HUNTER S THOMPSON - THOMPSON'S WIFE PLANS DEATH ANNIVERSARY PHOTO RELEASE

Cult writer HUNTER S THOMPSON's widow ANITA is to mark the first anniversary of her husband's suicide by releasing a candid photo she took of him on the internet.

Anita Thompson plans to host a small bonfire for family and friends at her ranch in Aspen, Colorado, next Monday (20FEB06) - after giving fans the chance to see the FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS author at his happiest.

Downloads of the black-and-white photo she took of her late husband at Los Angeles hotel the Chateau Marmont, will be available after midnight on 20 February (06), from www.gonzostore.com.

Anita states she's releasing the rarely seen photo as a thank you to her husband's loyal fans.

She says, "Their support has been incredible and something I didn't expect."

Hunter S Thompson shot himself dead at his home in Woody Creek, Colorado, on 20 February 2005, after struggling to fight the pain from a hip replacement, back surgery and a broken leg. He was 67.