Plans are in the works to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Eric Morecambe's birth with a special event in his home town.
Morecambe Town Council wants to celebrate the life of the famous Morecambe-born comedian with an event or series of events in 2026.
The Morecambe and Wise star was born on May 14 1926. He took his stage name of Eric Morecambe from the town of his birth.
Eric, who died in 1984 aged 58, is renowned for his double act with Ernie Wise, who died in 1999.
Morecambe and Wise are among Britain's most loved entertainers of all-time and their 'The Morecambe and Wise Show' TV specials remain enduringly popular today.
The Eric Morecambe Statue was unveiled on Morecambe seafront in 1999 and is a hugely popular attraction for visitors to the town and residents alike.
A spokesperson for Morecambe Town Council said: "At the meeting of full council on Thursday June 20, Morecambe Town Council resolved to celebrate the life and work of Eric Morecambe in 2026, in what will be his 100th anniversary year.
"The council has requested that its Festivals and Events Committee organise an event or series of events to mark this historic occasion, ideally working in partnership with other local organisations.
"There are no further details of what this might entail at this stage - discussion was largely around the worthiness and importance of this milestone, with plans to be made and details to be confirmed once the council has an events officer in post."
Councillor Paul Hart said: "Eric Morecambe is still an iconic part of the town and we believe that we simply must mark his 100th birthday properly. Several events could be held and we have enough time to organise these.
"It will also be Ernie Wise's 100th birthday on November 27th 2025 so perhaps events can be organised from this day right through to Eric Morecambe's birthday.
"We believe that, such is Eric's ongoing popularity, that the events will attract thousands of people into our town."
Councillor Geoff Knight said: "Eric Morecambe is Morecambe’s best-known celebrity and a UK national treasure. He proudly took his stage name from his place of birth. As a mark of respect, we consider it important that Morecambe marks this milestone event and Eric’s life’s works with celebratory events throughout 2026."
Councillor Joanne Ainscough said: "We were happy to support the 100th anniversary of Eric's birth, his statue alone brings joy to thousands of visitors and locals every year. We are hoping that Morecambe Town Council will be able to work with the amazing arts and culture festivals and organisations within our community to create something really special for this centenary celebration."
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