Standing ovation for prostitute row Albert (From News Shopper)

Standing ovation for prostitute row Albert

3:35pm Monday 22nd December 2003 in

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A PENSIONER got a standing ovation on TV show Trisha for his story about having to curb his spending on prostitutes after social services took hold of his cash.

Albert Skipper sold his maisonette in Eltham 18 months ago to move into sheltered housing in the borough after the death of his 73-year-old wife, Anna, from emphysema in December 2001.

Social services then took charge of the 81-year-old's finances through a protection order to stop him squandering the £85,000 from the house sale, after he spent the entire £6,500 deposit on a 35-year-old call girl in just nine weeks.

Earlier this month, the frisky pensioner was picked up by minicab for a three-hour ride to ITV talk show Trisha's Norwich studios, where he received a standing ovation from an audience clearly delighted by his energy for sex.

Mr Skipper says he was amazed by the support.

He said: "I'm the only one who has had a standing ovation. Everyone shouted Albert, Albert, Albert'. Trisha had to quieten the audience down.

"I thought I was pop star. There are several people like me but they are frightened to come forward."

He added: "I was asked how long ago I had sex. I said six or seven weeks ago. If I had access to more money I would buy myself a nice suit and would have three months abroad in Malta."

When Mr Skipper originally revealed his story to News Shopper two months ago, staff were so touched by his plight they held a whip-round and raised £40 for him to enjoy a night out.

He now admits he spent the cash on a prostitute in Eltham. But he added: "It wasn't that great. I've had better. I didn't like the girl for a start."

The show is expected to be broadcast in January.

One of Trisha's researchers said: "He was one of the most popular guests we've ever had on the show. The audience really loved him."

Greenwich Council has said Mr Skipper's £90-a-week allowance is far less than his outgoings as his bills are paid direct from his social services-controlled account.