Alan Bennett - a Marmite figure I know - on Radio 4

Another fan here, I can’t think why anyone would dislike him. To me, he’s a National Treasure.

A Private Function is my Alan Bennett favourite, an hilarious genius of a piece with every single line a polished gem.

His sense of the ridiculous and ability to get under a character's skin is unsurpassed whether comedy or tragedy or, very often, both.

Another vote here for him as a National Treasure.

Same here I don't know of anyone who is aware of Alan Bennet and his work who dislikes him. Another vote for the National Treasure award.

Was he not offered a knighthood but turned it down? I thought I'd heard that somewhere. If anyone deserves a knighthood it's him. He really is a national treasure.

Kathy72, thank you for letting us know about Cocktail Sticks.
I am tuned into BBC Sounds thoroughly enjoying the drama.
I love Alan Bennett and must look out his other works.
It’s been a while since I read or listened to his work.

For any Alan Bennett fans that are interested I have found a link to the eulogy I mentioned earlier in the thread.
“Cafe Anne” was a colourful and charismatic lady, she was the only woman Alan was ever attracted to.
Her cafe was as glorious and eccentric as she was, I think Alan was so delighted she ended up living next door to him with her partner and children.

www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwj-iJri__P3AhVTSsAKHZB6CvMQFnoECAUQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fclaphamyorkshire.files.wordpress.com%2F2017%2F06%2Fnewsletter_no57_february_2009.pdf&usg=AOvVaw2AEroH9I8RZ-5SDIKoZuVd

I think he’s brilliant and have read all his books. Slight claim to fame - his partner Rupert Thomas, was until recently editor of World of Interiors magazine. Before younger son started his Phd in London, he did a month’s work experience with Rupert.