GENERATIONS of youngsters have been thrilled by the slapstick excesses of the traditional Punch and Judy show but killjoy Newcastle City Council bosses delivered a KO 
blow after claims it could encourage domestic violence. The performance by popular children’s entertainer Bo the Clown was part of a council-sponsored arts event to encourage children to express themselves. But organisers stepped in following a complaint that the show may contain scenes of domestic violence and pulled the curtain down on Mr Punch. Bo, real name Derek Carpenter, hit back and demanded to know what was wrong with his act. “I will be happy if I can get to speak to the person who made the complaint and hopefully allay their fears,” he said. “There doesn't appear to be any evidence that Punch and Judy causes violence. On the contrary, there is evidence that it can help children express themselves.” Greg Stone, chairman of the city’s Liberal Democrats, said: “This is ludicrous. It’s evidence of the council’s killjoy attitude.” North East Tory MEP Martin Callanan added: “Clearly, this is the work of some politically correct, left wing zealot and I’m amazed senior civic centre staff have taken this seriously.” Evening Chronicle, Newcastle 21/8/02.
blow after claims it could encourage domestic violence. The performance by popular children’s entertainer Bo the Clown was part of a council-sponsored arts event to encourage children to express themselves. But organisers stepped in following a complaint that the show may contain scenes of domestic violence and pulled the curtain down on Mr Punch. Bo, real name Derek Carpenter, hit back and demanded to know what was wrong with his act. “I will be happy if I can get to speak to the person who made the complaint and hopefully allay their fears,” he said. “There doesn't appear to be any evidence that Punch and Judy causes violence. On the contrary, there is evidence that it can help children express themselves.” Greg Stone, chairman of the city’s Liberal Democrats, said: “This is ludicrous. It’s evidence of the council’s killjoy attitude.” North East Tory MEP Martin Callanan added: “Clearly, this is the work of some politically correct, left wing zealot and I’m amazed senior civic centre staff have taken this seriously.” Evening Chronicle, Newcastle 21/8/02.
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