Compo mementoes

Nov 28 2000

FANS of the late Last of the Summer Wine actor Bill Owen can now own a lasting memory of his character Compo.

And by buying copies of the limited edition nine-inch tall statues they can help raise funds to build a permanent statue in Holmfirth.

And by buying copies of the limited edition nine-inch tall statues they can help raise funds to build a permanent statue in Holmfirth.

It is also hoped that money left over can be given to organisations for young people in and around Holmfirth which were very dear to Bill Owen's heart.

Sculptor Gordon Brown has designed three miniatures. They include a signed limited edition in bronze at £295, a resin painted version of the character standing by a wall also costing £295 and a figure of the character on his own at £75.

The statues have the backing of Andrew Bray, former president of Holmfirth Business Association, and Bill's son, Tom, who now stars in the world's longest running comedy as Compo's son.

The statues, which will be sold worldwide through the internet, are expected to raise more than £25,000, needed to build a lifesize statue of Compo in the town.

Mr Bray has suggested putting this in the park in front of Ashley Jackson's gallery in Holmfirth Road.

He said: ''I think the statues will be great for tourism in Holmfirth. There has been opposition from some quarters but people do not realise the potential for tourism in Holmfirth.

''Whether Summer Wine keeps going or not, Holmfirth has got an industry given to it and we should use it.''

Any monies left over will be given to local young people's organisations.

''Bill got his OBE for working with youth and the community so I think he would have wanted local clubs to benefit,''.

Tom Owen, who was in Huddersfield to officially open the day care centre at Kirkwood Hospice, said he was delighted with the finished products which have been licenced by the BBC.

''I think they're great and Gordon has captured my father's character whether it be his laugh or grin or a look in his eye,'' he said.

''I'm sure they will raise enough money to pay for a lifesize statue,'' He said.

''Gordon has already had a number of inquiries and that's before they've been properly marketed.''

The statues are available from Holmfirth Tourist information centre and Shades china shop, in Hollowgate.