AS a smash hit play celebrating the life of Britain's greatest comedy duo Morecambe and Wise tours the country, Eric hit headlines again when his Rolls-Royce made more than £36,000 at auction.

The 1974 Silver Shadow still has the comedian's personalised number plate, EM 100.

With the country's passion for the comedian who died 20 years ago continuing to grow, Morecambe resident and Lancaster City Cllr Ron Sands says the town should be thinking about a museum of comedy, presided over by the king - Eric Morecambe.

"'The Play What I Wrote', about Eric and Ernie, has had two fantastic runs in London's West End and is now on a national tour. It demonstrates the enduring fame and the country's passion for this pair," he says.

Mr Sands says Eric's home town should now have a permanent display in memory of the best two comedy artistes ever to tramp the boards. The sale of Eric's Roller is further testimony of his popularity.

Morecambe's widow Joan decided to put the car under the hammer and was told it would raise around £24,000.

After the sale, the 75-year-old said: "I am very pleased. I hope the next owner enjoys this car every bit as much as I know Eric did."

Mrs Morecambe only recently began sorting through her late husband's belongings, which have been left untouched at their home in Hertfordshire.

The Silver Shadow sold for £36,150, including buyer's premium, to an unnamed enthusiast who made his bid over the phone at the Coy's auction in London.