2006
December 2006
 

BBC, DVDS AND UKGOLD

With regards to the BBC's apparent reluctance to release more episodes, could this be because, having sold these to, amongst others, the Sky Channel, they are contracted not to release any more episodes on DVD?.
If you consider Sky have continually repeated, first on UK Gold, then Bravo and now  Drama channels,  series 4 to 13 episodes and are now repeating episodes 14, 15 and 16, they would be possible loosing a good standby when planning their broadcast schedules.
Personally, I have recorded all these episodes and now have made-up DVD's for all these series, However I  would still buy any new released DVDs.  
Regards, F Roberts
 

IT WAS THAT VIADUCT

In response to the query about the viaduct - this was Thornton Viaduct on the old GNR line from Keighley - Bradford (closed 1955) - it is to the west of Bradford. Still stands as do the viaducts at Hewenden, Cullingworth and Denholme.
Kind regards RT


DO THE BEEB EVER VISIT THIS WEBSITE?

Just wondering if anyone from the BBC ever gets to see this and the other websites dedicated to The Last of the Summer Wine? If they did they would realise that there must be thousands upon thousands of LOTSW fans throughout the world who would gladly fork out some hard earned cash to pay to see a decent comedy show. I for one would gladly pay £7.99 ( as per Dads Army and Only Fools and Horses series) a fortnight to build up a collection of this popular series. BBC - I emphasize 'very popular'. Perhaps someone who knows someone who knows someone else who in turn knows someone awake at the BBC who might just realise what a goldmine they are sitting upon. What are they waiting for - someone to record all the shows from the TV and then sell them for ridiculous amounts on eBay?        


THE SPECTABLE SCOOP

http://thespectacle.co.uk

Issue 0003 September 2006


Digitally re-mastered for the 21st century, the BBC releases all 255 episodes of Last Of The Summer Wine on DVD
A “Special Edition” DVD box set of all 255 episodes of Last of the Summer Wine is to be released in September. But, in a twist that is becoming more common, the episodes have been digitally re-mastered. Len Gafferprone, producer of the first 93 episodes, and the man that led the re-mastering project, said that the DVD version of the series would be ‘cleaned up and given a lick of paint,’ and that nothing substantial in the timeless plotting or magnificent dialogue would be changed. ‘It’s more of a restoration really. We did however take the opportunity to correct a gaff. In one of the episodes where Compo goes down a hill in a bath, just before we cut to Compo landing in a pond, if you’re eagle-eyed you might just spot that’s a stuntman in the bath!’
  Gafferprone said that fans can expect plenty of extras too, a prerequisite for any DVD release these days. ‘We’ve got a rare 1962 interview with Peter Sallis on the set of Series 3. There’s also a ‘Behind the Scenes’ documentary on the making of such classic scenes as Compo rolling down a hill, Compo rolling down a hill in a bath, Compo accidentally pushing Clegg down a hill, Compo accidentally pushing Clegg down a hill in a bath and a more recent episode featuring Comp’s son rolling down a hill in a bath.'
The release is timed to coincided with the airing of the latest series on BBC1.
In an attempt to embrace the digital age of the 21st Century, the first episode of the new series will include a computer generated bath rolling down a computer generated hill. ‘There’s nothing we can’t do now, thanks to the magic of computers. If we want a shot of one of our characters rolling down a hill in a bath, it’s only a few clicks away. Want to see a bath floating in a pond, then slowly sinking while one of the cast give a salute? That's no problem to our technical team.
Found this recently anyone have anything to ad on the BBC releasing this we have our doubts.

Brian Biggs


ENJOY LOTSW

Enjoy watching the Last of the Summer Wine.  Its my favourite program.
Cheers dears,
J.

WHICH ONE WAS THE MARCHING BAND

please could you tell me which episode featured bill owen singing with marching band
john
Wingletangsfive@aol.com  


GETTING SAM HOME ANYONE?


Dear Sir/Madam,
I would love to get either on video or dvd the 1983 Christmas Special of Last of the Summer Wine – Getting Sam Home , is it possible to purchase this Christmas special.
Yours desperately

Joan Shaw
joan@qmstores.co.uk

PS I am wanting to buy it for a friend this Christmas who is a great fan of Last of the Summer Wine
 

ANY PATTERN FOR COMPO'S HATS?

I have loved watching Last of the Summer Wine for several years now on
Maryland's Public TV stations.  As a knitter, I wonder if you have a
pattern for Compo's green hat -- or even a good picture from which I
could reproduce it.  If I do it, I would be glad to share the
directions with your site as a freebie.  I think there were at least
three versions on the series.  I am especially interested in the light
green one used at the end of the series, also the first light green one
he used with the lovely Aran patterns.
Thanks,
Priscilla Bouic
Bowie, Maryland
pbouic@juno.com


RESOLVING WESLEY

MY FAMILY AND I ARE NEW FANS OF LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE IN THAT THE LOCAL PBS STATION JUST STARTED RUNNING IT.
MY QUESTION IS WITH WESLEY PASS AWAY FIRST THEN EDIE HOW DID THEY RESOLVE THE LOST IN THE SHOW????

JOHN ALBRIGHT
BRIGHTON, TENNESSEE

Albr3446@bellsouth.net

 

October/November 2006
Apologies for delays publishing your October messages


SIGN THE SUMMER WINE PETITION!


Hello,

Hello Summer Wine, You may remember I e-mailed you some time last year about I created a Summer Wine Petition to try and get some more series on DVD.

I looked at the petition today and it has 709 Signatures.


Could you please put it back on the Summer Wine website so we get around about 291 Signatures more. If we get 291 more or over, I'll send it to the BBC asking if we could get more of summer wine on DVD, ( a least 3 release per year) so we can have the complete on DVD of, Last Of The Summer Wine.


I'll keep you informed of the petition.
Pettion address: www.petitiononline.com/lotsw

Many Thanks
Mr. Craig A Hills


LOTSW AMONG OUR TV GREATS


WATCH LOSW FOR YEARS ONE OF OUR FAVORITES. MISS COMPO. KEEP FILMING OVER
THE PAST YEAR. SENT SEVERAL EMAILS NO REPLY. THANK YOU.
JOHN GARMON



FIRST OF SUMMER WINE QUESTION

Was mark stead in first of the summer wine because its on his website
he says that he was is this true?
ross_garde@hotmail.co.uk



SPECIAL SCREENING - ALL INVITED!

I don't know if you know although I'm sure you do we had a special screening of Last Of The Summer Wine at our Theatre in January 15th 2006, our theatre holds 520 seats and we were full for each showing!!! We are pleased to say we are having the cast and crew back this year on Sunday 19th November and next year Sunday 21st January. We had a wonderful time and we hope it will be even better. We are very proud to be associated with this show and the audience loved it, certainly no need for canned laughter!!!!

Nevil Michaels
Marketing Manager
Leatherhead Theatre
01372 365132 - 07770 652821
nevil@the-theatre.org


VIADUCT MYSTERY - CAN ANY FANS HELP?


My Dad absolutely loved this series- he died 19 years ago. I have been
into Holmfirth a few times since then, and every time I see re-runs of the
programme - I can imagine him laughing his head of at Compo's antics.
I would be interested in finding out more about the website, and the
society. This area is spectacular, and a joy to visit.
I am living on Merseyside, so am not a million miles away!
One query- the episode where they dropped a mangle of an old railway
viaduct- where was that filmed?

My Very Best Wishes,

Dean Pritchard
medic208@hotmail.co.uk



WHERE CAN IF GET THAT MUSIC CD?

Hello
We are huge Summer Wine fans and I have been trying for the last year and a half to get a copy of the music CD that was offered about two years ago. I couldn't get it at that time and now I can't find it anywhere.
Any suggestions?
Thank you
Pat and Lee Duigon

EDITOR'S NOTE: Please click link top left to SW CD - http://www.summer-wine.com/summer-wine/swcd.htm


ANY LOTSW CELEBRATIONS ANYONE?

I would like to find out if there will be any celebrations in 2007 for the 35th Anniversary of the show. I would like to plan a trip to Holmfirth during the celebrations. If anyone has any information, I would love to hear it.
Pamela Quade
Maryland, USA
compofan@yahoo.com


A FAN FROM MARYLAND

Hello from Maryland, Jim the ex-pat Geordie here. I am a long time fan of the show,
Now to my question,
Why are there no Galleries of Marina on the site? [I also had a crush on Glenda, but see no pictures of her either. It seems to me Marina is deserving of having her fashions shown on the site.Finally I have to say a thank you to PBS over here, after repeating Summer Wine from Compo's death, up to Truly and Billy, but usually not in any order, PBS has gone right back to 1973, in colour, it's great to see Michael Bates again, I must say, I had forgotten how HARSH some of the comedy was then, and all three "lads" smoking their heads off, the PC brigade would be in fits. I hope this run of Summer Wine will last a long while.
Good Luck with everything, and thanks for a great site.
Jim

A BIRTHDAY PEACOCK


We are very avid watchers of LOTSW and also have a book or two by Roy Clarke

In the book "Gala Week A Summer Wine Chronicle"he relates how the boys try to give Norah a peacock for her birthday

Was this tale ever included in a BBC broadcast and if so, which series

Would much appreciate you assistance, we have "googled" the web for a long time on this one but to no avail

Hope to hear from you soon

Regards

Nanon and Don

Australia
newmandc@chariot.net.au



WOULD LOVE TO CHAT TO OTHER FANS

Hello,
I appreciate the LOTSW website. I discovered it on my PBS station a few years ago and now its now carried here anymore. I’m wondering if it ever will be again. Would love to correspond with anyone about series. I’m in Eastern,NC coastal plain area.



KF
FEEGLEK@ecu.edu


ANOTHER DVD QUESTION


GOOD AFTERNOON NEW YORK TIME

CAN YOU TELL ME WANT DVD EPISODES ARE AVAILABLE . I CALL ONLY FIND TWO SETS AND THE SHOW RAN FOR 30 YEARS ?

THANKS

PETE
peterlof@juno.com

PIVOTAL EPISODE OMITTED


According to episode guides for LOTW, the pilot "Of Funerals And Fish"
(presented within Comedy Playhouse, b. 04 Jan 1973), preceeded Season
1. However, within the current DVD Release of Season 1/2, this pivotal
episode has been omitted.

Contrast this approach with the BBC's release of 'Gangsters' (also on
DVD), within which the original Play for Today pilot together with
Seasons 1 and 2 were contained.

Perhaps, when successor LOTW series are released, 'Of Funderals and
Fish' will be presented. "Norman Clegg Visits his late wife's grave on the
anniversary of her death, then he reunites with his friends Compo
Simmonite and Cyril Blamire and the trio wonders through town talking about,
life, death and fish"

However, it would be unfortunate if the pilot was junked as as
commonplace with other BBC series from the time.

Best wishes

Rebecca

LOVED LISTENING TO THE SUMMER WINE PODCASTS


it was really great to hear bill owen's and peter sallis voice i
enjoyed listening to the interviews, it so was sad to hear about bill owen
losing his life to cancer.

so thanks for uploading these interviews onto the site

from laura grimes


SHOWING THE SUMMER WINE CLASSICS IN MARYLAND, USA


Hello from Maryland. Having been a fan of the show for years now, I've always regretted that the older series, with Michael Bates, and the first incarnation of Foggy were not being shown in the United States.
Just last week, that changed. Our local PBS outlet, WMPT, Channel 22 in Annapolis, showed the pilot episode, with Blamire, Compo, Clegg, and so on.
They are continuing, for now, to show the older ones, one per weekday, so I'm staying tuned even more than usual.
We are indeed lucky here. Other cities in the United States DO NOT GET LOTSW at all. A friend in Philadelphia got to see only a very few episodes on WHYY, Channel 12, before it was just yanked off the schedule.
Thanks to the BBC for keeping such a marvelous thing going.
Bruce Harrison
Hyattsville, MD, U.S.A.



DVD COPIES FOR US MARKET?

For some time I have watch “Last of the Summer Wine” with great delight. On Oregon Public TV last night (10-8-6) episode Compo’s Death was shown which web research today revealed it took place in 1999. I didn’t know the actor Bill Owen was no longer living and was saddened I would no longer see him on television. I attempted to order video or DVD copies of some episodes and learned that British produced DVDs cannot be played in the USA . Will any of these be produced for the US market? Howard DeVore, Eugene , OR , USA
devore1@comcast.net


PREQUEL POINTS TO PONDER


Lovely to see Peter Sallis et al in the prequel to LOTW. Sorry that it
wasn't been developed.

An interesting point: Some people believe that the idea of the prequel
came about long before Star Wars and Star Trek (for example).

Many years ago, in a galaxy far far away, some guy (George Lucas) came
up with the marvelous idea of 3 space borne trilogies. And, it came to
pass that Star Wars 4 : A New Hope was released, followed by episode 5
and 6 ( The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi). However, episodes
1, 2, 3 of the 9 episode series were only produced decades later, and
there is no word if George Lucas will commit to 7, 8, 9. When last
interviewed, George Lucas said that he wouldn't develop the final trilogy.

As to whether the Star Wars Trilogy compares to the Lord of the Rings
Trilogy ..... the topic is discussed within Kevin Smith's Clerks II.


Best wishes
Rebecca



MISSING PUB MYSTERY - CAN FANS HELP?


Hi,

Does anyone have any idea the whereabouts of the pub featured in LOTSW episodes 'The Monkey'??

Visited Holmfirth earlier in the year and none of the locals had any idea, is it further out in the sticks??

Any ideas please e-mail
roy.ward@blueyonder.co.uk

Thanks
ROY AND JO WARD


TELL CANADA VISION TO KEEP SHOWING LOTSW


Roy Clarke and his staff are doing a fantastic job. We get the show on Vision TV from Toronto Ontario, and also on PBS from Buffalo United States. Please keep after Vision to keep buying the series.

L.Wiebe


THE VERY BEST PROGRAMME ON THE TELLY


Thank you for producing and airing the very best program on television. Your program is purely a delight to us each week. The unparalleled comedic genius never fails to lift our spirits, and really makes our week. It's something we truly look forward to, convinced you will never let us down. My wife and I feel like we know and love each one of you on the show. We pray that you will continue the excellent and gifted entertainment for many more decades.

God bless you all, every one!

Thanks, again.

Your American first cousins,
Bob & Alae Risse Thomas

 

September 2006

WHERE HAVE YOU LISTENED TO YOUR SUMMER WINE CD?

On a recent visit to the UK to obtain a copy of the marvellous Summer
Wine music CD which we brought back home with us to Australia and which we listen to on all
kind of situations and occasions.

The other day we were sitting by Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra, listening to the music, watching
the swans glide past and enjoying a cup of Twinings' finest when I started to wonder about all of
the other places in the world that the Summer Wine music is played and enjoyed.

It would be interesting to hear from others to find out where this wonderful music is played and
appreciated.

Regards,
Roy & Wendy Bailey



SUMMER WINE MAGIC ON TWIN CITIES PUBLIC TV

Just wanted to let you know that TPT, Twin Cities Public Television (Minneapolis-St. Paul,
Minnesota) has recently started airing LOTSW again, after a nearly two year absence. Even
better, instead of the same episodes from 1991-1996 that they have always run, they are now
showing some of the newer ones.

Last night, I finally saw "Elegy for Fallen Wellies" for the first time, and found it powerfully
moving. I've read the many comments here about Compo's death, and now I understand what the
fuss was all about. Roy Clarke couldn't have handled Bill Owen's passing any better than he did.
What a great tribute to a fine actor who will be sorely missed.

Joe Fishbein
West St. Paul, MN, USA



ANY WORDS TO THE SIGNATURE TUNE?

Are there words to Ronnie Hazlehurst signature tune for The Last of the summer wine?

Thanks
Tony
acbunce@atlantic05.freeserve.co.uk



PSST! INSIDER SUMMER WINE INFO SOUGHT

Does anyone have inside information as to why the character of Ros
(portrayed by Dora Bryan) has disappeared from the cast without a word
to apparently be replaced by Nellie (June Whitfield) for the 2006
series? No offense intended to Ms. Whitfield, whom I am certain is an
accomplished actress elsewhere, but the Nellie character, who seems to
do little else but talk on a cell phone to her invisible husband
Travis, does not, in my opinion, add anything of substance to the storyline.

Eileen Roys




SUMMER WINE EPISODE EGGS-SPERT WANTED

Hello Summer Wine people. I would dearly love to locate a specific episode that was screened
several years ago. All I can remember about it is that it contained a scene in which the women
were in a front room having afternoon tea. The topic of conversation was centred around 'eggs'
which then moved on to the female reproductive system and how 'eggs' play a part in that and
one of the women's comments said something to the effect of "never seeing eggs in the same
light again". I have looked at the episodes sector and nothing rings a bell but if you can identify
this I would love to see it again. Many thanks in anticipation, Carolyn Dauncey. Ps I live
surprisingly close to the area.

carolyn.dauncey@btopenworld.com



SUMMER WINE SPECIAL NOW AVAILABLE

We recently produced a one-off 32 page (A4) colour Summer Wine Special magazine carrying
interviews with lots of the LOTSW cast including Juliette Kaplan, June Whitfield, Dora Bryan,
Jean Alexander, Jean Fergusson, Frank Thornton and many more. There's also some locations
pics, an interview with Roy Clarke and a double page spread on Holmfirth. This is being sold in
lots of outlets in and around Holmfirth and is also on sale at www.ontheairmagazine.com (click
on the Summer Wine button on the left hand side) - there's a price including UK or overseas
delivery.

Best wishes,
Derek Coates
PDM Associates



2005 SERIES FOR WASHING DC VIEWERS


Here in the Washington area we just started to see the 2005 Series on Maryland Public TV. Will
there be a 2006 Series??

Bob Krantz, Unison, VA



GETTING LIFE BACK IN ORDER - AND LOVING SUMMER WINE

having what are meant to be the best years of your life to of been the worst is quite a sad thing
for me. as i have missed almost everything including television. now im getting my life back in
order a bit at a time. but the one thing i must say has made me laugh the most and thats not a lot is
last of the summer wine playing on uktv gold and other channels. foggy,compo and clegg have got
to be the best trio i have ever seen. compo is absoulutely hilarious but just recently has got me
veray interested in a holiday in holmfirth to recover from two long years of medication and
doctors i cant wait to see the cafe and noras cottage a 2 month holiday is just the thing my
favorite episode is the xmas special with the waterbed and compos huge jumper when he finally
gets near nora without the brush. last of the summer wine has bought me a lot of hapiness during
the last few months for that im thankful
jason reynolds 22
stourbridge west mids



WE LOVE SUMMER WINE

ust a quick note to say I love the program. I have been trying to catch the show whenever possible
on public television here in the US. Chicago to be exact. Wish I was able to see it from the
beginining back in '73 was it? I enjoy alot of programming from the UK. I have every episode of
"Are You Being Served?" and the Again series. (grace and favour).

Well, Keep up the good work!

Mike Rundquist
Streamwood,Illinois (usa)



...AND JUST LOVE THE WEBSITE


Hello,

I am a long time fan of Last of the Summer Wine. My mom and I usually watch it on our local PBS
station on Saturday evenings at 9:30 and I have several episodes on both video and DVD.
Unfortunately, they never show any of the later episodes but I hope one day they will release
them on DVD. I just love this website, especially your postbag. I sit for hours at a time just
reading the entries. I sure would love to be a member of the official LOTSW Appreciation
Society. Is this possible even though I live in the US? If so, how much is the cost in US dollars? If
not, could you possibly tell me if there is a US chapter of the fan club for Summer Wine? I live,
eat and breath LOTSW for I cannot get enough of this wonderful program, it's breathtaking
scenery and incredible music, as well as the great actors whom I just adore, especially Peter
Sallis.

I would also appreciate being put on a mailing list to be updated of anything that has to do with the
show. In the meantime, thank you so much for this remarkable website and keep up the amazing
work you all do to keep us true blue fans of LOTSW informed!

Best Wishes,
Robin in Greenville, SC




NOT ANOTHER REQUEST FOR MORE LOTSW DVDS....

Hi,

Haven’t visited this site for a while as I have grown despondent seeing all the requests for more
episodes on DVD. The reason I believe is that there are so many actors performing in this series,
past and present, and when DVD’s are released, all of them have to be paid royalties which makes
it uneconomical to produce. Not sure how true this is, but it sounds logical. However I will add
my name to the latest online petition, as I live in constant hope.

Robert Killeen
Johannesburg South Africa



CALLING ALL FANS...

I simply love to watch Last of The Summer Wine every Saturday evening. I would love to hear
from other fans of the show.

From Peggy in Norfolk , Virginia USA . My e-mail is damills@erols.com.



BOB AND TERRY ANYONE?


What about having "Bob & Terry" turn up for an episode? They could meet
accidentally by both taking separate day trips to the same location.
Cheers
David Gunn



MORE EPISODE REQUESTS: PLEASE WRITE TO THE BEEB


Will all interested fans of LOTSW write to the BBC Commissioning Editor to inform the BBC that
we want more episodes released on DVD. There are to my knowledge an ever growing number
of fans both in the UK and abroad crying out for more of the episodes to be released on DVD,
does it seem the BBC are not listening. LET'S HAVE SOME ANSWERS!!!!!!!!!!!!

The address details are:
BBC Commissioning Editor
3rd Floor
2 Entertain
33 Foley Street
London
W1W 7TL

Any fans wishing to contact me please email me at wmpeditor@aol.com

David Coulson



WHY OH WHY...

After 30 years of 'LOSW" why, why are there only the first 4 series, plus a couple of
compilations out on DVD??? Do I contact BBC or Roy Clark or what?? Please lets have more DVd
releases! Carol Hubbard




DATES ANYONE FOR 30TH ANNIVERSARY?


Can anyone tell me the dates for the 35th anniversary celebration? Or, is anything planned?? I
can't imagine the milestone wouldn't be marked!
Thanks,
judy

JNormand@pbcommercial.com




IS THERE A BOOK OR GUIDE TO THE LOCATIONS?

Is there a book, or guide to the old and new locations, as I do know some, but I cannot recornise
the new ones? As a photographer, I like to go around and take some photos. I am retired, so i
enjoy going in sids cafe, to reminise ect. The other question is, i have the two "LAST OF THE
SUMMERWINE" DVD s (series, 1--4), I did write to "HMV" about any further DVDs, they just
said that the makers were thinking about it. I do believe there are some great episodes that i have
seen on "SKY", the late 80s and most of the 90s made me scald myself giggling at them, so do let
me know when they are to be released.
"RICHARD" richard.ingham4@ntlworld.com



A NIGHT ACROSS FROM NORA'S, COURTESY OF THE ELEPHANT AND CASTLE PUB

recently returned from trip to UK went to holmfirth and spent the night at elephant & castle pub
right across the little bridge from Nora Battys place I got a private showing of Nora's from the
present owners mother who was cleaning up the place at the time went to Sid & Ivys cafe as well
as the summerwine tour enjoyed the trip a lot am still a big fan of the show , now when i watch i
can relate to the area a lot better .
Ray Marshall
 

NOTE: The following emails were published following the launch of www.holmfirth.tv during September, which features videos of Summer Wine country.

Hi Patrick, Your son made a lovely video of Holmfirth, I watched it twice just now and will certainly do it again tomorrow and after, it brings back such nice memories. I will pass the info of the website of video on to my sister and my friend Eileen, who will both love to watch it. Say thanks to Thomas!
Best regards Marianne Smits-Jansen Roermond, The Netherlands

Thank you so much Keep them coming.  It was very good.
LIZZ U.SA.


Very enjoyable to watch, i was in holmfirth during the summer and it is lovely to be reminded of the town,. we visited the t.i.c and the two ladies there were very helpful. looking forward to seeing more.
David Webborn, Swansea, South Wales.


I have lived here for 10 years but watched your video about Holmfirth with a new pair of eyes, I never realised how helpful the tourist information girls are. It certainly looks a grand place.
M. Morgan


Holmfirth looks even better on celluloid, at least there is no litter – and the sun is always shining!
Amy Jacobs, Honley


We have only lived in the town for a few weeks and really enjoyed watching your video, which gave us a few ideas on places to visit. We had never seen some of those shops before behind the Old Bridge!  We sent the links to some relatives who are coming to visit.
Ben, Holmfirth


I moved to Holmfith from Cleckheaton last February and your video is the first time I have ever been in the tourist information centre. I must visit in person next time, they are very friendly and helpful, and seemed to have a lot on sale!
Eileen Walker


At last – we have our own TV in the town. But can we have the cinema back showing regular films again please.
Chris Redding.


Live in Oldham, regularly come shopping to Holmfirth and loved your video.  But how come the weather is never that good when we visit?
Ian and Ruth


Patrick:
I have just seen the clip of Holmfirth TV on Summer-Wine.com. It certainly made me think of returning to Holmfirth again.
We visited Holmfirth last summer, from America. We only stayed one day. We realized we needed more time to explore the region. This video has sparked our interest in returning. Well Done!! I like it.Can the video be downloaded?
Many Thanks,

Dave Lowing, Maryland, USA


I enjoyed watching the video. That area is so pretty and fascinating.
One thing you might consider doing is making it a bit larger.
Thanks for sharing your work.
Cecelia in Texas


At least now my husband can justify the broadband, always knew it would come in useful one day!!! Your film is good and would encourage us to visit, if we did not already live here to start with! Keep up the good work.
Judith Hinchliffe


Just seen the video, plus the 2nd one, and they are great and work well on the web but you really need broadband. My aunt tried viewing it on dial up and it really struggles, and the sound breaks up.
R Lynn.


Hello Patrick
Well, I was looking forward to watching this as it seems to be such a good idea, unfortunately it only plays until just after you start talking and then stops!! is there a problem or is it something todo with my computer do you think?
Andrea

Editor’s Note: We received several, similar emails from readers unable to view our videos, which is a great shame but appears to be connected with their own systems, and internet connection speeds, rather than a technical problem at our end. The current videos are hosted by youtube.com who convert the file to Flash, ensuring easier compatibility for the majority of users. Our page is tested on a variety of computers and browsers before going live to the public. Sorry!


Dear Patrick, I have just seen your son's video. The picture and sound quality is quite good. If he could use a tripod and pan and zoom in and out a bit more slowly, with his viewers in mind, he will see an improvement,
Regards George
 

August 2006

WHAT DOES HE KEEP IN THAT MATCHBOX?

I think Compo kept his toenails in the matchbox as a good luck charm to give the ladies an unusual thrill so they'd jump into his arms. 

DOROTHY. Aug 2006

 

EMPIRE STORES SUMMER WINE DVD MYSTERY

Pat Carline

 

July 2006

 

PLENTY OF FOOLS AND HORSES AND DADS ARMY?BUT LOTSW?

It never ceases to amaze me that I can get every
episode of something like Only Fools and Horses on
DVD. I already have series 1-6 of Dad's Army and have
series 7 on order from Amazon. Both excellent shows I
know but not any better than Last of th Summer Wine.
Many of the new shows are shown one week, and I can go
out and buy them next week in Smiths. So, why oh why,
will the BBC not put out more Summer Wine on DVD? How
do I contact them? does anyone know who I should write
to? I would like to tell them my viiews on this
subject!!

Sue Kimber
Tamsmum@aol.com

GETTING SAM HOME  APPEAL FOR HELP

I am searching for the 1983 Special Edition of Last of
the Summer Wine (BBC TV) called "Getting Sam Home"
Can't find it anywhere. Can you help - new or used
Video or DVD will be acceptable. Can you help?
glyn.james5@btinternet.com

LOTSW BOXED SET

Just a quick note to mention.....
I've just had the new Empire Catalogue through the
door & I noticed a LOSW Box set for sale..... Series 1
- 6. Due for release in October.
From the Price quoted, I'd say this wasn't just a
misprint, so it looks like series 5 & 6 are due for
release before too long, hopefully these will be
available seperate from the box set.
The packaging looked like it was still under the
Playback brand.

Cheers
Ian

CALLING MRS AVERY

Just wondered what happened to the character of Mrs.
Avery, Tom's Associate. She was in a handful of
episodes and then gone without a word. Thanks....Judy
JHH0223@yahoo.com

LOVE YOUR ONLINE AUDIO INTERVIEWS

Just listened to these two brief interviews for the
first time, and it was a delight; especially to hear
Compo, whose voice is no longer heard in the reruns
currently on our Public Broadcast System. ( New
Jersey, USA )
I surely do miss Compo!
Peter Sallis's character is a wonderful contrast to
Compo, and his calm and warm style, spoken in his
special voice, is most so agreeable.
Thank you for making these interviews available. I
hope there will be more.
Nora Battye would be interesting to hear.....come to
think of it, all the actors in Summer Wine would be
lovely to hear.
Sincerely,
Bernice Ritzer
Teaneck, New Jersey
 

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?

There are a large number of fans on this and other
sites asking why the Beeb hasn't released more than
the first four series on DVD and vowing faithfully to
avidly purchase any further issues . . . but, alas
nothing more seems to be released. What's more, nobody
seems to have a clue as to why this state of affairs
exists.
I can't believe that the official fan site doesn't
seem to show much interest in the release of more
episodes, or been in touch with BBC to find out why
not.
If there is a problem, for instance with copyright,
then knowing this would at least enlighten us all,
It's the not knowing that's particularly hard to bear.

Will you please see what you can do to help?

Many thanks
Ken Williams
Richmond NZ

 

YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURHOOD FOTSW EXPERT

After months of trying i have managed to obtain FOTSW
on DVD for my parents who are big fans It compiles of
;- The pilot, series one and series two. 13 episodes
in all. Although the quality of the recording is only
video quality they are watchable, and well put
together I myself am not a huge fan but soon found i
was watching them, they are very entertaining. If
anybody would like to contact me regarding FOTSW
please do as i am now quite knowledgeable on the early
years. Mick- michome@tiscali.co.uk

BILLY AND ALVIN, HILARIOUS DOUBLE ACT

Has anyone else noticed that Billy and Alvin (aka
Keith Clifford and Brian Murphy ) seem to be turning
into an hilarious double act in some recent episodes.
The sand dance that they did together really made me
laugh out loud! Both of these actors have a natural
gift for comedy and work so well together, long may
they continue. I really enjoy summer wine but feel
that the cast is far to big and that sometimes story
lines are lost amongst every body else seemingly
srambling for lines.
Jenny

OUR PIECE OF HEAVEN, COURTESY OF PUBLIC TV

We just discovered LOTSW about 2 years ago on public
television. It is a piece of heaven every Saturday
evening at 9:30. Even more recently have I discovered
the longevity and popularity of the program. The
station has just played the episode featuring the
funeral of Compo, and I wish to see all the past
episodes. I can find video tapes and DVDs of Series 1
and 2, but can find no others. Surely recordings must
be available somewhere. Also, are the UK DVDs
compatible with our USA DVD players? I find extremely
variable DVD prices for Series 1 and 2 , between 8 and
29 pounds. We enjoy LOTSW more than any
entertainment-oriented program on TV. John Dunbar,
Charleston, SC home: dunbarjr@charleston.net

AVID FAN WOULD LIKE TO TALK TO OTHER AVID FANS

Let me begin by thanking Jakob for answering my
question as to when Clegg and Howard/Pearl moved
house. I'm a semi-retired 60-ish lady who, like most
of you, is an avid fan of LOTSW. I would love to
correspond via e-mail with anyone else worldwide who
enjoys discussing the program. Eileen Roys Kent
Island, MD, USA <esroys@friend.ly.net>

SHOULD HAVE BEEN YORKSHIRE BORN

If it were possible I would have lived the lives that
all of the cast play only in reality..I think it would
have been great to be close with school friends and
hang around in a place as beautiful as the Holmes
valley. I regret I was not born there,, This is a
program I have taped and we watch 5 nights a week on
PBS and then watch tapes of it when nothing else is
on..My only regret is that all of the episodes are not
available to all of the millions of fans who would
love to see all that they have missed,,God bless you
and the Las of the Summer Wine Cast. I have the name
York, I should have been born in West Yorkshire!!

Katherine York & Griffin Road Batesville, Arkansas,
USA
 

LAST IN  SERIES PUZZLER?

My husband is a mega huge fan and has now got me
watching, the thing is we went to watch 2 episode
screenings for this current series, we took 2 of our
children with us, they had never seen the programme
before but absolutely loved it, in fact my son was
particularly taken by Smiler! Who I must say was very
nice to my son and paid him lots of attention.
Anyway we are all surprised to see that last weeks
LOTSW was the last in this series and yet we know that
one of our episodes we watched has not been on yet???
We all wondered if you had any information about this.
We all thought it was a very good show.

Many thanks
Kathy, Kev
Callum & Jade
kathleyg@yahoo.co.uk
 

YOUNG FAN OF REAL COMIC THEMES

In a time where television and cinema are all
explosions and effects, it is an increasing treat to
watch a show that handles real comic themes and
human-interest issues. I am a young man and I find
myself drawn to the wonderful antics of these
delightful mature men. I plan to adopt their carefree
philosophy the blueprint for my autumn years. LOTSW
exemplifies true comedy.
An Increasingly Dedicated Fan,
Ryan Norris
Little Rock, Arkansas
PS- I watch LOTSW on AETN transmitting from Conway,
Arkansas.

 

 

June 2006
 

Pre-orders for Peter Sallis' autobiography on Amazon.co.uk

 Just a short note to advise that Amazon.co.uk seem to have Peter Sallis' much awaited autobiography up for pre-order, due for release in November this year.  I've had a look on the Amazon.com site and it doesn't seem to be listed there yet.  The link to the amazon.co.uk entry is included below: 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/0752875965/qid=1149011669/sr=1-5/ref=sr_1_0_5/202-4461934-5894211

Just for the record I have no connection with Amazon.co.uk, I'm merely a fan of Peter Sallis with his excellent portrayal of Cleggy and have been waiting eagerly to read his autobiography .  Seems like perfect timing to coincide with Christmas!

 

Best regards,

Ben Charles

 

Never Tire of LOTSW

 

We never tire of Last of the Summer Wine ! Today we will  plan our activities around readiness to be   in front of the tele right on time...though we have viewed the episode before !  And, tomorrow we will view it again.  Summer Wine characters are like our beloved family .  Each is excellent in the role he or she plays.  THANK YOU. 

OH THAT AMERICA TV COULD EVEN APPROACH SUCH valuable programming !  THANKS BBC AND OUR KET PUBLIC TELEVISION !

Mary and Charles Huling

 

When Can I Get Episode 27?  

I have a number of episodes on DVD. The last one I have is number 26. PLEASE tell me if or when I can get 27 or anything

else. Our local PBS station has quit playing even repeats and I don't believe they ever played current episodes. I can only echo what everyone else are saying about the show. I love it and wan't more!!!!!!!!!

My e-mail address is   pboydw@cox.net

Thank you.

True Fan of LOTSW 

I am a true fan of Last of Summer Wine.  The opening theme music is magical and haunting and I am immediately transported back to another time when life seemed to be slower and sweeter.  I would love to be able to purchase the entire theme music including any other music used in the show.  I love the harmonica.  I usually watch it on our local PBS station on Saturday evenings.  Is there a US chapter of the fan club for Summer Wine?   

Peggy Mills
Virginia USA
E-mail:  damills@erols.com

I would appreciate being put on a mailing list to be updated of anything that deals with the show.  Any news, happenings, etc.

Thank you from a true fan!!!!!!!!

 

No Love for Johnnie

I have liked Last of The Summer Wine since it started - but I am puzzled after watching one of Peter Sallis's earlier film performances in that rarity "No Love For Johnnie" with the late Peter Finch. Talk about a film for our time - even though it is nearly 50 years old! It would embarrass our politicians afresh if it were shown at all. 

Why wasn't Peter Sallis given the character name that was in the book? His brief appearance is odd because although he takes part in a meeting of disgruntled Labour MPs - he may as well be anonymous - his isn't named.

"No Love for Cleggy" perhaps. Actually the character was called "Tom Jeffery" in the book of the same name - written by the late MP Wilfred Fienburgh

 

Paul D

 

Really Like the Audio Interviews

hi i really enjoyed listening to the audio interviews my favourite 

character in last of the summer wine is compo, i started watching the show 

when i was little. 

I have series 1-4 on dvd and i was just wondering if you knew when 

series 5-6 was coming out 

Thank you 

laura grimes

 

Titles of Latest Series Please

Could someone email me with the titles of the series that has just finished in UK, and in the order that they were shown. It will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Doug Mitchell

paillard@hotkey.net.au

 

A Trap by the BBC

I TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO THANK THE BBC FOR DOING SUCH A GOOD JOB. I DON'T THINK.!

DID ANYBODY ELSE FALL INTO THE TRAP LAID BY THE BBC THE WEEK BEFORE LAST WHEN THEY ANNOUNCED THAT THE EPISODE WAS THE LAST IN THE CURRENT SERIES. THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY NO LOTSW LAST WEEK.

 SHORT SERIES I THOUGHT AND FINALISED MY DVD AND PRINTED MY LABELS AND SETTLED IN FOR A LONG WAIT FOR THE NEXT SERIES NEXT YEAR - BUT WAIT WHAT IS THIS THAT HAS JUST STARTED ANOTHER EPISODE OF LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE, A REPEAT, IT MUST BE AS THE SERIES FINISHED TWO WEEKS AGO. I QUICKLY READ THE WRITE UP FOR THIS EPISODE, AUNTIE WAINWRIGHT ARRANGES NEW TRANSPORT FOR SMILER AND TOM WHICH TURNS OUT UNSATISFACTORY, YES THAT WAS THE LAST EPISODE THEY MUST BE REPEATING IT FOR SOME REASON. NO IT WAS DIFFERENT, A NEW ONE. HAD THEY FORGOTTEN THE LAST ONE OR ARE WE TO EXPECT TWO LAST EPISODE TO EACH SERIES IN FUTURE. 

THE OUTCOME IS THAT I MISSED MOST OF IT AND DID NOT RECORD IT AS MY EQUIPMENT WAS SET UP FOR CONVERSION FROM VHS TO DVD. NOW I AM TWO EPISODES SHORT, TODAY'S AND AN OLD ONE "MERRY CHRISTMAS FATHER CHRISTMAS", CAN ANYONE HELP.

RAY

E-MAIL raymond@grangemini.fsnet.co.uk

 

Missing Episode Plea

DEAR FANS, 

I HAVE JUST SPENT A LARGE NUMBER OF LONG DAYS TRANSFERRING MY COLLECTION OF VIDEOS ONTO DVD, AS I HAVE THE FULL COLLECTION YOU CAN UNDERSTAND MY DISMAY WHEN SEARCHING THROUGH MY TAPES FOR THE SECOND TIME I CAME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THERE IS AN EPISODE MISSING -

    IT IS THE CHRISTMAS SPECIAL FROM 28th DEC1986 -- SERIES No 9.

               MERRY CHRISTMAS FATHER CHRISTMAS.

 

IS THERE ANYONE WHO CAN HELP WITH A GOOD COPY EITHER ON VIDEO OR DVD - I WILL OF COURSE PAY FOR ALL THE COSTS - UK PLAYABLE ONLY.

 

RAY  

E-MAIL raymond@grangemini.fsnet.co.uk

 

Retirement Present to Holmfirth

I am a 54-year old wife, mother, and government employee. I loved reading “Mary from America” on your Web site. I too am a long-time fan of the Last of the Summer Wine cast and crew. I have laughed with them for many years, cried with them when Compo died, and sat with Cleggy and Truly through the night as they mourned their “old son.” After all these years they are my intimate friends—friends I visit every day of my life through the wonders of Direct TV and Tivo. Roy Clarke touches my heart with his writing and dialogue; he makes me yearn for the kind of simple life, the kind of simple humor, and the kind of simple good hearted nosiness and teasing that makes up a life lived well among beloved friends.

 In December of this year I will retire after 37 years’ government service. As a retirement gift to myself, I am travelling to Holmfirth in June of 2007—with any luck I too will catch a glimpse of these wonderful people who have enriched my life for so many years. They are not actors to me—they are real people living real life. God bless them—I love them all.

Collie Johnson, Virginia, USA

 

Developing New Ideas

I akin to many of my friends have been fanatical devotees of LOTSW since it's inception. Of late however, many don't even watch what has now become The Robert Fyfe Show. The perpetual 'Count of Monte Cristo' plot and never ending "Cleggeee Cleggeeeee" has now become nauseating.

The cast has expanded considerably latterly yet Howard's escape plots still dominate the story lines, this has been going on for over 20 years!!

I'm aware that Roy Clarke has a tough job in developing new ideas but this Howard/Marina thing had it's day years ago.

I think it's very sad that a programme that has become 'an institution' should finish it's days in such decline.

T. Oakes

 

April 2006

 

ALWAYS LOVED LOTSW

I have always loved LOSW.
Last year our friends took us to see Holmfirth it was such a fantastic day we
went to Sids cafe did the tour went to Nora's house and Compo's .
We even went to Bill Owens resting place to pay our respect .
Although I think the last of the summer wine will always be my favourite
program how I miss the old favourites Compo Sid Wally Edie Wesley and even
Eli ,although all the actors are good in todays LOSW ,its all the old characters I
love and I still watch my old videos I have a few Dvd's but cannot get anymore

Your sincerely Lesley Howells


SIGN THE PETITION FOR MORE SW DVDS

Hi,
Just to let you know there is a petition running for more Summer Wine
on VHS and DVD the address is
http://www.petitiononline.com/lastwine/petition.html please publish the
address on line to get more signatures.

Regards,
Rhys Thompson,
Sunderland.
Age 10.


MY FAVE BRITCOM

Hi Folks,
“Last of Summer Wine” is my all time favorite Britcom. I watch most of them,
and “Summer Wine” is the most comfortable, relaxing, and yet so funny
comedy I have ever seen. I have bough a lot of the DVDs and with my Brittish
friend J.R. and Ron, we seem to mirror the trio of Foggy, Campo, and Cleggy.
In fact I believe that all the cast can be found in about any city around the
world. Even the heart warming “Smiler” can be found. One day I will travel back to the UK and will
surely come for a visit. For now I will keep watching and loving every moment of “Last of Summer Wine”
Thank you all for keeping it alive..

Robert A. Junka
Spanaway Washington, USA


OUR WONDERFUL WEEKEND IN YORKSHIRE

We are just back from a wonderful weekend in Yorkshire, we visited Holmfirth
and the whole village was wonderful (apart from the weather) we could only
stop for about 2 hours but found the village really had a great atmosphere and
we felt as if we were playing a part in one of the episodes, unfortunately my
cousin –in- law is in a wheel chair and Holmfirth is not really geared up for
wheelchairs and he found it difficult to get around but he still enjoyed his time
there. Hopefully we will get back again and spend more time.

Ann Scott


LOTSW IS AB FAB

Just a quick "thank you" for your WONDERFUL website. My husband and I
ABSOLUTELY LOVE the show LOTSW - and it is so GREAT to be able to revisit
these wonderful characters on your website !

Judi and Frank Hays
Woodstock, MD 21163


VIDEOS NOT AVAILABLE APPEAL

I have tried in vain to locate copies of earlier
episodes of Last of the Summer Wine. I have tried the
BBC America website and they informed me that these
videos were not available. Please, please, if anyone
can help me, I would be most greatful. This series is
the best programming on television. Indeed, viewing
these shows is like visiting with long, lost
relatives. Alan Bell is a genius as well as the cast
of lovely actors. I cannot begin to tell you how
these shows have helped me deal with depression.
Thank you to anyone who can help me obtain copies of
same.

Catherine Burns, DE, USA
cathyinoc@yahoo.com


SERIES THREE AND FOUR AVAILABILITY

Does anyone know if series 3 & 4 has been released in the U.S.A. I have
been trying to find a copy. If anyone of the fans or you know would you
please notify me,you can use my e-mail address .



Thank You Barbara
Domingo
barbara_domingo59@msn.com



WAS LOTSW EVER IN GOOD OLD BLACK AND WHITE?

Hi could you tell me if last of the summer wine was ever in black and white

Regards

Brian Harker
sales@castlefab.com



WHOSE DIGBY?

Hello, do you know who plays digby in catching digbys donkey?

Stuart
stu.sibley@ntlworld.com


FIRST OF THE SUMMER WINE ANYONE?

Hello,
I am very keen to aquire First of the Summer Wine on DVD or VHS. Is it
available?

Thanking you,
Marette Swan (Australia)
minirett@bigpond.com


....ANOTHER ON FIRST OF THE SUMMER WINE

Hi there,
Just a few lines first of all to compliment
you on a great and informative web site keep up the
good work. Whilst browsing your site I came upon the page
regarding FOTSW. I remember this series and indeed the
buzz surrounding it before it was due to be aired.
Great foresight by the BBC and Roy Clark who
invented the "Prequel" as it's now come to be known
before the makers of "Star Wars" and "Star Trek" had
even heard of it! Many writers to your site have
expressed sorrow that FOTSW was not allowed to develop
as it's own show but I think it was no accident that
Roy Clarke set FOTSW in the last few remaining months
of peacetime before the outbreak of The Second World
War thus giving the series a short life span.
I do recall an interview in a TV magazine at
the time where Roy Clarke stated that FOTSW was not
going to be a long running series and was concerned
that critics would accuse both himself and the BBC of
trying to cash in on the success of LOTSW.
However I digress my main reason for emailing
you was to see if anyone remembers a chat show I think
it could have been "Wogan" where as I say at the time
the buzz surrounding FOTSW was huge and the producers
came up with the idea of having bothe the main
characters of FOTSW and LOTSW in on the same
interview. My main recollection of this was seeing how
bashful "Paul Wyett" who played a young Compo was in
the presence of Bill Owen and when the host asked Bill
what did he think of Paul's portrayal of the younger
version of his character. Bill replied in typical
Compo fashion "Aye he'll do"
Thanking you and all the best

Roy


WHEN WAS THE BIG SWITCH?

In reply to Eileen Roys from Kent Island, Maryland, who asked

"I have noticed that, while they were still next door neighbors, Cleggy
and Howard/Pearl used to live in a different location. Can anyone tell
me when the switch was made?"

The move happened in the series 12 episode Das (Welly) Boot. Cleggy is
seen moving into his house at the beginning of the episode, helped by
Wesley.

"How does it feel Cleggy, being rehoused"
"Well, I'm still next door to you Howard, it's a lot like it never
happened"

Jakob

 

SUMMER WINE GREETINGS FROM INDIANA


Hello from Indiana;

I've been a fan of Last of the Summer Wine for about two or three years now,
but in that time I've grown very fond of the program. In fact, last year my wife
and I supported the closest public television station carrying the program,
WFYI-Indianapolis.

Imagine my chagrin when I saw, in the latest edition of the station's program
guide, that they've dropped LotSW, as of a week ago! No warning, no
announcement--just gone!

We now have no station in my part of the country to get this wonderful
program. I have informed the station that they will not receive my support
until the show is back. If you are in the WFYI viewing area, or know someone
who is, please urge the station to return the show to the air.

Thanks!

Terry
New Castle, Indiana

PS, while we're at it, keep those requests going to the BBC to get more episodes
out on Region 1 DVD!


PLAY FOR TODAY SET IN BRID?

I remember a play for today about three yorkshire men who got bridlington
on a fishing trip ( i think it was brid ) they had never stopped at a hotel and thought they were going to a posh hotel
with all of the posh mod cons? As it turns out, they knew nothing of fishing and stopping in hotels. The hotel turned out to be a rundown guest house run by jane freeman who plays Ivy. i think Peter Sallis was one of the fisheman and Brian Glover who later turned up as a guest in LOTSW as an insurance sales man, in the episode were milburn is introduced. was this play a forerunner to LOTSW?

Pete


YORKY PUPPY NAMED COMO

My Husband recently bought me a yorky puppy for Valentine's day. The first
thing was to give him a name. And of course the first thing that popped into
my mind was William Compo Owen of Holmfirth. That's right his name is
bigger than he is at 2.4 lbs. That is my own personal tribute to a great man. I
still cry everytime I see the LOTSW episode where Compo passes. All my love
and best wishes to Mr. Owen's friends and family. I hope to one day come to
your great country and town to pay my respects in person. Thank you.

Kindest Regards,
Elizabeth Gifford USA
 

MISSED HOLMFIRTH WHILE STAYING IN YORK

We've been fans of "Summer Wine" since we discovered it o PBS several years
ago. We traveled England in 1998 and didn't realize we were quite close
Holmfirth as we stayed in York .
Enjoy the show and look forward to new episodes.

Betty and Dick White, Elmhurst Illinois, USA


HOW TALL IS SEYMOUR?

Hi I always wondered how tall Seymour was and if he was the tallest
third man and not Brain who stood 6'4"?.

Tom Marchant


THOSE SUMMER WINE REPEATS ARE A REAL TREAT

Hello - I'd like to say how much I love seeing 'Last of the Summer Wine' repeats
every lunch time, they are a great treat in the middle of the day. I look
forward to my fix of Cleggy, Compo and Foggy, and never tire of them, they
are an absolute joy. Christine.


Wally Batty's BSA Motorbike and Sidecar


Hello,

I am the current owner of the BSA M21 sidecar combination which featured in
some of the earlier episodes. I also notice that there is a picture of the
machine on this website of Wally with the bike, and the previous owner has also posted on here. The good news is that the bike is still exactly as it was, except that the petrol tank is now black. I believe this was done
when it appeared in another series Strathblair which I am told was a Scottish
series. The bike has in fact spent the last few years in Shetland, from where I
obtained it a year ago. It has seen little use since it's days in Last of the Summer Wine. What maybe of interest to readers of this site is that , regretfully, through a change in circumstances and impending loss of
storage space, I have had to put the bike up for sale. The bike is actually on
Ebay at present ( Item number: 4623872160 ) and the auction is due to end on
29th March 2006. I have only just discovered this site, and would very much like it's new owner to be someone who would appreciate it's history , rather than it be sold to a registration plate dealer, or splitting up. I
would dearly like it to stay as it was in this great series.

I hope this is of interest to someone.

Many thanks

Rob Thurston

Editor's Note: Apologies for late publication of this email.


THAT CANNED LAUGHTER AGAIN

Occasional Viewer seems to still be unconvinced that the laughter which
accompanies Last of the Summer Wine is genuine. Let me assure him that,
having attended quite a few previews, there would be no need to alter in any
way the audience responce to the episodes. Unless they take an audience out
into the hills to react to every scene I fail to see how the producers could do
any better. They always play to a full house, I myself have actually been
turned away at the door because the studio was full to bursting point. This
program is still very funny, even after over thirty years ( I was only a girl
when I first watched) This years episodes are excellent. Well done to all
involved.

Sue Kimber


MISS ZHANG IS FASCINATED WITH SUMMER WINE


Hello there!

I recently visited Holmfirth with Miss Shixin Zhang, a journalist from Beijing in
the People's Republic of China. S he was fascinated with the place and asked
many questions about the TV series. Have any episodes ever been broadcast
in the Chinese speaking world, I wonder? If so, perhaps someone out there will
have some information which I can pass on to Miss Zhang?

Many thanks

Neil Taggart
Leeds, England

neil.taggart@btinternet.com


LONELY FOR THE GOOD OLD DAYS

Well, I must join in the enthusiasm I've read about from your fans on the
Summer Wine website. I have no original comments...they seem to all have
been taken except to say this proves we all are lonely for the old days.

LOTSW transports one to simpler times - those we long for in this high speed
world where the soul has so little to hang onto in terms of peace and
tranquility. The music, the walking cadence of the three men, the silly kicking
at stones reminicent of school days nonchalance, the picturesque
countryside, unspoiled and serene, all roll into one sweet smelling pie of
serenity. I have a slice each night it is on, to transport me to where they are,
where I once was way back then and to where I'd love to be again. Bless you
all for this magical production....long may it wave across the pond to those of
us who can, purchance to dream?

Compo is the impish sweetheart that is so very heartwarming to watch. He is
boyish, romantic, comical, humble and infatuated with his unquited love,
Nora. I always wanted to send him a new jacket or fancier boots...but it would
have taken away from his uniqueness and I was too many years too late.

How very sad I was today to find on this website that he is no longer with us
and in fact has been gone for several years. What a loss this man was. I have
yet to see the episode where his passing was featured. I know the day I do see
it, I will be shedding some tears. Bill Owen was able to transport Campo into
our hearts and minds with the ease of a seasoned and very talented actor.

Vikki Nicholson

 

March 2006

LONG LIVE CLEGGY

Hello All,  About a year of so ago I read that Peter Sallis was working on his autobiography, is this fact?  I have not heard anymore on it.  I am truly hoping it is fact as I for one would love to read it.  I saw Mr. Sallis on the British film awards show and also at the Academy Awards show this year and he is looking well and in good voice, he has slowed a bit but be fair he is 85 years old now.  Can't wait to see the new 2006 series.  I live in Minnesota and have a satellite dish on which I get BBC America, how disappointing that they do not carry a lot of the great British comedies especially Last of the Summer Wine. They run a limited amount of show and just replay them over and over again.  Well I wish everyone the best. Long may the Summer Wine flow and of course.....Long Live Cleggy!!!!!!!!    

Terry E.

LATE DANNY O' DEA?

Hello,

I have just stumbled across your wonderful website and hope
you can help me with a quick question.

Do you happen to know the birthplace of the late Danny
O'Dea? I have searched all over the internet and can't find
it anywhere. With a name like O'Dea, you would imagine he
was born somewhere in Ireland but I am convinced that he is
actually a northerner!

Any clarification would be much appreciated,
Thanks,
Tony H

tony.hannan@btinternet.com

ANYONE HAVE THE PILOT?

February 2006


NAME THAT BRIDGE?

If at all possible could you please help to identify
the bridge in the attached file.

It was featured in the episode "All of a florrie"
The picture (ABOVE) is a digital image of a paused scene from
the opening sequence.

I would appreciate a better quality image of the
bridge as a screensaver for my computer.

Thanking you in advance

A.H.Green

ahgreenuk@yahoo.co.uk


BIG SUMMER WINE FAN...NOT ONE FOOT IN THE GRAVE

CONTACTING BILL ABOUT FIRST OF THE SUMMER WINE

 

THANKS TO CHRIS FOR HELP WITH MYSTERY EPISODE

Thanks to Chris Clutterbug for identifying the mystery
episode where "one of the characters falls through a
caravan" as "All Mod Conned".

Chris has offered to supply me with a copy of the
episode from his extensive collection. Thanks again to
Chris.

Chris if you are out there I am no longer contactable
on the previous email address so could you email me at
bluephoenix1977@yahoo.co.uk or call me on 07946
725517.

Thank you.

Tom Kay

LOTSW ONE IN A MILLION SHOW - FROM A USA FAN

Hi,
We love Last Of The Summer Wine...there is nothing in the
history of television that has captured our hearts the way
it has.  This is one program where one cannot have a favourite
character because they are all four favourites.

This year our local PBS has stopped broadcasting (KUAT)
in Arizona and we are hoping it will return soon.  In the
meantime we watch the DVD's and are looking forward to
seeing another one this weekend.

The best, loving thoughts go out to your great website and
to the entire cast and crew of Last Of The Summer Wine.
We thank you for the best show ever and I'm 66 years old
and have seen a lot of TV in my time....this is truly a one
in a million show and tops all!

Best Always,
Joyce Luciano
Carefree, Arizona U.S.A.

DOWN UNDER VISITORS IN LOTSW - BUT WHICH EPISODE?

Dear Sir

My Wife and I visited Yorkshire in 1998 and on Friday the 12th of June
visited the last of the summer wine area. We went on a bus tour around
the area and watched some of the show being taken over a wall. It was
supposed to be Cleggs house. Our friends who live on the outskirts of
Leeds have since told us they saw the episode and we appear in it but
could not tell us the title. I am hoping you can help us as we would
like to get a copy. We do not see very many of the shows over in
Australia. We brought a number back with us and every one that has seen
them likes them.

Yours sincerely.

Dennis Stacey.

VICTORIA
AUSTRALIA

dstacey@dodo.com.au