A disappointing school report of Eric Morecambe's - as well as many other personal belongings - will go on display in Lancaster after a successful bid at an auction.
The Lancaster City Museums team acquired items from the comedy legend’s personal collection at the high-profile auction held in Burton, Staffordshire last month.
They faced stiff competition from high-profile bidders like pop star Robbie Williams, who purchased Eric’s iconic glasses and pipe for £20,000.
But, thanks to generous donations from local residents, who contribute to a fund for acquiring and maintaining items in the collection, the museum successfully bought a selection of papers from Eric’s private study.
The items include Eric’s school reports featuring some candid remarks from his mother on the back, Eric’s license to perform as a child entertainer which was issued by the Morecambe and Heysham Council, as well as previously unseen documents, all handwritten by Eric, which contained numerous gag and sketch ideas, including an opening sketch for the Morecambe and Wise Show.
Eric’s license for being a child entertainer and one of his school reports are now on display at the Lancaster Maritime Museum and it is hoped that the remaining items will be exhibited in the future so that people can remind themselves just what a comedic legend this local hero was.
Eric's licence can be seen below.
Councillor Nick Wilkinson, Lancaster City Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for theatres, museums and visitor information, said: “We are delighted to welcome Eric Morecambe’s treasured objects back to his home district, where they will take pride of place in our museum.
“These items, deeply rooted in his legacy, offer a unique glimpse into the life of a comedy legend who brought joy to millions and we are proud to provide a space where visitors can connect with the man behind the laughter.”
The comedian's school report is from 1936, when he went to Lancaster Road Primary School. Here it is below.
His mum Sadie's response was: "I am disgusted with this report, and I would be obliged if you would make him do more homework, as I would see he did it here."
More than 800 lots from the house Eric shared with his wife Joan and their children Gary, Gail and Steven in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, went under the hammer. Joan died in 2024, aged 97.
Many other precious items were sold for huge amounts, including a portrait of Eric by the artist Richard Stone.
Eric Morecambe was a leading figure in British comedy, boasting a lengthy career.
In a 2002 BBC poll, he was recognised as one of the top 40 Greatest Britons, surpassing notable figures like David Beckham and Henry VIII. He derived his stage name from his hometown, Morecambe.
Forty years after his passing in 1984, a wide array of items from the family home he shared with his wife, Joan, were auctioned off in Burton last month, offering an intimate look into the public and private life of a man who, alongside his comedy partner Ernie Wise, entertained millions over the years.
Read more: Singer Robbie Williams pays £20,000 for iconic Eric Morecambe personal effects - Beyond Radio
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