On 27 November 1925, Ernest Wiseman was born to parents Harry and Connie.

One of five children, Ernie's upbringing was far from priviledged.

Harry was a railway porter, and had saved a sargeant's life during the First World War ... earning a medal for bravery. This wasn't something that he talked about very often.

Harry's father had toured the Northern working men's clubs as a singer, and Harry also performed as an amateur in the clubs. At the age of seven, Ernie joined his father on stage and they performed as "Bert Carson and His Little Wonder".

In 1936, Ernie took part in a charity show called "The Nignog Revue". He appeared in three of these shows over the next couple of years.

In 1938, Bryan Michie was searching the North of England for young talent. Following his success in "The Nignog Revue", Ernie auditioned. He did not hear from Michie for several months, but was then contacted by Jack Hylton. Michie had tipped off Hylton, who invited Ernie to audition for his show "Bandwagon" with Arthur Askey.

Ernie auditioned for Hylton on 7 January 1939. Hylton was so impressed with Ernie's audition, that he put Ernie into the show that same evening. An unknown 13 year old sharing the stage with Arthur Askey created much excitement in the media, and Ernie was described as a "thirteen-year-old Max Miller" and "a great discovery".

Hylton signed him to a three year contract, and changed his name to Ernie Wise.

Ernie passed away on 21st March 1999, following a series of heart attacks.