For four decades, Lucy Wilkinson has been bringing laughter and joy to families as the clown Louby Lou. She followed in the footsteps of her father, Arnold Cheetham, known as Trumble the clown, who taught her all the tricks of the trade when she was just six years old.
A Family Tradition
Lucy, who lives in Astley, Wigan, started her career in the days of the Yellow Pages, long before social media. Children's parties were simpler then, often held in gardens, church halls, or living rooms. She recalls that parents today often feel pressured to keep up with trends, but the essence of clowning remains the same: spreading happiness.
While clowns are not as prevalent as in her father's heyday, Lucy's dedication has never wavered. She has been a familiar face on children's wards at Royal Manchester Children's Hospital and Stepping Hill, having undergone specialist training to entertain sick children and those with special needs. In 2005, she was invited to 10 Downing Street, where Cherie Blair thanked her for her work as a Clown Doctor.
Overcoming Challenges
The COVID-19 pandemic was a tough time for Lucy, with work drying up overnight. However, she adapted by hosting online parties and taking her 'Giggle Bus' to deliver fun on people's doorsteps. To celebrate her 40-year milestone, she gave Louby Lou a makeover, incorporating elements of her father's old clown outfit into a new costume created by Alison Naylor of Cloth Ears Costumes & Props.
Lucy unveiled the new look at a special party in Tyldesley, where she also celebrated her 46th birthday. She reflected on her childhood, where she learned magic illusions and dances instead of playing outside. After initially being reluctant to pursue clowning as a teenager, she decided to give it a go and has never looked back.
A Healing Profession
Lucy describes clowning as a loveable, joyful, and playful job that is healing and light work. Hospital work is especially close to her heart, as making sick children smile is something very special. Married to Stuart and mother to three daughters, Ella, Martha, and Betsy, she emphasizes that the job requires constant effort and creativity.
Her father Arnold, now 75, got back into his old costume to celebrate Lucy's milestone. The event was attended by family, friends, and organizations like MedEquip4Kids and the GM Business Growth Hub, which helped Lucy access the EnterprisingYou scheme during the pandemic.
A New Chapter
Arnold expressed immense pride in his daughter, noting that she was natural at clowning and eager to learn. Lucy sees the launch of her new costume as the beginning of a wider mission to champion the positive role of traditional clowns in communities. She hopes to bring back the joy, laughter, and connection that clowns have historically provided at community events, family celebrations, and children's parties.
Despite the challenges of the past five years, Lucy feels this is a rebirth for Louby Lou, bringing her character to life for future generations.
