What a swell party!

Aug 23 2002 By Karen Grattage, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner

THE people of Holmfirth rubbed shoulders with the stars as the town celebrated the 30th anniversary of Last Of The Summer Wine.

About 200 fans and celebrity guests enjoyed dinner and entertainment at Holmfirth Civic Hall.

The actors were thrilled with the party put on for them and as enthusiastic about the comedy series as ever.

For Tom Owen, who plays Compo's long-lost son, the evening had a special significance.

"I'm almost the new boy still and I feel like I'm representing my father," he said.

"I feel very proud and very humble to be here among all the others.

"I'd like to think I am carrying on the position that dad had for 27 years."

And he added: "I love it here.

"I probably inherited that from my dad, the love of the place and Last Of The Summer Wine and all the people in Holmfirth and the valley itself."

The event was organised by Holme Valley Business Association as a thank-you to the TV series for putting the town of Holmfirth on the map.