'Let's celebrate Eric Morecambe's 100th birthday'

Morecambe, born John Eric Bartholomew, took his stage name from his native hometown

Comedian Eric Morecambe should be remembered with events in his hometown of Morecambe on what would have been his 100th birthday, a group of councillors have said.

Born John Eric Bartholomew in 1926, his stage name was inspired by the Lancashire seaside town, which has a statue of him on the promenade unveiled by the Queen in 1999.

The much-loved comedian, who with Ernie Wise formed one of the nation's favourite double acts, died on 28 May 1984, after collapsing on stage with a heart attack shortly after his 58th birthday.

A group of Lancaster City councillors have put forward a plan to encourage ideas for events marking what would have been his 100th birthday next May.

Councillors Matthew Black, Joanne Ainscough, Louise Belcher, Phillip Black, Ruth Colbridge, Claire Cozler, John Hanson, Jean Parr and Margaret Pattison are behind the motion, which will be put forward at next full council meeting.

They say the comic's legacy continues to attract visitors to the town and "remains a source of civic pride and cultural heritage for Morecambe".

A statue of Morecambe was unveiled in his hometown by the Queen to a packed promenade in 1999

The councillors believe the centenary of the comic's birth provides an opportunity to promote the town's cultural identity, tourism and local economy.

They say the city council should play "a leading role" in supporting and facilitating these celebrations and "work with local organisations, community groups and businesses to plan and deliver public events, exhibitions and other commemorative activities".

Potential funding streams and sponsorship deals should also be explored to help "support these celebrations without placing undue burden on council finances", the councillors say.

Informal discussions about the plan have started between different departments, museums and businesses, according to council officers.

The motion will be discussed at the city council meeting in Morecambe Town Hall on 5 November, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.