THE daughter of comedy legend Eric Morecambe opened a new hide built in memory of her father at the RSPB Leighton Moss nature reserve in Silverdale last weekend.

It is a replacement of the original 1986 hide which succumbed to the elements after many years of wind, rain and high tides.

Gail Stuart opened the new hide, which has been funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Lancashire Environment Fund and Higher Level Stewardship.

Annabel Rushton, marketing officer at RSPB Leighton Moss, said: “Although many people remember Eric Morecambe for his comedy genius as one half of the award-winning double act Morecambe and Wise, fewer people are aware that Eric was a keen bird watcher.

“When he sadly passed away in 1984, Lancaster City Council and the South Lakeland RSPB group provided funding for a hide to be built in tribute to him and his love of birds.”

The new hide, which has been constructed by Gilleard Bros Ltd from Lincolnshire, has more space, wheelchair access and, with much larger windows, boasts even better views over Morecambe Bay.