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
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

If Andy Burnham is serious about ending rough sleeping, he mustn't overlook people leaving prison
Andy Burnham speaking at his rough sleeping summit in October
Letters

If Andy Burnham is serious about ending rough sleeping, he mustn't overlook people leaving prison

'PIP was meant to be the support that helped me through recovery – and then it was taken away'
Emma Boulton
Emma Boulton

'PIP was meant to be the support that helped me through recovery – and then it was taken away'

'Care leavers are far more likely to become homeless. As a minister, I want to change that'
Josh MacAlister
Josh MacAlister

'Care leavers are far more likely to become homeless. As a minister, I want to change that'