Think of oversized khaki shorts, a stage curtains with a pair of glasses hiding behind them, and you will think of Eric Morecambe. Born John Eric Bartholomew 14th May 1926 in Morecambe Lancashire. Eric Morecambe was to become one of Britains best loved comics. Alongside his partner Ernie Wise and despite some early career setbacks, they went on to entertain us for over 20 years. Between 1961 and 1983 a Christmas would not have been complete without a Morecambe and Wise special. And it was a mark of their success that so many of this countries top stars would subject themselves to "A play wot Ern wrote" such was the popularity of Eric and Ern. A popularity that gained them an O.B.E in 1976.

Eric collapsed shortly after coming off stage in May 1984, and died a few hours later, with his family by his side. Ernie Wise said of Erics death. "It's the saddest day of my life .. I feel like I've lost a limb, I have been robbed of a partner and brother, there is a cold draught down one side of me where Eric should be". a sentiment felt by millions of people in throughout the UK for a man who brought the Sunshine.