An interview with the hilarious Dawn Bailey!

The Stockport-born comedian is performing at The Fingerpost on Friday 27 June

Jun 05, 2025

Thursday 5 June 2025

If you’d like to write an article for The Scarf My Father Wore, share a few snippets or photos, or advertise your business, please email thescarfmyfatherwore@substack.com.

THE SCARF MY FATHER WORE 2025-26 CALENDAR: Having been to all 56 County games this season, I’ve taken thousands of photos. I’ve put together calendars for next season, featuring some of my favourite photos from the last year, plus some other County bits and bobs. £10 each. Get in touch if you’d like one.

Dawn Bailey is a forty something (actually… she’s just turned 50) mum who views life through happy specs and giddy knickers. (Her words, not mine.)

With a likeable and affable nature, Dawn is a regular on the UK comedy circuit and performs for some of the most reputable promoters in the country. Her honesty regarding life and love is raw, straight to the point and comes with a no holds barred delivery. She’s a merry maker and definitely loves to have a damn good chuckle.

I’m delighted to have Dawn opening my next stand-up comedy gig at The Fingerpost on Friday 27 June. Ahead of the show I thought I’d ask her a few questions. Drop me an email if you’d like to come along.

Today’s edition is sponsored by LM Stone Creative. A big thank you to Chris, who’s currently offering The Scarf My Father Wore readers a free matching chopping board and free templating on all full kitchen worktop orders.

All you have to do is quote “County Scarf” when you place an enquiry with Chris. Give him a call on 0161 312 6864 or email info@lmstonecreative.com.

Finally, I’m currently walking every street in Stockport to raise money for mental health charity Mentell. If you’d like to make a donation to help me reach my target, please click here.

Total distance so far: 253.75 miles

Total steps so far: 418,084

Total raised so far: £2,312

Total completed streets so far: 474 (Click here for the full list, which includes reports and photos from every day of the walk.)

Further information on the walk can be found by clicking here.

Des Junior

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Thanks for joining us Dawn Bailey. Do you prefer the dawn or a glass of Baileys?

Oh I do enjoy a cheeky glass of Baileys.

You were the winner of the XS Manchester Radio Comedian of the Year competition in 2016, which led to you presenting your own show on the station. How was that whole experience?

I got through on a wild card as I had a boxing class and totally forgot about the competition. The producer rang me on my way home so I went straight there all sweaty and red faced.

Still can’t believe I actually won.

Presenting the show was incredible. On my first day I met Clint Boon. I was a massive Inspiral Carpets fan in my student days so I was proper starstruck. I loved every minute of doing the show and my producer Matt White was amazing and incredibly supportive as I’d never done anything like that before.

What’s been your best stand-up gig so far?

I was lucky enough to share a bill in September last year with Scott Bennett and Frankie Boyle. That was very special, although doing a show at the Edinburgh Festival, also last year, was literally a dream come true.

And the worst?

A pub gig in Warrington when I first started. I still shiver when I think of performing 10 minutes to silence. I was woeful.

Who’s your comedy hero?

Victoria Wood was my influence growing up as I’d always wanted to be a comedy writer.

Billy Connolly and Peter Kay are two of my all time favourite comedians.

Best thing about being a comedian?

I believe making people laugh is a gift and if you have that you should definitely use it. There is no feeling like it when you get that first laugh on stage.

Worst thing about being a comedian?

I don’t really have a worst example. I still pinch myself that I get to do this as a job.

What’s your thoughts on the town of Stockport?

I was born and grew up in Stockport so to me it’s a very special place. I have so many happy memories of Saturday mornings going to the market with my parents and getting an ice cream from the Sivori’s van.

Stockport Baths on St Petersgate was so full of chlorine you couldn’t see for about an hour when you got out.

And the Classic Cinema on Wellington Road where I queued for ages to see Rocky IV. I went twice and he won both nights.

Where will you be travelling from for the gig in Stockport, how will you be getting there, and what snacks do you reckon you’ll be eating on the journey?

I’ll be travelling from Bollington, a little village near Macclesfield where I live now. Driving in my little Kia Picanto. I never eat before a gig – that’s why I’m always starving once I’ve been on stage. It’s a real challenge to drive past a Maccies on the way home.

And finally, obviously I do these little interviews to sell tickets for the shows. Why should people come and see you in Stockport in June?

I’m a Stockport girl and have references to growing up there in my set which people can relate too. I also worked at Sainsbury’s in the town centre for a few years when I was a student so it’d be nice to see some ex-colleagues who are local at the gig. I’m really looking forward to the show and being home before midnight is just fabulous.

➡️ Come and see Dawn (and me!) on Friday 27 June. Call/text 07816 111150 or email thescarfmyfatherwore@substack.com to reserve your seats.

How to care for porcelain worktops (and keep them looking brand new)

Porcelain worktops are a perfect blend of beauty and strength in kitchen design. They not only look amazing but also withstand the test of time. With proper care, these high-quality surfaces can elevate your kitchen and endure for many years. Your porcelain worktop is more than just a surface – it’s a valuable addition to your home that enhances both functionality and style. Crafted from natural clays and subjected to intense heat during production, these worktops provide:

Exceptional durability to withstand everyday use
Resistance against scratches, stains, and heat damage
Non-porous characteristics that inhibit bacterial growth
UV protection to maintain vibrant colours
Waterproof features suitable for indoor and outdoor settings

1) Regular Cleaning

Looking after your porcelain worktops is really straightforward. Most of the time, all you need is a soft cloth and some warm water to wipe away daily mess. If you’ve got tougher stains or grease, just use a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner with a non-scratch sponge. Try to avoid anything too harsh like scouring pads or strong chemicals – they’re not necessary and can wear down the surface. And even though porcelain is heat and scratch resistant, it’s still a good idea to use chopping boards and pop a trivet under hot pans, just to keep everything looking its best.

TIP: There’s no need to seal porcelain – it’s naturally non-porous, so it resists stains all on its own.

2) Spill Management

Spills happen, but the good news is porcelain worktops handle them well. Thanks to their non-porous surface, most liquids – like wine, coffee, or sauces – won’t soak in or stain. For best results, wipe up spills as soon as they happen using a damp cloth. Sticky or dried-on spills can be removed with a soft sponge and a bit of mild cleaner. Avoid using anything abrasive, as it could affect the surface finish over time. Regularly cleaning up spills quickly not only keeps your worktop spotless but also helps maintain its sleek appearance.

TIP: Fast clean-ups are key – even though porcelain is stain resistant, dealing with spills straight away keeps your worktops looking brand new for longer.

3) Stain Removal

Porcelain worktops are naturally resistant to stains, but the occasional mark can still happen, especially if spills are left to sit. The good news is, most stains can be removed easily with the right approach. For everyday food and drink stains like coffee, tea, wine, or tomato sauce, simply use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner. If the stain has dried, let the cleaner sit on the surface for a few minutes before wiping it away. Greasy or oily marks can be handled with a gentle degreaser or a bit of dish soap mixed with warm water. Just rub gently and rinse thoroughly. For ink or marker stains, a small amount of rubbing alcohol or acetone on a cloth should lift the mark without damaging the surface, but always rinse well after use. If you notice limescale or hard water spots, a diluted white vinegar solution (equal parts vinegar and water) can help break down the buildup. Apply with a soft cloth, leave it briefly, and rinse off. Just be cautious using vinegar too often, especially on polished finishes. For dried-on paint or other residues, carefully scrape with a plastic tool, never metal, and then clean with soapy water. Taking care to use the right method for each type of stain will help keep your porcelain worktops looking fresh and flawless.

TIP: Clean spills promptly and use gentle products. Harsh chemicals or abrasive pads aren’t needed and can damage the surface over time.

4. Preventing Damage

While porcelain worktops are incredibly durable, a few simple habits can help you keep them in top condition for years to come. Always use chopping boards when preparing food to avoid surface scratches and protect your knives. Although porcelain is heat resistant, it’s still best to use heat mats or trivets under hot pans to prevent any risk of thermal shock or surface discolouration over time. Avoid dragging heavy pots, pans, or appliances across the surface, as repeated friction can wear down the finish, especially on edges or corners. Never use abrasive cleaning pads or harsh chemicals, as they can dull or damage the surface. Regular, gentle care goes a long way in maintaining both the appearance and performance of your worktops.

TIP: Treat your porcelain worktop with the same care you would any premium surface small precautions make a big difference in keeping it looking like new.

5. Heat Management

Porcelain worktops are highly heat resistant, making them a reliable choice for kitchens where hot pans and dishes are regularly in use. Thanks to the way they’re manufactured – fired at temperatures exceeding 1200°C (around 2200°F) – porcelain surfaces can comfortably withstand high heat without burning, melting, or discolouring. This means that placing hot cookware on porcelain surfaces occasionally won’t usually cause damage. However, to protect porcelain from heat damage and prevent issues like thermal shock (caused by sudden, extreme changes in temperature), it’s still best practice to use heat mats or trivets under hot pots, pans, and baking trays. This is especially important around edges or near joins, where the material may be more vulnerable.

TIP: While porcelain can handle up to 2200°F during manufacturing, using a simple trivet or heat pad helps extend the life of your worktop and keeps it looking flawless for years to come.

➡️ Visit lmstonecreative.com for further details.

Photo of the day

Alun Armstrong and Mike Flynn – two very handsome chaps I’m sure you’ll agree – model County’s snazzy Adidas training gear back in 1997.

Today in SK

🍺 Food and drink

The Nelson Tavern (SK1) have a great range of offers throughout the week, including £5.50 for drinks off the Doubles Bar, a comprehensive range of shots for £1.50, and 3 for £7 on Jägerbombs. Also, double up for £2 on premium spirits.

Bitter £2.30 a pint all night at The Cross Keys (SK8).

A number of venues are featured on The Scarf My Father Wore such as The Crown (SK2), The Crown Inn (SK6), The Steelworks (SK6), The Three Tunnes (SK7) and Flute & Firkin (SK12). Support them this month by popping in for a few drinks and a bite to eat.