AN AMERICAN columnist for a Summer Wine fanzine has made a return journey to Holmfirth.

Liz Nichols, of Arlington, Virginia, has been writing her weekly column for Summerwine.co.uk for the past two years.

The semi-authorised website was set up four years ago by Manchester-based Mark Mallender.

Mark is a keen fan of the programme, although at 23 he is much younger than the show itself.

The pair, who have a 53-year age gap, are linked by their devotion to Summer Wine, the longest-running comedy series ever.

Liz first came to Holmfirth two years ago as part of the series's 30th anniversary celebrations.

And she was asked to contribute to Mark's website, to give an American perspective on the Holmfirth-based series.

Ms Nichols is an avid fan of the show, which has been running for the past 15 years in America.

"I like everything about it!" she said. "Summer Wine really does a lot for me. If you are depressed and watch Summer Wine you will not feel depressed any more.

"It's very funny. Even my 10-year-old grandson likes it."

Ms Nichol believes its popularity in America is based on a backlash against conventional American series, characterised by youthful actors expletive-littered dialogue and violent plots.

The series is screened each day midweek and on Saturday nights across swathes of America.

Other British comedies such as Keeping Up Appearances and the vintage Open All Hours also have a healthy following.

Liz is spending two weeks in Holmfirth, based at the Old Bridge Hotel and is catching up with friends she made on her first visit.

She likes the Holme Valley scenery, which features prominently in the series, and will also be touring.

"There are so many interesting places to go to - the book store, Sid's Cafe, Ashley Jackson's studio.

"I just wish places would stay open at night!" she said.

One of the highlights will be meeting her hero Roy Clarke, Summer Wine's creator.

They have e-mailed one another but it will be their first meeting.

"He is a very nice man and he is so handsome!" she said.