Blue plaque and concert honour for Ronnie Hazlehurst

Music legend Ronnie Hazlehurst is to be honoured with a blue plaque in Tameside, it has been revealed. Dukinfield-born Hazlehurst, famed for writing classic theme tunes for shows like Blankety Blank and Last of the Summer Wine, died aged 79 in October last year. Councillor Jackie Lane, Tameside Council's heritage chief, said it was vital to honour the borough's talented sons and daughters. "At the end of the day he's a local man who's done well - it was fantastic what he achieved in his lifetime," she said. The exact location of the plaque and when it will be put up is not yet known. Councillor Lane said she was discussing with family where would be most appropriate. A tribute concert to the tunesmith - who was one of the BBC's musical directors - is also set to raise the roof at Dukinfield town hall. Featuring American-style big band music from an 18-piece swing orchestra, the event will also raise money to help local music charities and organisations such as Dukinfield's All Saints Swing Band. Organiser Ian Matthews said: "They will be playing everything from Glenn Miller to the Rat Pack to Michael Buble. We're also including one of the UK's top international smooth swing soul artists Josh Adams, a singer-songwriter who has toured the States with legendary soul group the Coasters. Tameside Advertiser (13.03.08.)