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The forthcoming series of Last Of The Summer Wine which will transmit on ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ One over the summer will be the last, the ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ confirmed today.

Last Of The Summer Wine is an affectionate comedy about people in the autumn of their years. Every single episode has been written by Roy Clarke OBE and produced and directed by Alan J W Bell. The series is the world's longest-running sitcom, having clocked up over 30 series as well as several Christmas specials. It debuted on the ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ in 1973 and over the years has featured a host of famous faces including Eric Sykes CBE, Dame Thora Hird and of course the inimitable Bill Owen as Compo Simonite. The current series still features Peter Sallis OBE as Norman Clegg alongside several other eminent cast members including Russ Abbott (Hobbo), Frank Thornton (Truly), Brian Murphy (Alvin) and Burt Kwouk (Entwistle).

Jay Hunt, Controller, ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ One, said: "Last Of The Summer Wine has been part of ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ One for nearly 40 years. This wonderful final series is a fitting farewell to these much loved characters and I am delighted some of the channel's other heritage brands will be helping to say goodbye in style."

Cheryl Taylor, Controller, Comedy Commissioning, said: "It is a testimony to the wit and warmth of the characters that Roy Clarke originally created that this amazing series has endured over several decades. The ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ feels enormously privileged to have played host to its many charms for such a long time and we very much respect the affection in which it is held.

"It is very tough to have to call time on such a cherished institution but we are very sincere in our gratitude for, and admiration of Last Of The Summer Wine. It is the undisputed champion of long-running comedy series. We would like to thank Roy Clarke, Alan J W Bell and all the cast members for their wonderful achievement and for their dedication to the show."

³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ One will celebrate the end of the long-running series with special editions of Countryfile and Songs Of Praise which will come from Holmfirth, the village in Yorkshire where the series has been filmed since it began in 1973.

Notes to Editors

A special episode of Countryfile, ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ One's flagship rural affairs show, will be anchored from Holmfirth and will feature characters from the show.

Songs Of Praise will celebrate the popular sitcom with a visit to Holmfirth. Broadcasting from a local church, the programme will find out about real life in the picturesque town as well as exploring its on-screen fame.

CP