseph Karl Stieler
John Bird

A bit of Beethoven can ensure we’re not deaf to the dangers of falling into poverty 

The Renters' Rights Act made it illegal to reject tenants on benefits. But it's still happening
Members of ACORN Leeds community union protesting discrimination against tenants in receipt of welfare benefits
Renting

The Renters' Rights Act made it illegal to reject tenants on benefits. But it's still happening

Tory plans to slash benefits for disabled kids will take UK back to 'dark ages', campaigners warn
Kemi Badenoch
Benefits

Tory plans to slash benefits for disabled kids will take UK back to 'dark ages', campaigners warn