09.05.25.
The 2026 UK Convention will be held in Norwich.
Plans are being formulated for a European Convention in 2027 in Bremen in Germany.
Details are to follow.
Intra-Tent Journal
The latest Intra-Tent Journal takes us back to the first Laurel and Hardy clubs, the earliest of which was set up in Rome in 1934. A convention in 1936 in Paris had 2,000 delegates, says Jack Delente in a very informative article.
Interesting too is Eric Schultz’s description of the first International Convention of the Sons of the Desert in 1978, close to Chicago.
There is even an account from John Muccigrosso of the very first Sons of the Desert meeting, which took place in New York in 1965.
The ITJ has the message that it is “Seeking a new editor in the not too distant future.” Contact itj.inbox@gmail.com.
With the recent ceasing of publication of The Laurel & Hardy Magazine, we hope the writing is not on the wall.
Auction
Steve Bolton tells us that Omega are holding a film and TV sale on 13th May in which lots 91, 93 and 95 may be of some interest.
Karno Story in Sutton Coldfield
Hexham show
Seats are now available to book - https://forumhexham.com/ForumHexham.dll/WhatsOn?f=24188685
Stan's great niece has confirmed she will be there, and is happy to meet and take pics etc, and many have confirmed that they will gather for a post-screening get together in the Wetherspoons downstairs from the cinema.
There is a Travelodge with free all day parking nearby with twin rooms starting at £79.99 - https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/696/Hexham-hotel
Mike Jones
For Harry
At the UK Convention in May, Gary Winstanley put together video messages for Harry Hoppe, expressing sadness that Harry was unable to be at the event. Catch it at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QtAlSmvTA0
Harry replied, “What can I say: THANK YOU so much for putting this video together! Never mind the chemotherapy but with a recovery-wishes-film like that I am sure to win my fight against cancer soon! I appreciate it very much. See you in Norwich next year!”
UK Convention
In addition to our pages of Convention photos, we recommend visiting
https://www.facebook.com/media/set?vanity=LHappreciationsociety&set=a.1160100586146339
and
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1160973669392364&set=pcb.1160983176058080
On the telly
Jimmy Tarbuck was on This Morning (ITV1 28.04.25.), mentioning his love of Laurel and Hardy.
Night Owls Tent of Oldham
Logos
We simply love these two new images.
...and finally
Not so much The Last of the Summer Wine as Pat and Willie in Harrogate at the convention, photographed by Dave Williamson.