Eric Morecambe, the legendary comedian, is set to be immortalized in a new mural in his hometown of Morecambe, marking what would have been his 100th birthday. This is a fitting tribute to the iconic double act he shared with Ernie Wise, who met in 1940 and went on to become one of Britain's best-loved comedy duos. The mural, unveiled by Eric's children, Gary and Gail, will be a celebration of their partnership, built on friendship, respect, and a shared love of making people laugh.
The ceremony, taking place at Johnny's Bar on Marine Road Central, is just the beginning of a week-long celebration. Before the mural unveiling, Gary and Gail will visit the town to mark their dad's 100th birthday with a visit to his iconic statue on Morecambe Promenade. Guided walks, hosted by local historian Peter Wade, will take attendees on a whistlestop tour of key locations in Eric's early life and career, setting off from the statue itself.
The celebrations continue with a free exhibit at the Arndale Centre's Morecambe Heritage Centre, featuring a collection of photos, postcards, letters, and scripts, including personal items from Eric's collection. On May 15th, Gary and Gail will fire a starting gun as more than 800 students from Morecambe Bay Academy run 1 mile from Broadway to the Bay Arena, performing a 'trademark Morecambe and Wise skip' as they pass Eric's statue. An outdoor screening of 'The Intelligence Men', a 1965 spy comedy by Morecambe and Wise, will air at The Jubilee Club on the 15th of May, followed by classic skits played on the big screen at Morecambe Winter Gardens from 12:00 - 15:00 on the 16th and 17th of May.
A free but ticketed event, hosted by Martin Clarkson, Executive Producer of the West End show 'Eric and Ern', will explore the life and legacy of Eric and his partnership with Ernie Wise. The event will run from 16:00 - 17:00 on the 16th of May. The hit West End show celebrating the comedy duo will run for two nights at Morecambe Gardens on the 16th and 17th of May at 19:30, with tickets available on the venue's website. A screening of 'That Riviera Touch', a French Riviera-based comedy by the duo, will be aired at a free but ticketed event at 16:00 on the 17th of May at Morecambe Winter Gardens.
The celebrations will continue throughout the summer, including a family special educational needs session, a musical tribute, and a performance art project. These events will not only celebrate Eric's life and work but also the joy he brought to people's lives. As Gail Morecambe said, 'The centenary is not just about remembering their comedy, but celebrating the joy they brought to people's lives.' This week-long celebration is a testament to the enduring legacy of Eric Morecambe and his partnership with Ernie Wise, and it is a fitting tribute to a comedian who brought laughter and joy to millions.
