True grit’s in Yorkstone for Compo

Apprentice stonemason Adam Turner with the Compo stone carving at Johnson’s Wellfield Quarries, Crosland Moor and, inset, Bill Owen in Last of the Summer Wine fact it is 9ft high but 3ft will be underground. It is a bust carved into the rock face itself. The family wanted something rugged.

“It took the quarry two years to find the right stone. You cannot supermarket shop these things.”

A tribute to the TV icon has been discussed for years. A fund, said to be in the region of £8,000, was raised via fan contributions from around the world. Mr Gooch said the majority of the fund has now been spent and there has been further support from Johnsons Wellfield Quarries, which found and carved the stone.

“It’s a shame it has taken so long. It has not been straightforward,” said Mr Gooch. “I believe the fund has all been spent. There is enough left to make the foundation for the bust.

Bill Owen’s son, Tom, 67, also an actor, said he had seen photographs of the carving which “looks great”.

“I was incredibly frustrated by the length of time that it took, but better late than never. I am really pleased that everything is going ahead.”

It is hoped that an official unveiling will take place in Holmfirth. Mr Owen said he would be involved and hoped to extend an invitation to cast and crew members from the show.

“I will most certainly be there. I hope cast and crew can come – they will be notified – but everyone is getting on a bit now.

“I am just really pleased that Bill will be in the centre of Holmfirth.”