An edited extract from the annual Toy Show which the series 'The Late Show' stages in early December every year since the mid 1970s. In the show, new toys are shown and tested by children. Talented children sometimes from stage schools such as the Billie Barry Stage School appear on the show to perform for the live audience.

'The Late Late Show' was intended to be a summer "filler" but proved so successful with the public that it became part of the regular schedule. The idea for the programme came from the show's producer, Tom McGrath, who wanted to present an Irish version of the American talk show 'The Tonight Show'.

Gay Byrne was to be the show's presenter and would remain so for the next 37 years. Tom McGrath's original idea was that the show would be informal and have the feel of people dropping in for a chat.

'The Late Late Show' became an important forum for the airing and debating of many issues in a changing Irish society.

The first programme of 'The Late Late Show' was broadcastat 11.20 pm, 6 July 1962. At the time, it was unusual to have a live talk and entertainment show on

so late in the day's viewing. On that first show, the guests were Count Cyril McCormack, Ken Gray, George Desmond Hodnett and Harry Thuillier. McGrath would go on to pioneer many other successful variety shows on Irish television.

Pat Kenny replaced Gay Byrne as presenter in 1999 and remained in that position for 10 years.The programme is still running today and is presented by Ryan Tubridy.

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