THE Incredible Hulk is back in the news after Prime Minister Boris Johnson likened himself to the famous comic book character, saying: “The madder Hulk gets, the stronger Hulk gets.”

Back in 1980, the American TV series of the Hulk was one of the most popular series around with millions tuning in to watch stars Bill Bixby as Dr David Bruce Banner and Lou Ferrigno as the Hulk.

Interestingly, Arnold Schwarzenegger had been considered for the role of The Hulk but, even at 6’ 2”, was reportedly not tall enough (Lou Ferrigno was 6’ 5”).

In May 1980, the show was popular enough to inspire an ‘Incredible Hulk Painting Competition’ which was sponsored by Robinsons Jewellers, Bolton, and organised by the Odeon Cinema, Bolton with the winners receiving wrist watches from the jewellers.