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Welcome to the official web site of the Summer Wine Appreciation Society, in partnership with Holmfirth Web. This is our tribute to the world's longest-running TV comedy series which is filmed in the Holme Valley, and surrounding villages. |
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Welcome to the official web site of the Summer Wine Appreciation Society, in partnership with Holmfirth Web. This is our tribute to the world's longest-running TV comedy series which is filmed in the Holme Valley, and surrounding villages. |
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Please note that your comments may be posted on Summer Wine Online. It is our Policy NOT to use your email address unless specifically requested. (Note: If a question is asked that we cannot answer, it will be assumed that your email address will be posted in order for other readers to answer.) Thanks for your comments!
MAY 2003 POSTBAG THE BEST TV I HAVE EVER WATCHED!! I've never been much of a TV watcher, preferring to read (I like MY imagination better than I like anyone else's), but when I happened on Last of the Summer Wine, I guess I just fell in love. The show is warm and fuzzy and witty and even a little silly sometimes. Can't get over how much I love Frank Thornton as Truly. What a difference from Captain Peacock. And what's not to love about Normal Clegg. He kind of reminds me of Chucky on Rugrats. I was devastated when I learned of Compo's passing. It was a bit like losing my dad all over again. They even kind of resembled each other a little. The brilliance of putting Tom Owen in after his father's passing is unmatched! Thank you to everyone responsible for bringing such joy into my life. There's nothing like a good chuckle that turns into a good belly laugh. Thanks again....Barbara BILL ODDIE Bill Oddie in Last of the Summer Wine? What a wonderful idea - I would love to see that, he is a natural clown and an very funny man. Rob NORA BATTY Last of the Summer Wine is one of my favorite shows. Has Nora Batty retired from the show? I missed the episode where she goes to Australia....was that a signal that she no longer will be appearing in the Last of the Summer Wine? Hope that is not the case. Thanks for any information that you can send along. Theresa I'M REALLY GOING TO MISS THEM I still miss Compo. And, now, it is so sad to know that the people who portrayed Wesley and Edie (Dame Thora) are gone. How will they ever replace Wesley and his truck? He was their sole source of dependable transportation and unending inventions beyond imagination! One of the reasons that I love the show is that the characters are so endearing that you have to watch the show to see what they are going to do next. Unfortunately, this month as been hectic for me and I keep forgetting to set my VCR, so I have missed parts of some of the shows. Where is Nora Batty? I haven't seen her on the show for a while or I have missed the parts she was in. Hopefully, my station will show re-runs. I would appreciate any information. As for an American version of LOTSW. No way, there isn't anybody who here who can play those parts like the people who play them in the show. Plus, another of the reasons I love the show is the natural scenery. That's something you don't see on American shows, America television is too fabricated. Judy APPRECIATION OF L.O.T.S.W. Dear Patrick, Just to let you know how much I have enjoyed the current series of L.O.T.S.W. The inclusion of "Entwhistle" is a very good move as is Billy Hardcastle ... a direct descendant of Robin Hood ... on his mother's side. On browsing the "cast site" I was a little dissappointed that there was no information on Jean Ferguson (Marina), Juliet Kaplan (Pearl), Keith Clifford (Billy Hardcastle), Frank Thornton (Truly of the Yard), Jean Alexander (Auntie Wainwright), and also Mike Grady & Sarah Thomas (Barry & Glenda). Will Dame Thora Hird (Edi) and Gordon Wharmby be replaced by new characters in up-coming episodes? Thank you for reading this email. Thank you for the hours of fun. Long may you continue. Pat L. LOTSW BACK ON WNEO Patrick, Not sure if it is do to any of my encouragement or not but LOTSW is back on in the eastern Ohio area on WNEO, 45/49. Thanks to the programming manager that has returned the show to a Saturday night slot for a double shot of LOSTW at 6 and 6:30PM. Great job on the website lately. The link for photos of Summer Wine Country is truly wonderful for those of us who cannot visit yet (and probably for those that already have). Thx again, Russ Gaippe Cleveland, Ohio BILL ODDIE IN LOTSW? I have been an avid viewer of LOSW since it inception in 1972. I have seen every episode to date and I have every video and DVD currently available. LOSW goes beyond mere television viewing, it has become an institution with all the old fashioned virtues and standards intact. Such wonderful acting and storylines make it for me the only truly (pardon the pun) enjoyable, watchable programme on TV today. I would like to see on your website an opportunity for the fans to choose who they would like to appear in LOSW to fill the void left by Compo. My personal choice would be Bill Oddie as I feel that he would bring back some of the unusual magic sadly lost by compos death. Thank you for listening to my thoughts and keep up the great work Thank you Bailes MORE USA VIDEOS I am a HUGE fan of LOTSW. When oh when are more current video's going to be released for those of us here in the U.S. that love this show? I have many of the old episodes, but would like to have some of the newer ones. Thanks for your consideration. Sincerely, Linda Boyes NEXT BEST THING TO LOTSW...? Dear All We think the next best thing to LOSW is the Summer Wine website. Many thanks for all the effort and hard work you put in, which really shines through. We are regular visitors to other TV fan club sites - but yours is easily the best because of the depth of information and the regular updates. We particularly enjoy reading about all the fans overseas, and the effect our lovely programme has on people in the States. It is a nice change for the Brits to have some kind of influence across the Pond - normally it is the other way round. Love and Best Wishes Roger and Arleen Carmichael Newbury, UK MORE PROFILES AND INTERVIEWS PLEASE Hi Robin and Patrick Just a few comments about the website. Can we have more profiles and interviews with cast if possible, I would love to know a bit more about them, what makes them tick etc. We absolutely loved the photos of Holmfirth, one of them is on our screensaver. One can almost imagine Compo and Co walking along the little lane. We would love to visit Holmfirth, and will get there one day. Derrick Andover Southampton, UK WHAT DO SUMMER WINERS DO? Dear Summer Wine What do Summer Winers do between each series? Wait for the next one of course. I remember asking my husband how much longer can the show go on. And that was in 1987! During that time, many sit-coms have come and gone, some really good ones, some not so good. But the Summer Wine will keep flowing well, of that I am sure. Judith Benson St John's Wood, London MY VISIT TO HOLMFIRTH Hello all, I had a wonderful visit to Holmfirth on April 7th, 2003. I have been a fan of the Summer Wine program for the 3 years that we, in South Carolina, have been receiving it on our Public Broadcasting System TV channel. A visit to Compo's and Norah's house was really enjoyed. Then a cup of tea and a scone in Sid's Cafe was a perfect way to end our tour around town. I understand the new season shows will start shooting in June, I would have enjoyed seeing that. TomP> LUNCHEON IN PA?? We've had a lot of requests for information on the luncheon in Pennsylvania this month and I can tell you that it is scheduled for May 10 (Saturday)at the Cloisters in Eprata. If you need any further information, please contact Elizabeth Nichols at ebnichols28@hotmail.com
APRIL 2003 POSTBAG PATRICK AND ROBIN Hi Patrick and Robin, I too started watching Summer Wine because the scenery gave me a feeling of peace while going through a very difficult time in my life. I had lost my mother and my son. I got caught up in the characters and they are like family to me. When one of them passes I feel a great saddness. I can count eight of the characters passing since I started watching. When the announcement of the 30th yr celebration was announced on Patrick's web I knew that I had to attend.I did just that and it turned out to be a once in a lifetime event that cannot be duplicated at anytime. If there is a 35th I plan on being there and hopefully I will not be the only fan from the USA. I plan on going to the USA SW event in Arkansas in October. I am looking foward to meeting Robin and all of the fans. I met Patrick and his family when I was in Holmfirth last year. They are great people and I hope to see them again. He has three great boys and a beautiful wife. I really fell in love with Holmfirth. I check and read the webs everyday and it makes me feel apart of whats going on. I visited Andrew Brays greengrocery every day. He had alot to do with my great visit. Good Luck to Robin and Patrick and keep up the great work. xxoo to both - Liz Nichols FOTSW I would like to buy first of the summer wine episodes. Does anyone know if they are for sale anywhere? Thanks SERIES 3 :1976 Please can you advise when above series will be available in the UK (DVD) and where I can buy this. Many thanks TOM OWEN AND COMPO'S MATCHBOX I've been a Summer Wine fan since I was a little kid. As I type this another episode has started on my video (the thing in Wesley's shed). My theory on the contents of Compo's Matchbox is that I don't think it is an insect because in the Man from Oswestry (Foggy's first episode ), Compo shows Foggy the contents and after Foggy's shudder, he asks Compo what is it? Now if it was an insect Foggy wouldn't have had to ask what it is, so I think its one of Compo's original teeth. I have watched the episode CASHFLOW PROBLEMS where I believe Tom Owen made a brief cameo but I can't see him anywhere, can you winers out there tell me where to look please. A tip for people looking for Summer Wine videos, I have found most of mine at my local flea market. KEVIN 30 YEARS OF SUMMER WINE Hi There, Is there much of a difference between the books "30 Years of "Last of the Summer Wine" and "The Last of the Summer Wine: The Finest Vintage ". I have "LOTSW The Finest Vintage" and I was wondering how much of a difference was there between it and "30 years of LOTSW". Thanks SUMMER WINE DVD/VIDEOS As a fan of LOTSW who has only discovered it in the last few years, I am trying to collect as many of the old episodes as I can on video and DVD. Something I have noticed is that the commercially produced recordings never encompass the various specials that have been done over the years. The only exception I am aware of is the “Uncle of the bride” special. This is a problem as reruns of old episodes are shown occasionally on public broadcast TV, but not the specials. They are too long, and don’t fit neatly into the same time slot as the regular episodes. Is there any way of tracking them down? R Mulgan, New Zealand USA ON WEBSITE Isn't the website focusing rather a lot on the USA? Surely it is shown in other countries too? They dont get any attention. Mark Yes, Last of the Summer Wine is shown in other countries besides the UK and the USA. Let's hear from some fans in other countries and we'll be delighted to put their comments on this site, too! DANNY O'DEA With the news of the recent death of Danny O'Dea, the beloved character Eli Ducket, we've gotten a lot of fine tributes to a great comedian. Here are a few: I wrote a fan letter to Danny O'Dea, but it did not reach him in time. Maybe you can publish this edited version on the website. Hey, if any of his friends or family see this, it may give them a smile. Dear Mr. O'Dea: I am a fan from Maryland, USA. I enjoy Last of the Summer Wine; however, I guess I commit sacrilege by saying that Bill Owen was not my favorite. You are. When I watch Summer Wine, I always smile. When Eli comes into the scene, I laugh and smile even more. The writing is excellent, but if the wrong person played Eli, it would be a waste of that writing. You are an absolute comic genius. In one episode, the trio says hello, and you proceed to talk to a roll of linoleum. When F. Thornton tells you this, you say, "Are you sure? It was talking to me a minute ago." Wherever you are right now, I truly hope that this letter makes you smile the way you have made me smile. I wanted you to know that you have a fan in the colonies who appreciates you very much. Thank you. Jean Sadly another much loved Summer Wine actor has passed away. Danny O'dea's 'Eli Duckett' will be fondly remembered. In a few years we have lost Bill Owen, Dame Thora Hird, Gordon Wharmby and now Danny O'Dea. There can be no finer memorial to these fine actors than the many hours of viewing pleasure they gave us. Leo Bear with me, I'd like to say a few words myself. In less than a year, we've lost three very talented, wonderful actors from our favorite show. Danny O'Dea, our most recent loss, was a fantastic comedian with timing like very few others. It takes so much talent to be able to make people laugh out loud without saying a word. He made it look so easy - effortless. He must have enjoyed making people laugh since he did it for so many years. Rest, Eli ... you're in a very special place now and I hope you keep them all laughing till we can join you! Robin THE MOONBATHER Hi SummerWine fans! I have come into possession of the 2nd Summer Wine Chronicle: The Moonbather. It has been written by Roy Clarke and is the 1st edition paperback that was published by Penguin books in 1987. If you are interested in purchasing this or have any questions please email me with your offers at barlow_robin@hotmail.com Many thanks, LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE 'Like all UK fans I have been watching the new series and I feel that Roy has excelled himself this time. The whole series was fresh and vital and very funny. The cameos with our two wonderful 'boys in blue' are in the very finest Summer Wine tradition. I cannot agree that there are now too many characters vying for our attention - Roy has always been Master of the Art of 'Threadwork' - he manages to get more story 'threads' per half hour than any writer in history, (especially when you consider that they all have to be neatly ravelled up by the end of the episode!) - and the intricate interplay is never swamped by the characters concerned - you just have to concentrate a bit - this is not a 'soap' remember! When Summer Wine first started it was the roamings and ramblings and general mischief achieved by 3 chaps who were no longer in employment and who realised that this is no reason to give up - but it is an opportunity to go and do the barmy things that adulthood and marriage and employment tend to steer you away from. As the years have gone by, even without the sad loss of Compo/Bill, it was becoming less believable to have 3 now very elderly chaps trotting around the horizon getting into mischief, I mean, we all knew that they weren't 63 any more! BUT - a couple of seniors, (no 3rd man necessary), ambling gently around the horizon and from cafe to pub to potting shed, CAUSING mischief to be wrought on and by others is sheer genius and totally believable - I know people like that! And there always exists the 'patsies' who just cry out to be played upon, in the nicest possible way - and Tom, as the long-lost son of the worlds oldest and most natural 'man/boy', being persuaded to try and emulate that Dad is good - even the Repo man is just right, like father, like son, neither has ever had any money and neither will lose any sleep by not paying up! As for Alvin Smedley - well I just can't wait to watch his character develop and take on Nora - I foresee wonderful firework displays there - there has to be something special about a guy who takes on hang-gliding at that age and so is just the sort of person we need to encourage to take up residence in our Summer Wine world. My feeling is that the spirit of Compo lives on - he is 'up there', visiting Disney World, the Blackpool Tower and Nora Batty's Bedroom - not necessarily in that order - and in his spare time he is overseeing the antics of Cleggie and Truly and implanting naughty ideas in the minds of all and sundry! So, thank you once again, Roy, Alan and all the wonderful cast and crew, for all the joy you give us and may I respectfully suggest we all raise our glasses and salute, first of all, the wonderful characters and the actors who created them and who now are no longer with us and then, for the final toast "Last of the Summer Wine - long may we sup the finest vintage!" Pat Carline COMPO'S DEATH I am British but living in Canada. Although I now have seen, twice now, the two programs of The Last Of The Summer Wine following Compo's Death, I can not remember any such greater tribute to any comedian at his death. So I congratulate the writers on such a happy but sad tribute. John TEXAS FAN OF SUMMER WINE Our public television station just started broadcasting The Last of the Summer Wine sometime last fall and I have been in love with it ever since! The characters, ALL of them, are absolutely delightful. I think it's wonderful that a show has been built around older actors and that their considerable talents are being shared with so many of us that love them. I really wish that American television producers and writers would use our older actors to the fullest. Thank you for bringing such talent to the television viewing audience. I am a huge fan of British television (I wish I could get more of it!). Having visited England twice, the charm and beauty of the town and countryside where the show is filmed just leaves me "homesick", as it were. I will visit there when I have another chance. Thank you, again, for such a delightful and entertaining show. Dolly VIDEOS OF SUMMER WINE We love this show please see that videos are released in the US. Thanks for hours of entertainment. Donald & Shirley ANOTHER SERIES OF SUMMER WINE Please, please, could we have another series of Last of the Summer Wine? We have often thought that when a character left that there would be a gap, and the series would lose that special magic and not be able to continue. Not so, Roy Clarke brilliantly weaves his characters into plots and sub plots to bring out the best in all the actors. The programmes have never failed to make us laugh even when, as in most peoples lives, times are hard and we go through sad patches. Whatever episodes one watches, one instantly falls immediately into the make-believe world of the three lovable rogues and laugh at their escapades. The antics and mannerisms of them and their friends and neighbours are instantly recognisable and can not fail to make one laugh. Funny but not far-fetched, a hard balance to achieve consistently. Many thanks, to everyone and please let this unique comedy series continue to evolve and entertain its many fans. Our dream is to one day attend the live viewing of one of the shows, but even if we will not be lucky enough to do so, we will always watch and appreciate the great scenery, wonderful scripts, superb acting, and admire the professionalism of the cast and crew. Many thanks once again, EXPRESSION HI, Clegg came out with an expression sounding like "it's hand ferry hand to me" the only other person I have heard use this expression was my father! how do you write it correctly and what does it mean, origin?? Thanks, 30 YEARS OF LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE Here are a few of the emails we received after last weekend's showing of the BBC special "30 Years of Last of the Summer Wine": What a great program that was! I watched 30 years of Last of the Summer Wine tonight. An hour long it seemed to end to soon. It was a pleasure to view my favourite scenes once again. What a pity my video recorder had different views and did not record it! Leo Philips How great it was to see a brief but poignant return of "the Warrior" in the brief comments made by Brian Wilde (Foggy) in the BBC "30 years of Last of the Summer Wine" special shown the other night in England. I hope that Brian may feel able to return to the series even if only as a guest appearance. Maybe there will be an episode in the "summer 2003" series which will also deal with the departure of so many of our favourite stars of this unique programme as this seems to be what most fans would most appreciate. To lose Compo, Foggy, Wesley, Edie, Eli not to mention Sid and Norah's husband [Wally] and others and to think that the show still goes on just indicates how brilliant it is and how loyal its fans are. If the BBC really does wish to get things right then ALL episodes ever shown need to be made available on video and DVD a.s.a.p. in UK and USA formats. Oh and this is still a GREAT site - keep it up please! Gerald My husband & I watched last nights documentary -30 years of Last of the Summer Wine wih great enjoyment. We were not quick enough to read the credits of the orchestra, please would it be possiblet to notify me of these as he used to be a musician & is very interested to know. Thanks in anticipation Daphne We enjoyed the documentary and thought it was interesting but we thought there was too much emphasis on the past and not the present. Brian Wilde featured quite heavily but Frank Thornton was hardly in it. Ideally it would have been better had more time been allowed and if it had been split more evenly between the past and present. Sarah and Victoria OUR SYMPATHIES To all the familes of the folks on the show that have recently crossed over. May the Great Spirit comfort their families and friends and fans. We love the show, from the old ones to the new ones and miss the old folks on orginal shows. take care and lets go have a pint on for them. Bob FIRST OF THE SUMMER WINE Recently, we've had a lot of emails about First of the Summer Wine - here are a few of them: Hi! I know this a 'Last of the Summer Wine' site but I though you would be the people to ask regarding 'First of..' to. Have either of the 'FOTSW' series ever been released on video? If not, is there anywhere (or anyone) I can obtain copies from? I loved 'FOTSW' when I was younger but I've only a few episodes on (an increasingly knackered out) video. I would be interested in getting hold of the two series of it on video (and I also have a friend who would be interested in copies too) or at least contact e-mails/addresses of the right people at the BBC to badger for a release! I have already tried general enquiries (about a video release or terrestrial repeats) to no avail. Any help would be appreciated, thanks. Helen Hi, I am trying to find a video of First of the Summer Wine for my Uncle who is an avid collector of Summer Wine video's and memorabilia. Any information on where I can find one would be much appreciated. HELP! A Friend would like to purchase the videos of "the first of the summer wine" can you help as to where to get them please. Many thanks, NORMAN CLEGG'S HOUSE NUMBER Great ... we had a response just today ... 'What is the number of the house Clegg lives in?' Could you please tell me what number house Clegg lives at? I need to find out the number of Clegg's house. Can you confirm what number house Clegg lives at please? What is the number of the house that Clegg lives in? And the answer is: To the person who was asking for the number of Clegg's house. I was number 50 but it is now number 5. MISSING SUMMER WINE! Hello! My name is Al & I hail from Arkansas. We love Summer Wine, but sad to say our state PBS station has decided to replace it with Mr. Bean, why I have no idea. Regards, Note: Hi, Al - COMPO Hi Gang I am going to get up the nerve and order the episodes that deal with Compo's death. I love the scamp. I have bought many episodes and watch them again and again. Hope everyone is well. LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE Hi there, Just had to say “Hi” as it was so good to find someone in New York who loves Last of the Summer Wine! Me and my husband were privileged to visit New York 10 years ago and fell instantly in love with your beautiful, busy city. One day we will return! We live in Birstall, about 30 minutes drive from Holmfirth. Birstall is a small village with a cobbled market square, quite industrial but with a rich heritage. We have a few local old houses, Oakwell Hall and The Red House which is famous for its Bronte connections. Our little girl is only 4, but she loves to watch Last of the Summer Wine and laughs at their antics. I am always amazed at how the sun is always shining….the countryside is beautiful, but believe me, sun is not something we Yorkshire people get much of! Having said that, the forecast is pretty good for this weekend, so we are planning to book one of “Sid’s tours”, where you can be driven round the famous film spots for a fun way to pass the afternoon. It was looking for the details of this that I came across your site! Well, thanks for all the work you put in to your web site. Maybe one day I’ll have a site as a Yorkshire womans guide to why I love New York?! Karen Dodgson
MARCH 2003 POSTBAG The BBC needs your It Ain’t Half Hot Mum memories! A book on the hugely popular sitcom by Jimmy Perry and David Croft, It Ain't Half Hot Mum, is in production, and we are looking for any material which may be useful for the publication. Were you in the studio audience? Did you watch outside broadcasts being recorded? Were you a member of the crew, or did you work on the show? Have you got any anecdotes to relate or photographs to share? Tell us about that 'Auntie's Bloomers' moment that never made it to the final programme, or show us your collection of autographs, tickets or memorabilia. We are also looking for behind-the-scenes footage, VT clips, home video camera recordings and stills, particularly those taken on the set or during location filming. If you think that you have something which we may be interested in, we want to hear from you! Replies will be treated in the strictest confidence, and contributors (who may remain anonymous should they prefer) will be asked permission before any material is included in the publication. All original material will be copied and returned, and reasonable postage costs will be refunded. For further details, e-mail carolyn.bartholomew@bbc.co.uk or write to Carolyn Bartholomew, British Broadcasting Corporation, Audience Foyer, BBC Television Centre, Wood Lane, London, W12 7RJ. Incidental to the publication on It Ain't Half Hot Mum, the BBC is trying to trace copies of two episodes of this series which are missing from our Archive in their complete form. Starring Michael Bates, George Layton, Windsor Davies and Melvyn Hayes, A Star is Born and It's a Wise Child were originally transmitted in 1974. So, it's over to you: whether you are a private collector, BBC Staff or own a home recording from the television, we are eager to hear from you - no names, no packdrill! Material in any medium will be gratefully received (VHS or Betamax tape, film, or even audio recordings), and the originals will be returned to you along with modern-format copies for you to keep with the compliments of the BBC. It's a Wise Child - Is BSM Williams Gunner Parkins' dad? When Bombardier Solomons (George Layton) finds the photograph of Parky's mum in the Sergeant Major's basha, the secret is out. It is down to Solly and his gang to investigate the 'is he or isn't he' mystery. Solly tries to establish the truth by checking the medical records and when he is refused access to these, orders Rangi to steal them for him. A Star is Born - A show is ruined, thanks to clumsy Parky (Christopher Mitchell). Furious at this, Solly sacks him from his Concert Party. Worried that Gunner Parkins will now be posted up the jungle, the Sergeant Major (Windsor Davies) persuades the Colonel to give him a job in the Battery Office and then tries to post the others while the Colonel is away, leaving Solly with his work cut out in making sure that he and his Gunners are safe from the dreaded jungle . . . A leaflet describing the appeal in more detail is available from the BBC. SUMMER WINE IN MINNESOTA Just a note to tell you how much I enjoy the LOTSW web site. This is especially true now, since Twin Cities Public Television (Minnesota, USA) has chosen to discontinue the series after their recent pledge drive. In response to my letters of protest, they claim they have shown all of the episodes. However, they have only run those from 1991 to 1997 ("Quick Quick Slow" to "A Sidecar Named Desire"). It its place they are currently running BBC's "Chef", which is an enjoyable program but doesn't have the magic of Compo, Clegg, Foggy and company. For me, BBC's release of the series in NTSC format can't come soon enough, as that may be my only chance of ever seeing the older episodes, as well as the newer ones with Frank Thornton. Best Regards,
COMEDY SERIES I have been enjoying this wonderful, funny, program for several years and cannot tell you how much I love it, as well as the other BBC comedies we receive on our Public Broadcasting System. We have the whole series on Saturday evening, and it is my night for entertainment. No matter how many times I have seen an episode can still laugh out loud at the hilarious sequence. The actors and actresses do a marvelous job in their unique roles. The program sparked my interest in Holmfirth, and would dearly love to spend time there. Have often thought it would be great fun to live in the Jersey Isles, but have changed my thinking that this town would be the ideal spot, after reading so much about it. The British seem to have captured the knack of everyday life in such a way that it is uplifting and funny in ordinary episodes. Keep sending the programs, they have certainly made my Saturday evenings. Jackie Davis HELLO FROM THE NETHERLANDS Found your site because I was looking for more to read about Dame Thora Hird. I really do like your series. Sometimes a lot of laughter and then just a little smile. But a lot to recognise, how people can act and behave. I'm glad it is subtitled, for I live in the Netherlands and so I can hear and read it and then it's good to understand. So this message is just to let you know that there are fans as well in the Netherlands. Janneke Middelkamp, Winschoten, the Netherlands DOCUMENTARY "30 YEARS OF LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE" Hello Patrick, Thank you, Hi, Harry ... a note to clarify - this documentary will be shown on the BBC in April, as far as we know so far, it is not slotted for release on video, but as soon as we find out one way or the other, we will post it on the website. The special is one-hour and the date is April 13th. WESLEY (GORDON WHARMBY) Hi Patrick, Thanks too for all you've done on the website; http://www.area5.co.uk/summer-wine/album.htm is nice, and I only wish it had more clickable images. I have found there is a website where US viewers can see the plots of current episodes [even those not having yet aired!], and those who do have the good fortune to view them as they air could review the
episodes on this website [free login required]: I am looking forward to October in Little Rock, Arkansas when the US group meets. I hope to meet Patrick or another are5.co.uk representative there, for they are the lifeblood for those of us who are 3 years behind. God bless, COMMENTS ON DVD IN USA I saw your page on the USA DVD and would just like to make a note. Disc 2 says it is a feature film-'Last Of The Summer Wine'. Of course, there is no such thing. It is actually a combination of Short Back And Palais Glide, Inventor Of The 40-Foot Ferret, and Pate and Chips. All in all, the DVD is an excellent contribution to the already mammoth supply of Britcoms on DVD in this country. The DVD is distributed by BFS, a Canadian company and will run on players in the USA and Canada. What is interesting to note is that 'Getting Sam Home' is in great demand from fans in the UK, but it is not available on video or DVD. Whereas, in America, that is not the case. In reality, the DVD has 9 half-hour episodes, broadcast in 1973 and 1975, and a 90-minute feature film broadcast in 1983. For those of us who have seen later episodes of the show, it is fascinating to go back and examine the simple Yorkshire humour which endeared Clegg, Compo and the others to an international audience. The world of characters surrounding the "Winos" is much smaller and Nora Batty is referred to as Mrs. Batty, sometimes not even making an appearance in an episode. The plots are simple, the jokes clever, the situations interesting, and the characters entertaining. The DVD features excellent guest appearances from Frank Middlemass, Olive Pendleton, Lynda Baron, Ronald Lacey, and many more people. All in all, it is worth the cost and the wait. It is only the truth to say that Last Of The Summer Wine gives its viewers something more to appreciate each time they see an episode. Shashi Note: Some of the following comments were emailed before the recent sad death of Dame Thora Hird. RENEWED MY FAITH IN EXCELLENT TV As an American, Last of the Summer Wine has re-newed my faith in excellent television. Each episode I watch never fails to fill me with with great affection for the program and its characters. I can honestly state that my life is enriched because of the series and the superb thought and quality that goes into each episode and every word of dialog. Well done! Dennis Here are the tapes I have for sale, all bona fide commercially released BBC recordings. Rather than set a price, I would prefer to receive offers: SUNDAYS JUST NOT THE SAME WITHOUT SW Have followed and enjoyed Summer Wine since the start. Sunday is not the same when it takes a rest. Keep it going, never let it retire. All the very best. A Yorkshire Missionary In Hampshire.
The other point I would like to make is for USA fans awaiting the DVD release. According to information from BBC America and Amazon.com, the DVD will be available for sale on March 11, 2003 at the BBC America site. The cost is $60.00. If you wait another two weeks, you can get it from Amazon.com for only $45.00
VANDALS AT THE BEEB Duncan KDa1032982@aol.com Hi
Patrick Having watched all of the new series so far I felt it was time to give a few comments from a quality control perspective. Firstly may I echo
the comments of previous contributors who are correct in saying that in some scenes there are too many people fighting for the lines on offer. In the episode "...Gavin Hinchcliffe loses the gulf
stream" the image of Tom on top of the car trying to practice ski-ing reminded me of Compo doing it on water but not as good or funny. In fact the whole episode was rather weak. I would say that there were
only 2 programmes so date worthy of being called "Vintage Summer Wine" and these are
First,
compliments to a terrific website. It is as gentle as the series, and the
good humour and warmth shine through. I am
in my 40s, now living in Newport, RI USA. Only recently WSBE, my local PBS
affiliate in Providence, has started to show LOTSW, it has been so nice to
rejoin the folks of Holmfirth. It is a series, which is uniquely English,
it is only now, I truly understand why my father is just a big fan. Sincerely Geoff
Cook
How do lads ['n lasses], Please send email to mailto:timf@mis.net and I will reply as soon as I can. I am considering buying a DVD, especially after reading one comment, and I wish to verify this, please. Can these somehow read the British PAL format? Of course, I want access to as much LOSW as I can get me grubby paws on... I am pleased to see all the fans raving about the show. My best wishes - and highest regards - to Mr. Roy Clarke. Your writing is incredible; truly a national treasure of Great Britain. Thanks also to the entire cast and crew, you know why. You are the family I never had. Chin up everyone, and carry on! Many thanks, and best
regards, Tim Fulton 624 Cardigan Ct. Lexington KY 40503 859-296-2797 mailto:timf@mis.net NORWAY CALLING Just a quick hello from chilly Norway. I have just bought the DVD of the first 2 series, I thought at first I would not like it without Foggy, but Michael Bates was brilliant. I understand the rest of the series is not available on disc or tape yet as whole series. Is there anyone who maybe has taped them from the tv that could lend them to me. Of course I would pay all costs of posting. A am at a loss now with what to do with the evenings now I have finished the disc. If you can offer advice or help on getting a copy please emeil me at akyhunt@hotmail.com Likewise I have many questions if you want to help and are a LOTSW buff please get in touch Many thanks, to the SWAS and the cast for a wonderfully relaxing programme.
I happened on your
website recently and was thrilled to find that others are just as wild
about The Last of The Summer Wine as I am. HATS OFF TO MR BELL AND ROY CLARKE Patrick,
From my own recollection, I found the interplay between the librarian and his assistant in one of the earlier series to be a highlight, and I regret that Michael Bates did not reappear within the series before his departure. analyst2001@iVillage.co.uk BEST SERIES YET I never miss LOTSW - I love all the people in it - Compo was great and so was Wesley Pegedn - I miss them - but I am so glad the show is still on. There has been a
new chap on there for a few weeks (the direct decendant of Robin Hood) who is he? I just love him, too. I watch all the shows from home but this is the best yet. If
ever you need a home Mr bell for the classic Triumph Hereld please donate
it to me !! Also are you aware that
for reasons best known to themselves the BBC keep refering to Thora's
character as Aunt Edie Pegden. Best wishes ANY IDEAS PLEASE? Have you any idea where I can get a copy of the Song "Last of the summer wine" that was used in the episode "just a small funeral" Many Thanks LATEST SERIES IS SUPERB Hi Patrick I must tell you that I have found this latest series superb. Clegg and Truly, with Billy as well, roam the lanes as before. They are not quite so active perhaps, but their fun and friendship shine through. They need a vehicle at times so Entwhistle with his van more than fit the bill. Nora is back with a vengeance, Mugging people for charity!! and her new neighbour Alvin was an inspiration. He will cause her as much trouble as Compo did. He is very cheeky and had her weighed up from the start. He does not see her as an object of desire, which is good, but I can see so much promise for this pair for the future. Glenda and Barry have more to do now. I loved the new Barry, showing his more manly side ( when he is allowed ). Of course we will all miss Edie and Wesley. I was glad though that a rumour that was going about, which said that Wesley would have a funeral and be taken to the Church in his landrover, proved to be incorrect, This would have been in very bad taste. Ivy still runs the cafe with a rod of iron. Howard seems to be more interested in Pearl than before, but still has his little assignations with Marina. Tom and Smiler working for Auntie Wainwright works well, as does Tom always being just one step ahead of the repo man. My favourites are the policemen, (shades of Rosie and Wilmot here) and I must not forget Auntie Ros and the lovely Waldo. Altogether enjoyable, well done to them all. Sue Kimber SUMMER WINE IN THE "COLONIES" I love Summer Wine. We get the episodes late in the colonies; some episodes may not be shown here such as the Millenium show and Christmas specials. Summer Wine is brilliant, and the characters seem so real. You have Bill Owen who played Compo for 27 years and worked up to the end (what a work ethic!). Then the Dame Thora makes Edie come alive and be sympathetic. When I watch her and Gordon together, (22 years apart in age) I never saw Wesley as a wimp. Gordon played him as a man who simply let his wife be the boss. My biggest laugh at them came when Gordon starts to put his elbows on the table while Dame Thora questions him about a machine he bought home. She slides a newspaper underneath his elbows right before they touch the table. Mind you, her heard was turned away at the time. All the actors are brilliant. Maybe I commit sacrilege, by saying this, but my favorite character was Eli. Danny O'Dea wasn't in alot of the scenes, but his timing was amazing. I smiled so much when the trio (Bill, Peter, and Frank) say hello to him, and he thinks a rolled up piece of linoleum was talking. They tell him it is lino, and he asks them if they are sure because it was talking to him a minute ago. The writer is genius, but you need talented actors to bring life to a part such as Eli Duckett. Hey, if anyone knows were I can send a fan letter to Mr. O'Dea, let me know. Consider this a thank
you to the writer, producer, director, and to all the cast who have
brought such laughter and humanity to the world. In this day and age, when
humanity and laughter are often lacking, this American appreciates the
British support of my country as well as the humanity and humor provided
by Summer Wine. |
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© 2000 Area5. The Summer Wine On-Line web site brought to you by Area5 Public Relations, Holmfirth. Thanks to everyone who has contributed material to this web site, including Colin Frost, of Side's Café, Holmfirth. |
