MORE than 200 classic comedy fans took up temporary residence in Ulverston, coming together for an international celebration of a world-renowned comedic double act.

Bowler hats and stick-on moustaches were very much in evidence in the Furness town, as the crowds gathered for the International Convention of the Sons of the Desert – a bi-annual festival dedicated to Laurel and Hardy.

Taking place over four days, the festival gave enthusiasts the chance to meet with others who share a love of slapstick, tour the Laurel and Hardy Museum and wander the streets of the town in which Stan was born.

Linda Caldwell, director of the twin Laurel and Hardy Museum in Harlem, Georgia, said that people from all over the world came to the festival to marvel at Laurel and Hardy’s brand of simple comedy.

“It’s just funny. There’s no violence, it’s not political – it’s just silly comedy,” she said. “I’m seeing younger and younger families come into the museum and they all tell me it’s because of what’s on TV nowadays.”

The 75-year-old, whose museum is located in the birthplace of Oliver Hardy, was part of the Skype ‘twinning’ between Ulverston and Harlem – the live link saw the town’s mayors both address the gathering at Ulverston's Coronation Hall.

Visitors were also able to enjoy the world premiere of a new documentary that revolved around the grandfather of Mark Greenhow. Mark is the current owner of the Laurel and Hardy Museum in Ulverston, but his grandfather opened it.

“It was a little bit emotional,” said Mr Greenhow “But a very nice film.”

As well as enjoying Laurel and Hardy films, the festival provided a chance for old friends who live continents apart to catch up.

Dave Dearle, from Southend, said that he had been to the 1984 convention and there were around 10 of the same faces at this year’s meet.

“The best thing I ever did in my life was join the Sons of the Desert in the 1970s. Since then, I’ve made lasting friendships with people.

“The friendships and the bonds are absolutely incredible and it’s all because of Laurel and Hardy.”

Part of the reason the duo seem to have such widespread appeal, is that the silent films they made do not pose a language barrier. In fact, Dave said that a few of the Italian visitors at the festival could speak very little English.

“The quite amazing thing is that the last Laurel and Hardy film was made in, I think, 1949 and people are still laughing,” he said. “They still find it funny, all these years later.”