We've dug out these amazing rare photos of Eric Morecambe in Lancashire to mark his 100th birthday.
A host of events and activities have been planned to celebrate what would have been Eric’s 100th birthday on May 14.
Eric took his famous name from the town of his birth and achieved nationwide adoration.
But despite his rise to stardom, he would try to make the time to return to his hometown and was always proud of his northern roots.
On his last visit to the area he opened an old people’s housing scheme in Lancaster and would often be found getting involved in community events.
Eric was held in high regard by locals and whenever he visited Morecambe they would send him back home to Harpenden, in Hertfordshire, with his car boot stashed with Morecambe Bay shrimps, sticks of Morecambe rock and fistfuls of crab claws.
A look through our archives unearthed these 19 pictures of the comedian during some of these visits to Morecambe and Lancaster. We hope they bring you sunshine!
9. Memories of Eric
Eric Morecambe at Morecambe Football Club after becoming its president in August 1969. Picture sent in by Peter Reed. Photo: Submitted
10. Memories of Eric
Eric Morecambe with his honorary degree at Lancaster University. Photo: National World
11. Memories of Eric
Eric Morecambe playing the fool at the opening of Cartmel Day Centre. This picture was loaned to us by Jennifer Mortimer, far right. Photo: Submitted
12. Memories of Eric
Chancellor Princess Alexandra with Eric Morecambe receiving his honorary degree from Lancaster University in July 1977. Photo: National World