A LIFELONG fan of Laurel and Hardy is sharing some of his memorabilia collection with fellow fans at a month-long exhibition.

Richard Franklin has worshipped the comic duo since he was a child and, over the years, has built up an impressive collection of keepsakes.

Some of that collection went on display for the first time in Shildon Town Library, County Durham, yesterday.

Mr Franklin, 34, who lives in the town, said: "I think Laurel and Hardy are still as funny today as they were 60 years ago and I just want people to come along and get some enjoyment out of the things that I have had a lot of enjoyment out of.''

One of Mr Franklin's favourite items is a cartoon strip cut out of a newspaper in 1951.

He also enjoys going along to monthly meetings of the Sons of the Desert group, in Bishop Auckland, which was set up as an appreciation society for the pair.

Mr Franklin will be popping in to the library over the next month and is willing to answer people's questions about his collection.

Some of the items included in the display are cigarette cards, calendars, a frisby, picture discs and dolls.

Mr Franklin said: "People can leave a message at the library to contact me and I will be quite happy to answer any of their questions.''