BBC cancels 'Summer Wine' after 37 years

• Tweet

LONDON, June 2 (UPI) -- The BBC says it has decided to cancel its small-screen comedy "Last of the Summer Wine," which has run on British television for 37 years.

BBC One controller Jay Hunt said the last season will air this summer and will be a "fitting farewell" to the beloved series. Peter Sallis, Russ Abbott and Brian Murphy are expected to appear in the final episodes.

The entire series was written by Roy Clarke, and produced and directed by Alan J.W. Bell, the BBC said.

"It is a testimony to the wit and warmth of the characters that Roy Clarke originally created that this amazing series has endured over several decades," said Cheryl Taylor, controller of comedy commissioning. "The BBC feels enormously privileged to have played host to its many charms for such a long time and we very much respect the affection in which it is held. It is very tough to have to call time on such a cherished institution but we are very sincere in our gratitude for, and admiration of 'Last of the Summer Wine.' It is the undisputed champion of long-running comedy series."