WHEN reading a biography, it is possible to be left questioning some of the finer details. When that biography is written by a close family member, it's easier to believe what you read.

That is the case with this warm, poignant, honest book on the life of Eric Morecambe, written by his son, Gary. This portrayal of the iconic comedian is funny and sad. I was glued from beginning to end.

The book works on two levels - it charts the professional career of Eric Morecambe from leaving school at the age of 12 to pursue a career in showbusiness, through his long-standing double act with Ernie Wise, making him one of the best-loved entertainers this country has seen, to his death in 1984 from a heart attack.

It also gives an insight into Morecambe's family life. He emerges as a loving, yet strict parent, much loved by his wife and children. Gary didn't always see eye to eye with his father, and this is where the honesty shows through. He doesn't make the comedian out to be some kind of god - simply his dad, who happened to be famous.

An interesting and entertaining read. I'd recommend it to anyone after some light entertainment (which was Eric's forte, after all).

Updated: 09:46 Wednesday, October 22, 2003