Eric Morecambe

Eric Morecambe

Morecambe born John Eric Bartholomew, better known by his stage name Eric Morecambe, was one of Britain’s most cherished entertainers whose wit, charm, and innate ability to connect with audiences left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. Rising from humble beginnings in the early 20th century, Morecambe forged a legendary career that spanned television, stage, and film, ultimately co-starring with Ernie Wise in the iconic comedy duo Morecambe and Wise. Their groundbreaking television shows, filled with a mix of subtle irony and exuberant slapstick, captivated millions and redefined British comedy, turning everyday scenarios into timeless sketches that have resonated across generations.

Away from bright lights of Television and his Christmas specials that made Eric Morecambe (along with Ernie Wise) a household name across the United Kingdom, Eric lived in Harpenden just down the road from Luton and he started coming to Kenilworth Road in 1969. Through some fortunate circumstances Eric found himself seated almost immediately next to the Directors box at Kenilworth Road, with Hatters' secretary Bob Readhead arranging seats from Eric and his son Gary. The star struck board of directors would invite Eric into the board room regularly post match and eventually Eric was invited and voted unanimously to join the board, becoming a Director of the club until he stepped down in November 1975, although remaining Vice President of the club until he passed away in 1984. 

Although gone, Eric still remains Luton Town's most famous director, with his Morecambe and Wise skits including regular references to Luton Town Football Club, Eric appeared on the Big Match to discuss Luton Town games also having a fun rivalry with Elton John who was a Director at Watford as well as stepping into co-commentary duties for radio.

Eric took his support of Luton Town incredibly seriously and his time as Director coincided with not only the peak of his entertainment powers, but also some of the most successful times on the pitch for Luton Town. He was a regular traveller to away games, he was a permanent fixture at home games and when there was cause for celebration, he was the first to be in the communal bathtub with the champagne to congratulate the players!

Eric was given a special one of a kind tracksuit by the club, which was recently bought at auction by Hatters' Heritage through very generous donations from the current Luton Town board of directors. You can see this tracksuit now, which is poetically situated in the Eric Morecambe lounge and will be proudly be displayed in the Hatters' Heritage museum upon our relocation to Power Court.