Americans adore the taste of Summer Wine

Mar 17 2003 By Andrew Baldwin, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner

AMERICAN fans of Last of the Summer Wine are to stage their first convention in honour of the programme they love.

Hundreds of people are expected to gather for the bash in Little Rock, Arkansas.

And it is hoped some of the cast and crew will be there to greet them.

The plans were revealed as it was confirmed that veteran actor Danny O'Dea, who played Eli in the series, has retired.

The 90-year-old is said to be living comfortably in a rest home in the Brighouse area.

Producer Alan J W Bell said: "We would give everything to have him back in front of the camera, but he just isn't fit enough."

Backers of the USA convention said there had been an incredible response since they revealed their plans.

The programme, filmed in Holmfirth, has a devoted following in the USA, where fans have only just seen the 2000 series covering Compo's death.

Organiser Robin Simpson said: "This will give fans in the US an opportunity to celebrate one of Britain's most beloved comedies and at the same time raise money for charity.

"It looks like we're going to have a lot of people from all over the country."

The cast and crew have been given an open invitation to make the trip.

The convention is likely to be held at the end of October at a hotel in Little Rock.

Fans will be treated to a reception and gala dinner and a tour of the Arkansas resort town of Hot Springs.

Two charities are being lined up to benefit from the convention - a children's hospital in Arkansas and a hospice in Yorkshire.

Their names are not being revealed until the final arrangements have been made.