. . . . . . . . Sherlock Holmes (1965-8) Douglas Wilmer created a fine Sherlock Holmes in this BBC series. Nigel Stock provided staunch support as Dr Watson Pilot (1964): The Speckled Band - directed by Roger Midgeley Who is whistling at dead of night in the creepy old house? Julia Stoner is to be married shortly, she'll be relieved to get away from her domineering stepfather's gloomy place. "You're going to live happily ever after," her sister Helen tells her. Not so, for that night there's a scream and Julia is dead. But the cause is far from clear. Two years have passed, and now Helen is engaged to Percy. She tells her fiance that her stepfather has insisted she sleeps in Julia's bedroom until the marriage. Indeed, he forces her to do so. That night Helen hears a whistle. She jumps out of bed and runs away to consult SH. She is shaking with fear, afraid of her stepfather. A cheetah and a baboon he has brought back with him from India, are his pets, making him even more frightening, she tells the great detective. Dr Watson of course is all "at sea," especially baffled over Julia's dying words, Speckled Band. After she has left, with a lighter heart, the wicked stepfather himself, Sir Grimesby Roylott (Felix Felton) bursts in to warn SH to mind his own business. Undeterred, SH and Dr Watson travel down to Roylott's home. Nearby they meet some surly gipsies- one is wearing a speckled handkerchief round his neck. Now SH examines Helen's new bedroom. A ventilator links the room with her stepfather's. In the latter room is a saucer of fresh milk. That night, Helen lies petrified as Grimesby prowls the house. SH and Watson gain entry via her bedroom window. "What a nightmarish place!" They wait. A scream, but this is from Roylott. A swamp snake had entered Helen's bedroom via the ventilator, down the bell rope. SH had beaten it off, and the snake had fled to savage its master, "violence recoils upon the violent." 1.1 The Illustrious Client (1965)- directed by Peter Sasdy. Sir James (Ballard Berkeley) is seeking SH's aid in preventing the dangerous Baron Gruner from killing "a man of great significance." He has already implemented the first stage of that scheme, by becoming engaged to the innocent Violet (Jennie Linden). Peter Wyngarde's Baron has an edge, irascible, almost frightening as you fear for the besotted Violet who can't see through her love for this egocentric. She will hear nothing against his "noble nature" for the very good reason he has been so open and honest with her about his disreputable past, even to accusations that he killed his first wife. SH's first move is to contact at a music hall a petty criminal called Shinwell Johnson. Proof positive against the baron is what Shinwell is asked to supply. Then it's face to face with the baron in his sumptuous home. They exchange unpleasantries as both stand confident in their positions. Now the baron seems foppish, bantering, yet still menacing in warning off SH. Miss Kitty Winter (Rosemary Leach) from Islington is the person Shinwell comes up with. She is sure the baron has committed two other murders. He keeps a leather book, his 'collection' of his women conquests. Dr Watson has mugged up on another passion of the baron's, Chinese pottery, so he can offer him a rare Ming saucer, as a distraction while SH and Miss Winter search his study for the leather book. But it must be admitted Watson is no match for the baron who sees through him, "what is the game?" Too late he understands what SH is doing. The book is snatched, but Miss Winter has her own revenge, acid in the baron's face. Though naturally the good doctor rushes to his side, he's now a disfigured martyr. That at least is how Violet will see him, until she is shown the Lust Diary To the earliest TV version of Holmes Taped Crime Menu . . . . . . . . ADAM ADAMANT LIVES! (1966/7) "It's his courtesy viewers admire. The way he puts every woman on a pedestal and treats her like a rare flower." Alongside the perfect star Gerald Harper was Juliet Harmer as Miss Jones. The BBC gave this their best shot in an attempt to emulate the fantasy that made The Avengers so unique. It's nice this series has received some sort of recognition following its dvd revival, although it's very hit and miss with a few absolutely brilliant stories but also a number of scripts that are best forgotten The surviving stories: 1.1 A Vintage Year for Scoundrels 8* 1.2 Death has a Thousand Faces 7* 1.3 More Deadly than a Sword 0* 1.4 Sweet Smell of Disaster 9* 1.5 Allah is Not Always with You 2* 1.6 The Terribly Happy Emblamers 5* 1.7 To Set a Deadly Fashion 3* 1.8 The Last Sacrifice 1* 1.9 Sing a Song of Murder 8* 1.10 The Doomsday Plan 8* 1.11 Death by Appointment Only 7* 1.12 Beauty is an Ugly Word 7* 1.13 The League of Uncharitable Ladies 7* 1.15 The Village of Evil 5* 1.16 D for Destruction 2* 2.2 Black Echo 4* 2.13 A Sinister Sort of Service 6* Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . . . . The Expert (BBC) starring Marius Goring as Dr John Hardy, a Home Office pathologist. The other regulars were Hardy's wife Jo (a medical doctor and thus confusingly Dr Hardy), his assistant Sandra and Inspector Fleming. There were three series shown from 1968 to 1971, with a revival in 1976. So it must have been reasonably successful, though largely forgotten these days. It is certainly lacking any lightness of touch, a serious, almost grim, account of forensic police work, sometimes quite absorbing, but you do wish Marius Goring's character could be just a little more human. I suppose he's a typical anti-hero, though hero is entirely the wrong word for this good doctor with but a hint of dry humour. 2:1 The Visitor (April 1969) 2:2 The Visitor -conclusion 2:4 The Yellow Torrish 2:18 Lethal Weapon (August 1969) 2:22 Your Money for My Life 2:25 Flesh and Blood? 3:1 A Way to Die? (January 1971) 3:2 Where are you Going? 3:3 The Man on my Back 3:5 Whose Child? The Wife 3:6 Whose Child? The Husband -conclusion 3:7 Cedric 3:11 Smithereens 3:12 Hothouse Taped Shows Menu . . . . . Francis Durbridge The master of suspense serials has not been treated well by the BBC, who did so well out of him. Thankfully, here's one complete surviving six part serial from 1966: A Game of Murder starring Gerald Harper as Det Insp Jack Kerry, with Conrad Phillips as Chief Supt Bromford (not ep 5), David Burke as Det Insp Ed Royce, and June Barry as Cathy White. Designer: Roy Oxley. Produced and Directed by Alan Bromly. Others in all episodes were: John Harvey as Charles Bannister, and Christopher Wray as Douglas Croft. Other semi regulars were: Diana King as Iris Bannister (stories 1,2,4, and 6), Peter Copley as Norman Penn (2,3,4,6), Dorothy White as Doreen Osborne (2,3,4,5,6), Dorothy Frere as Freda Lincoln (1,2,3), John Carlin as Leonard Lincoln (3,4,6) Kenneth Hendel as Cleg Reed (3,4,5), Murray Hayne as Rupert Delaney (1,3) and Patricia Shakesby as Greta (5,6) Episode 1 (Feb 26th 1966) - With Anthony Sagar as the murdered Bob Kerry, Donald Oliver as PC Collier, Bernard G High as Postman. Episode 2 (Mar 4th 1966) - With Carole Lesley (billed as Lesley Carole) as Liz Mason, Elizabeth Hopkinson as Brenda Thompson, Alan Hynton as PC Hodges, Bernard Stone/ Derek Martin as Taxi drivers. Episode 3 (Mar 11th 1966) - With Richard Jacques as Barman. Episode 4 (Mar 18th 1966) - With Donald Hoath as Det Insp Everson. Episode 5 (Mar 25th 1966) - With Christopher Gilmore as Dr Friedman, Kenneth Waller as Dr Hasling. Episode 6 (Apr 2nd 1966) - With Brian Cant as Sgt Fuller, Reg Whitehead as PC Small. Taped Series Menu . . . . . . . . . Episode 1 Bob Kerry, professional golfer, is to play a round on his own today. Liz and Douglas are left in charge of his pro shop in Putney. Before leaving for the course, Bob says goodbye to his son Jack, a Scotland Yard detective, whose workload currently includes the minor case of finding Midge, the poodle of Bob's daily, Mrs Lincoln. On his way to see a friend in hospital, Jack is stopped by police. They have terrible news. His father has been hit by a golf ball. He has died. A distressed young golfer, Rupert Delaney, had driven a ball straight at Bob in a bunker on the twelfth hole. Accidentally of course. The doctor had taken an hour to get to Bob, too late. Jack disagrees with the coroner's verdict of accidental death. But then there is some good news. A Mrs Bannister on Kingston Hill, phones to say her husband has found a dog answering to Midge's description. Jack confirms it is Midge, even though her rather valuable collar is missing. He writes a cheque for £5, a reward, to be given to charity. Driving home with the dog, he sees a Fiat HXC443C, a numberplate his father had written down before his death for some unknown reason. Oddly, the driver of this car is Delaney, his passenger a blonde. 6 Linton Close Knightsbridge is where Delaney lives. But Jack finds him out, and returning to his car, notices a recently dropped lady's scarf. And close by is Delaney, shot dead in the back of his head. In his pocket, Chief Supt Bromford finds a receipt for a registered letter posted this day to Jack. Next morning Jack, with Bromford in attendance, awaits the arrival of the post. Bromford asks Jack if he knows a Basil Higgs. The name of the treasurer of the charity named by Mr Bannister to whom Jack had donated his £5 cheque. Why was this cheque in Delaney's flat? The letter is delivered. In Bromford's presence, it is opened by Jack. "This is why your father was killed," reads the abrupt note. Enclosed is a collar. Midge's. For my review of episode 2 Start of Game of Murder . . . . . . . . . Episode 2 Jack Kerry recounts the whole tale to Supt Bromford, perhaps for the benfit of new viewers! He says the collar had been bought by his dad for Mrs Lincoln. "It seems a perfectly ordinary collar to me." Liz explains Douglas had told Bob Kerry he could buy it at Penn's pet shop. She also recalls Bob had been talking quite earnestly with one posh customer, a lady called Iris, whom he later told Liz he had never met before. This Iris seems have have given Penn a medallion which had been attached to the collar. Some investigation reveals her real name is Cathy White, from Liverpool, and what's more, she was the girfriend of the late Rupert Delaney. He had been backing a show, which had flopped, which starred Cathy. Bromford interviews Charles and Iris Bannister who admit they had returned Midge to Kerry, but had never taken any cheque for charity from him. "I don't know anyone called Basil Higgs," states Mr Bannister who, furthermore, is not wheelchair bound as Kerry had described. Now Basil Higgs was the payee for the £5 cheque for charity, and that turns out to be an alias of Delaney! Mrs Lincoln has resigned her job, why she has lied about staying with her nephew instead of admitting she has got another job isn't at all clear. Cathy (aka Iris) phones Jack, "I'm in trouble." She arranges to meet him at a Notting Hill restaurant, but when he shows up, she runs off. After a chase along the pavement, she leaps into a taxi, he joins her and she claims she never phoned him. "It was a tip-off," she concludes, "they knew I was at the restaurant." Question is, who are They? Jack Kerry starts to escort her to the police, but on the way she admits she knows who killed Bob Kerry... For my review of episode 3 Start of Game of Murder . . . . . . . . Episode 3 Cathy White is taken to Jack's home where she tells her overlong story, though it is enlivened by partly being told in flashback. She had moved in with Rupert Delaney after the show he'd backed proved a flop, "we were very happy together." She had overheard Rupert being instructed by a man called Charles to be on the golf course at 10am next day. The name Bob Kerry had been mentioned. Rupert had returned next day in shock, "there was nothing I could do," he had accidentally killed Kerry with his golf ball. Rupert says he had never met Kerry before and asked her to forget all about it. Rupert's boss Mel Harris, whom Cathy has never seen, phoned later about the incident. Then later, the night before he died, she had argued with Rupert and left him. It was over such a trifling thing, a mere dog collar. The chat is interrupted by an intruder who must have whisked Cathy away, for when Jack comes round, she has gone. An unannounced visitor for Jack, Leonard Lincoln, nephew of his former housekeeper. He's worried about his aunt, "heading for a breakdown." It's a silly matter, she is gabbling something about Jack has stolen something from her, her dog collar. Jack is happy to return it, but insists she collect it in person. Yet it seems a most ordinary collar, nothing out of the ordinary according to the Yard lab report, nothing that could provoke murder surely. In his father's belongings, Jack notices a guide book with a ring round a hotel in Aldeburgh. Now that was the place Bromford had said that Charles Bannister and his wife were off to! At the Golden Plough in Barnes, Jack has arranged to return Mrs Lincoln's dog collar. In return, he has warned her he wants information about Mel Harris. But she never shows up, or rather she shows up later in Jack's flat, dead For my review of episode 4 Start of Game of Murder . . . . . . . . . . Episode 4 Jack Kerry is reprimanded for seeing privately the late Mrs Lincoln. Kerry also has to explain to Leonard Lincoln what happened to his aunt. The puzzle is, why she'd told Leonard she was coming to see Kerry. And why did she state she was working at this hotel when in fact she was staying there at £3.15/- a night? Douglas tells Kerry of his father's secret- he had been having an affair with a married woman called Bannister. Oddly she had phoned Doug last evening about a missing receipt for a pearl necklace. Doug had been asked to post it, should he find it, to a hotel in Aldeburgh. The Bannisters have reported a break-in, only item stolen is a pearl necklace. A police inspector investigating, later informs Supt Bromford that he had seen in the Bannister's house a wheelchair hidden in a cupboard. This corroborates Jack Kerry's statement that he thought Bannister was an invalid. Cathy's friend Doreen Osborne had been spotted with Penn the pet shop owner. Kerry questions Penn about this "dreadful woman," who at the moment "has money to burn." 32 Defoe Mansions is where she lives. Kerry finds her at home but not very forthcoming about Cathy's whereabouts. "She did a bunk," after Delaney died, is all Doreen can offer. But Jack hides in her flat and overhears her on the phone to Mel. Evidently she knows more. When she goes out, Jack pokes around and ends up at the wrong end of a gun, held by Stella, alias Cathy. She says she is so scared she is going to be charged with Rupert Delaney's murder. There's a struggle and the gun goes off... For my review of episode 5 Start of Game of Murder . . . . . . . . . . Episode 5 "Suffering from shock more than anything else," Cathy is now recovering. "Are you falling for her?" Inspector Ed Royce asks Jack Kerry. He fills his colleague in on what he has learned about Rupert Delaney. He worked for the shadowy Mel Harris, running a call girl racket. Cathy was the front girl, and blackmail followed. Jack can't accept Cathy was involved. But how to find the elusive Mel? Doreen, with money to burn, seems the weakest link. Jack finds her weeping, having been beaten up. Mr Penn had been seen leaving the building. "You've got to tell me about Mel Harris," Jack urges her. But she is too scared, so Jack demands the same of Penn. He admits seeing Doreen but says she had been beaten up before he got to her. A thin story, Ed believes. Is Penn Mel? Cathy has now recovered enough to confide in Jack. She says she knew nothing about Rupert's business, though she knew Doreen was a call girl. She's never seen Mel Harris. Together they go to question Doreen, but she is now not in her flat. Jack will take Cathy to Steeple Aston, to hide her away from any danger. Leonard Lincoln brings Jack the dog collar, which has a zip which conceals a receipt for a pearl necklace. Jack arranges to return it to Iris Bannister. They are to meet at The Danish Cafe, but it is her husband Charles who comes to the rendezvous, "did you have trouble parking your wheelchair?" Jack asks him drily. He wants to know about his dad's involvement, but all he receives is a warning off. The real trouble is that Bannister knows exactly where Cathy has been hidden... Review of episode 6 To the start of Game of Murder . . . . . . . . . . . . Episode 6 The Priory Hotel Steeple Aston is where Cathy is. But Jack had spotted the hidden microphone in Doreen's flat and had given them a "bum steer." Bannister has no hold. Iris phones her husband at the cafe to warn that Mel Harris is watching the cafe. He is driving his grey Jag. When Bannister comes out, he is run down. Iris is in "a terrible state" and tells all. Mrs Lincoln had gathered incriminating evidence against one of her former employers, Harris, and had tried blackmailing him. Wrongly, she had implied that Bob Kerry was her partner. Her dog Midge had been kidnapped to persuade her to call off the blackmailing. Cathy had sent the dog collar to persuade Rupert to speak out, but that scheme had failed. So who is Mel Harris? And where is he? That we still don't know. Doreen is in a nursing home in St Albans, to undergo plastic surgery on her disfigured face. Jack asks Cathy to speak to her. "You know Harris," Caths urges her. Doreen is too scared to talk, but Cathy gets her to agree to a meeting, for "I want Rupert's job." To enforce the point, she adds darkly that she knows about Mrs Lincoln. This works. Harris arranges to talk to Cathy about her proposal. "Play it cool, Jack advises her, "and watch his hands." She does act the part well. "I know why you killed Charles Bannister," she tells him. Mel curses him as "a bloody fool," he'd been trying to peddle narcotics on the side. With Harris increasingly suspicious, Jack intervenes to arrest the boss who is now trying to throttle her. So all is explained, well almost. And Cathy really is taken to Steeple Aston... by Jack The End To menu for Game of Murder . . . . . . . . Dixon of Dock Green (1955-1976) starring Jack Warner as PC George Dixon, an Ordinary Copper. Other long serving cast members included: Peter Byrne as Andy Crawford, George's son-in-law, Jeanne Hutchinson as Mary, his wife, as well as Arthur Rigby as Sgt Flint, the gruff but likeable station sergeant. The series was one of the most famous creations of Ted Willis. A cosy police drama which reflects the integrity of a pre-Z Cars police force. It ended up being derided as an anachronism, but that wasn't the fault of the programme, but of the world that had changed all around. Not every story began, as some think, with George Dixon welcoming us with his celebrated "Evening All," but I am recording his opening phrase with each review below. Full reviews of some surviving stories, click where highlighted: 16 The Rotten Apple (1956) 17 The Roaring Boy 18 Pound of Flesh 19 Father in Law 120 The Hot Seat (1960) 397 Eye Witness (in colour, 1973) 399 Harry's Back (1974) 412 Sounds 413 Firearms were issued Taped Crime Series Menu . . . . . . The Rotten Apple George Dixon: 'Ah, good evening!" "A dickens of a surprise" awaits Alderman Mayhew (AJ Brown) in Glenside Terrace, he's been robbed. As it's on PC George Dixon's beat, he is on the carpet for not spotting anything. The irascible Sgt Flint bawls him off, so a chastened George returns home silent. Andy is here, having his radio repaired by PC Tom Carr, from Bristol (Paul Eddington). As the policemen chat idly about a spate of similar robberies Tom observes the crook must have "tons of nerve," while Andy believes it must be the work of The Captain, even though he has an alibi. Now we see this gentleman crook, in Nelson Terrace, robbing the house of Mr Collings. But the owner interrupts the thief and phones the police. The captain waits unperturbed, sipping a drink. The pair exchange philosophies before the Captain catches Collings off guard, knocks him out and makes his getaway. But Collings supplies the crook's description and it fits The Captain, "underneath he's a rat." The robber is arrested, though he denies any of the other crimes, and indeed his alibis for these remain watertight. Mrs Gilbert in Westhouse Street is robbed that same evening, this can't be the work of The Captain since he has the very best of alibis! Observes The Captain, "someone else did these jobs, and did them to look like my work." George is having a tiff with Mary about plain cooking, before Mary goes for a night out with Andy, all paid for by Tom Carr, who has had a nice win on the horses. George, back home, has a chat with Maurie, a bookie, who's owed a tidy sum of money. He asks George to help, as the debtor is Carr. "A damn young fool," he must be, decides George. Next day he calls on Tom in his High Street digs. Carr does admit he is in debt, but implies that George is only making these inquiries as Maurie has given him a backhander. Naturally that riles our honest George and the pair exchange words. In the struggle stolen jewellery is exposed. "I can explain...." But it's all very clear now, "there's nothing worse than a rotten copper," pronounces George. Before Carr is placed under arrest, George forces him to take off his dishonoured uniform. "The only bad copper I ever me," he informs us in conclusion Dock Green Menu . . . . . . 17 The Roaring Boy - PC Dixon comes face to face with an army deserter, Douglas Beale (Kenneth Cope), who is holed out in the room of his girl Diane (Jennifer Wilson). "Don't be a fool son, give me that gun." But he won't, getting a sadistic pleasure from the power it gives him, and he enjoys arguing with his prisoners. Remarks the disillusioned Diane: "I only hope there's no men in the next world." For Beale has declared "I've always wanted to kill someone." But PC George Dixon gives them both a lesson in morals before pulling the carpet, literally, from under the coward . . . . . . Pound of Flesh George Dixon: 'Ah, good evening!" Turning a blind eye, that's a policeman's art, he tells us. This is illustrated in the case of Mrs Kay Evans (Dorothy Gordon), of Turner Street, who reported "a sort of burglary." Her husband's best suit and shoes had been stolen while she popped out to post a letter. An aside, old Billy calls at the station to announce that he has reformed. No more drink, he has signed the pledge. He explains to Sgt Flint that he found Glory while at the dogs at the White City, He's now at the Mission, and would like, please, a reference so he can get a job there. George has had a look round the Evans home, but her story strikes him as a little odd. Neighbour Maisie can't confirm Mrs Evans' story that she met her on the way to the post box. Andy Crawford agrees her story's "thin" when he chats with George about it at home. When Andy investigates, his obvious question is, "are you sure the suit was stolen?" Then Andy relaxes at the pub with Mary, chatting with George Blake (Leonard Williams), their window cleaner. George enjoys a drink also, with another friend, Jim. George has been busy, down at the pawnshop where he's been told Mrs Evans had pawned the suit. So he and Andy have to leave poor Mary high and dry to sort out the Evans. Alf Evans is worked up about his missing suit. Why this cock and bull story? She's short of money, indeed she's been borrowing to make ends meet and owes £52 plus interest. She'd borrowed the money off Blake, "daylight robbery." Husband and wife make up tearfully. Blake is running quite a moneylending business. Mrs Watts is his latest 'victim,' " a secret between us," he snidely whispers to her. She signs up to something she doesn't follow, actually a high rate of repayments. George Dixon arrives on official business. Blake possesses no licence to lend this money, so he is arrested. "Thank you Mr Dixon," concludes Mrs Evans. Perhaps a very simplistic solution to a debt problem, but well acted Dock Green Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . Father in Law George Dixon: "Ah, good evening." This is the joyous story of Andy and Mary's wedding, that begins with a cosy chat between George and Andy on the eve of the big day. Guests include the bridesmaid Peggy, and 23 year old Pam who had been jilted at the altar. Next day, it's off to church as a crowd watches outside the Dixon home extraordinarily undemonstrative (well, these filmed scenes were only shot without sound in those days). "Like a white angel," Mary takes her dad's arm, tramp Billy seeing them off and receiving an unexpected invitation to the reception. Here Sgt Grace Millard and Sgt Flint are checking over the last minute arrangements. Grace thinks she recognises one of the helpers. Pam is there early also, as she can't bear to sit through the ceremony. There's film outside the church, Andy and Mary now happily married. Nice shots of father looking on. Dinner afterwards then dancing, Billy has a turn with Grace. Pam can't dance however. So well it all goes off, until a hitch, the reception manager Frank has found his wallet has been stolen, £10 missing. George is forced into a spot of quiet sleuthing, "this is a fine lark." Billy is first to be questioned, naturally he takes offence. Then Grace recalls that the cloakroom girl she recognised is Muriel, who had been in court for something. Tempers start to fray until George calms them down and provides one of his comic monologues about his relations, then renders the sentimental Her Name is Mary, which all join in. To romantic music Andy and Mary take their leave, "I wish your mother could've seen you today." Then George gets a confession of theft, and all is forgiven Dock Green Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . The Hot Seat George Dixon, "Oh good evening all." George, Andy and Mary, plus Grace Millard spend a weekend in Paris. On the flight over the two men jest they are living the high life and are overheard by a conman. Peter Ames (Kenneth J Warren) and Joyce Cardew have a partner named Treadgold (William Mervyn) who gets to know Dixon in the hotel bar. He says he's in fertilizers, and is very impressed with George and Andy who say they're in Public Relations. He kindly loans them his car so they can tour the city. Not so green Andy checks up with Dock Green, where there's a certain jealousy over this foreign trip, "I could do with a nice long weekend in Paris meself." Sgt Flint, tears Andy off a strip for making such an expensive phone call, but is already on the lookout for these swindlers. "They're not trying it on George, are they?" he asks incredulously. On film we watch the tour de Paris, the flash car taking them in style to shots of them at the Arc de Triomphe, Eifel Tower and the Artists' Quarter in Montmartre. Then it's dinner with Treadgold, when Grace finds a stray wallet that is claimed by Peter Ames, and this introduces the other two crooks into the group. By way of thanks, Ames insists on buying drinks, after which Andy gets so carried away he offers to pay for the meal, kindly accepted. Then a night drive round the bright lights of the city, this time shots of the British inside the car with street scenes flashing by. At midnight they are admiring Nore Dame, by 1am it's time to turn in and Treadgold makes his move. Peter has this fantastic deal, 135,000 francs, about £10,000, would George and Andy like a slice of the windfall? A cash deal, bring it next morning, there's a big profit to follow. But it's the French gendarmes who swoop next morning and the conman find out it's they who have been conned, "we had to pick a couple of coppers." But Andy has to pay for that meal, which George thinks funny until he gets a shock too, that fancy car had been hired out in his name Dock Green Menu . . . . . . . . Eyewitness George Dixon: 'Good evening, all!" A crooked croupier, about to flee the country, is stopped by Colley (Steve Plytas). His girl Anne watches in horrified hiding as he's shot dead. She refuses to tell the police the truth, but when Colley's hitmen, realising the danger she poses try to shoot her too, she consents reluctantly to accept police protection after Andy Crawford saves her life. Not that she's grateful, she travels with her 'uncle' George Dixon to the safety an island hotel (Burgh Island). The place she finds boring, though if she were aware of the extensive network of criminals that Colley has summoned to find her, she might be more cooperative. Instead, she grabs a chance of borrowing a car to drive off the island. However police soon stop her progress. She is returned to Uncle George, but the alert crooks are istening in to police radio messages and are easily able to locate the hotel. An annoyed George makes Anne stay in her room, though even he underestimates the danger as Anne is snatched and dragged at gunpoint away from the island. By speedboat, then by car, George gives chase. As the law, he is able to take a shortcut along an unfinished motorway and after turning off (at Eastwick) arrives at an airfield in time to prevent Colley's aircraft from taking off with Anne. Colley is placed under arrest. Well, that is what ought to have happened, but Colley hands Anne a fat bribe and she gives some cock and bull tale that means Colley gets away with it. George concludes by describing to us the rest of Colley's life history To Dock Green Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . Harry's Back (January 12th 1974) George Dixon: "Good evening all." Lee Montague has a fine role as the likeable villain, "one of the best," friend to all his mates, Harry Simpson. Among his own, he's loved by one and all, in his flash white suit, driving his flash white car. He's just been booted out of Spain. Andy Crawford however knows Harry's other side, he's "the scum of the earth," his partner Lennie has gone to ground somewhere, though Harry with his typical Cockney generosity sees Lennie's wife's all right. Now Harry is becoming legit, marrying the posh Miss Marion Croft. The sting for Andy is that he's up for promotion at long last, and Harry's one blot on his past, three cases against him collapsing when witnesses had mysteriously withdrawn their statements. Andy scans the wedding photos to see what villains had been present. Perhaps not unreasonably, Harry is upset when he finds out about this, and tries a quiet word with George Dixon. As George won't respond, Harry has a word with another, the chief superintendent no less. Thus Andy gets invited to a round of golf with the super, and Andy forthrightly says what he knows, or believes he knows about Harry, "he buys and bullies immunity from the law." Tread carefully, Andy is advised. Harry's right hand man Bernie Moss is setting up another job. He leans on Freddy for his clean driving licence, reminding the poor Freddy, "Harry looked after you when you had that accident." The licence is needed for the hire a car used in a robbery of cosmetics, and Freddy is soon traced. His licence had been lost, he claims, why he'd even reported the fact. But a little leaning elicits a reluctant name, Bernie. That puts Bernie and Harry on a quest for revenge, and Freddy is "encouraged to change his tune," that is, run over and all but killed, "didn't see who it was," he moans pathetically. Harry has decided wisely to scarper. But at the airport with his wife who seems in shock, he's asked a few pointed questions. In return Harry threatens to scotch Andy's promotion. However the news that his ex-partner's corpse has turned up is enough to prevent him flying off. A search of Harry's luxury flat proves disappointingly fruitless, as Harry gloats and Marion remains in shock, until Andy finds a key concealed under a coffee table. A safety deposit box is later opened and the case against Harry complete when the gun that killed Lennie is found. However a lot of people still cannot believe anything bad about good old Harry To Dock Green Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . 412 Sounds George Dixon: "Good evening all." Phone call to Dock Green police station, a woman sounds as though she is being strangled. Then a young girl picks up the instrument and explains, "mummy's fallen down." Patiently Uncle George Dixon tries to find out more, but all she can tell him is that she's called Janey. These days of course, such a call can be traced, but back then all the police have to go on is their taped recording of the conversation. There's the sound of an industrial machine faintly in the background, yes, and a hooting of a ship.. This is a simple but absorbing tale of the hunt for Janey and her mum. To obtain a fix on their whereabouts, the hooting sound is identified as that of a tug on the river, the captain of this vessel is asked to play those hoots again, with police officers recording the noise at strategic local points. Electronics expert Dave has the task of matching these recordings with the original hooting on the phone. He also refines the noises on that original tape. Two possible areas are suggested, and the machine noise identified as that of a printers. Hammond Street is where the search homes into, and above a printers is a flat, empty. Living here is new tenant Mrs Anne Turner, separated from her husband. Mr Davis calls at the police station. He works for a security firm whose phone number had been scribbled on a wall in the flat. Oddly, it's a special line only used for confidential matters. Davis wants to know how she got it. He does recall a Mrs Anne Turner working for the company for a short while, but then we see him phoning Anne. She does what he orders and phones Goerge at the station. She explains she is OK now, and quickly rings off. But sharp witted George has recognised the background sound on this phone call, she's at a railway station and a police car swoops and picks her up. Andy Crawford questions Davis. Anne's his wife. He had beaten her up, trying to persuade her to return home to him. She maintains it was an accident. A frustrated Crawford has nothing to charge Davis with, he smugly confident no charge can be laid against him, as his wife won't betray him. It's a frustrating disappointing though maybe realistic conclusion to an absorbing little story Dock Green Menu . . . . . . 413 Firearms were issued - An £80,000 armed bank robbery and police have to be issued with guns so they can close in on the three crooks who are now sharing the cash out. After a tense time of waiting, the house where they are hiding is surrounded and the police move in. One criminal is shot as he tries to escape, but it turns out that none of the men are actually carrying shooters. So a detailed investigation is organised as a matter of urgency by brusque Inspector Donovan (Percy Herbert) whose main concern appears to be press reaction. Questions are asked, still relevant today. Taped Crime Series Menu . . . . . . . . . . Maigret Rupert Davies achieved a well deserved success as the celebrated pipe-smoking detective. That opening sequence of his striking a match to light his pipe, accompanied by Ron Grainer's evocative music was a classic. Initially the programmes were telerecorded using Kinescope, "just as effective as film and a great deal cheaper." According to another contemporary report they were shot on both 405 and 525 line videotape as well as on 16mm and 35mm film. You takes your choice! When shooting started the new BBC Television Centre had not been opened so the first two stories were shot at the old Lime Grove studios. Riverside Studios were apparently also used for a few early episodes before the BBC Centre opened officially on June 29th 1960. Rehearsals had already began (at the end of the previous month) and the first episode shot around June 14th 1960. The stories were screened from that October. 36 Death in Mind (November 1962)- Two lonely old women are murdered and the ten million they've left seems sufficient motive. Maigret however risks his career in letting the obvious suspect (John Ronane) escape, with the idea of following him. Has he contacted Emile Radek (Anton Rodgers), an impoverished medical student? When the man who inherits the money (Jerry Stovin) shoots himself, Maigret finds himself taunted by this Radek who is now in the money. "There could be another murder," Radek warns our policeman. But Maigret can play cat and mouse too, and he toys with Radek at the scene of the murders 37 Seven Little Crosses (December 1962) - 'The Sunday man' kills another old lady and the chase is on for eyewitness 12 year old Francois, whose father (James Maxwell) is suspected of the crime. But while Maigret sits at home enjoying his Christmas dinner, Lucas works out the murderer is actually an ex-policeman sacked for drunkenness, who has now kidnapped Francois. At times this story seems like a French Z Cars, though much less coarse 41 Fonetenay Murders (October 1963) - Three murders in a small town where Maigret just happens to be holidaying with a friend, the local magistrate (Alan Wheatley). All killed with a spanner, murders seemingly unconnected. Soon class tensions are mounting, before Maigret reveals the murderer's name- it's Mr Grimsdale! Well, it's actually the local bigwig played by Edward Chapman, for ever immortalised for his role as stooge to Norman Wisdom 52 Maigret's Little Joke (December 1963)- The wife of Dr Jarvet (Michael Goodliffe) has died over the weekend- Inspector Lucas investigates as Maigret is injured. Digitalis is found in her body: "it's impossible!" Unable to resist following the case unofficially, Maigret keeps sending Lucas anonymous little notes with suggestions as to what to look into Taped Shows Menu . . . Z Cars The BBC's long running series ran from 1962 until 1978, a total of 799 stories! I'll be honest and say I am no fan. James Ellis as Lynch appeared in the most stories rising from the patrolman in episode one up to superintendent. Next most episodes are credited to John Slater as Detective Sergeant Stone. However, surely the best remembered detectives were that first pairing of Stratford Johns as Barlow and Frank Windsor as Watt. Many others made their names in the series, to name a few, Brian Blessed, an acquired taste, as PC Fancy Smith and Colin Welland as PC Graham. Reviews of these surviving stories- click where highlighted-

Series One. 1 "Four of a Kind" - (Jan 1962) 2 "Limping Rabbit" 3 "Handle With Care" 4 "Stab in the Dark" 5 "Big Catch" 6 "Friday Night" - (February 1962) 7 "Suspended" 14 "Found Abandoned" 15 "The Best Days" 16 "Invisible Enemy" 17 "Down and Out"

18 "Further Enquiries" 20 "People's Property" 21 "Hi-jack!" 22 "Incident Reported" 26 "Contraband" 28 "Appearance in Court" Series Two. 72 "The Whizzers" (1963) Series Three. 75 "Made for Each Other" - (September 1963) 76 "A La Carte" 87 "Tuesday Afternoon" - (December 1963) 102 "Happy Families" - (1964)

115 "A Place of Safety" Series Four. 135: I Love You Bonzo (1965) 136 "Brotherly Love" 137 "A Matter of Give and Take" Series Six. 519: "A Lot of Fuss for Fifteen Quid" (1970) Series Seven. 656: "Relative Values" (1972) 660 "Breakage" Series Eight. 667: "Damage" 668 "Day Trip" Series Ten. 752: "Incitement" (1975) Series Thirteen and last. 791 "A Woman's Place" (1978)

Softly Softly (1966-1976) A Z Cars spin-off, Barlow and Watt the big names to be transferred. A total of 269 stories were made. 99 "On Christmas Day in the Morning" (1968)- Watt's festive spirit is diminished when he's called to investigate a Christmas Eve theft of property worth £11,000 from guests at the Pentland Grange Hotel- "they came upon the midnight clear." Other jolly seasonal references follow in a rather ordinary Alan Plater script, hardly special Christmas fare Taped Crime Series Menu . . . . . . . Series One. 1 "Four of a Kind" - (Jan 1962) The formation of a picked band of patrolmen with such integrity that our police of today would surely envy Z Cars Menu . . . . 2 Limping Rabbit A dour seedy kitchen sink drama. Child vandals smash a window on a rough modern estate. Janey Steele lives here, but she's told a more serious problem, anonymously, 14 year old Hilda is missing from home. PC Bob Steele looks round the miserable squalid place where she lives, not worthy of the name home. Someone knocks him out. He comes to. A drunkard named Boyle, the girl's grandfather, lives here, unworthy to be in charge of any child, he claims Hilda has been taken by this man. This turns out to be Dennis Stegan (Harry Towb) who is living with Boyle's daughter. Lynch looks round their flat, Stegan objects and comes off worse, but Lynch fails to find the child. Steele finds Hilda's granny, a hard case, she'd left Boyle recently after an abortive attempt to look after him and Hilda. 17 year old Tessa is also missing, she had been pally with Hilda. The likelihood seems they must have gone off together. We see Stegan who is arranging for the pair to go by ship to Australia, apparently for Hilda to be reunited with her father, though it is suggested the real motive is a child prostitution racket. But Hilda won't go until she has her toy rabbit, left behind at her grandfather's house. Old Boyle gets out a few words to Lynch, about the rabbit that has been taken. 18 inches long, one of the legs off. Get the rabbit, get the girl. The man who has taken the rabbit for Stegan is followed by police on the way to the docks, where he hands the animal over for a pound. It is handed to Hilda. The long surveillance ends with consternation, for Lynch has craftily swapped rabbits, so that Hilda gets the wrong one. "That's not my rabbit." Hysterics, arrest, then Hilda is reunited with her own rabbit. I have to admit to not enjoying this. I didn't watch Z Cars after this in 1962, and I didn't want to watch it again recently. The grim characters offered nothing at all to endear themselves, and grainy 16mm film mixed with the studio scenes were too dark for comfort; maybe at the time we didn't notice that sort of thing so much To Z Cars Menu . . . . . . Handle With Care (January 16th 1962) The time is about 2230, an eager couple are snogging in their car when there's an explosion in nearby Blackby Quarry. ZV2, Lynch and Bob Steele are first on the scene. En route, they have been discussing the merits or otherwise of married life. ZV1, Smith and Weir, have to cover their patch, their conversation is mostly on who'll win Saturday's match. Tom is the man who had reported the crime, though Lynch seems more interested in his girl friend. Weir and Smith are more conscientious, finding an abandoned van VME 309, owner Jacob Ramsden (Arthur Lowe) a petty thief. As he's so wily a customer, Smith, suspecting he has just done a toy shop, drives the van back to outside Jakey's house, something PC George Dixon'd surely never ever do! Here Jacob 'Dad' Ramsden is smashing up some of the evidence, going to sell the crushed toy cars only for scrap. But his sons Little Jakey (Michael Brennan) and Ritchie (Anthony Sagar) though chips off the old block, have bigger fish to fry. The quarry explosion had been caused by unstable gelignite that the two Ramsdens had nicked. One 'sweating' stick had exploded, the rest is hidden in a tea caddy at home. But "if anybody knocks it or drops it, there she blows!" As Jakey doesn't fall for Smith's ruse, he's made to open up the locked rear of his van where more toys are found. Under arrest he is, but the officers are offered a cuppa before leaving for the station. "It's jelly," notes Smith, as the caddy is opened, Carefully the sticks are lifted and placed in a bucket of earth and carried to the bottom of the garden. Bang! Noone is hurt. But the bulk of the gelignite has been taken by Little Jakey and Richie to sell. At a local cafe, Danny hands them the cash and drives away with it in his lorry SKA896, picking up a tart for the ride. Chief Insepctor Barlow questions Jakey and his wife who won't admit anything. But apprised of the danger, she does shop her sons and they are picked up at the cafe. Now the hunt is on for Danny's lorry. The time is now 2310, amazingly quick police response time! ZV2 first sight SKA896 and stop it. Bob is happy to rescue the tart in his arms, "could you believe it?" Moments later the jelly goes up, Lynch emerges more like a comic, his face blackened. A mundane tale only enlivened by Arthur Lowe's strong Midlands accent Z Cars Menu . . . . . . Stab in the Dark On her own doorstep, Sadie is stabbed. She doesn't recognise her assailant. Supt Robins (John Phillips) is in charge of the case. "It should have killed her," yet her thick clothing had afforded some protection. "'e just jumped on me." She's reluctant to concede to Robins that she even has a boy friend, but Robins just can't believe this and the scene of his semi-bullying interrogation of her becomes overlong. "We'll get him tonight," promises the superintendent, but with no description of the attacker, that's problematic. Janey has her own problems with PC Bob Steele, he's always at work, never around, and now he's forgotten it's her birthday. Now he can't stay with her as he has to go to Sadie's house. Steele and Lynch are assigned the task of tracking down the attacker's knife, and Steele finally gets round to apologising, in a way, to Janey for being delayed. She's staying with Mary. Jim is one local who supplies them with a possible name for the knife owner. A witness is of more use, she'd seen a man hanging round in the street, possibly his name is O'Connor. At a fish and chip shop, Steele learns his first name is Tom, and lives with his dad. For a short while he'd worked at the shop , filleting fish, using knives like the one used in Sadie's attack. Lynch questions Tom's belligerent father, who admits he'd had an argument that evening with his son and thrown Tom out. Then Steele spots the pathetic lad hanging round outside his home, so he's taken to the station where Robins turns on his interrogating method once more. "I don't have a knife," Tom insists. He threw his away, he says. He had kept a knife to protect himself from his father. At the psychological moment, Robins shows him the knife, and some tough probing elicits Tom's confession. He never knew Sadie, it was a motiveless atttack brought on by that argument with his father. "Diminished responsibilty" seems the most likely verdict Z Cars Menu . . . . . . 5 "Big Catch" . . Friday Night "It's going to be one of those nights," prophesies Sgt Twentyman, and by gum, this story is a right mix of comedy that sits uneasily with the tragic, almost tasteless to my way of thinking. Bob Steele is extra grumpy tonight, compounded after his ZV2 partner Lynch has signed, off and Bob has to be sent to the scene of a road accident at Castle Crossroads. In the staff canteen, Sgt Watt tears Twentyman off a strip for sending out one of His crime patrol officers to a traffic incident. Not his job. But Steele is having a tough time, no ambulance on the scene, he has to comfort dying moorcyclist Jim, knocked down by a drunken car driver (Garfield Morgan). Jim asks for Mary, his pillion passenger. She is dead and soon Jim is also. Back at the station, an irritating Irishman, Granpa they call him (JG Devlin) asks Sgt Twentyman to put him in jail! He's so talkative that you can't blame Twentyman for suggesting Granpa "rob a gas meter, or blow the gas company." Granpa takes him at his word, and leaves his dabs all over the shop, once he has broken in. Steele has to break the bad news to Jim and Mary's mother, en route picking up George, drunk. More serious news, the Comber gang have stolen a blue van FEF 799, which PC Jenny Stacey follows, as it drives erratically. Poor continuity here as a different van is seen on film, which brakes suddenly to cause Jenny to crash. However she is only shaken, not injured. ZV2 see a chance for glory as they know the gang hide out at Kelso's Garage. Chief Supt Robins ateps in to round up the crooks. Granpa's job has hit a slight snag, he's no matches with which to blow the safe! In a nearby pub, there's a long aside before he gets what he wants. But this is only after a pub brawl in which a placating Twentyman gets punched. Once he's come to, he kindly gives a match to Granpa. "Eee, what a night," police staff reflect in the canteen, "blood, alcohol, tears." A typical Friday night, reflective of real life. Comedy returns as there's a loud explosion and everyone dashes off to find a dazed Granpa at the scene of his crime. "he gave me the matches," he explains poointing at poor Sgt Twentyman Z Cars Menu . . . . . . . Suspended John Wilson (Derek Francis), owner of The Cedars is attacked and robbed. He phones the police from next door, but has not returned home before the prompt ZV1 are on the scene. PC Jock Weir looks round the grounds while PC Fancy Smith investigates the deserted house. The irascible Wilson returns to provide a list of the items stolen. The thieves are Walter and Cappy (Rex Garner) who sell the goods for a pittance to pawnbroker Tommy Thwaite. But one item is not on this haul, Wilson's gold watch, which was not one of the things taken at the time. Wilson alleges that Smith has stolen it. Barlow is obliged to suspend Smith, and Weir, and despite the distastefulness, their homes must be searched, "they've found nowt." An angry Smith storms out of his house, with Watt and Barlow, and even Weir uncertain if he's guilty or not. That's the best theme in this story, characters' reactions to his possible guilt. Watt is soon on to Thwaite, but no gold watch in the haul. It looks bad for Smith. Despite protests from his girl friend Nelly (Angela Douglas), Smith angrily goes to The Cedars to confront Wilson, but Lynch gets there ahead of him. Inside Wilson's home, they think they see him with his watch, but on closer inspection, sadly it's not the same watch. Walter and Cappy are robbing Fabian Road Secondary Modern School, a motley collection of clocks, woodwork tools and cups, but an alert constable gives chase and ZV2 stop the pair, not without a bit of banter. More stolen property is found in their home, but still no sign of the watch. Watt is now convinced of Smith's innocence, so could Wilson be lying? That seems the most likely possibility. But the truth does emerge and the police are exonerated, with a good final scene as Barlow abruptly concludes, "that settles that then." That's all, no apology, "Smith reflects, "if he'd just said sorry." Aye, lad, this were t' blunt North Z Cars Menu . . . . . . . Found Abandoned (April 3rd 1962) This could be another potential Wednesday Play, the baby screaming starts to grate after a while. A lighter touch is the running quest by green PC Sweet to discover what a Doll Trick is. On a windswept rainy evening, Annie is awoken by a crying baby outside in the cold. Despite protests from her boyfriend Enoch, she brings in the little girl. ZV1 pick her up and thus she arrives at Newtown police station in the arms of Fancy Smith. Asking round the local hospitals at first brings no luck, but off duty, Smith is persuaded by Insp Dunn to try again. This time a day nurse remembers the girl whose father had taken her out of the hospital to be cared for by his sister. Name of Toddy Edgar, who claims when questioned that his wife Fran had retaken the baby, "she's on the game." But he seems a shifty fellow himself. Another case takes ZV1 to a railway warehouse but the crooks elude capture though the stolen property is recovered including two giant cheeses that Smith takes as trophies to the police station. Patsy and Jock Weir, Jeanne and Fancy have a laugh over the incident at a pub where Fran is reputed to hang out. Toddy is waiting for her here too, threatening to kill her. An informer Mousey tells Insp Dunn where the railway thivees are hiding. ZV1 keep surveillance on the place and lo, Toddy turns up. Fancy tails him to his home where he also finds Fran, "it was his idea." A lecture from Fancy followeth. He also kindly informs Annie that the baby's safe and well now Of to Z Cars Menu . . . . . . . 15 "The Best Days" Lynch is offering Steele the chance to earn a bit of extra money, that is if he takes him as a lodger. Nearby at Barry Wood Comprehensive, Ted's gang are breaking in to vandalise the school. Very unpleasant, even more so when they knock out the caretaker, Sawyer. On his way home, one of the lads is stopped by ZV2. He gives the name Billy Walton. When questioned further he says he had been with Tommy Hesketh (David Cook) all evening. Of course he's not called Billy, though he does know Tommy as they go to the same school. The interest of the story lies in whether Tommy is part of the gang, even though he's the son of a policeman. Tommy comes home after 11pm to a bit of a ticking off from mum who has been entertaining Mary Steele. Lynch is called to the school and calls for an ambulance. Inspector Barlow is soon there and asks the headmaster to check on missing property, which proves to be a tape recorder and record player. These the gang sell off to a dubious electrical shop owner Charlie Grove for a paltry £5. Steele questions Tommy about Billy Walton, Tommy doesn't know him, he had spent the night at the Youth Centre, though Lynch later learns the boy hadn't been there. Tony's dad, PC Alan Hesketh, can't get anything out of his son. Barlow tries and fails too. One of the gang, Jimmy, Ted's younger brother, is scared, and is off school. He's the lad who had given the name Billy. He has to join in the next break in, revenge on Mr Grove. Goods are nicked and Ted damages the premises. But Grove doesn't dare complain to the police. Barlow has seen it all before and puts two and two together. He questions the boys at school, they use big words, the script not entirely convincing. Ted is taken to the police station. "Don't you ever work?" Barlow asks him scornfully. This becomes a slightly interesting study in the policeman's son who has to mix at school with pupils with criminal tendencies. You do feel for him, is he one of the gang or not? The breakthrough in the case is made by ZV2 when they see Jimmy alias Billy in the street. They also find Tommy who's had a nasty beating. Barlow now works his tricks on the gang, man against boys, only one winner. The younger betray them, "you stupid flaming nits," improbably cries Ted. The story is rounded off with Tommy on the mend. "I'm putting in for a transfer," his dad admits wisely. Yet does he need to, Barlow asks perceptively. Oh yes, we also note that Lynch is now happily staying with the Steeles Z Cars Menu . . . . . 16 Invisible Enemy (April 17th 1962) Another dark night, this one's windy also. On the eleventh floor of a depressing modern block of flats, the lift not working, Smith and Weir brush past a noisy crowd muttering about tearaways to reach an old frightened lady, Mrs Crawford. Burglars, she's all worked up, worried they'll come back. Nothing stolen except a shilling from the meter, though the best tea set has been smashed. "What's it all about?" asks a puzzled Smith, but he can get little sense from the distressed woman or her dithering husband. Weir finds no trace of any intruder, but learns of one suspect, not a gang but a loner, Jack Nichol, a moody youngster who likes to sit on the roof by himself. Patiently Smith pores over the case with the Crawfords and their neighbours. It's very slow going piecing together the gossip, and an alleged vendetta against the couple. The witnesses verge on caricatures, too cliched to be convincing. For example, one's an old maid Miss Sullivan. All this gossip becomes very tedious, the plot submerged under the woffle. Smith questions young Jack, whose depressed manner is connected with the death of his girl friend six months back. He claims he'd been paid ten bob "for a giggle," should you still be interested in proceedings at all. There being not much doing at the police station, Barlow and Watt come out to the scene of the crime. Even though it's now 1am, the unfortunate Sgt Twentyman is ordered to take everyone's fingerprints. Smithers, the fingerprint man (Ken Jones) adds a ray of humour into the dull night as he loses the vital evidence over the railings. Suddenly what truth there is, breaks out. Barlow puts his finger on the vital missing piece of information. Who was Jack's girlfriend? Ah, it turns out she'd been related to one of those fascinating neighbours. Barlow makes his arrest, you feel he'd been playing the whole thing for mini-laughs up until the moment the suspect bursts into tears. I'd been buried in tears myself long before this Z Cars Menu . . . . . 17 "Down and Out" 18 "Further Enquiries" 20 "People's Property" . . . . . . . 21 Hi-Jack! (May 22nd 1962) A running minor story is the upcoming big boxing match. Everyone has tickets, Lynch won a couple in a raffle, only poor Barlow is without, and he can't get one anywhere. ZV2 are enjoying a break at a transport cafe, where Bob Steele bumps into an old Malayan army buddy Les Fielding (Glyn Houston), now driving lorries. It is police business, when his vehicle full of 21inch tvs is stolen from outside the cafe. While Barlow and Insp Dunn try and work out "the modus operandi," ZV2 gives chase in vain. The tvs are being hidden by the thieves in an old barn near the cafe, the abandoned lorry found elsewhere, "clean as a whistle." PC Sweet spots motor cycle tyre tracks which is about the only clue the frustrated Barlow gets. While other lorries are also knocked off, one with corsets, Les has to go off sick with all the worry. Lorna, his wife, looks after him in their flat, which has got £100 of new furniture, thanks to Les' small win on the pools. Bob Steele is assigned, reluctantly, to check Les out, and so goes to see his old pal with Janey his wife. They chat obliquely about not ruining the good jobs they now hold, "I don't like it," Janey says quietly to her husband, who wants her to phone Barlow to get Les tailed. For Les has gone out, enabling Lorna to come a little fresh with the policeman. Les has returned to the cafe, to tell the gang that he is worried Bob is on to him. After a punch up, the thieves are roudned up. "So much for wartime friendships," as Bob has had to do his duty as a policeman at the expense of an old mate. A shocked Lorna screams at Bob when she learns her husband is under arrest, it's a sad if well done scene as she shouts off camera, which is trained on Bob, "you filthy stinking copper" Z Cars Menu . . . . . 22 "Incident Reported" 26 "Contraband" 28 "Appearance in Court" . . Z Cars Menu . . . . . 72 The Whizzers A filmed sequence depicts some dubious characters outside a wrestling venue. Inside, in the studio, we watch a team of pickpockets at work. Fingers (Rex Garner) has nicked £90 from Ralph, and shares it out with his two mates (Michael Brennan and Harry Locke). Weir and Smith are moaning to each other about being placed by Watt on Saturday night duty, when they are alerted to the theft of Ralph's wallet. They get a good description of the thief who is driving a white Mercedes. At a roundabout they spot the speeding car, "he's travelling." The driver, not the crook, is apprehended and after a slanging match escorted to the police station, where he lays a complaint about Weir's bad language. However he's clearly not the wanted man. With an official report filed against Weir, Barlow investigates, learning about Weir's disgruntlement over his duty roster and the fact that he had been selected to play for the county on Wednesday. The pickpockets have now robbed first a lady, then a gentleman in the men's lavatory. Their method is, one man distracts their target, the boss picks his pocket and hands it to the third man who scarpers. The Chief Fire Officer is their next victim. Description fits the trio, but proving theft is another matter. Some legwork, and Watt traces the correct white Merc to a posh hotel, The Alpine. It belongs to Mr Davis, alias Fingers. The thieves' next scene of operations will be tonight's dog racing meeting, but Watt anticipates this as their likely venue. Weir's disciplinary hearing sees him represented by Det Sgt Watt with PC William Smith as a witness. Watt's questions elicit the truth, proving there were some mitigating circumstances in Weir's favour. Though he is found guilty, he receives only a reprimand. Fingers is tailed as he drives to the dog track with his girl and two accomplices. At the nearby Station Arms a suitable victim is sought, and they find someone, actually undercover Fancy Smith. A bit of barging and Smith's wallet is snatched. Watt chases the getaway thief round the railway sidings, a rugby tackle felling the crook. Barlow arrests Fingers. Z Cars Menu . . . . . Made for Each Other This almost has the elements of The Wednesday Play with a momentarily scintillating performance from a young Judi Dench, but writer John Hopkins decides that as this is not the WP, he'd better not explore her character, but rather opts for the stock situation, though there's an interesting reflection on PC Fancy Smith's motivation in trying to help her. Is there someone in this large empty house in Derwent Avenue? Weir and Smith nose around nearly missing the teenager who topples downstairs as she bids to get away. This "spitfire" Elena taunts them as they have difficulty getting her to respond sensibly. Down at the station Watt tries also, "I don't have a home to go to," she admits pathetically but proudly. Yes, this is the old teenage angst stuff, she's left home and her parents have disowned her. A second police 'customer' is Kenneth Harvey (Peter Woodthorpe), a cyncial character charged with loitering with intent. As Watt can't get him to admit his guilt, in court next day the magistrate hears his case. Then it's Elena's turn, she's remanded for a probationary officer's report. The house in Derwent Avenue is burgled. Off duty in a swinging coffee bar, Fancy bumps into Elena, who is sporting a black eye. She's in unsavoury company, that of Harvey who warns Smith off, Weir interrupting the imminent punchup. The two policeman have a well done heart to heart in the deserted high street. But the incensed Fancy goes to Elena's parents to find out why they care so little for their daughter, "I don't care," affirms the mother, a brick wall is what Smith encounters. It's the old generation gap drama. Watt has to severely reprimand Smith- that's for his scene at the coffee bar. Watt hasn't heard about the visit to Elena's ex-family yet! Smith has another task now, find Elena who has skipped probation. Of course she's with Harvey, she's acting as lookout while he robs another house. Weir and Smith spot her loafing outside, she runs off, they give chase. When caught, she spits on them. She's brought into the station just as her dad is leaving, having registered his complaint against Smith. Harvey is also arrested and faces a possible jail sentence. A rather contrite Elena pleads guilty, but the writer cops out of offering any ray of hope Z Cars Menu . . . . . Series Three. 75 "Made for Each Other" - (September 1963) Jock and Fancy catch a girl (Judi Dench) who's broken into an empty house. Continuity with her black eye in the filmed and studio scenes proves an entertaining distraction in this story of a rebellious "spitfire". Sadly this viewer finds the ending a cop out 76 "A La Carte" 87 "Tuesday Afternoon" - (December 1963) "You expect to see women out shopping, you know, but, I mean, men, well you think they'd be working." In those days a man out on Tuesday afternoons would excite comment! One man's a speeding motorist, another a garrulous shoplifter (Eric Barker in a nice little cameo). These are humdrum sub plots, though pleasant enough in Alan Plater's story, which reaches its peak when a conman is exposed, a man selling cut price houses - for £2,500!! Certainly by this stage of the series, the film and studio scenes are much more seamlessly linked and the main characters have now developed a nice rapport Z Cars Menu . . . . . 102 Happy Families Mrs Sargent (Betty McDowall) has locked her young son Reg in his room, because he has got hold of some pictures. She calls in the police, and PC Fancy Smith gently questions the timid lad who explains he was given them at school, and finally he gives a name, Tommy Shields. It's left to John Watt to "sort it out," though his mind is on sorting out his own marital problems. The result is that it is Smith and Weir who are sent to question Tommy about these "filthy" photos. He says he got them from Larry. John Watt is, according to Smith at least, "chasing a bird," though it's actually his wife, who tired of being a police widow, had left him. "Will you come back?" he asks her. However he does admit he just cannot quit his job, "it's important." But, turning more into Wednesday Play verite, she admits she's pregnant and is going to leave him for good. Now the police have caught up with Larry, who is much more amused by the whole affair than the other two lads. He counter claims that it was Tommy Shields who had been passing the photos round. News comes that young Reg has run away friom home. The search begins. Barlow questions Tommy's rather creepy dad (Joss Ackland) in his home with his wife. They are entertaining a friend, Mrs Ann Guest (Catherine Woodville), whom Barlow recognises, yes she's the woman in the pictures. Smith and Weir are assigned to keep watch on her house. Inside, realising the game is up, she is confessing all to her husband Alan. They'd taken these "good" photos of her, then got her to pose "with nothing on," Alan storms out before she can complete the saga. John Watt's little chat is likewise interrupted by a call from Inspector Barlow. They question Ann, "it began as a joke," she confesses. The detectives return to the Shields' home, armed with a search warrant. Tommy admits he had found these pictures and passed them round at school. The remainder he had hidden in the gang's den, and it is here that Reg is found by Weir and Smith. Reg has another heart to heart with Smith to round off the unhappy tale. Alan smashes up all the photographic equipment at the Shields. A coda sees Watt admit to Barlow that he is getting divorced Z Cars Menu . . . . . . 115 A Place of Safety The opening depicts a rough block of flats where a man tumbles down a flight of battered stairs. He's a baliff, calling on a black man, who promptly barricades himself and his wife and two children in his room. ZV1 are on patrol in this run down district. The injured man is being treated by ambulancemen as Fancy Smith questions the residents, all of whom have nothing to say. However it is learned that he was named Wallace and was delivering an order against a Mr Sadik (Johnny Sekka), in flat number 13, "he's in there." Smith and Weir are about to break down his door, when Barlow barges in to take charge. His method is more subtle but rather smacks of the cunning of the serpent as he surrounds the place in the best tradition, then talks frankly through the closed door to Sadik. The frightened man, axe in hand, listens silently, Barlow convincing him he's alone. Cautiously Sadik opens his door and police jump on him. He's taken off and Barlow accompanies Mrs Sadik to the station too. Here Watt questions the suspect, Sadik admitting he was in the wrong even though Wallace had taunted him. Now the story develops along familiar lines, exploring the racial implications. Mrs Sadik finds herself locked out of her flat while it is clear Wallace was a racial bigot, but are the police also? The root of their problems had been Mrs Sadik buying too many items on the hp, but now she's on the pavement with her two children, where ZV1 find her being bullied by some unpleasant whites. Smith clears them off then attempts to persuade Sadik's landlady to let the family back in. But she stands up to him so the family are taken back to the station where Watt organises some lodgings. The children however have to be separated from their mother against her wishes. Watt has had to harden his heart, and Barlow does likewise, so that noone, least of all the children are at all satisfied. The story ends with only realistic observations, no more, no less, indeed no hope Z Cars Menu . . . . . Series Four. 135: I Love You Bonzo (1965) 136 "Brotherly Love" 137 "A Matter of Give and Take" Series Six. 519: "A Lot of Fuss for Fifteen Quid" (1970) - Sheila Ashton is the neurotic woman, refugee from the Wednesday Play, who steals from a lady's purse at the bus station. Issues over police methods are raised as CID try to get the victim to identify Sheila, unsuccessfully, then try to make Sheila confess, brick wall, and finally use her son to achieve these ends Series Seven. 656: "Relative Values" (1972) - Old Mr and Mrs Martin can't pay their bills and kill themselves. Now old George, "living in sin" with Alice, to make ends meet, resumes his old career, and breaks into the post office. The £150 helps pay for a nice birthday treat for Alice. Bert Palmer enjoys his role as the aged gentle thief in his "second childhood." Less convincing is the contrast with a copper's slap-up meal with the girl to whom he proposes 660 "Breakage" - Wandering down a street is a semi-innocent Scotsman (Fulton Mackay) who gets held at the station in a lighthearted storyline that contrasts with a more desperate rooftop drama Series Eight. 667: "Damage" - What you do, is write a plot on the back of a cigarette packet, then stretch it out. Fulton Mackay is a Scot- that's easy to write, maybe he can improvise some of his lines? He's been robbed. Then there's a depressed man on a factory roof. Threatening to jump. One tale ends happily, the other doesn't. Take your pay for five minutes work writing the story- easy. The only drawback is, this viewer finds the programme so slow he falls asleep . . . . . . . . Damage (October 1972) (Production number 497 on clapper, though it's 667) A mysterious opening, as an intruder finds his hand trapped in a letter box as he attempts a break-in. Inside, a woman silently ties up his hand as he utters his protests. He promises to go away if she'll release him, "it was weird." The string which holds his hand, she sets light to. In pain he scuttles away at last. He's Terry Moon, and the police spot him running along Davemport Road in the darkness. As he has a record, he's taken to the station, where Det Sgt Stone and Sgt Lynch can't get him to even explain the burns on his hand, "the sort of person who does this sort of thing worries me," admits Stone. It's good to see Stone pursue the case, like a dog after a bone. Though it is 2am police knock up some locals in the area who are still burning a light. One sleepless lady had heard a man running along the road, but no more. Terry does admit he had been trying to burgle a house but won't say where, for fear of prosecution. A doctor examines his injuries. Patient detective work locates the house, 17 The Close. Several times, we have been shown the odd woman pacing noiselessly inside. Now, like a spider, she listens, as police search outside. Stone learns that Mr and Mrs Armstrong are the owners, but are on holiday. They have no children, for their only daughter emigrated twenty years ago. Back into Stone's memory comes the case of a young woman who about that time had tied up her still born child with string. PCs Skinner and Yates effect an entry and try to communicate with her. She herself says nothing. "I don't like this." She is taken away, the whole sad story is related by her parents, not a happy conversation. Today the story would have moved at a much faster pace, expanded with graphic scenes and flashbacks, this is so low key to Z Cars Menu . . . . . . . . . . 668 "Day Trip" - Dilly is back in Newtown for more shoplifting. In this plodding human drama, that seems to owe more to Coronation Street than a detective series, she breaks into a house and the incredible stalking Det Sgt Hagar finally catches her. For me, Hilary Tindall as Dilly mumbles too many lines, no doubt all too conscious of the defects of this script . . . . . . . . Incitement (1975) "She's got more angles than a distortin' mirror, that's the main character, "looker" Yvonne. She's married to the laid back Dennis, a minor villain, but she's tired of him and wants to have it off with Johnny Pearson. Newtown police ponder her motive as she offers to shop her husband. She meets Geordie Skinner and Inspector Lynch at a pub, "it's going to be tonight." The target, a sub post office. But Dennis is unfortunately having second thoughts. Maybe he can fathom his wife better than she thinks. He confides his doubts to his boss, who happens to be Johnny. He of course relays all this to her. They all do the soul searching bit, both villains and police for far too long. The inevitable happens, Dennis is talked into doing the job. For their part, the police start grilling Yvonne what she doesn't know. it's too drawn out. At last we get to the wretched robbery which turns out a complete damp squib. Johnny drops Dennis at the post office, "looks promising." However Dennis isn't as daft as he seems for while Johnny isn't looking he disables the car. "That's odd," from the police who are watching and waiting to pounce. Dennis moves to the shop entrance and as he breaks in Lynch strikes, the action's all over. For Johnny's cue is to zoom away but as he cannot, he is arrested too. Now there iare some more tedious interviews with the criminals, some clever cross questioning makes Dennis and then Johnny realise they have done each other. As for Yvonne, she is informed of the double arrest, Inspector Lynch quite enjoys that task. "Muggins" Dennis can't quite get it down that his own wife shopped him. She faces a charge of incitement. All rather C movie material to Z Cars Menu . . . . . Series Thirteen and last. 791 "A Woman's Place" (1978) - Saturday night, and there's reluctant agreement to Jane's request to go out on patrol, in this primitive equality-of-women story. Jane is already involved with the domestic troubles of Mary. Her husband Roy traps Jane in his home, he had got wind of his wife's plan to run off with John, attacked his rival, and knocked down a policeman who tried to stop the assault. Now a police siege develops outside Roy's home . . . . . . . . . . . . Riviera Police "A crime series set on the French Riviera- and there are exotic crimes to match an exotic region. Out to catch the criminals are three young police officers seconded to the Surete in France, who are all working under a French officer." In the overall TV Ratings for 1965, this Rediffusion series came fourth, ahead even of No Hiding Place. Surprising another series wasn't produced, in view of its popularity, and only 13 stories were ever made. The main characters were: Inspector Legrand (Brian Spink), the only character to appear in all stories. The other three stars rotated their appearances, and were: Lt-Col Constant Sorel, a 28 year old Canadian bachelor (Frank Lieberman), Supt Adam Hunter, a Londoner seconded to the Riviera Police (Geoffrey Frederick), and Supt Bernie Johnson, a languid Aussie (Noel Trevarthen). The theme music was written by Laurie Johnson and titled Latin Quarter. Rediffusion publicity: "All the filming has been done on the French Riviera... each week actors were flown out to take part in location sequences before rehearsing in London. Producer Jordan Lawrence says, 'whereas in previous Rediffusion shows only the principal actors have appeared on location, now all the main characters are seen in the French setting. This gives the series all the glamour and picturesque quality of the Riviera and at the same time releases it from the limiting factors of the studio.'" (What he didn't add is that as the filming was on 16mm film rather than 35mm, the filmed sequences always look rather murky.) "'The object of the series is primarily to entertain, and all the possibilities of the setting, the smart rich living, the sunshine and the beautiful scenery will contribute much to each episode. A special attraction are the beautiful girls who appear... they are in every episode, and often in bikinis.' Glamorous Italian actress Crista Nelli, a green-eyed brunette appears in the first story, the setting is Cannes during the Film Festival." The titles of all the stories in this series were- 1 Who Can Catch A Falling Star? (Mon Aug 2nd 1965- with all four stars), 2 That Kind of Girl (Aug 9th- with NT plus Bill Nagy, John le Mesurier), 3 The Lucky One Was the Snake (Aug 16- with FL), 4 But the Company She Keeps (Aug 23- with GF plus John Bailey), 5 Duet for Two Guns (Aug 30- with NT), 6 A Shot in the Dark... and Two in the Mid-day Sun (Sept 6- with FL plus Raymond Young, June Thorburn, Paul Maxwell, Jennifer Jayne), 7 Take It Sideways and Pray (Sept 13- with NT), 8 There Comes a Point (Sept 20- with FL plus Laurence Payne, Pauline Letts, Anna Carteret, Patrick Mower), 9 Past Indefinite - Future Imperfect (Sept 27- with NT plus Peggy Thorpe-Bates, Peter Copley), 10 There's Something Moving in the Water (Oct 5), 11 Girl on a Plate (Tues Oct 12- with GF plus Stephanie Randall, Basil Dignam), 12 Bubbles Through a Looking Glass (Oct 19- with FL plus George Pravda, Jacqueline Ellis, Geoffrey Palmer), 13 A Rainbow has Two Ends (Oct 26- with all four stars plus Erica Rogers, Frederick Jaeger, Alan White). My reviews of these surviving stories: 1 Who can catch a Falling Star? 3 The Lucky One Was the Snake 5 Duet for Two Guns 7 Take it Sideways and Pray Taped Crime Programmes Menu . . . . . 1 "Who can catch a Falling Star?" (Aug 2nd 1965)- with Supt Adam Hunter and Inspector Legrand (Supt Johnson and Lt-Col Sorel also appear, but only on film). Anna Corelli, "Italy's newest star," is cavorting on the Riviera. These opening scenes on 16mm film are disjointed, but the gist is clear enough: to a Callan-like theme, she's arguing with her boyfriend Tony (Anthony Valentine) over the attentions of a rival, Craig. He throws her over the cliff, but Joan Mayer (Katharine Blake) happens to see him. Joan's "made some great pictures in her time," but now she's "a drunken lush", with her husband Eric (Alan Gifford) an old-style movie director, "a couple of old has-beens." Eric decides that what Joan knows could be of use to them. Tony's father, Jerry (Ronald Radd), is one of the biggest European film producers. "Joan's going to make a comeback," Eric tells Jerry in the old story of blackmail. Supt Hunter with Inspector Legrand question the influential guests at the party where the "limited" actress had been murdered. "We all loved her," is the typical showbiz response, but Douglas is more helpful, he remembers seeing Joan Mayer near where Tony and Anna were arguing. Hunter also discovers Tony has had several other similar scrapes, though his dad insists "nothing's ever been proved against Tony." Possibly because Jerry puts pressure on the police, Hunter is similarly put under pressure from his superior to go easy. Tony's "a natural killer" insists Hunter, and indeed he's correct. For Tony is arranging for Joan to be warned off "permanently." High up in the hills, she's happily preparing for her starring role. The assassins shoot Eric and chase after her, as the police arrive. A gunfight and Joan gets away. "We've got to find her," before Tony can finish her off. Jerry is persuaded to cooperate with the police and Hunter goes to where Joan is making a Personal Appearance. Tony is lurking there too. Joan, rather the worse for drink arrives, a shot rings out, a fight and Tony is dragged away. "I'm still a great star," wails Joan, to more Callan-like music Riviera Police Menu . . . . . 3 The Lucky One Was the Snake (August 16th 1965) with Lt Col Sorel and Insp Legrand. On a mountain road, a marksman shoots at car 138EU06 causing it to career off the road. Nearby a girl is watching. Canadian Mr Frederick W Mitchell was the driver. He had been making for Paradise in Nice, the Villa Paradise to be precise. The luxury place is owned by Gaston Baghouelle (Harold Innocent), and wild parties are held here. Lt Sorel joins a kind of safari hunt at the mansion, with ladies dressed as animals. "I scratch men to death," warns the scantily clad Marguerite (Wanda Ventham). Sorel claims he's a friend of Mitchell's, and is taken to be a courier. Has he brought "the real thing?" Whatever that means. Next stop for Sorel is the mortuary, where he is knocked unconscious. Some of Mitchell's effects have been stolen, but nothnig of any significance for most had been burned in the crash. It seems he had stolen some kind of secret back in Canada for he's wanted by police over there. But where is this secret "thing" now? Sorel returns to the luxury villa to resume his bluff with Baghouelle. $25,000 is the price agreed for the thing. Sorel realises Lisa (Nadja Regin) was behind Mitchell's death, she is after the thing too, and offers $35,000 if he will deliver it to her partner Jeff at an airfield. From Canada, Sorel is informed that the secret was a lightweight plastic that could withstand high temperatures. A sample was Mitchell's pen, which unbeknowns to the crooks as to its significance, had been stolen from the mortuary. Sorel knows where the pen is- Jeff has, rather strangely, kept all the charred items and there it is. However Baghouelle had been warned of Lisa's doublecross, and claims the pen, only to be shot by Jeff, Lisa and he quickly running off. Sorel gives chase only to be forced to join her and Jeff in their flight by air. A police car vainly chases them down the runway, but Sorel sprays a fire extinguisher in the pilot's cabin and take-off has to be aborted. "She tried to steal my pen," Sorel playfully informs the police. There are several way out scenes at the party, and one great visual one with Wanda Ventham in a bikini sunbathing on a grand piano with champagne by the shores of the Med. I am informed that this is how the other half lives Riviera Police Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 "Duet for Two Guns" (Aug 30th 1965) - with Supt Johnson and Inspector "Legs" Legrand. There's a 90 second sequence to start, on grainy 16mm film showing prisoner Harry Borden (Fredric Abbott) leaping from a 200 foot cliff and swimming to freedom. He has "to talk to" the man who shopped him, "respected citizen" the crooked La Salle (John Turner), who still has the gold bullion from their joint robbery "hidden away somewhere." Borden's old acquaintance Supt Barney Johnson is assigned to recapture this "tricky customer," who eludes police by jumping a lorry and sneaks into Nice during a carnival by donning a clown's costume. La Salle's villa is near here! But the crook is confident his mansion is well guarded by his 'secretaries,' Mike and Jack and he rejects Johnson's rather reluctant offer of protection. Nearby, with his pal Guido, Harry is planning his attack, whilst safe inside his fortress La Salle plans his reception for Harry. Johnson has to keep a watching brief outside the giant gates that guard La Salle's property. At the point of a gun Johnson is forced by Harry to join him enter La Salle's. "It's a trap," insists Barney Johnson as they easily walk in through the front door. "The best way to beat a gambit," retorts Harry calmly," is to accept it." "This isn't chess," is Johnson's profound conclusion. But La Salle's trap is beaten, Mike and Jack silenced. No sign of La Salle, he's flown. Jack is forced to reveal where. Inspector Legrand is tracking all their moves by helicopter: "they're slowing down... a no through road... a cottage." There digging up the garden is La Salle, but not for horticultural reasons, but for the stolen gold. He's shot dead by Harry who ironically ends with "I told you you'd dig your own grave!" But the police swoop and Harry has to run for it, and Johnson shoots him dead too Riviera Police Menu . . . . . 7 "Take it Sideways and Pray" (Sept 13th 1965) - with Supt Johnson and Inspector Legrand. The Monaco Grand Prix. Lew Scarsdale (John Meillon) crashed at the Nurburgring a year ago. He still has nightmares about the crash in which a fellow driver died. "I thought I was finished," he tells Jenny, his wife. But now he's on the Riviera, "lapping faster than Jim Clark," to try and persuade his old boss Jack (David Burke) to let him drive again. "I can win Monte Carlo for you!" But Jack's had enough of Lew's bravado, calling him a "suicide pilot." Against rival Harvey Brooks it'd be like "High Noon, with cars for guns." For Lew blames Harvey for that crash. But after arson at Jack's garage, Lew's lighter is found nearby by Peter, Lew's best mate. Supt Johnson accepts Lew's alibi, but "someone's trying to get at Jack Dyson," but who or why is a mystery. Then a man in a skeleton mask kidnaps Jack's driver and suddenly Lew is needed to race. Johnson rounds up the kidnapper just as the race is starting. Lew starts badly, but in those days overtaking wasn't any great shakes as "Lew always comes in with a late run." "What a race this is!"- as Harvey and Lew battle it out. Lew is forced off-line as Harvey regains the lead. Wheel to wheel racing (on sound commentary with some film), "they're going to crash! Someone's in the water." So taking the chequered flag is........ Lew. Maybe the kidnapper will be forgiven, as he was only trying to help Lew get a seat and Jack to win the race Riviera Police Menu . . . . . . . . Boyd QC The stories starred Michael Denison as Richard Boyd. More on the series in the Boyd QC Research Section. My reviews of three of the surviving stories. 2.5 The Not So Civil Servant (May 2nd 1958) - Shopkeeper Luigi faces prosecution and a fine of 20 pounds (gulp) for the technical infringement of driving his goods van without a C licence. However Richard Good, an officious ministry inspector (Peter Vaughan), asks "How about 7 pounds and I'll forget about it?" But Luigi tells a policeman (Stratford Johns), and seven pound notes are marked enabling Good to be caught in the very act. Boyd has to defend Good. Is he a "nasty piece of work"? "If he's honest, he's a fool!" Prosecuting Counsel Mostyn (Terence Alexander) looks confident. Boyd pounces on the fact that Luigi wears a hearing aid and significantly wasn't wearing it that day. Is it going to be Perry Mason all over again? Certainly Good's version of events contains no reference to any bribe. However this is one case that Perry, sorry Boyd isn't going to win. "Tight as a lord, bragging he was going to get off," Good slips up and Boyd has to withdraw as on Good's own admission he is guilty. Sentence: Two months in prison for the unfortunately named Good 3.9 In Camera (February 24th 1959) - 540 insurance stamps, a cigarette lighter and a compact are all items Elizabeth Wayne (Brenda Hogan) is accused of stealing from her employer. Bolton (John Welsh) of Security at Alison Engineering Company, on the instructions of her boss Mr Morley (Peter Bull) had installed a camera in an office from where items had been going missing, and "nice kind" Miss Wayne had been snapped with her hands in the till. A Mr Tickle (pronounced Tickell, he insists- Charles Gray) of Histon Newspapers takes up this minor case, which thus promotes it to front page news. The only way out seems to be "Quis custodiet, ipso custodes." What else?! As narrator Jack (Charles Leno) tells us: Boyd "revelled" in this trial, though frankly it doesn't require even Boyd's brainpower to work out the truth. A long cross examination of the ailing Bolton leads to "a slice of luck" when Bolton is taken ill under Boyd's questioning. He's taken to his bed, and in his home the stolen cigarette lighter is discovered 3.10 Escape (March 3rd 1959) - Boyd is a judge at Haslefor Assizes. Having escaped from Hungary after the uprising, 52 year old Mrs Eva Christof and her daughter Olga, a qualified chemist, find "life was good" in England. But then a compatriot started trying to persuade them to return to Budapest. The threat by the communists to harm Eva's nieces produces unbearable pressures, but for them, "the answer does not lie in Communism." On 18th January 1958 they attempt to gas themselves. Insp Ireland had found them unconscious in bed To Taped Series Menu . . . . No Hiding Place - with Raymond Francis as Tom Lockhart Click here for my large photo of a Rediffusion synopsis for No Hiding Place 5.9 Peggy Series 1 Series 3 Series 4 Series 5 Series 7 Series 9 Note- since the 1960s, I've only seen the stories listed above, none from Series 2, 6, 8 or 10 nor from the forerunners of No Hiding Place. This was Associated Rediffusion's flagship crime series that ran for ten series. Raymond Francis had previously appeared in Murder Bag and Crime Sheet, but A-R went to some trouble to build on his character for this new hour long series. Max Ehrlich was brought in from America, "it's a question of speed," he explained. Added script editor Guy Morgan: "I feel that in the past Lockhart, as head of the Big Five, has been called in on a lot of crimes that were not important enough for an officer of his status. In future he will only deal with that type of case that would make headlines in the national press." Publicity stated "viewers will see more of Lockhart the man," at home with his wife Mary and teenage daughter Jill. However stories they were actually in were few! Mary (Barbara Lott) appears in 1.4 A Genuine Sale of Murder and The Man Who Left His Coat, but anyone know if Jill was ever seen? Before the second series in the summer of 1960, Guy Morgan told TV Times: "I don't want it to appear that crime detection is easy and that all cases are solved by one man....the plots will not solely concentrate on murder, they include a prison escape, a case of alleged police perjury and a bomb scare in a newspaper office." Ray Dicks (executive producer) tells about the addition of Deputy Commander Hutchins: "by showing that even Lockhart can have someone breathing down his neck." More outdoor filming was included to put the stories on authentic backgrounds. Raymond Francis became a huge star through No Hiding Place, and wrote in 1964- "It's tough going, long hours and all that, but it's very enjoyable. Of course almost everyone calls me Lockhart and when my wife goes shopping at home in Eastbourne, she is always called Mrs Lockhart by shopkeepers!" In a 1967 TV Times interview Raymond Francis declared- "When Lockhart began, it was a little too early to worry about being typecast. And by the time I woke up to that danger, it was too late." And asked about the future- "well of course I hope it goes on. If it does end for any reason, I think I could take it philosophically." Prophetic words for what was just around the corner- this series only finally came to an end because Rediffusion's contract was not renewed. In July 1965 according to a TV Times article at the end of series 7, Lockhart had been "in 277 stories." Rediffusion had planned to axe the series at this point, but "viewer demand" brought it back! This would mean that there were 317 stories altogether, with 245 episodes of No Hiding Place. This would seem to me to be a fairly accurate count, but how many are still in existence? In the 1990's, the owners of the Rediffusion archive advertised only nine stories available for tv stations to buy, so if more than a dozen still exist, it would be a pleasant surprise! One Crime Sheet has somehow survived also, and is at the BFI, there's a clip of the titles on YouTube. To Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . No Hiding Place had made an inauspicious start in 1957 with 57 live half hour stories titled Murder Bag- click for outline details of some of this first series. Advance publicity stated the series was about "how Scotland Yard goes to work from the moment it discovers a murder has been committed." It was said Ray Francis prepared for the part "by visiting police stations and courts and talking to policemen." In 1959 the title was changed to Crime Sheet. Guy Taylor wrote- "Wondering why A-R has so much faith in Chief Supt Lockhart, I looked in on Wednesday August 5th 1959. Remembering the earlier Murder Bag programmes I will admit that the overall production has improved and the series is better for being on film (perhaps he means the linking scenes?), but the storylines still remain corny and just a little too obvious. The characters are black and white. They are not shaded to any degree of reality. The crooks are as crooked as you make them, and the police are just a little too staid and slick. Lockhart is devoid of any warmth or real character." Despite the critics, in Autumn 1959 stories were lengthened to one hour, and No Hiding Place was born. No Hiding Place . . . . . . . Series One - Opening - a policeman's hand indicates STOP to allow police car 892FPC to leave the Yard and proceed along Whitehall in a northerly direction and on to other London streets. Dt Chief Supt Lockhart is assisted by Sgt Baxter (Eric Lander) 1.17 "Victim of the Dark" (Jan 1960) - There's a cosy little introduction by Raymond Francis telling us about the remoteness even today of some country districts. Then a film clip of a large property that would have been worthy of the later Avengers. Margaret (Marjorie Stewart) is returning home after a long spell away, spent in a mental home as we learn later. There's joy on the faces of her daughters Angela and Catherine, but her ex-husband Alfie (Peter Vaughan) is distinctly less welcoming. He'd been the cause of her breakdown, and now he's even married the 'other woman' Jean (Anna Turner) who has borne him two children, young Johnny, "the apple of his father's eye," and six month old Susan. But strangely it's Jean who had invited Margaret to stay. Perhaps it's partly because her marriage is now also on the rocks, because Alfred has been having an affair with their maid Gerte. "I never knew anyone could be so selfish," Jean tells her husband. She finds a sympathetic ear in Margaret, who despite her illness is now more rounded and understanding. But of course "cold-blooded" Alfred resents Margaret's presence. "Don't forget, if anything happens, you're responsible," he warns his wife. Indeed something does happen. The introduction of these characters has taken up the whole of the first act and is a trifle out of proportion to what follows. Very surprisingly when there's a murder, it's little Johnny who's the victim. Splashing through the puddles in their car 894FPC, Lockhart and Baxter come to investigate. The child had been killed with a knife in a shed at about 1am. First task is to locate the weapon and any blood stained clothing. Whilst the search commences Lockhart orders the family to stay in their rooms so he can question them individually. Alfred blames Margaret as "she's been in an asylum." But he's rather suspicious too, as he has a bad cut, got whilst shaving he claims. Viewers must have hoped he's the killer, but he has no obvious motive. Jean is of course very upset and blames herself. To hurt Alfred, she had made up a story that Johnny wasn't his son. Gerte admits threatening Alfred after he'd broken a promise to marry her. With the characters thus well developed, the ending comes too abruptly. As Lockhart questions Marjorie, a torn nightdress is discovered stuffed up a chimney. "Why did you do it?" the police superintendent asks the killer No Hiding Place . . . . . . . Series Three - The opening sequence showed a policeman holding up his hand authoritatively to allow through a police car (the familiar 892FPC). Whilst this is the same as the series one opening, the pictures then differ. Dt Chief Supt Lockhart is assisted by Dt Sgt Baxter (Eric Lander) 3.6 "The Widower" (Mar 1961) - Here's a gem of a part for Griffith Jones. Mr Slade-Jones (Griffith Jones) is grief stricken over the death of his wife Amelia, died 26th October 1960. Only been married 3 months, she died of a heart attack. According to his landlady Mrs Nuggett (Gwen Nelson) he has taken a ring promised to her. Furthermore, she believes he poisoned her! But where is he now? Noone seems to be able to give a precise description except Mrs Nuggett who says he had "horns, cloven hooves and a big blue beard." Quips Lockhart who's frustrated by his disappearance: "at least that's something definite!" Meanwhile,"impeccably dressed" Henry has returned home to his real wife, after months of "secret service work." In his specially locked room he keeps the jewellery he's inherited from his deceased 'wife' as well as lots of plants and scientific apparatus. He has to go off to work again, however, and a Mr Fraser-Smith is now wooing another wealthy widow Edith Sudbury (Georgina Cookson). He asks his wife to check her credentials: "Henry, I do hope you know what you're doing," his wife innocently tells him. He does, they're soon married, and shortly the new wife's heart is having "a wee flutter." Dt Sally Jordan (Rowena Gregory) gets a lucky break when she spots the disputed ring on a woman in a Knightsbridge hotel. Her action leads Lockhart to Henry Potter, a lab assistant who had been convicted of theft back in 1949. A constable recognises the photo leading Lockhart and Baxter to Henry's real home where his wife of course, cannot discuss his top secret work, which is "of a highly confidential and important nature." But a look round his secret room convinces the police that "Mr Potter is preparing the way for his next victim." Indeed he is, waiting like a spider to adminster a fatal dose of nicotine. But in burst the police. Poetic justic ends the case 3.26 "Dead Ringer" (Aug 1961) - George Berrington (Jack Rodney), a 'painter' (ie a fixer) of horses is wanted for murdering an Epsom stable lad, but the only witness has just been killed in a motoring accident. His boss, Joe Mulvaney (Peter Vaughan) who's in cahoots with trainer Frank (John Horsley), now finds a dead ringer for the dud Frzser D who's running at Alford Park. Berrington has to make it look like Frazer D. A police expert explains to Lockhart "they switch a good animal to represent an indifferent one, and when the substitute wins they have to produce the genuine horse..." Lockhart completes the horrible sequence "... and so they destroy a good one." Mulvaney starts betting on the outsider, but the odds fall too quickly when Madge, Berrington's wife, places a £3,000 bet on FD. "You ain't 'alf started something." Yes Frazer D wins, but as joint favourite at 4-1 noone makes a packet. Mrs Berrington is questioned why she's chartered a flight from Gatwick to Paris, paid, no doubt, out of her winnings. The buried animal is found, Berrington lying dead alongside. "I'm going to call my solicitor," snarls Joe Mulvaney when he and Frank are accused of murder. They only admit that they ordered Berrington to kill the horse. "And then," jokes Lockhart, "he committed suicide, fell into the hole and buried himself." But they are cleared as it's finally proved who really did it. A quick moving story with a flowing plot and characters that gel. This, the final programme of the series, ends with assistant Harry promoted to Detective Inspector Baxter No Hiding Place Menu . . . . . Series Four - The brief opening depicted Dt Chief Supt Lockhart and Dt Insp Baxter being driven in Humber 408CXW. 4.37 "Beware of Weepers" (Jan 1963) - Out of the snow in a hut, tramps Mort (Reg Lye) and Joss (Duncan Lewis) spot some gelignite. "There's a fortune in this stuff!" Baxter is just off to watch Fulham ("you ought to be in mourning," jokes Lockhart) when they are called in to investigate the theft of "weepers," unstable pieces of gelignite. "Don't get yourself blown up," Lockhart still in jocular mood warns Baxter, "your intray's still full." The tramps break into a factory to crack a safe. It's when the jelly explodes prematurely that they discover it's unsafe, and they scarper double quick. Mort ropes in Joe Macclesfield (Danny Green) "a real criminal" to help his next job, robbing a music hall. Another failure! Joe is picked up, in tatters. "All time booby prize" Lockhart awards him, convincing Joe the weepers need to be traced urgently. However, by now Mort and Joss are approaching "one of the big boys" (Harry Fowler) who won't buy, warning them it's too dangerous. An inebriate woman breaks into the tramps' ramshackle home under a railway arch. She overhears them discussing their problem: "no need to lose our heads!" A sewer on the Brighton Road is where they decide to bury it, but with the woman's info Lockhart and Baxter race to catch them up. The jelly has already been chucked down a manhole: "you need a gas mask for this job, sir." Rashly Baxter radios for help which triggers the explosives. One rather battered explosives expert (Ewan Roberts) glares out of the sewer. A trace of a smile creeps over Lockhart's face. That perhaps sums up this story in which writer Bill Strutton can't quite decide whether to make a tense drama or a comedy out of a potentially explosive situation 4.40 "Operation Tiptoe" (Feb 1963) - "Thank you Tiptoes" is how a stylish thief has signed his calling card at no less than 47 robberies in the past two years four months. As the investigating officer is retiring, Baxter is briefed: none of the stolen jewellery has been recovered. Job 48 is in Kensington, a £1,100 necklace, only recently purchased from Frazer of Knightsbridge. A footprint shows the thief wore crepe soled shoes, and these are eventually traced to a Mr Freelove. Infidelity proves to be the downfall of the crook. We meet Eddie Frazer (Ian Shand) with his secretary Jennifer. Her husband suspects her and her "fancy pants." We also meet impresario Mendelssohn-Jones who has given a £3,500 necklace to his "baby doll" Michelle Duval. But is his "French oo-la-la" two-timing him? A detective, Guppy Watson is assigned to watch her. Thus Job 49 proves Frazer's downfall. At Mme Duval's flat Guppy watches Frazer drive up in the snow and climb up to her balcony. Lockhart and Baxter catch up with Frazer alias Freelove, but it's too late- he's dead. Who killed him? Jennifer or her husband, who admits following Frazer, or Guppy or his paymasters? A final scene is at Mendelssohn-Jones' office where the killer stupidly gives himself away. Well defined characters in this story, though it doesn't quite capture the swagger of the gentleman thief No Hiding Place . . . . Series Five 5.8 "Expert with Salt" (Aug 1963) - The opening scenes at a Wimbledon tennis party are far too complex, unsuccessfully attempting to introduce too many characters. Stockbroker Arnold Gracie (Ronald Leigh-Hunt) "owns one of the biggest broking houses in the City." Together with Derek (Ronald Allen), a scam is planned on Charles Milner, currently staying at the Belvedere Hotel. They have concoted an assay report on a valuable gold mine which Derek, accidentally on purpose, has left behind in a taxi he's been sharing with Milner: "the fish is hooked." However blonde Gloria, a model friend of Arnold's, and who can't act, get's pally with Australian Sadler (Alan White) who's a con artist himself. He's been brought to this country by Nesta who works for Justine (Naomi Chance) and together they plan to diddle her of "thousands and thousands." But Sadler, an expert himself in the old dodge of "salting" mines to make them appear to contain a genuine seam of gold, gets greedy and tries to muscle in on Arnold and Derek's scam. He breaks into Derek's home and finds a phoney gold mine report. Thus he realises it is indeed a "squeeze" and that Milner is "being taken for a ride." He approaches the swindlers demanding an equal cut. They "kid him along," playing for time. Keeping a watching brief is Lockhart's team. Non-intervention is their current attitude: "people who are being conned don't appreciate advice- not until it's too late." In her posh Regent's Park house, Justine receives a report, this is part of Sadler and Nesta's blackmail plan. It purports to be in her late husband's handwriting, implicating him in a gold mine scam. Arnold and Derek's shakedown of Milner is complete, as he hands over £22,400 believing he's investing in shares in a real mine. Finally Lockhart moves. Sadler's plan is to "retire for life" which indirectly comes true, as he is found murdered in his flat, his pockets cleaned out. Murder weapon seems to be a yellow metallic figure. Odd that Milner claims he saw this figure in Arnold's office. Arnold is about to do a runner when Inspector Baxter catches up with him and he's arrested. But who killed Sadler? Nesta is questioned and provides, says Lockhart, a pack of lies. However her conviction that Sadler should have had plenty of cash on him rings true. Then Justine is interrogated. Lockhart has discovered it was Sadler who had worked with her late husband to fake a gold mine. More lies. Finally the truth No Hiding Place . . . . . . Series Seven - Opening sequence with a camera closing in on the Yard. Lockhart on the phone answers "Lockhart here." Then a picture of the Houses of Parliament with our chief superintendent riding past. His car then picks up his two assistants. 7.14 "Smokey" (Apr 1965) - A potential Derby winner is "the pin-up of the greyhound world." His minder Jerry Dempsey (Donal Donnelly) is in financial difficulties and seeks help from "tough nut" Harry Lavey (Glyn Houston). It's forthcoming to the tune of £300, as long as Jerry fixes the dog. Jerry's girl has "problems of me own" including her unemployed father Smokey Flynn (Liam Redmond) who used to be one of the best greyhound trainers. Smokey gets wind of what Jerry is planning and tips off the dog's owner Joe Briggs who dashes off to the race meeting where the betting scam is going on and ends up with his head bashed in. The dog that has won the race, The Thief of Bagdad had conveniently broken a hock and had to be destroyed. So when Lockhart arrives on the scene, he finds it difficult to prove any scam has taken place. Nor can he find Smokey who has been hidden away by Jerry, since he knows it was The Queen of Fiji that had actually run in the race. Although a prisoner, Smokey is still able to lecture Jerry, warning him that he doesn't want to end up the same way as he, old Smokey, has gone. Lavey realises that as Smokey is wise to the scam, he will inevitably talk eventually. So he and his mob decide to arrange for Smokey's 'suicide:' "he's like a dog that can't run any more." Luckily the police arrive in time. Jerry has admitted he killed Briggs as he was on to the scam. Whilst this is a mainly sympathetic portrayal of the greyhound world, the characters don't come over as entirely convincing and so the story really never quite comes alive No Hiding Place . . . . . Series Nine. The opening sequence showed a window being smashed followed by various other crimes. Dt Chief Supt Lockhart is assisted by Dt Sgt Russell (Johnny Briggs) and Dt Sgt Perryman (Michael McStay). 9.2 "Ask me If I killed Her" (May 1966)- A filmed scene at a post office introduces Duncan Myers (Derek Godfrey) who is asking if any letters have arrived for him. We follow him back to his work at a college where his wife (Yootha Joyce) is the principal. She realises he is disturbed by the fact that his affair with Anne seems to be over and warns him "don't make a fool of yourself." Now there's film of Anne (wonderfully played by Mary Miller), walking along a street, watched by Duncan. He finally makes up his mind and joins Anne, who is ecstatic. A sour Mrs Myers goes to the police to inform them "the last time this happened he murdered a girl." He strangled Janet Ainley three years ago in 1963 in a holiday camp, and she's worried he's going to murder again! As Lockhart's busy in court, Dt Sgt Perryman is told to check out her claim, but Lockhart warns him "Peter Treble killed her, you can take my word for that." So, with Lockhart's doubts ringing in his ears, Perryman interviews Mrs Myers wanting first of all to know why she has taken three years before coming forward. "I think it's possible we've made a mistake," Perryman, after some reflection, suggests to his boss. Lockhart is not amused: "what do you know?" he asks pointedly, with the emphasis on the 'know.' It's true Myers had had an affair with Janet but even though Treble wasn't convicted of the crime, Lockhart is sure in his own mind he was guilty. Publicity seeking Myers' whereabouts comes to Anne's attention so she suggests he call at a police station just to reassure them he's OK and that he's not returning to his wife. But Myers, perhaps fearing something else, refuses to go. Another filmed interlude as Anne drives her Mini, discussing her situation with a friend (Shirley Cain), rationalising her thoughts in favour of Duncan. A nagging voice urges her to contact the police, which she does, just to let them know Duncan is fine. The police speed to see the couple but they've run off together to his secret hideaway: "they won't find us here." Anne and Duncan are discussing his past. His attitude to his late ex-girl friend is very ambivalent, making for some tension. He's getting rather drunk. Is Anne worried he did kill Janet? Yes, he did see her the night she died, but like tonight, he was too drunk to recall what happened. He forces her to express her view, Anne screaming "I think you killed her!" Lockhart can now spare the time to join in the hunt. He's used his brains and worked out where they might be. Arrival of Lockhart to comfort a hysterical girl. Myers is questioned, but the evidence proves he is not guilty. Lockhart breaks the news to Anne who is free to do what she wants... "A Home Posting" - The 1st Devonshire Duty officer has better things than stay in the Armoury, he leaves Smithy in charge, who is killed when two intruders steal twelve machine guns and a pistol. Cpt Holly (Alan Macnaughtan) brings in Lockhart who questions the duty officer Corporal Johns. He blames Mrs Betty Black (Patricia Haines) who'd enticed him away. Sgt Black (Derek Newark) and Lt Morrison (David Lander) had then entered the armoury, though the brains behind the robbery is Mrs Sheila Morrison (Jane Downs). Ten of the guns are recovered, and the motive for the robbery is unclear. The missing pistol is found in a search of Black's quarters and he is arrested. That driving force, Mrs Morrison, goes ahead with her plans, Mrs Black standing in for her husband. Their target- an army pay truck. Success eludes them when the box with the payroll is too heavy to carry and after opening it with machine gun fire, Betty Black is accidentally killed by a ricochet. "A bunch of right amateurs." Expecting her nervy husband to bluff it out is another mistake by Mrs Morrison. Sgt Black, distrssed by his wife's death, comes clean and the too simple case is easily closed, but at least you can admire the good acting in this story No Hiding Place . . . Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . The Rat Catchers The world of espionage and secret agents. Gerald Flood starred as Peregrine Pascale Smith, MD of Transworld Electronics. He travels in his Rolls Royce, driven by his chauffeur Miniver. Utterly callous. Susceptible to beautiful women, inclined to conceit. With Glyn Owen as Ex-Supt Richard William Hurst, security officer at Transworld. Efficient but lacking finesse ie not a gentleman, uncouth even. He shows pedantic attention to detail, still following the police manual which guided him when a detective at Scotland Yard. Also starring was Philip Stone as Brigadier H St J Davidson, adviser to a government committee on exports and imports. Head of the ultimate-secret unit of British Intelligence. Declared his publicity, 'his only indulgence is feeding his unsmiling face with cream cakes.' The music for the Rat Catchers was composed by Johnny Pearson. Cyril Coke edited and produced the series. 1:3 The Unwitting Courier (February 14th 1966) The Brigadier argues with Hurst over his attitude, as they await Peregrine Smith's arrival. There is a problem. Two couriers in Madrid have been killed. The Brigadier wants to use a third, a Mrs Jane Hope-Dawson (Jeanne Moody), but she's not to know she is being used. She is an American sales manager, and Smith's task is to get her to take the information without her realising it. But in fact she too is an agent, working for the FBI. She flies in from New York, Peregrine greeting her at the airport. But it seems he's been upstaged, a millionaire Harry Beshman (David Bauer) is an admirer and gets in first. He's smitten with her. That makes Peregrine just a bit peeved, much to the Brigadier's later amusement. Jane makes the next move, bearding the Brigadier in his den. Obliquely she tells him she has come for revenge on the organisation Alpha who had killed their courier. Will he cooperate? He tries to look blank. "We're well past the tea and crumpet stage," she nicely informs him. One known Alpha agent she is after is already known to the Brigadier. Actually "his name is Hurst," he lies to her. This is all part of the Brigadier's own devious plan. Jane enjoys a night on the town with Beshman, dining, gambling. Hurst is sent to tail them. An old police colleague notices what he's doing, and warns him off. "Too obvious," Peregrine tells Hurst later. Beshman also wants to know why Hurst is following them. To find out, he asks Peregrine of all people to help. Cunningly Peregrine suggests Beshman checks up whether Jane is an Alpha agent really after his money. That results in a showdown between Jane and Beshman, a rather one-sided one. Beshman is easy meat, and is out for the count. The story fizzles out as Jane leaves for Puerto Rico without him. All that's left to do is for poor Hurst to undertake that Madrid courier job To Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . . . Redcap (Series One- 1964) with John Thaw as Sgt Mann. Perhaps I shouldn't write it, but this is one series that it wouldn't have mattered if it had been junked, though now it has been released on dvd: 1 "It's What Comes After" -Excellent story by William Emms. Why has exemplary Cpt Lynne (Keith Barron) suddenly become a bundle of nerves? 2 "A Town Called Love" -Local girl Magda "puts the squeeze" on Army personnel, forcing them to steal to order or be reported for pilfering. Pendlebury (Michael Robbins) is the latest victim, but when Magda is found "carved up" Pendlebury "goes over the wall." Unofficially, Mann also goes to East Germany to bring him home, but he's rumbled by the Commies and an exchange has to be arranged, but not before Mann has given Pendlebury the route how to escape back to the West. Somehow he makes it, without even Simon Templar to help him. Maybe in those days, scriptwriters didn't realise you couldn't just 'pop over' the border. 3 "Epitaph for a Sweat" - In a "god forsaken unit" in Aden, Sgt Rolfe (Leonard Rossiter, appearing to out-Hartnell William) works over a native "wog" who naturally complains. An overlong story of army bullies and political expedience that could still, sadly, apply today 4 "Misfire" - 5 "Corporal McKann's Private War" - 6 "The Orderly Officer" - 7 "Night Watch" - Sgt Graham (Brian Wilde) is "in a mess." He's been busted to private after a court martial in Burma. But his whole platoon under Major Stokely (Allan Cuthertson) are at rock bottom morale, about to "burst and the pus come flying out." Me, I just nodded off 8 "The Boys of B Company" -Strict discipline in a company of cadets, Duffy (Richard O'Sullivan) one shining example. But "nutcase" Bellamy attempts suicide and Pickering kicks over the traces. Sgt Mann, with a few cheap bribes of fags, uncovers an all too familiar tale of sadistic bullying and blind eyes among the senior officers. This is a fine portrait of a young lad promoted without an understanding of the proper use of power. A kind of updated Tom Brown's Schooldays, in which "kiss my boots" can hardly be "horseplay," for it brings its own revenge 9 "A Regiment of the Line" -"The Queen's Own Scottish are back" in Germany long after the war, "one forgets so easily." But old bitternesses end in a riot, then worse when Hughie Scanlan (Colin Blakely) provokes a brawl in a cafe, killing the German bartender. His colonel (James Grout), with his own bitter war memories, is rather obstructive when Sgt Mann investigates, but when Scanlan's mate Tolley absconds it almost seems the case should be closed. An impressive stand off rounds off the story 11 "A Question of Initiative" - A German civvy is run over by soldiers who'd stolen a car on a tough initiative test. As we know the guilty pair, the interest is seeing how Sgt Mann solves the case and deals with the delicate political implications. The final Act nearly does a fine job of fleshing these out 12 "A Place of Refuge" -By gad sir, Major Trust is blowing his brains out. Perhaps it's no coincidence but money has been borrowed from regimental funds. When Sgt Mann isn't "dead careful" interrogating civilian Wendy, the major's girl friend, he's withdrawn from the case, but he still finds enough evidence that she's involved in drug trafficking. The story provides an interesting role for Barbara Jefford as the ambivalent Wendy, "you're not a woman, you're a psychopath." 13 "The Patrol" - Sgt Mann lands in the jungle to get statements from a patrol commanded by two "eccentrics" (Graham Crowden, Robin Bailey). Much crawling round the studio jungle before Mann sees some Action. Truly Awful To Series Two . . . Taped Series Menu . . . Redcap Series Two (1966): 14 "Crime Passionel" - A respected sergeant is shot dead in a crowded canteen. Why is the truth being covered up? 15 "Pride of the Regiment" - A simple investigation into a pub brawl leads Sgt Mann to the sad story of 'What Price the Hero Now,' Fred Barratt VC. Mann teaches him some home truths about living on past glory. George Sewell gives a strong portrayal of the tarnished hero in Arden Winch's excellent drama 16 "The Killer" - Old friend O'Keefe (Garfield Morgan), the 'Blue Angel of Bolton,' is a sergeant in the "toughest mob" in the army. He wants Mann to uncover a killer he believes is in his unit, so Mann joins them on an exercise. Nevertheless he fails to prevent O'Keefe from ending up with his throat slit. But does Mann then arrest the wrong man? He doesn't exactly cover himself with glory 17 "Buckingham Palace" - At a snowy Cyprus relay signal station, a gambling craze leads to murder. No1 suspect is Cpl Cowell, though Sgt Buckett (William Lucas) knows a Greek called Butros (Peter Bowles) is the guilty man. Sgt Mann plays poker to prove there's been a security leak 18 "Rough Justice" - Impressive script about laxness in an upper crust crack regiment, under its colonel (Terence Longdon), where new recruit Richardson (Edward Fox) is tarred and feathered by his fellow officers, juvenile squirts all of them. Richardson disappears just before Sgt Mann inspects the books, which Richardson had been blackmailed into fiddling 21 "Paterson's Private Army" - A sub machine gun has gone missing from a Jungle Warfare Training School. It had been in the care of Cpl Donald (Colin Campbell) who is a genuine Scot, but some of the cast struggle bravely with their Scots accents, notably Pte Ogilvie (Geoffrey Whitehead), Sgt Burns (John Junkin) and Major Cleghorn (John Horsley). Sgt Mann meets the bitter members of Donald's platoon and the case seems "far too obvious" though I would have called it plain uninteresting. "I'm a bit fogged," admits Sgt Burns, and he isn't the only one. Even Mann has to conclude "it doesn't make any sense at all" 22 "Stag Party" - Terrorists at a Greek base? Or an inside job? A grenade during a strip poker game seems to be an act of jealousy- "it's pretty obvious, if you think about it." Ann Lynn enlivens a dull story, whilst Harold Goodwin as a Greek policeman delivers an odd Anglo-Greek accent 24 "Time Alibi" - AWOL, Cpl Harkness is identified at an ID parade as a robber. Mann has to find out why this "model soldier" has gone "off the rails" in a plot and guest star, Keith Barron, somewhat akin to the first story of the first series. This time it's a girl (surprise!- "I met this girl...") and when the cash is found in Harkness' room it looks pretty conclusive. To prove his innocence, all Mann has to do is break down a naval officer's alibi 25 "The Proper Charlie" - Who beat up Charlie Ringwold, a shy recruit with 2 left feet? 26 "Information Received"- MP Sgt Bamber (James Grout) is accused anonymously of nicking petrol. But Harry Bamber is an old colleague of Sgt Mann who can't believe such a straightforward chap be guilty. The right thief is found and he admits writing the accusation. But, this, Mann's last case, is only now beginning.... Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . . . POLICE SURGEON (1960) Ian Hendry starred as Dr Geoffrey Brent, a young ideallistic police surgeon in London. The next year Hendry returned as Dr David Keel in, of course, The Avengers. But there is no connection between the two series apart from this, and the fact that ABC made both. Appearing alongside Hendry in some stories was John Wariwck as Inspector Landon , based at Bayswater police station. Ingrid Hafner as Dr Brent's receptionist was another semi-regular. Julian Bond produced the first four stories, the rest were in the hands of Leonard White.The theme music was entitled The Big Knife. 13 stories were announced though only twelve stories were transmitted. Indeed Police Surgeon was panned by critics, one (LM) complaining that the first story was "amateurish, long-winded and unrealistic... it was just too much to swallow!" He concluded, "if this exaggerated series wins any plaudits at all- well, I'd be surprised." 1 "Easy Money" (September 10th 1960, 7pm) Script: Julian Bond. Director: John Knight. Just out of Borstal, Jim Clark (Michael Crawford) is arrested when he's found standing by a cigarette machine that has been knocked off, with twenty half crowns on his person. Inspector Bryant (Robin Wentworth) questions the lad, who claims he won the money at the dogs. Kindly Dr Brent is at the nick to examine Murphy, charged with being drunk. That's over in a moment, and Keel is asked if he can talk with Jim, who claims he is going to be framed. But his story of how he won the cash is easily disproved by Brent when he checks the winners in his evening paper. But that enables Jim to answer Bryant quite easily about which dogs had won that evening at The White City! Bryant is not convinced, but has no choice but to release Jim. Brent has "a little talk" afterwards with Jim at Ray's Cafe: "what you going to do about that money you stole?" The doctor is unamused by Jim's youthful bravado in calling the incident "a right giggle," showing up the baffled inspector. "No sermons please," Jim has had enough questioning. But it's uncanny how Brent can perceive why Jim had stolen that money. Brent urges Jim to earn his money as they argue over morals. Jim sticks to his philosophy, "you don't get nothing from noone these days, not unless you take it." But when some teddy boys enter the cafe and rile an old man, Jim intervenes, that proves he's not all bad. "You've got to draw the line somewhere." Maybe he will try and get a proper job, though that idea is quashed when the police rearrest him. Yet the programme offers no solution to what is after all insoluble. These days would the police bat an eyelid at such petty crime and would a high and mighty doctor have any time for such a delinquent? This is the only surviving story. Other episodes included Bernard Archard in #2 Under the Influence, about a drunken driver, Harry H Corbett in #3 Lag on the Run as a man who beats up a club hostess, and Jean Anderson who appeared in #8 Sunday Morning Story about a refugee girl's suicide. Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . . . The Protectors (1964) "The criminals and us- we're all in the same business. The difference is, our clients pay us to keep one jump ahead of the criminal mind. Diagnosis? Call the Police. Prognosis? Call WELbeck 3269." The firm of Souter and Shoesmith Ltd is a specialist in security. From offices in Marylebone, secretary cum Girl Friday Heather Keys (Ann Morrish) is also an expert in art forgery. Ian Souter (Andrew Faulds) went to school, like Prince Charles, at Gordonstoun and served at the end of the war in The Black Watch. His partner is Robert Shoesmith (Michael Atkinson), formerly of the CID, who said of his character, "he playes hunches, he's a creature of instinct." The producer was Michael Chapman. "Landscape with Bandits"- The Veritas Gallery in Manchester is "not a place for nobodies," wily owner Mr Ware (Gordon Gostelow) currently planning to go big time by buying River at Argenteuil by Monet, which is up for auction at Wheeler and Bond. Ian Souter is in charge of security at this auction house where "you've got to be a millionaire to shop." However the bidding doesn't quite reach this league, partly because doubts have been expressed in the newspaper group owned by Farnham, that the ownership of the painting is questionable. From a starting bid of £12,000 (laughable by today's standards!) it rises slowly, until a Frenchman, Scionneau (Martin Miller) interrupts the dignified calm, claiming he is the owner. Souter and Shoesmith quietly eject him and the bidding continues, Farnham being one bidder, but Ware hasn't even got to the sale. The winning bid is for a mere £36,500 from a Susannah Lane (Elizabeth Shepherd), but "who is she acting for?" Souter learns the answer when he delivers the Monet to her home. She's bought it jointly with one Christopher Searle (Barry Justice) an employee of Ware, but who has fallen out with his boss. The pair plan to resell the picture to start up their own gallery, and they ask Ian Souter to look after the Monet until they find a buyer. The blustering Ware, angry that he has been doublecrossed offers them a maximum of £42,000, but that is rejected. So Ware arranges for a mate called Tinker to duff Searle up. He then promises to get Scionneau back his painting- for a consideration! Whittle, a solicitor, tells Susannah and Chris he has an prospective buyer for them, a rich French widow. A figure of £45,000 is agreed and Bob Shoesmith is despatched to Paris with the Monet. Ian Souter, conicidentally, is flying to France on behalf of Farnham, at the same time as Bob is boarding the Golden Arrow with his clients- "roll on the Channel Tunnel," he says presciently. The train screeches to a halt, and two of Tinker's men snatch the painting. Bob has to break the bad news to his partner, but he and his clients are in for a surprise. The stolen picture was a forgery made by Heather, Ian Souter had secretly brought the real Monet over to Paris himself. He'd been highly suspicious of the French widow story. So Ware is disappointed, but Susannah and Chris are pleased to sell for £47,000 - to Farnham. 11 "Who Killed Lazoryck?" (6th June 1964) - After serving five years of his twelve year sentence, Pearce Kettner (Esmond Knight) has been released on medical grounds. His daughter Janice (Patricia English) is worried he might do "something stupid" for this "poet pacifist" always maintained he was framed for being a communist spy and killing Peter Lazoryck, a known spy. Chief witness against him had been Lord Keele (Peter Williams), and why has Kettner ordered his secretary Christina to moor his houseboat La Querencia suspiciously near to Lord Keele's home in Bandersly? "What I have to do must be done alone," he tells his daughter, so how can Ian Souter "protect a man who doesn't want to be protected?" And when Lord Keele is found with a knife in his back Kettner is "the obvious suspect." But luckily, Souter had been watching him on his boat, and can supply an alibi. Nevertheless Souter manages to have a heart to heart with the convicted spy, going over the day he was arrested. Lazoryck had been knocked on the head with a spanner just before Kettner had been going to visit him about his paintings, for he was "a painter of some merit." Keele, who had known Kettner from their Cambridge days, and who was currently working with him on a scheme of cultural exchanges, had lied at the trial, even to the extent of saying Lazoryck had kept that appointment with Kettner that day. Souter explores Bandersly, in the vague hope of unearthing something that will clear Kettner's name. But the search is interrupted by The Major, a spy who has been caused "considerable inconvenience" by Souter's inquiries. "You haven't a grain of evidence," rightly sneers the confident Major. Though Ian Souter is able to surmise fairly accurately how it must have been. "Keele only did what I told him," corrects the over-confident spy. The chat continues, sipping wine, The Major telling all, as this is to be his last assignment. And Souter's he adds. But he has gabbled too long, and they fight. The Major is shot by one of his own men, then the police drop in, late as ever. Kettner says he's almost sorry for Keele who'd been under The Major's thumb for years. There's one last traitor to expose, who claims "the party is my life- I had no choice." A familiar epitaph. The last line of philosophy is Kettner's Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . . Sergeant Cork (1963-6) with John Barrie 1.1 Case of the Reluctant Widow 2.1 The Case of the Fenian Men 2.2 The Case of the Fourth Visitor 2.3 The Case of the Ormsby Diamonds 2.5 The Case of the Bristol Mail 2.6 The Case of the Silent Suffragette 2.7 The Case of The Self Made Man 2.8 The Case of the Stricken Surgeon 3.5 The Case of the Elegant Mistress 3.6 The Case of the Hangman's Noose The jokey name that workers on the series used for it was "H-Cabs" (ie hansom cabs). "The idea came to me," the creator claimed, "when I was reading about the history of the CID." He describes Sergeant Cork thus- a bachelor in his 40's living in lodgings in Bayswater. "Playing Cork has undoubtedly been one of the happiest periods of my life," later claimed Barrie. "We're an extremely contented team. My only ill-comfort as Cork is the clothes I wear- heavy tweed coats. Under those hot studio lights they can be very uncomfortable." But one thing he really had baulked at was having a moustache, until producer Jack Williams told him it was "essential." 66 stories were made from 1963 up until the final series in 1966. However this last series was not networked, and was not premiered in some ITV regions until as late as 1968- proof that it existed on videotape. Now, for better or worse, it has resurfaced on excellent quality dvds. Each story was strung out to an hour, with John Barrie stolid but uninspiring as the 1890's policeman. His assistant, played by William Gaunt was simply stodgy. Cork's boss, Supt Rodway, turns up in the later stories, played by Charles Morgan. To the Cast lists and plot information I have gathered. Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . . Case 5329 "The Case of the Elegant Mistress" (2nd May 1964) Police dash to a large house when they hear shots at night. PC Elms tends to a dying army officer, PC Peters (Norman Mitchell) cautions the lady with him. Landlady Mrs Wharton says her tenant, or "guest", Mrs Sanders (Moira Redmond), had been under a week's notice to quit, because she had been entertaining men in her rooms. "It couldn't be more clear cut," at least to Supt Rodway, since she admits shooting Captain Bell, a family man who is in the Coldstream Guards. She even has 50 sovereigns taken from the man who has now died. Sergeant Cork is puzzled why the accused lady acquiesces in her fate. He learns she had once been married to Sir Morris Hampshire (Ronald Leigh-Hunt) and Bob Marriott is sent to find out more about their failed marriage. But the rich Sir Morris is only anxious for his name to be kept out of any scandal. Rodway, meanwhile, gets Mrs Sanders to admit that she had left her husband after she had wrongly been named in an adultery case as the other woman. Her personal fortune had been left with him, and even more sadly, "they took my children from me." The rent for Mrs Sanders' flat was paid by Col Scott-Dunning, Bell's senior officer. Dunning does not see eye to eye with Cork, who questions him about his movements the night of the shooting. An alibi is supplied by some other men in the regiment. But he has to admit that Mrs Sanders was his mistress. Though the soldiers supporting his alibi remain firm, Lt Harding's conscience gets the better of him, and he admits that fifty sovereigns had been bet that wild night, against the keys of Mrs Sanders' flat. Bell had won. Revolted by this degradation, she had shot him in defence of "her virtue." An explanation is offered as to why she has only just revealed this.... To Sergeant Cork Menu . . . . . . . . Shadow Squad Taped Shows Menu 2.3 Race Against Time 2.8 The Missing Cheese If you wanted a really tough quiz question, it might be this- which TV series was originally made in London (by A-R) but then continued its existence in the Manchester Studios (of Granada)? Shadow Squad would be the correct answer, a serial story, normally in two parts that began on 17th June 1957. For 15 stories, Rex Garner starred as Vic Steele 'the Man with a Mission'. It was a typical studio bound series of the era, producer Barry Baker claiming the aim was to get "as near to theatre presentation as possible." This summed up A-R's general approach to programme making: "I won't be using a foot of film in the whole series... it holds up the action. I'm intending to shoot the majority of the scenes in close-up. The stories will be told on the actors' faces." Baker went on to write and direct a new series in the autumn of 1957, Murder Bag, which developed into the celebrated No Hiding Place. On 7th October 1957, from the North now, amazingly after only the shortest of short breaks, Peter Williams was the new star playing Inspector Don Carter. Other regulars in both series were George Moon as the perky Ginger Smart, who continued this role in Granada's Skyport which began in July 1959, John Horsley who played Supt John Whitelaw and Kathleen Boutall as landlady Mrs Moggs. Though now made in Manchester, interestingly Don Carter's address is given as 7 Mill Bank Mews, London SW1. In June 1958, Don Carter finished this long series by going to Montreal to crack a big case. A new series began on 15th September 1958 as Don and Ginger solve some trouble on the liner home. The final story, Swan Song, was on 24th June 1959. It seems that though the programme was originally made live, Granada must have recorded series three on to videotape as some of this series was repeated in their local late night slot during 1959. But it's most probable that after these showings the tapes were then wiped.... In all there were 93 stories, making up a total of 179 half hour programmes. Information on other actors in the series- unfortunately TV Times rarely provided cast lists but Raymond Francis said he did appear in a Shadow Squad story, but I do not know which one. Jimmy Hanley also appeared in an unknown story, playing a detective. Others who stated they appeared in Shadow Squad, though I have been unable to trace in which story, are: John Barron, Richard Burrell, Fanny Carby, Sandra Caron, Rupert Davies, Ina de la Haye, Shelagh Fraser, Arthur Goullett (series 2 or 3), Melvyn Hayes ("guest lead"), Jack Howarth, Jill Ireland, Maurice Kaufmann, Ronald Leigh-Hunt, Alfie Maron, Bernadette Milnes, Ambrosine Phillpotts, Sheila Raynor, Rachel Roberts (series 2 or 3), Cyril Shaps, and Michael Ward. Maureen Beck also appeared in an unknown episode. Here are details of some stories from the 1957/8 seasons. Throughout this first series, made by A-R in London, Rex Garner starred as Vic Steele. 1.1 First Blood (17th and 20th June 1957, 7.30pm). The story of an unsolved murder mystery. Ginger joins the Bendix Gang. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. Also with Kenneth Thornett (Steve Moray), Max Brimmel (Ferdy Black), Charles Farrell (Gus Gore), Elizabeth 'Liz' Fraser (Gilda). In the second part Frederick Schiller (Monty Judge) also appeared. Produced and directed by Barry Baker 1.2 Boomerang (24 and 27th June 1957). A visitor from Australia inolves Vic in an old feud with a new twist. What is the secret of Owls Holt, and who is trying to kill Bill Linton (Alex Scott)? Also with Neil Hallett (Phillip Buckland), June Thorburn (Janet Falconbridge), Harold Lang (Edwin Reece), Hal Osmond (Foxy Drake), Leslie Weston (George Thorpe), George Hirste (Gaffer Green) and Neil Wilson (Fred Armstrong). Produced by Barry Baker, directed by Bill Hitchcock. Derek Hoddinott described these two opening stories as "a disaster to say the least." He lays the blame with "the scriptwriter who remains apparently anonymous. His dialogue has to be heard to be believed and how the actors managed to speak their lines, and some of them convincingly, I shall never know." But this critic had winkled out the better news that producer Barry Baker was taking over the editing of the stories and from #1.5 would be writing the stories himself, "assisted by Bert Chapman." 1.3 Soho Serenade (1st and 4th July 1957). Dan Cutler is out of jail and out for revenge on the woman who shopped him. With George Moon, also: Sidney James (Spinner Burke), Michael Golden (Dan Cutler), Patricia Burke (Goldy Finch), Roberta Woolley (Bonny Finch), Edwin Richfield (Joe Tracey), Neil McCallum (Link White), Charles Rolfe (Sgt Dean), Maggie McGrath (Elsie). Produced and edited by Barry Baker, directed by Jean Hamilton. 1.4 Murder in Mink (8 and 11th July 1957). A beautiful girl is threatened with murder, and then seems to commit suicide. With John Horsley, also: Leslie Weston (Harry Hoxton), Anthony Nicholls (Randolph Condor), Geoffrey Dunne (Adrian Curling), Vanda Godsell (Stella Curtis), Lewis Wilson (Sgt Hope), Michael Corcoran (Salty), Arnold Bell (Hotel manager), Barbara Archer (Receptionist), Penny Morell (Isobelle Hughes, 2nd episode only). Produced and edited by Barry Baker, directed by Bill Hitchcock. 1.5 Safe Bet (15 and 18th July 1957). 1.6 The Switch Trick (22nd and 25th July 1957). 1.7 Dead Letter (29th July and 1st Aug 1957). There are strange people in the village of Molton, and Vic Steele learns many secrets as he tries to find out who has written poison pen letters. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. Written and produced by Barry Baker, directed by Jean Hamilton. 1.8 The Reverend Marcus Field (5 and 8th August 1957). Vic deals with a man who is not breaking the law, and yet his every activity is against the public interest. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. Written and produced by Barry Baker, directed by Bill Hitchcock. 1.9 The Rent Racket (12 and 15th August 1957). Shadow Squad deals with a Rent Racketeer. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Bertie Chapman. Edited and produced by Barry Baker, directed by Jean Hamilton. 1.10 A Case of Blackmail (19th and 22nd August 1957). Vic unearths the identity of a blackmailer, but the dilemma is, will the revelation destroy his victim? He poses as an old lag to square accounts for the victim. With George Moon and John Horsley. Written by Bertie Chapman. Edited and produced by Barry Baker, directed by Bill Hitchcock. 1.11 The Happy Holiday (26 and 29th August 1957). 1.12 Smart Work (2nd and 5th September 1957). A burglary brings Vic's toughest case to date. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. Written and directed by Bill Hitchcock. Produced by Barry Baker. 1.13 Marry in Haste (9 and 12th September 1957). Bitterness and misery not to mention financial ruin in a marriage. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Bob Kellett. Produced by Barry Baker, directed by Hugh Munro. 1.14 Judge Without Jury (16th, 19th and 23rd September 1957) -in three parts. The death of Frank Bennett is neither sudden nor unexpected, but only Vic Steele supects he's been murdered. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. Written and produced by Barry Baker. 1.15 Robbery Without Violence (26 and 30th September 1957). A-R's final story before the showed moved north. Series 2 now made in Granada's Manchester studios, all stories starring Peter Williams as Insp Don Carter. 2.1 Pearls of Great Price (7, 10 and 14th October 1957- in three parts). A valuable pearl necklace is stolen and when Don Carter investigates, he finds a body. To recover the pearls he enlists Ginger's help to set a trap. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. Written and produced by Barry Baker, directed by Herbert Wise. 2.2 It's in the Bag (17th and 21st October 1957). June, a beautiful young model, has been kidnapped by agents of a smuggling ring. Don Carter searches for her mysterious chauffeur Jock. With Kathleen Boutall, George Moon, John Horsley. 2.3 Race Against Time (24 and 28th October 1957). One man wins a great deal of money when an outsider wins a race. With Kathleen Boutall (whose final appearance is about this time), George Moon. Written by Barry Baker. Directed by Herbert Wise. 2.4 Vicious Circle (31st October and 4th November 1957) 2.5 Needle in a Haystack (7 and 11 November 1957) 2.6 Let Sleeping Dogs Lie (14 and 18th November 1957) 2.7 Lost in a Shuffle (21st and 25th November 1957) 2.8 The Missing Cheese (28th Nov and 2nd December 1957). The petty theft of cheese from a saloon bar, provides a clue to a long series of unsolved robberies. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Lloyd Barclay, directed by James Ormerod. 2.9 The Mortimer Millions (5 and 9th December 1957). Don Carter has to discover who is the rightful heir to a fortune worth five million pounds. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Barry Baker, directed by Claude Whatham. 2.10 Double and Quits (12 and 16th December 1957). 2.11 There's No Place Like ... (19th and 23rd December 1957). Crooks have devised the perfect scheme for robbing a bank, but they overlook the element of chance. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Alan Cooper, designed by Stanley Mills, directed by Herbert Wise. 2.12 Double Exposure (26 and 30th December 1957). With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Lloyd Barclay, directed by Claude Whatham. 2.13 The Big Steal (6 and 9th January 1958). Small parcels of goods are disappearing from Hutchinson's, a big organisation of shipping agents. Don Carter tries to foil the Havelock Gang who are after bigger fry- gold bullion. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Philip Grenville Mann, designed by Darrell Lass, directed by James Ormerod. 2.14 Without a Trace (13 and 16th January 1958). A wealthy woman named Judith Lawson disappears from a London hotel. Her nephew is the one to benefit from her will, yet he asks Don Carter for help! In a dilapidated building in Richmond, Ginger Smart stumbles on the truth. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by Darrell Lass, directed by Herbert Wise. 2.15 The Female of the Species (20th and 23rd January 1958). A new carburettor will halve the costs of motoring! Only two men know the secret, but a rival firm abroad also have the formula. Don Carter's attentions turn on the only woman in the men's office. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Lloyd Barclay, designed by Darrell Lass, directed by Claude Whatham. 2.16 Safe Conduct (27 and 30th January 1958). Ginger Smart's intimate knowledge of the underworld helps him tracks down the brains behind a series of safe robberies, Ricky Monahan, but Ginger is cunningly trapped by a mystery woman. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Alan Cooper, designed by Darrell Lass, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 2.17 Vital Statistics (3rd and 6th February 1958). Whitehall asks Don Carter to stop the leak of secret information concerning ballistic missiles. Among the characters he interrogates are two pretty girls with heads for figures and a country parson who is sympathetic towards the plight of displaced persons. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Lloyd Barclay, designed by John Dilly, directed by James Ormerod. 2.18 Positive Proof (10 and 13th February 1958). Warren R Low, millionaire rubber king, has flown from America to London and immediately finds himself being blackmailed. Don Carter has to give up his long awaited holiday to solve this case. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Edward Dryhurst, designed by Darrell Lass, directed by David Main. 2.19 The Search for Linda Morgan (17 and 20th February 1958). A glamorous vaudeville dancer disappears, and is later found murdered. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by Stanley Mills, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 2.20 A Trick Worth Two (24 and 27th February 1958) 2.21 The Man Who Wasn't There (3rd and 6th March 1958). Mysterious noises from an empty room terrify Betty Wilson in her boarding house. Ginger moves into the house and finds "the man who wasn't there" seems to have committed a murder! With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by David Carr, designed by Stanley Mills, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 2.22 The Artistic Touch (10 and 13th March 1958). Dud cheques flood into banks across London. With George Moon, John Horsley. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by John Dilly, directed by Herbert Wise. 2.23 Under the Counter (17 and 20th March 1958). With George Moon, and John Horsley (who disappears from the series about this time). Written by Philip Grenville Mann, designed by Darrell Lass, directed by Claude Whatham. 2.24 Clown for a Day (24 and 27th March 1958) 2.25 Where There's a Will (31st March and 3rd April 1958). Don and Ginger engage a secretary named Janet Beattie. But the correspondence is soon forgotten when Janet is charged with robbery, and perhaps murder. The evidence against her is overwhelming, but Don investigates, only hoping he can get back to his letters again. Written by Edward Dryhurst from a story by Glyn Davies, designed by Darrell Lass, directed by Max Morgan Witts 2.26 Black Angel (7 and 10th April 1958) 2.27 Gift Horse (14 and 17th April 1958) 2.28 The Profit Motive (21st and 24th April 1958). A "near van Gogh" painting is bought by Andrew Murray. With George Moon. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by John Dilly, directed by David Main. 2.29 Illegal Entry (28th April and 1st May 1958) 2.30 The Man on Top (5 and 8th May 1958). A big cosmetics firm finds that its trade secrets are leaking to their competitors. They call in a couple of efficiency experts to track down the spy. Behind the scenes, Don and Ginger witness a fierce struggle for control, with a little help, their side wins. Script: Philip Grenville Mann. Director: David Main. 2.31 Double Trouble (12 and 15th May 1958). Don and Ginger piece together a spilt glass of beer, a busybodying friend, a box of matches and an anonymous telephone call. Paul Fletcher is arrested for attacking someone and when Don is attacked also, Fletcher's blamed for this also, but Don isn't convinced. With George Moon. Written by George E Pepper, designed by Darrell Lass, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 2.32 Pillar of Society (19th and 22nd May 1958) 2.33 Trouble in the Sun (26 and 29th May 1958). First part: Ginger is staying in a hotel on the Italian Riviera. It seems everyone is interested in "the little English detective" including a journalist and a lovely girl called Francesca. In this episode, though billed in TV Times, Don Carter does not appear. However he does so for part two, in which Ginger, having got into trouble, has to summon "his assistant," ie Don. What Don unearths is a flourishing counterfeit racket. The journalist disappears, then Francesca... Written by Peter Yeldham. Designed by Darrell Lass. Directed by Max Morgan Witts. 2.34 Mark of the Mantis (2nd and 5th June 1958) 2.35 Lost and Found (9 and 12th June 1958) - this story marked the hundredth appearance of Ginger Smart. When young Bridie Muldoon lands at Liverpool, she has no friends and only one ambition- to be a nurse. But as she is too young, she has to work for a while as a maid. All goes well until an envelope containing money, which she is given to post, does not reach its destination. Accused of stealing, she runs away, Don and Ginger search for her. Written by HV Kershaw. Designed by Darrell Lass. Directed by James Ormerod. 2.36 Road to Nowhere (16 and 19th June 1958) 2.37 From Natural Causes (23rd and 26th June 1958) Series 3- all stories starring Peter Williams as Insp Don Carter. 3.1 Return Passage (15 and 18th September 1958). On the boat back from Canada, there are an odd assortment of passengers, plus a couple of racehorses, one of which is poisoned. With George Moon. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by David Main. 3.2 Sweet Poison (22nd and 25th September 1958). Marion Selby, matron of a small hospital, receives some strange gifts. Are they simply from a practical joker? With George Moon. Written by Philip Grenville Mann, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by Stuart Latham. 3.3 Beside the Seaside (29th Sept and 2nd October 1958). A party of friends are making their annual visit to a seaside boarding house, but this year jealousy and suspicion mar the atmosphere. and there's an 'accident.' A second accident causes Don and Ginger to try and find out who is attempting to murder Mary Dodds, and why. With George Moon. Written by George E Pepper, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 3.4 No Way Out (6 and 9th October 1958, rpt: Aug 25 and 26th 1959). Connie Sutton is anxious her teenage sister is getting in with the wrong crowd and asks Don and Ginger to help.They find a disillusioned daughter who wants revenge, as they uncover the brain behind a gang of teenage thieves. With George Moon. Written by Philip Grenville Mann, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by Robert Tronson. 3.5 Rainbow's End (13 and 16th October 1958, rpt: 18 and 19th Aug 1959). £40,000 had been embezzled from a client of the American Insurance Company. Harry Pearce, the thief, had been convicted, and is now being released from prison after serving his four year sentence. The company asks Don and Ginger to trace the missing money. With George Moon. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 3.6 The Doll Merchant (20th and 23rd October 1958, rpt: 27 and 28th Aug 1959). Karl van Mers brings his wife and young daughter from Amsterdam to London on a business trip. The little girl runs away on the night they arrive, taking her teddy bear. Don and Ginger search for her, little guessing that her teddy is filled with smuggled diamonds.It's a doll merchant who finds her and takes her home. While repairing the teddy he finds three diamonds... With George Moon. Written by John Warwick, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by David Main. 3.7 Double Shuffle (27 and 30th October 1958, rpt: 1st and 2nd Sept 1959). Lucy Sparling and a cousin from South Africa, whom she has never met, inherit a fortune. But Lucy claims the man claiming to be her cousin Jonathan West is a fraud. However a court upholds Jonathan's claim to a stake in the fortune and Lucy persuades Don and Ginger to continue their investigation. The man's wife provides a clue which leads to a team of confidence tricksters. With George Moon. Written by Philip Grenville Mann, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 3.8 Streets of Gold (3rd and 6th November 1958, rpt: 3rd and 4th Sept 1959). Shirley Gardiner is seventeen, with a steady job, living at home with her family. But she's restless and unhappy, and leaves home, disappearing in the middle of London. She has little money and does not want to work. Don and Ginger are hired by the girl's family to find her. With George Moon. Written by Tony Warren, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by David Main. 3.9 The Kovacs Affair (10 and 13th November 1958) 3.10 Brought to Book (17 and 20th November 1958, rpt: 20th and 21st Aug 1959). Sylvester Lane, noted authority on old books, thinks he has found a priceless volume. He seems to have found a wealthy American buyer, but Don Carter suspects the book is a fake. With George Moon. Written by Basil Francis, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by David Main. 3.11 The Little Rebel (24 and 27th November 1958, rpt: 10 and 11th Sept 1959). An alsatian, the mascot of the SS van Druton, escapes as the ship docks in the Thames. The dog has rabies. With George Moon. Written by John Warwick, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 3.12 Blind Corner (1st and 4th December 1958) 3.13 Method in Her Madness (8 and 11th December 1958, rpt: 15 and 16th Sept 1959). Don's young cousin Valerie has been receiving anonymous letters and she asks Don to investigate. She's a student at a drama school, and finds herself in great danger. With George Moon. Written by Victor Gordon, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by David Main. 3.14 The Painting (15 and 18th December 1958, rpt: 17 and 18th Sept 1959). A thief steals a valuable painting in a country house robbery. Pavement artist buys it, neither of them realising its true value. Don and Ginger race with a mysterious stranger to retrieve it first. With George Moon. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by Francis Coleman. 3.15 A Song for Christmas (22nd and 7pm on 26th December 1958) In Pentecost Road there lives a Scrooge, and the Young People's Association teach him the spirit of Christmas. With George Moon. Written by Philip Grenville Mann, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by James Ormerod. 3.16 You Can't Win All the Time (29th Dec 1958 and 1st January 1959, rpt: 22nd and 23rd Sept 1959). Bookie Brad Foster loses heavily, and resorts to blackmail in order to pay his clients. A scared ex-crook later walks into Don's office with a £1,000 diamond necklace. Trying to trace the owner, Don tangles with the blackmailer, while Ginger finds his old trade as a cracksman very useful. With George Moon. Written by Bevis Winter and Peter Cagney, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by David Main. 3.17 Lost, Stolen or Strayed (5 and 8th January 1959, rpt: 24 and 25th Sept 1959). Nicholas Boaz loses his umbrella and asks Don to find it. What a waste of time, thinks Ginger. But two shady characters are also after it. With George Moon. Written by Geoffrey Bellman and John Whitney, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 3.18 Cry Wolf (12 and 15th January 1959, rpt: 29 and 30th Sept 1959). A hysterical young blonde asks Don "Find out who I am!" The only clue to her identity is a business card, which leads Don to a frightened merchant named Seeler and an old friend Wolf. A packet of diamonds deposited by the girl in a left luggage office turns out to be the vital clue. With George Moon. Written by Keith Dewhurst, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Herbert Wise. 3.19 The Refugees (19th and 22nd January 1959, rpt: 1st and 2nd Oct 1959). Don and Ginger grapple with an organisation smuggling refugees into Britain With George Moon. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by Stuart Latham. 3.20 Car for Sale (26 and 29th January 1959, rpt: 7 and 9th Oct 1959). Don and Ginger are hired to prove the innocence of Tom Swinbourne, accused of stealing a car. Ginger puts his safecracking skills to use again, and Don meets a frightened man. With George Moon. Written by Jim Brown, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Max Morgan Witts. 3.21 The Smiler (2nd and 5th February 1959) 3.22 The Fatal Trap (9 and 12th February 1959, rpt: 13 and 14th Oct 1959). It looks suspicious when Ginger disappears after a crime. But the real crook Carter is finally cornered. With George Moon. Written by John Warwick, designed by Denis Parkin, directed byStuart Latham. 3.23 The Travelling Lady (16 and 19th February 1959, rpt: 15 and 16th Oct 1959). A firm of solicitors asks Don to find a lady who has been bequeathed a large sum of money. With George Moon. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by James Ormerod. 3.24 Solo for Ginger (23rd and 26th February 1959, rpt: 20th and 21st Oct 1959). Don is away and learns of these two "private detectives" who are doing him out of a job- their names are Don Carter and Ginger Smart! This makes the case of the blackmailed lady even more difficult to solve, especially when too many suspects spoil the broth. With George Moon. Written by Peter Yeldham, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Michael Scott. 3.25 The Dark Stranger (2nd and 5th March 1959, rpt: 22nd and 23rd Oct 1959). Van Blankenberg is so terrified when he sees The Dark Stranger that his daughter Elsa appeals to Don Carter for help. With George Moon. Written by Henry Marshall, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Stuart Latham. 3.26 One White Lie (9 and 12th March 1959, rpt: 27 and 28th Oct 1959). A white lie threatens Henry Adams with a heavy prison sentence. Don Carter is called in to be confronted by a tangle of evidence. Why are so many people supporting what he knows to be a lie? Can find he the one man in London who can break the lie? With George Moon. Written by John Warwick, designed by Paul Bernard, directed by Claude Whatham. 3.27 The Directors' Dilemma (16 and 18th March 1959, rpt: 29th and 30th Oct 1959- the last story to be repeated). The theft of sugar begins a case which ends with attempted murder, ruining a good bottle of whisky with poison. With George Moon. Written by Victor Gordon, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Michael Scott. 3.28 The Last Letter (23rd and 26 March 1959) 3.29 The Silent Witness (30th March and 2nd April 1959) 3.30 (6 and 9th April 1959) 3.31 The Blind Gunner (13 and 16th April 1959) 3.32 Hero on the Run (20th and 23rd April 1959) 3.33 The Reckless Motorist (27th April 1959)- remaining stories only one part. 3.34 Out of the Blue (4th May 1959) 3.35 The Dark Years (11th May 1959) 3.36 The Amazing Mr Shane (18th May 1959) 3.37 The Wedding Dress (25th May 1959). There's a suspected case of witchcraft in an exclusive fashion house. With George Moon. Written by Geoffrey Bellman and John Whitney, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Graham Evans. 3.38 The Family Affair (3rd June 1959) 3.39 One Step to Murder (10th June 1959) 3.40 The Kick-Back (17th June 1959). Don Carter catches a thief who cannot describe what he has stolen. With George Moon. Script: Lewis Davidson, designed by Paul Bernard. Director Adrian Brown. 3.41 Swan Song (24th June 1959) - final story. Details of George Moon in Skyport which started the following week on July 2nd 1959. To Taped Series Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.3 Race Against Time (First part) Stevens has taken over a bookmaker's business with a view to swindling fellow bookies and punters alike. The racket centres round the fact that he has found a ringer for a feeble horse called Mr Kelly, and his double, Hotpoint, is a real "flyer." In the Park Handicap, Hotpoint is going to be switched with the dud Mr Kelly and win the race. With noone betting on the outsider, Stevens gets the phone lines to the course to be cut to prevent any late bets reducing the odds, once he has placed his own. He'll be "the slowest horse to win any race," and Stevens anticipates raking in £20,000. Don Carter's regular Saturday date is at the races. Ginger Smart and landlady Mrs Moggs have had a bet on Paradise Lost, "'e can't lose," though of course he does. Larry Hoyle, Stevens assistant, places lots of bets with different bookies on Mr Kelly, odds of 100-8 or 10-1. Stevens phones other colleagues, saying he wants to lay off bets on Mr Kelly. Though Red Rose is the favourite, it's Mr Kelly, or rather Hotpoint, who wins easily, "somebody's made a fortune." Though there is no evidence of doping, Don is suspicious, sensing rather than being able to prove that a switch had been made. However Vaughan (Richard Caldicot), one bookie who has lost a packet, is surprisingly phlegmatic. Don however is sure, and checks with Riley, Mr Kelly's owner, only to meet a brick wall. Don needs proof. The racket works a second time, this time in reverse as it were. Mr Kelly is not switched, so the real horse is bound not to win, though punters bet on him after his last great victory. "Nice little racket, you when when he wins, you win when he loses." Poor Ginger is one of those benighted losers, against Don's advice, he'd placed a bet on Mr Kelly. Perils of Live TV: Peter Williams forgets one line, Brian Oulton muffs several, but covers so well. To my review of part two of this story. . . . . . . . . Race Against Time (second and final part) Watching eagerly the big race on tv are Don, Ginger and Mrs Moggs. Stevens happily listens to it on his radio. Mrs Moggs is pleased as she's a winner, but Ginger's bet lets him down again. The result convinces Don that a switch must have been made last time out, and the only way to prove it is find Mr Kelly's double. Ginger is volunteered to become a stable lad at Riley's stables. Thus Ginger Cardew, ace Australian jockey, under a shadow down under, is offered a job by Lofty, Riley's chief trainer. He's placed in charge of "a brute of a horse," named The Maniac. Ginger hastily finds an excuse for not riding him. Don talks more with Vaughan, the bookie who had lost a lot on Mr Kelly, but he is still sure of Stevens' bona fides. Not so Don! At the stables, Ginger is asked to ride Mr Kelly, but the excuse of a bad back gets him out of that. Mr Kelly is to be switched again. "How are you going to stop them?" Mrs Moggs asks. It should be easy, for Ginger has now found Mr Kelly's double. He is ordered to get to know both horses as well as possible. Stevens "stands to make a fortune" with this new switch, as long as Hotpoint, alias Mr Kelly wins. "I don't think he'll win this time," Don confidently informs Vaughan, for he is working his own switch, Ginger is going to switch the two horses back. Stevens places his bets once again with other bookies, including £1,000 with Vaughan, who agrees to take the bet on, having faith in Don Carter's plan. The old cutting of the telephone lines is worked again, but this backfires on Stevens for at the course just before the race Lofty spots that Mr Kelly really is Mr Kelly," we're racing the wrong horse." His hurried phone call to warn Stevens can't get through. Desperate, Lofty tells Riley who places a £1,000 bet on tick on Singing Cowboy the favourite, to cover some of the losses. The race starts and by some miracle Mr Kelly makes good running, but as expected fades leaving Mastermind the winner. "A very tired Mr Kelly fourth." End of the swindle There is some grainy film of horse races, but the story is mostly told via the characters in the studio sets, leaving viewers to imagine, as in a radio story To Shadow Squad . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Missing Cheese - part 1 During a gale, a thief breaks into a house in Richmond. Col Winter, ex-Indian army, had been watching The Army Game at three minutes to ten, but when the programme ended, Mrs Winter had noticed the theft of their jewellery. (Strange that Granada didn't reflect their own tv schedules properly. The Army Game at this time started at 8.30.) Sup John Whitelaw sends Sgt Telfer (Robert Cawdron) to investigate. At The Cheddar Cheese in Lensbury, an inebriated Harry (Robert Raikes) is admiring his new girlfriend Annette's diamond, before they drive off together to Brighton, where else? Don Carter happens to have been retained by the landlord of this pub, Mears, to track down a petty pilferer. Ginger has been assigned the job of barman. Harry's car crashes, Annette killed. On her is found Mrs Winter's stolen diamond necklace, though this good lady takes ages to identify it, much to Sup Whitelaw's frustration. Harry doesn't know much about Annette but thinks she bought it off an elderly married man at the pub. Police have worked out that the thief, who has committed several such robberies, must be based in the Lensbury area, as he uses a bicycle to make his getaway. One suspect is a customer at the pub, Meadows, who says he did know Harry and Annette, but can't recall seeing her wearing the necklace. There's yet another robbery, and this time a clue. A passer by, Mr Wilson, had been knocked down by a cyclist, whose rear light had unusually been on the near side. Wilson had angrily exchanged blows with the cyclist and thrown his walking stick into the nearby river. Oddly, it sank, like iron To review of part 2 . . . . . . . . . Missing Cheese (part 2, and last) "Getting anywhere?" Don inquires of Ginger. Not as yet, he's trying to outsmart local policeman Wills at the present. Wills' suspicions centre on Meredith (Trevor Reid) a bookie who walks with a decided limp. Inspector Smith has found no evidence at the scene of the latest robbery, indeed no sign of a break-in at all. But a clue is finally discovered after the nearby river is dragged. It's a cane, an unusual cane with a special contraption that can transform it into a ladder. At the pub, we watch Henry Dixon Meredith nick a cheese at Ginger's bar, right under his nose too. Don later questions Meadows, who promptly shows Don the door. But this is a diversion to enable Ginger to insepct Meadows' bicycle, "the one we're looking for all right." At a cleaners, an assistant hands Det Constable Wills a clue, some glass found in the turnup of a pair of trousers, and the owner is Meredith! The glass comes from some broken during a break-in. At a whist drive we see Mrs Meadows and Mrs Meredith win first prize, this establishes a link between the two families. Sgt Telfer questions Meredith who denies everything. But it can be proved that the stick belongs to Meredith and when Mrs Scott identifies her stolen property the two crooks are under arrest. But why did Meredith steal the cheese? It turns out he's a kleptomaniac. Ginger terminates his employment at the pub, his leaving present some none too welcome cheese Back to Shadow Squad . . . . . . . . . Skyport (Granada TV) Taped Shows Menu click for The Spanish Girl review Tales of the World Wide Travel agency, with Ginger Smart, played by George Moon. When it started transmission on July 2nd 1959, it was predictably badly received: "although Granada claim that this is a new programme it is nothing more than 'Shadow Squad' with wings. The plot is just as corny though an attempt has been made to humanise some of the characters by setting the story against an air terminal background with passengers bringing their travel and human problems into focus without being too dramatic. It is surprising how believable George Moon makes his dialogue and it is even more surprising that John Whitney and Geoffrey Bellman have written it." Other regulars in the cast: Lisa Gastoni played an interpreter (her last appearance was in story 11) and Gerald Harper also appeared as the airport duty officer David (up to story 14). Other duty officers were: Edward Woodward in stories 18 to 23, before Manning Wilson as Jim Wilson became the regular duty officer, co-starring in stories 24-32, 34-41, 44-52. Edward Judd was First Officer Freddie Lock in stories 38-41, 43-46, 48-52. Katherine Page played Miss Harker, Ginger's secretary in several unspecified early episodes. Jane Parsons played one of the earlier air hostesses, named Sally Grant, again in unknown stories. Pauline Stroud was a later hostess Katie, in stories 42-52. Joy Stewart was another occasional hostess, Miss Jackson in 42, 47, 49 and 52. With the plays being recorded live, regrettably TV Times had no details of the casts for any of the earlier stories, but what there is has been reproduced here. Others who stated they appeared in Skyport, not listed below were: Pamela Beckman, Peggy Ann Clifford, Lorenza Colville, Hugh Cross, and Endre Muller. Several sites state Barry Foster appeared at some point, but I have not yet myself found any definite evidence for this. One uncredited extra in one of the first thirteen stories was Anastasia Ubale, who went on to be a hostess on the Granada quiz Concentration. Programme Details: (For some details on this list, my thanks to Des Martin) A total of 52 stories were broadcast weekly, for one whole year. 1 (2nd July 1959)- without a break, the series continued on from Shadow Squad. A report stated "extensive" filming was done at London Airport. 8 (20th August 1959) written by Owen Holder, directed by Graham Evans. A man from their past causes some anxious moments for Ginger and David. 9 (27th August 1959) written by Donal Giltman, designed by Tom Spaulding, directed by Adrian Brown. How can anyone be in danger in the transit lounge? 10 (3rd September 1959) possible synopsis: Lady Susan Hayward is vague about her luggage. 11 (10th September 1959) - this is probably The Spanish Girl, the only surviving story: review. 12 (16th September 1959) written by Jan Read, directed by Graham Evans. Lady Hayford accepts without question the make-up box she is handed. 13 (23rd September 1959) written by Owen Holder, directed by Claude Whatham. A national idol flies out, hoping to start a new career. 14 (30th September 1959) written by Hilary Cookson, designed by Denis Parkin, directed by Graham Evans. Mr Justice Thirkell is off on a holiday to Majorca. 15 (7th October 1959) written by Hilary Cookson, directed by David Main. Has Andre Lavand a double- or is he playing a double game? Two attractive young women come to the airport to see him off to Paris, but he tells one of them he has never seen her before. 16 (14th October 1959) written by Owen Holder, directed by Graham Evans. A brilliant medical specialist arrives at the airport the worse for drink. The airport's doctor knows him well, and learns his secret. 17 (21st October 1959) written by Cedric Wallis, directed by Christopher McMaster. A colonel with two tickets to Paris puts Ginger in a spot of bother with a mother and an angry husband. 18 (28th October 1959) written by Louis Marks, directed by Graham Evans. There's a Very Important Person arriving at the airport. 19 (4th November 1959) written by Cedric Watts, directed by Christopher McMaster. Ginger finds it's easier to sell something than give it away. 20 (11th November 1959) written by Lewis Davidson, directed by Graham Evans. Ginger is asked to lock a black case in the safe. Three times he comes to collect it. Ginger begins to think he's being taken for a fool. 21 (18th November 1959) written by Owen Holder, directed by Christopher McMaster. One time ace racing driver Jeff Murray is trying to make a comeback. At the airport with his wife Jane, he meets an old friend by chance, who causes him to have second thoughts about his career. 22 (25th November 1959) written by LF Lampitt, directed by Douglas Hurn. Patricia Castle is rather too high spirited for her Swiss finishing school, and creates a big problem at Skyport. A report stated this episode (or maybe programme 21) was titled The Runaway, and featured Elizabeth Zinn. 23 (2nd December 1959) written by Jan Read, directed by Herbert Wise. A brother and sister ballroom dancing act are leaving Skyport for South America and plan some publicity, which ends in unfortunate consequences. 24 (9th December 1959) written by Owen Holder, directed by Douglas Hurn. New duty officer Jim Wilson arrives at Skyport and has a difficult start dealing with a ticket for Paris. 25 (16th December 1959) written by Louis Marks, directed by Chris McMaster. Ingram, who has pioneered a new approach to brain surgery, is flying to America to receive an award in recognition of his research. But before he can board his plane, a crisis catches up with him. 26 (23rd December 1959) written by Owen Holder, directed by Graham Evans. Pilot Bob Reeves is flying to Paris and back, but it's no ordinary night flight. 27 (30th December 1959) written by Cedric Watts, directed by Adrian Brown. Holden is an unsuccessful artist who is flying to America to make his name. One of his paintings causes a rumpus at Skyport and to help restore peace, Ginger comes to grips with the fundamentals of art. 28 (6th January 1960) written by Owen Holder, directed by Graham Evans. Mr Chapman is due to fly to Kuwait on business. But his chance of bringing off a big deal seems lost when his ticket is sold in error. 29 (13th January 1960) written by Jan Read, directed by Adrian Brown. Monsier Plessey, a couturier, arrives at Skyport with his mannequins for his important fashion show in London, but finds his collection has disappeared. 30 (20th January 1960) written by Keith Dewhurst, directed by Chris McMaster. A pale girl is waiting at Skyport, nervous, tense. 31 (27th January 1960) written by Owen Holder, directed by Adrian Brown. A new sales director and a tearful girl spell trouble for Ginger. 32 (3rd February 1960) written by Jan Read- no George Moon in this story. Fog at Skyport. It is thwarting a plane from landing, and on it is a small boy. A surgeon waits impatiently below unable to treat him. (Note- Paul Maxwell claimed his first UK part, playing a Canadian pilot, was in Skyport in Feb 1960, and this seems the most likely story.) 33 (10th February 1960) written by Jan Read, directed by Derek Bennett. This story sees Ginger beginning his new career as an air steward, and his experiences at training school are seen. 34 (18th February 1960) written by Tony Yates, directed by Adrian Brown. Ginger Smart's first flight as a steward is to Dusseldorf. So excited is he, that he fails to notice everything taking place around him. 35 (25th February 1960) written by Cedric Watts, designed by Seamus Flannery, directed by Derek Bennett. Good friends Miss Price and Miss Wentworth are off on holiday. 36 (3rd March 1960) written by Louis Marks, designed by Seamus Flannery, directed by Jean Hamilton. It's a night to remember for Ginger on his first night in a strange country. 37 (10th March 1960) written by Neil Kingsley, designed by Roy Stonehouse, directed by Derek Bennett, producer: Michael Scott. Jim Wilson helps an attractive German girl in distress. But in London's West End with her, even with Ginger for company, he's out of his depth. Note: in fact George Moon fell ill during rehearsals, and did not appear in this story. 38 (17th March 1960) written by Barry Letts, designed by Tom Spaulding, directed by Jean Hamilton. A man with a stiff leg causes trouble on the Rome flight. 39 (24th March 1960) written by Harry Driver, designed by Roy Stonehouse, directed by Derek Bennett. A mild unassuming little man almost misses his plane. Had he not made the flight, there might have been no murder. 40 (31st March 1960) written by Leonard Fincham, designed by Seamus Flannery, directed by Jean Hamilton. A killer is waiting for a VIP on his way to England. Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd and June Parsons. Others in the cast: Laine Winters (Air hostess), Joy Stewart (Miss Jackson), Andre Dakar (Dr Ambrose), Ewen Solon (Insp Collins), Nona Williams (Young girl) and Brian Rawlinson (Peter Mansell). 41 (7th April 1960) written by Lewis Davidson, designed by Seamus Flannery, directed by Derek Bennett. A stranger named Laslo is obstructing passengers painting a mural in the lounge. Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd and June Parsons. Others in the cast: Melvyn Hayes 42 (14th April 1960) written by Owen Holder, designed by Roy Stonehouse, directed by Jean Hamilton. Miss Jackson is taking a modest holiday abroad but finds herself at the most expensive hotel, with glamorous clothes provided, and a Portuguese count as escort. Ginger comes to the rescue when things get out of hand. Starring George Moon, Pauline Stroud and Joy Stewart. With Julian Somers (Mr Bowles), Susan Travers (Miss Van Reinn), Charles Lloyd Pack (Charles), Ferdy Mayne as the Marquiss Camillo de Castillo, and Michael Collins (Saunders). Note: Collins was seriously injured in a car crash on his way to the studio and had to be replaced. 43 (21st April 1960) written by Jan Read, designed by Roy Stonehouse, directed by David Main. Katie is out to get her man- the captain on the plane on which she is air hostess. Their petty squabble threatens to leave Katie Ginger and Freddie stranded in Madrid- unless Cpt Jarvis can be persuaded to make peace. Starring George Moon Edward Judd and Pauline Stroud. Others in the cast: Ronald Leigh-Hunt (Captain Bill Jarvis), June Cunningham (Melinda Murray), Dorothy Bath (Mrs Ford-Jones), and Reginald Lang (Barajos station manager). 44 (28th April 1960) written by Leonard Webb, designed by Roy Stonehouse, directed by Jean Hamilton. What is the reason behind Dr Haltbrecht's desperate flight to Athens? Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd, Jane Parsons and Pauline Stroud. Others in the cast: Joseph Furst as Dr Haltrecht with Paul Hardmuth (His brother), Martin Sterndale (Waldman), Derren Nesbitt (Phillipe), Jennifer Wilson (Diane), Pauline Letts (Miss Holmes). 45 (5th May 1960) written by Owen Holder from an idea by Fenton Bresler, designed by Terry Pritchard, directed by Eric Price. Two American newspapermen are chasing the same scoop, and a tough battle is made more complicated by a young girl. Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd, and Pauline Stroud. Others in the cast: Suzanne Fisher (Judith), Stratford Johns (Lloyd Calvert), Alison Bayley (Mrs Bartington), Angela S... (Tina, her daughter), Michael Barrington (Passport Officer). 46 (12th May 1960) written by Keith Dewhurst, designed by Seamus Flannery, directed by Jean Hamilton. Ginger has an odd assortment of passengers, including a man with a passion for ships, a drunk, and a newly wed couple. Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd, Jane Parsons and Pauline Stroud. Others in the cast: Brian O'Higgins, George Pravda, Ewen MacDuff, Andre van Gyseghem, Ray Mortt and Renny Lister. 47 (19th May 1960) written by Peter Caldwell, produced by Jack Williams, directed by Eric Price. Why is Scotland Yard interested in the emigration of the Connell family? Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson and Jane Parsons. Others in the cast: Gerald Case (Mulligan), John Ruddock (Flint), Patrick Newell (George Connell), Hazel Douglas (Jenny Connell), Ann Chapman (Claire, their daughter), Robert Cawdron (Insp Davies), and Joy Stewart (Miss Jackson). 48 (26th May 1960) written by Leonard Fincham, designed by Roy Stonehouse, produced by Jack Williams, directed by Jean Hamilton. A beautiful film star is on Ginger's plane, but trouble comes in the shape of a mysterious baby passenger. Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd, and Pauline Stroud. Others in the cast included Betty Huntley-Wright (Mrs Langdon). 49 (2nd June 1960) written by Owen Holder, designed by Peter Caldwell, produced by Jack Williams, directed by Eric Price. A boy is caught running away from the plane just arrived from Jamaica. Ginger suspects he was a stowaway. But why is he so pleased at being sent back again? Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd, and Pauline Stroud. Among others in the cast: Johnny Sekka (Sampson) and Lloyd Lamble (Chief-Insp Prior). 50 (9th June 1960) written by Terry Pritchard, produced by Jack Williams, directed by Jean Hamilton. A retired film star meets her ex-husband, a film director, flying back from Italy. He is planning her comeback when he receives some vital news which sends him rushing off to Hollywood. Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd, and Pauline Stroud. Others in the cast: Guest star Patricia Roc as Iris West, with Alan Tilvern as Phil Harvey and Michael Aldridge as Dr Michael Davis, Iris' husband. 51 (16th June 1960) produced by Jack Williams, directed by James Ormerod. An enchanting little girl called Caroline tries to smuggle her puppy through customs, but Ginger soon finds there's a much more serious matter on his hands- espionage. Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd, Jane Parsons and Pauline Stroud. Others in the cast included: Arnold Diamond (who wrote the script and plays Chief Preventive Office), Elaine Miller (Caroline), Jack Wollgar (Patterson), Mercy Haystead (Miss Bourn), Henry Longhurst (Westwell) and Dudley Sutton (Deans). 52 (23rd June 1960) written by Owen Holder, designed by Terry Pritchard, produced by Jack Williams, directed by Jean Hamilton. In this very last story, Ginger buys some property shares abroad on behalf of the travel company, but are they worth anything? Starring George Moon, Manning Wilson, Edward Judd, Jane Parsons, Joy Stewart and Pauline Stroud. Others in the cast: Barry Letts (Fitzmaurice), Laine Winters (Fatima), Norman Pitt (Hendrix), Moira Kaye (Marion) and Daphne Oxenford (Matron). To Taped Series Menu . . . . . . . The Spanish Girl The only surviving story. Transmission date probably September 10th 1959. (ITN Source lists the episode as MAY 10th 1959, which is impossible as the series hadn't commenced then!) Cast included the regulars: George Moon, Katharine Page, Lisa Gastoni and Gerald Harper. A problem off the Madrid flight. Immigration are so alert they have spotted a discrepancy in the surname of the passenger called Maria (Eira Heath),"a bit of a dish," though perhaps this appellation was by 1959 standards. The girl has come to England as an au pair for Mrs Galbraith, and is supposed to be met by Mr Galbraith from Wolverhampton, but he's not turned up. As she's a client of the World Wide Travel Agency, she is seen by Mr Ginger Smart, who rabbits on topically about football, "too bad you missed Billy Wright." Miss Pooch acts as interpreter, then phones the number she's given, 5730. But by this time a Mr Hamilton has called for Maria, in place, he says, of Galbraith. But this surprises Miss Pooch when she returns, for it seems the Galbraith's have just left for a holiday in Corsica. They had cancelled Maria's offer of employment. "It doesn't look good," admits Duty Officer David. But though Maria left, she returns to airport reception and Ginger questions here more, with Miss Pooch's assistance. Something about coming to England to get married. Ginger talks to Hamilton, who states Maria had indeed come here to meet her boyfriend, a jazz trumpeter he thinks. Ginger, David and Hamilton soon sort out this storm in a teacup. But as she had lied to get into this country she will have to be deported. But then there is a surprise development, for Peter Galbraith turns up. He's her boyfriend, seemingly quite respectable. A neat little ending, with Maria promising to apply for a visa so she can get married to Peter. This story finishes with Miss Pooch telling Ginger Smart that she has got a job in New York, so is leaving the series To Skyport . . . . . . . . The Corridor People In 1966 the brilliant Edward ('Eddie') Boyd wrote this regrettably short series, one of several offbeat dramas he created for Granada. A stylish, self-confident programme, full of enigmatic characters. Eddie once said "it's the characters, not me, who decide what happens. Quite often they run away with the story. It's one long improvisation, almost." Yet it panned out jolly well! The host of inventive and eccentric characters included: John Sharp as Kronk, head of Dept K at the Ministry of Defence. Miss Dunner (June Watson) is his nervous but eager secretary. His yes men are Inspector Blood and Sergeant Hound (Alan Curtis and William Maxwell), a double act, two minds that beat as one, as they enter and exit Kronk's office to do his bidding, "blooming messenger boys, that is all we are." On the other side is Elizabeth Shepherd as an enemy agent, the seductive Syrie van Epp ("I do everything very well")- she really exults in her role as a scheming alluring female, a hint maybe of how she played her role in the aborted Avengers film that was scrapped. Whatever her failings there, she makes this series. Acting as one of Kronk's agents, though he's not averse to money from Syrie, is private eye Scrotty (Gary Cockrell), as dingy as his name, in a backstreet office dominated by a giant poster of Humphrey Bogart. Some of his fine lines often reflect the Master too. The sets were deliberately, if also conveniently, sparse, making for a theatrical mood, but also acting as a contrast to Elizabeth Shepherd's exotic wardrobe. Derek Hilton provided a fine jazzy score. It's a shame only four stories were made, as this series was certainly as way-out as the imminent The Prisoner, without any of that programme's obscure irritations. Offbeat this is, but it is performed with a gusto that proves everyone enjoyed making it and having a laugh at themselves, and at this level, this was, in retrospect, Granada's high spot, along with The Odd Man, in original drama. Very sadly, these are the only stories made, but at least they are now available on dvd. 1 Victim as Birdwatcher 2 Victim as Whitebait 3 Victim as Red 4 Victim as Black Taped Series Menu . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Victim as Birdwatcher (25th/26th August 1966)- Capture of a birdwatcher (Tim Barrett). He had been watching the "greater crested train robber," when a glorious white vision had dawned on his binoculars and he had been knocked unconscious. Syrie van Epp, now in black, has imprisoned this Christopher Vaughan. He owns a crucial share in Templar Cosmetics. "You have something I need," she explains to him. His answer is no. Sir Wilfred Templar (Clive Morton) commissions Phil Scrotty to find his godson Vaughan, the son of his old cricketing partner. As Scrotty is working for both sides, he gets Sir Wilfred to talk to Syrie's prisoner, though his visit is not much comfort, "bite the bullet" he advises. But the singleminded Vaughan resists everything Syrie and her henchman Weedy throw at him, so Syrie resorts to the ultimate. Now she's in white again, and they are to get married... Kronk of Dept K has had his minions searching for Vaughan. Sullavan (Windsor Davies) as well as Insp Blood and Sgt Hound. The reason for this fine attention to Christopher Vaughan is revealed by the flighty Candy, the girl friend of research chemist Pym, who had accidentally discovered a scent "that turned her into an imbecile for 24 hours." The effects wear off, though it seems Candy was always like that. Pym has destroyed all his files, and the bottles of the scent, though of course he might still fall into enemty hands... Kronk has a job for Miss Dunner- shoot the double dealing Scrotty. She enjoys that enormously. With the Templar share now due to Syrie on their marriage, Vaughan is freed. Yet now he falls into the hands of Kronk who demands that share "in the national interest." Vaughan is blinded by love and cannot accept Kronk's portrayal of his beloved as a future merry widow. So Vaughan is put on trial, charged with being "a wilful and contumacious enemy of the realm." Guilty. Bang! Thus the state inherits his share. Syrie has had her own problems too. Her faithful Weedy is not so faithful, he's a stiff upper crust type, working for the other side. But Kronk still ain't got the drug and look, Syrie is now ravishing Pym. "I am wearing this--- that nightgown, in his memory," she tells him. Will he tell her his formula...? To Corridor People episode details . . . . . . . . . 2 Victim as Whitebait (recorded 24 August 1966 for transmission the following week) - Hounds are baying, mist swirling as Elizabeth Shepherd camps it up on Graveyard Patrol at the empty grave of detective Phil Scrotty. Not that he was ever dead, an "elaborate hoax." Miss Dunner who had shot him, is hauled over the coals by Kronk her boss, though it wasn't her fault- she'd been given blanks. The drunken "pet scientist" of Syrie's, Robag (Aubrey Morris), who has hit on this desirable scientific secret of bringing the dead back to life, knows it's "something to do with fish." That must be Whitebait, one genuinely dead body who has just been brought back to life, though it's unfortunate his young wife Abigail has wanted him dead. So she can be ravished by Phil Scrotty. "My dead husband just walked in the door!" Mrs Abigail Whitebait ("high income bracket, low on IQ") tells Scrotty. He's the living proof of Robag's brilliant discovery. But Robag's not going to share his secret with anyone, for Syrie's henchman shoots him. Miss Dunner is another of their unfortunate victims, failing in her latest mission for Kronk. "Why aren't you dead?" Kronk greets Scrotty, who is given his next job, to unearth recluse accountant Samson Whitby who can prove Syrie van Epp's employer de Farge is a swindler, doctoring the books to the tune of three million. In a memorable scene in the park, Syrie pushes a pram containing the biggest baby you ever did see. For a toy, read machine gun. She aims to silence Whitby but "the poet of double dealing," Scrotty himself has the last laugh for it's Whitebait who has been lured to the park bench, who is shot dead for a second time, and all on account of the desirable Abigail. Ditto for Samson, and thus de Farge is immune from prosecution. Kronk is in hysterics over Scrotty's double dealing, who is far too busy walking into the sunset with Abigail OK, so the plot is a gigantic muddle with a lot of loose ends, but oh those characters, they really do make up for it all! To Corridor People . . . . . . . . 3 Victim as Red - "A nut, a real nut" Scrotty tells us of his client who has been searching for his brother these past seven years. There is this manuscript, the blueprint for a fictional robbery that later took place. A train robbery (topical eh?), "how very very strange." The author, missile expert Col Hugo Leeming (John Woodnut) has now allegedly lost his memory, but he once was in charge of a missile testing station, but disappeared seven years ago, and was presumed to have defected. He was even alleged to have been spotted in a Russian shop buying a record. In fact he had been kept a prisoner in a seedy boarding house guarded by his landlady, a Mrs Winkle. But he's now escaped, and he has somehow landed up in Syrie van Epp's Rolls. She is keen to "look after" him ("business with pleasure") in a quest for two million quid. But Kronk wants him and the cash too, since Mrs Betty Kempsford, her "show business career in pieces" (Betty McDowall) was the colonel's first wife and she's also on the trail. Her second husband, the late Abel Kempsford, had been one of the train robbers ("the colonel's lady married the convict's wife"). Scrotty is also engaged by her to find her first husband. Who will succeed? Well it has to be Syrie, for she has him! She succeeds in unlocking Leeming's amnesia by playing him record after record, until a recording of Please Be Kind reminds him of his ex-wife's big hit. It is Kronk of course who gets his man betrayed by Syrie: "some people are unlucky at cards, some with women and others with horses. But you, colonel, have been unlucky with gramophone records!" In this Cold War story, there is of course plenty of double dealing, but Scrotty and Syrie finally corner "The Big Man." Betty has to admit to Kronk that "the party knows best." Scrotty gets £5,000 for his troubles plus Syrie. Although the script tails off slightly in the final act, it mostly sparkles as the cast ham it up with relish To Corridor People . . . . . . . . . 4 Victim as Black - "Shoplifter extraordinary" the Queen Mother Helena of Morphalia is back in town, incognito. Syrie van Epp is preening her peacock (literally) when the queen calls on her to ask her to help trace her "half-witted" son King Ferdinand XVIII who is chasing some girl called Pearl (Nina Baden-Semper). She's a black girl, and Phil Scrotty has also been retained by the king to find her- his only clue: one Cinderella-like slipper. when she's found the king wants to marry her. How nice. Also after her is Theobald Aboo who offers to pay Scotty NOT to find her! To reinforce his point, his two henchmen beat up this "white rubbish." Scrotty winds up in hospital where Syrie comforts him, well at least she's more comfort than Inspector Blood. From his sick bed, Scrotty persuades Syrie's maid (Pauline Collins) to conduct his search, but as it happens she is an old work colleague of Pearl's - they both were usherettes in a cinema. She tells Syrie where Pearl is, for more money, who tells Aboo. "I'm not just a pretty face," the searched-for Pearl confides to us viewers in a mysterious monologue on racial tolerance. Meanwhile of course, Kronk has been watching all of 'em. His department has an absurd machine which can analyse the data and summarise the plot: "The machine speaks... Aboo is after Black World Domination with a European Base." I should have guessed. So the solution is "Keep Morphalia White!" "This is ridiculous," cries Kronk, echoing our own thoughts- has the machine been wrongly programmed? Or has this programme? For the first time Syrie and Kronk meet as they agree on how to resolve the situation, to Syrie's financial advantage. There's a final sequence as the characters explain their roles: Syrie tells us "all I do is manipulate the moment," while Aboo tells us "the white man is yesterday." He explains he abhors mixed marriages. Kronk summons the Duty Assassin, to finish Pearl off. King Ferdinand enthuses at his return to his country: "they're even going to give me my own bomb!" A puppet of our government you feel. Rejoicing at this news is the queen. Now she can go shoplifting in her own country. Scrotty lies on his bed of pain, "who's losing, who's winning?" he raves. The last scene belongs to Pearl, a gun trained at her head, in this oddball finish. But I end with a line that sums up this fascinating series, "there are no mad like the sane mad." Taped Shows Menu To Corridor People . . . . . . . . . The Man in Room 17 Room 17 was Somewhere in Whitehall, handling cases that baffle police. This 13 part Granada series started on 11th June 1965 with Richard Vernon starring as Oldenshaw an "ex-Oxford type with a superior IQ," and Michael Aldridge as Dimmock, "Oldenshaw's red-brick equal." For more background, and episode details 2.1 How to Rob a Bank and Get Away with It (8th April 1966) This is a typically way-out Granada Friday night offering, but by 1966 this genre was really just past its sell-by date. Suspicious characters at a bank! "Hand over the money now!" Manager George Horton (Brian Wilde) deals efficiently with the situation, only to be told it's a film, by the latest wave of Cinema Verite directors, the celebrated Saroya, who explains that head of the Wessex Bank, Sir Giles, had granted permission for the project. But Horton is fuming at his not being informed. However flattery convinces this amateur actor that he and his wife should agree to appear in this latest Saroya film. "A blueprint for a perfect robbery," is this film, and as a precaution Room 17 send Bob Henty to join the film crew. Rehearsals at the Horton home are proceeding painfully slowly. But there's a frightening development, when Horton receives a phone call stating his daughter Christine has been kidnapped. Is it part of the film? Saroya isn't telling, but he does advise Horton to follow instructions and not contact the police. Another call from the kidnappers demands Horton opens the vaults of his bank, but to do that he needs the keys of his assistant, Davies, and he's not at home. What to do? Saroya admits he's actually impersonating the famous director, it's his devious plan to rob the bank. Why such a charade is less obvious. Room 17 arrange for the police to call at the Horton's: "is this an amateur film?" asks the copper. "The Hortons look tense and frightened," is the report sent to Room 17. Henty has sent them rushes of the film shot at home and the penny drops: "this is a real bank robbery." The robbery is now taking place as Davies has been contacted. "The climax of our film" as the vault is opened. Horton locks himself inside and demands to see his daughter. But it's a futile gesture, the keys are snatched from him, and he is forced to open the bank safe. Now the script describes the crooks making for the nearest airport, to a waiting private plane. But the police have read the script and Saroya is caught, though his scriptwriter Simpson (Mike Pratt) flies away with the loot. But at Gatwick Airport ("such an unimaginative place!") he too is arrested. Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . . . Mr Rose (1967/8) William Mervyn's character of Charles Rose first made his appearance in The Odd Man and remained a popular feature of Granada's Friday night viewing for several years. By the time he was awarded his own tv series in 1967, the character created by Eddie Boyd had retired from the police force, becoming considerably less acerbic. Nevertheless the series still oozed style, thanks to Mervyn's polished performance. He enjoyed the high life in his classy Rolls Royce, 4267PP. 3.4 The Jolly Good Fellow (28th November 1968) (An interesting edited draft complete script of this story can be viewed on the internet.) Mr Rose is in his Rolls with Robert Trent, off to St Stephen's College, where he is being made a fellow. But that old trick, a diversion sign, leads him straight into the hands of a lot of masked student loonies."You've just been kidnapped," they inform him, as part of their Rag Week. But a generous ransom and Mr Rose finally reaches the college safely. An old colleague, Sgt Pilbeam, is there. His job is to guard a valuable modern painting by Daniel Butler, that is being donated to the college by an eccentric millionaire Sir Gilbert Treece. His nephew, Dashwood, is a research student at St Stephen's. Prof Fawcett gives Rose and Trent a conducted tour of the buildings, including the chapel where hangs a large and valuable sixteenth century painting. The college can't even afford to insure it. They also see the crypt, where Sir Gilbert's picture is being stored, prior to the presentation ceremony on the morrow. Rose and Pilbeam examine the crate in which it is kept, and are shocked to see inside also a copy of the old sixteenth century master. Rose attends the rag ball, with some very with-it dancers, but poor Trent is assigned to keep watch in the chapel... The door creaks open, and several students overcome Robert. Next morning Rose awakens him. The painting has gone. "I helped them take the picture out of the frame," Robert confesses, "it's only a rag week stunt." But that's where he's wrong! Mr Rose orders the students to return the picture in time for the rag week service. This is a curiously protracted scene, presumably as a whole choir had been paid for, we get three verses of the hymn Lead Kindly Light. I presume, as we are not shown the reinstated painting until the end of this scene, that it is intended as some kind of dramatic device, but it falls flat. Next scene is the unveiling of Sir Gilbert's picture. In a drawn out final denouement, Dashwood is accused by Rose of replacing the chapel painting with a fake, with the connivance of his so-called uncle. Rose, in his dry way, gives the young man a dressing down. Then on film, we see Rose walking in the garden reserved for fellows of the college. Yes he was a Jolly Good Fellow, even if, by this story, he was also jolly mellow. Taped Shows Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sherlock Holmes (1951) starring John Longden as the immortal detective and Campbell Singer as Dr Watson The Case of The Man Who Disappeared Based on the Conan Doyle story The Man with the Twisted Lip Neville St Clair (Hector Ross), a patient of Dr Watson, has disappeared. A "very old friend" Marie had come to his home one day and insisted he obeys orders, or else....... Kate his wife (Ninka Dolega), seeks SH's help. She doesn't know who the woman was, but she has found out her husband's alleged place of work does not exist. SH examines the area around this address, and follows a mysterious match seller through a graveyard and on to Redmead Lane near Tower Bridge. Kate is brought there and spots her husband through a window. In rushes SH to find St Clair dead in the room. When the police arrive the corpse has of course disappeared from the match seller's room. But there is some clothing that belongs to St Clair, and his coat is found underneath the window on the bank of the Thames. The house is a shady opium den owned by Luzatto (Walter Gotell). Against all this evidence, Kate still believes her husband is alive. "I ought to be kicked from here to Baker Street," jokes SH as he concurs with her. The key is in the bathroom of the house, he adds cryptically. Kate's intuition seems to be substantiated when she receives an anonymous letter in printed letters cut from a magazine stating Neville is alive. SH of course can deduce much from this missive. It's from a woman. He breaks into the property of this lady, Doreen alias Marie, at the opium den belonging to Luzatto, to ask her why she'd sent the note. Answer: "Neville told me to." Luzatto had been blackmailing Neville St Clair because he thought he had killed Doreen's husband. Neville had feigned death when SH had found his corpse earlier- incredible that SH was so taken in! Nevertheless, SH persuades her to set a trap. The crooks break into Baker Street and capture SH. At least they think it's SH, though it's actually DrW. He's taken to Luzatto, who realising the error, orders DrW to write a note to SH ordering him to come to the den. But in breaks SH and there's a fight, during which, with typical sneakiness Luzatto creeps away. When the fisticuffs are over, the match seller is shown to be Neville, who'd been a virtual prisoner of the evil Luzatto. He's exonerated of the crime he thought he was guilty of, so they all live happily etc etc Crime Menu . . For the 1954 Sherlock Holmes series starring Ronald Howard . . For the 1965 Douglas Wilmer series . . For the 1979 Geoffrey Whitehead series . . . . . . . . . . Jonnie and Me A 1960 pilot made by Revue, filmed in Mexico. and starring Richard Greene as Jonnie, and Robert Strauss as "me" (Hank) with, in this story Hazel Court, also Fernando Wagner, Jerome Cowan, Elsa Gardenas. Teleplay: Danny Armold and Roland Kibbee. Directed by Danny Armold. Producer: Richard Irving. This pilot was made but no series ever materialised from it. It introduces the main character, Jonnie, a wealthy playboy but secretly working for the US government, and his rival "me" aka Hank.They enjoy an uneasy relationship trying to spy out secrets and obtain the best price possible for them. This adventure has the added bonus of an appearance by Hazel Court. It starts in Acapulco where Jonnie, relaxing on his luxury yacht with his latest conquest, rescues survivors from a stricken destroyer. The mystery is how it could have been sunk by a torpedo. Jonnie stumbles on a note which shows that a millionaire named Karnak had had his ship fitted up with just such a torpedo. Jonnie invites himself to an exclusive party on this vessel. A beautiful guest, Victoria, catches him taking photos so he chats her up and dances with her. Then he goes below to try and locate the torpedo and bumps into Hank. Behind a bulkhead he finds what he is looking for. He photographs the torpedo but they are discovered and dragged into the presence of Karnak. "You may die," he tells them. They are chucked overboard, which seems hardly murderous intent as the pair swim ashore. Now Hank wants to share the vital photos, but Jonnie has to concede he hasn't got them. When he was searched he had handed them to Vicky. When she comes ashore, she coldly informs Jonnie and Hank she has sold them to a higher bidder, ie Karnak. But later, at the airport, she kindly hands them to Jonnie alone, for a kiss or two. Hank however is wise to that and butts in to grab his share. All very tongue in cheek, anticipating the mood of the 1960s spy genre, if this had been made a few years later it would surely have caught on. It's a very slight story, but interesting to watch Richard Greene attempting to throw off the shackles of his Robin Hood, alas, that was just impossible with the series ever being repeated Crime Menu . . . Pilots' Menu . . . . . . . . . . Boyd QC starring Michael Denison in the title role, a well-respected, highly professional man-about-the courts. Richard Boyd QC is in demand by all kinds of clients. Some of his cases include murder, fraud, forgery, blackmail and poison pen letters. One of A-R's big successes, the series ran from late 1956 until 1964, with time off, of course, for good behaviour. 83 stories were made. Writer of all the stories was Jack Roffey, who also plays a court official. Introducing each story, and acting as narrator was Boyd's clerk (Charles Leno). The set was an adaptation of Courts Three and Four at the Old Bailey, though this was never actually referred to, in the stories. Note on actors in the series. In addition to those listed below, the following have also stated they appeared in this series, though the actual story is not at present known: Michael Bates, Mark Dignam, Raymond Francis (most probably series 1), William Franklyn, Jeremy Geidt, Mervyn Johns, David Blake Kelly, Doreen Keogh (series 1), Paul Massie, Jill Melford, George Mikell, Charles Morgan, Isa Miranda (not series 1 or 2), Peter Stephens, June Thorburn, Susan Travers, Selma vaz Dias, Mavis Villiers, Lockwood West. Series 1 ran for 13 weekly stories, commencing Christmas Eve 1956. 1:1 Her Father's Daughter Designed by George Haslam. Directed by Michael Currer-Briggs. Synopsis: what was the secret of Ruth Martin that turned the case for James Lavers? The first ever episode. 1:2 The Greenstreet Girl December 31st 1956. Designed by George Haslam. Directed by Cliff Owen. Synopsis: Judy Greenstreet, a secretary, endeavours to evade the amorous advances of her boss. The situation which ensues involves her in a charge of arson. 1:3 The Case of Casanova Jones Monday 7th January 1957 Directed by Ronald Marriott Cast includes: Junia Crawford. To quote Boyd himself- "When is a bigamist not a bigamist?" The results of the marital adventures of a soldier, Pte Jones. "There are four complete answers to a bigamy charge... proven absence of the marriage partner for seven years coupled with a genuine belief of death; dissolution of the first marriage and nullity of the first marriage. There is also a fifth which is not laid down by law, but which is equally effective. We meet it when Boyd QC defends a certain Private Jones, Casanova Jones as he became known in this case." 1:4 The Ordinary-Looking Man Monday 14th January 1957 Directed by Michael Currer-Briggs. "Richard Boyd is by no means invincible nor is he intended to be a 'clever dick.' There comes a time when his client is not quite so fortunate- when evidence is stacked too strongly against him. As Boyd's clerk, George, points out, 'You can't build bricks with straw.'... In this episode the case against Hatton Garden's diamond merchant Rosenstiel is black indeed, innocent as he would appear to be. This is a story of diamond smuggling that starts when an Irish runner is apprehended at the airport and refuses to divulge the names of his accomplices. Police investigation leads to the diamond merchant who by a circumstantial twist of fate finds himself in the dock." 1.5 Final Night Alibi January 21st 1957. "Boyd's clerk George quotes Mr Weller's advice on how to conduct the case of Bardell v Pickwick- 'Stick to the alleybi' says Mr Weller, 'a alleybi's the thing to get him off!' George ends the programme some 27 minutes later, 'An alibi is like a chain. The more links in it the longer it gets... the difficulty lies only in finding its weakest link.' Finding that weak link is Boyd's task. He is confronted with the seemingly cast iron alibi of two crooks plaintively protesting their innocence to a charge of breaking and entering an office and stealing jewellery and silver to the tune of several thousand pounds" 1:6 The Light Tackle Job Monday 28th January 1957 Directed by Ronald Marriott. A violent criminal on the run can be gentle enough with the woman who loves him, but to the public at large he is a potential killer. 1.7 The £10,000 Wash Out February 4th 1957 Of nearly 4,000 cases of forgery known to British police in a year, two thirds are cheque forgeries and of the few odd ones, one would certainly have been the falsely time-stamped betting letter. Colonel Barlow, assisted by his wife perpetrates a simple but effective method of putting this fraud into operation. A £10 treble win placed on three outsiders would win the Barlows a five figure fortune. All the runners had of course come in first but Barlow's bookmaker smells a rat. So does the Post Office, so do the police; and so the colonel finds himself in the dock. It seems fairly obvious that he has engineered a betting swindle but it is going to be difficult to prove, and Boyd as Prosecuting Counsel begins to feel that the defendant is going to get away with it. But Col Barlow did not keep up to date with his racing and it turned out to be all a matter of time and a horse called Crumpet that unseated him 1:8 The Open and Shut Case February 11th 1957 An American woman in her mid thirties is accused of murdering her aged husband. Blackmail by an old American friend of hers enters the plot... Jealousy by her husband's housekeeper complicates the issue. The accused pleads not guilty. Cast included Honor Blackman 1:9 Both Sides of the Story Monday February 18th 1957 Directed by Ronald Marriott. 'The Stage' reported the following were part of this cast: Betty McDowall... Defence Counsel Christine Pollon... Helen Porter Boyd's clerk says, "A mean cowardly sort of crime, and quite rightly the courts come down on it hard. All the same there are always two sides to every story." This robbery takes place in a railway carriage and the young man, Peter Hayman, is arrested on the charge in which he is alleged to have been armed with an offensive weapon, a revolver, and robbed Helen Porter of a necklace. The accused pleads not guilty, and Boyd QC is briefed to prosecute. 1:10 The Light That Was Dark February 25th 1957, 8pm Directed by Michael Currer- Briggs Synopsis: Hate and blackmail provide important elements in this case, where Richard Boyd defends a fascinating and sophisticated woman who is accused of murder. 1.11 Hit and Run March 4th 1957 The charges concerns a road accident. The case in question is an up to date one from the point of view that causing death by dangerous driving is a new offence in Great Britain created by the Road Traffic Act of 1956. Replacing the charge of manslaughter which hitherto covered the same cirumstances, death by dangerous driving is no longer a felony punishable by life imprisonment, but a misdemeanour carrying a maximum sentence of five years. However, when a man's car kills a cyclist one night, police find him intoxicated at home. Boyd QC defends. But even he finds this a tough nut to crack. 1.12 The Key of the Door March 11th 1957 Directed by Ronald Marriott Synopsis: Minks and sables, beautiful furs worth thousands of pounds are stolen on a Sunday afternoon. Only one person could have done it- according to the prosecution. 1.13 The Third Stroke March 18th 1957 (note- this story is definitely still in existence) Synopsis: This case, the last in this series, is one of breaking and entering. A safe is blown open so expertly that it points to only one man. Eventually arrested, he stands in the dock, but Boyd finds his alibi as tough to crack as the Bank of England vaults. However, even good witnesses are persuaded that the timings of a defendant's alibi can be wrong, even by ten seconds. Series 2 with 12 stories started in April 1958. 2.1 The Up-and-Coming Man April 9th 1958 Synopsis: A girls decides to end her relationship with a married man. He takes the decision badly and threatens her life. One night she is razor slashed by an assailant, and she accuses her ex-lover. Nevertheless, arrested and charged, his case seems certain to be dismissed. Boyd, as prosecuting counsel, has to work hard against strong evidence to get a conviction. 2.2 Mustapha- King of Reefers 16th April 1958 In the second edition of Boyd QC, Richard Boyd acts as prosecuting counsel in a case of drug trafficking. An Indian, Mustapha, is caught in possesion of hemp. 2.3 The Shropshire Lass Wednesday 23rd April 1958 7.30pm Directed by Michael Currer-Briggs. Synopsis: Ken Morris pleads guilty to a charge of receiving stolen goods. Did his beautiful girl friend who is charged with him know the truth? 2.4 The Balance of her Mind 30th April 1958 Says Boyd's clerk Albert, 'By the MacNaughton rules of 1843, no person can be convicted of any crime if it can be shown that at the time he committed it the balance of the mind was so disturbed that he didn't know what he was doing was wrong. And it is up to the defence to prove this...' The story opens with the murder of a middle aged lady by her twin sister, an epileptic. A next door neighbour hears the sounds of the killing and calls the police. 2.5 The Not-So-Civil-Servant May 7th 1958 Director: Michael Currer-Briggs Boyd QC finds himself defending an unpleasant character charged under the Prevention of Corruptiion Act. Richard Coote, a Licence Enforcement Officer, threatens a small Soho cafe proprietor with a traffic offence and suggests the matter could be glossed over for a small consideration. The cafe owner reports the matter to the police and Coote is arrested. 2.6 Two Wrongs May 14th 1958 Directed by Jonathan Alwyn. Synopsis: Armed robbery is a serious offence in the eyes of the law. In this episode, the Court's work is made difficult through a case of mistaken identity. Storyline: Charles Woodman, a young tough is in the dock charged with robbing a jeweller at pistol point. Woodman pleads Not Guilty and Boyd takes on his defence though the evidence is strongly stacked against the accused. 2.7 The Other Half May 21st 1958 "A young mother, Mrs Pearson, is in the dock after attempted suicide by gas poisoning. She is charged on an indictment containing two counts- attempting to murder her baby and attempting to commit suicide. Boyd defends." Cast included Carmel McSharry as Mrs Pearson. 2.8 Subaltern Red May 28th 1958 Directed by Jonathan Alwyn. Although every possible detail is carefully checked by police, it does sometimes happen that the vital clue remains stubbornly elusive. In such a case the work of counsel is rendered doubly hard. "Synopsis: A young woman is found strangled in an East End coalyard and her husband Edward Dixon is charged with her murder. Prosecuting counsel produces damning evidence of Dixon's guilt and Boyd has to use all his powers of defence." (Sounds like Perry Mason all over again!) 2.9 A Question of Type June 4th 1958 "Did old Mr Maitland write the libellous letters to discredit his son or was Dr Tom Maitland's cunning responsible for his father's appearance in court? That is the question posed in this edition of Boyd QC. Boyd is briefed to prosecute Mr Maitland on a charge of publishing a defamatory libel. Opposing him across the court is defence counsel Emrys Williams. The libel takes the form of anonymous letters which allege that popular Dr Tom committed an illegal operation on a young girl. This the doctor heatedly denies. By some careful police work and a little bit of luck the machine on which the letters were typed is traced to Maitland's own house- to his father's room. But in court Counsel Williams insists it was planted there by the doctor, eager to gain long-awaited revenge on his father for something which happened in the past 2.10 Last Train Home June 12th 1958 Directed by Jonathan Alwyn. "Marjorie Nelson is a wilful spoiled girl, accustomed to getting her own way, and living in an atmosphere of Only The Best Will Do. Her association with young Frank Atkins, eager to please her every whim but financially prevented from doing so, seems headed for unhappiness. In this tenth story of series two the story has gone a step further, from unhappiness to tragedy. Frank is in the dock accused of Marjorie's murder. Returning home on the last train after an expensive night out, the problem of money again causes an argument. Marjorie becomes hysterical, threatens to kill herself and opens the door of the carriage. Frank attempts to save her but the girl slips and falls from the moving train. An obvious accident, but in a dying declaration, Marjorie accuses Frank of pushing her. At the trial Boyd defends Atkins." TV Times add the explanation that the evidence of a deceased person can only be admitted if the judge is satisfied the deceased was aware of their impending death. 2.11 The £12,000 Fiddle June 18th 1958 "Three men, Quentin, Martin and Milne, are charged with conspiring together to obtain £12,000 from an insurance company by false pretences. The first two plead Not Guilty, but Milne anxious to return to the path of honesty he has followed for nine years admits the crime and offers evidence to the Crown against his former accomplices. Upon Boyd falls the responsibility of proving that Quentin and Martin are indeed guilty of fraud. All he has is Milne's uncorroborated statement, nothing at all in writing to connect two seemingly innocent men with the crime. And Milne is a former criminal whose last conviction was for a similar offence to the one with which he has now pleaded guilty." 2.12 The Family Affair June 25th 1958 "Richard Boyd finds himself in court defending a member of his household, German maid Putzi Weigel. Putzi faces a charge of child stealing and another of causing the baby grievous bodily harm. When the baby, bruised and beaten, is found in the wardrobe of her bedroom, Putzi at first denies hysterically all knowledge of it. Later she admits taking the child from its pram but vehemntly denies cruelty, alleging that the baby's mother is to blame. She is brought to court where Boyd finds himself in the strange position of cross-examining not only Putzi, but his own father and sister, Joanna. This is the first time Boyd's family have appeared in the series." Series 3 ran for 16 weekly episodes from 30 December 1958. 3.1 A Couple of Macs December 30th 1958 "Two Scots go out on a pub crawl on New Year's Eve and become involved in a fight. They are charged with assault and causing an affray. Boyd is asked by an old friend to represent them under the Poor Prisoners Defence Act, does so, securing their release under two points of law. The results are highly amusing although based on actual law and authentic legal procedure." 3.2 Nylon Spells Murder Tuesday January 6th 1959, 10.15pm Directed by Jonathan Alwyn. Synopsis: When a man has been killed and the case is being considered, a most important factor is time- that is, the time in which the intention to kill was formed. Without that intention, a killing is not murder; it may not even be manslaughter. 3.3 Old Tom January 13th 1959 "Old Tom Brown, on the brink of receiving a life pension and £1,000 gratuity after 40 years with the post office, is charged with stealing three postal orders from a letter." 3.4 A Question of Talking Turkey Tuesday January 20th 1959 Directed by Michael Currer-Briggs Synopsis: Three weeks after Christmas is the harvest time for a bumper crop of Christmas crimes. Why did Boyd take this case? Was John Wainwright really involved in the turkey racket? 3.5 Cheap Ticket January 27th 1959 "A good alibi is a cheap ticket to an acquittal any day of the week- and the alibi Bill Minto cooked up was the cleverest in many a long day." 3.6 Confession of Murder February 3rd 1959 "Was Pollard's confession voluntary, or made under pressure? How does a barrister reconcile his conscience to defending a man he believes to be guilty?" 3.7 An Inside Job February 10th 1959 "Like many burglars, Harry believed in working with inside help, and, like many burglars, he was caught. It seemed an open an shut case. But Boyd was warned that Harry might still have a trick up his sleeve." 3.8 The Samurai Killing February 17th 1959 Murder for gain and murder for revenge. Most cases of killing fall into one of these two categories, but murder for jealousy is not so common, and poses more difficult problems. 3:9 In Camera Broadcast: 24th February 1959 Directed by Geoffrey Hughes Cast: John Welsh... Sgt Bolton Peter Bull... Morley Brenda Hogan... Elizabeth Wayne William Abney... Robert Welsh Charles Gray... Tickle Also in cast: Ronald Leigh-Hunt... Braber Ronald Cardew... Judge Graham Leaman... Clerk of the Court Malcolm Watson...Usher (recurring) It is said the camera cannot lie. But when a photograph proved Elizabeth Wayne guilty of theft, there were some who thought the camera had made a mistake. For my review 3.10 Escape March 3rd 1959 It is not generally known that a Queen's Counsel can sit in a judiciary capacity as well as continuing his normal work. In this episode, Boyd, as Commisioner of Haslefor Assizes, is confronted with the tragic case of Olga and Eva Christof (my review). 3.11 Rope's End Tuesday March 10th 1959 Murder on the high seas. Cragg always picked on Gaston Ledoux, until one day he went too far. 3.12 The Crooked Path Tues March 17th 1959 10.15pm Directed by Jonathan Alwyn. Synopsis: 'It worked in the film so it must work in real life' is an attitude encountered in the courts all too frequently. This week, Boyd defends a case of attempted murder- a case which need never have happened if Bill Whelan had faced up to life's problems. 3.13 In A Manner Dangerous Tuesday March 24th 1959 A famous French actress was injured in a car crash and a pedestrian killed. Was Yvonne la Fayette guilty of driving 'in a manner dangerous'? 3.14 Flat to Let Tuesday March 31st 1959 This story deals with a phoney estate agent who induces people to pay registration fees as a condition of obtaining particulars of available flats. In fact he has no list of flats, but keeps his clients dangling until the fee expires. 3.15 Matrimony Wanted Tuesday April 7th 1959 In this final episode of the series, Peter Donovan, a confidence trickster, tries to defraud Valerie Frinton of her life's savings with an illegal marriage certificate. Series 4 started on 29 June 1960 and ran for 13 stories. 4:1 A Case of M'Shimba Wed 29 June 1960 8pm "Martha, an African girl, intends to marry a coloured American GI. Odapi, to whom she had been betrothed by a tribal custom, comes to England to take Martha back. A row develops, a policeman is called and Odapi attacks him with a knife. Odapi is arrested. In defending him, Boyd explains that Odapi believed the policeman to be a 'blue devil' sent by a witch doctor to punish him. (Odapi had been chosen as a vehicle for a dead chief's spirit, a belief known as M'Shimba, and had broken tribal custom by leaving his village.) The High Court Judge believes Odapi and orders the jury to acquit him." Cast: Dan Jackson... George Albert Memorial Odapi Barbara Assoon... Martha Shimboko Millard Williams... Tom Bates Malcolm Keen... Judge John Horsley... Mr Fraser Lawrence James... PC Shaw Edward Harvey... Mr Hornham Malcolm Watson...Usher Weyman MacKay... Clerk of the court Corinne Skinner/Zoe Adams... African girls Benny Nightingale/ Slim Harris... African men 4:2 Hell Hath No Fury Wed 6 July 1960 8pm Synopsis: Take two women, one man, a pinch of jealousy, a blade of malice- but do not stir these ingredients or you will have a first-class explosion. "Helen Laird, Paul Soames' secretary and mistress, is charged with blackmailing him. She employs Boyd to defend her and convinces him she has been framed by Soames' wife. Mr Waring, the Prosecuting Counsel, has a strong case. However Boyd finds irrefutable evidence which convinces the court that Helen Laird is not guilty, and that she has been the victim of Mrs Soames' jealousy" Cast: Gwen Cherrell... Helen Laird Alfred Burke... Prosecuting counsel Noel Johnson... Paul Soames Annette Kerr... Mrs Soames John Dunbar... Mr Howarth Peter Collingwood... Mr Moate Geoffrey Denys... The Judge Weyman MacKay... Clerk of the court Owen Berry... Usher 4:3 The Hard Way Wed 13 July 1960 4:4 One for the Road Wed 20 July 1960 8pm Directed by Pat Baker Synopsis: A car in the hands of a drunk can be a lethal weapon and 'one of the road' can lead to sudden death as quickly and surely as the hangman's rope. Cast: Bill Kerr... Lewis Gorman Leonard Sachs... Prosecuting Counsel Peter Rosser... Harry Bennett Glyn Houston... Det-Insp Brown Jeffrey Segal... Dr Martin Peter Fraser... Peter Dalton Ronald Cardew... The Judge Claude Jones... Knowles Trevor Maskell... Det-Sgt Smithers Arthur Lawrence... Grindley Weyman Mackay... Clerk of the Court Owen Berry... Usher 4:5 Jellied Eeels They're Luv'ly Wed 27 July 1960 8pm. Directed by Michael Currer-Briggs Storyline- Rosie's eels and pies are 'doing very nicely,' but her ambitions grow too large against the better judgement of her crafty accomplice Willie. Cast- Megan Latimer... Rosie Gould George Tovey... Willie Walters Sheila Ballantine... Lottie Machin Molly Lumley... Old woman Geoffrey Hibbert... Alf Parker Patrick Newell... Bert Geoffrey Denys... Judge (in several of this series) Donald Eccles... Mr Limpkin Anthony Sagar... Dt-Insp Douglas Owen Berry... Usher (also in other stories) Betty Cardno... Mrs Painter Mignon O'Doherty... Mrs Toogood Louise Stafford... Mrs Noakes 4:6 The Decoy Chick: Wednesday 3 August 1960 8pm directed by Pat Baker. The Homicide Act of 1957 divides murder into two categories: 'capital' murder- punishable by death; and 'non-capital' murder- punishable by life imprisonment. Sometimes as a result, a man's life depends on nothing but a pure technicality. Jim Lyons is a case in point. Cast: Bryan Coleman... Prosecuting counsel Barry Warren... James Lyons John Barrie... Det-Supt Knott Diane Clare... Helen Mackenzie George Howe... Dr Lifford Harold Goodwin... Stent Gordon Whiting... Turley Brian McDermott... Snaith Reginald Smith... The Judge Lionel Gamlin... Mr Lermitt Ian Clark... Standish Michael Oxley... Webster Anthony Dawes... Mann Weyman MacKay... Clerk of the court Owen Berry... Usher 4:7 Uncle George 10 August 1960 8pm The story: Every so often someone will try to pervert the true course of justice, and such was the case when Boyd was sitting as Special Commissioner at Springfield Assizes William Squire... Mr Corby Redmond Phillips... George Pack Leslie Weston... Mr Martin Mary Watson... Joanna Harriden Barrie Cookson... Jonathan Courtenay John Kidd... Dr Sullivan Colin Tapley... Det-Inspector Fuller Edna Petrie... Miss Ralton Frank Pemberton... Usher John Boddington... Clerk 4:12 The Dog with a Bad Name (this was to have been the last of this series) September 14th 1960 8pm 4.13 Ada's Daughter September 21st 1960 Series 5 ran for 13 episodes, commencing 24 May 1961. 5:1 The Needle Match Wed 24 May 1961 8pm Directed by Jonathan Alwyn David Spencer, international football star, is accused of killing an opposing player by deliberately dangerous play during a needle match. Pete Murray... David Spencer Maureen Connell... Ruth Hanson Sheila Raynor... Mrs Spencer Wensley Pithey... Mr Wodhurst John Miller... Judge Richard Wakeley... Lewis Peter Welch... Monro Kent Walton... Commentator Ronald Mayer... Mr Straker 5:2 The Old Flame Wed 31 May 1961 8pm Directed by Jonathan Alwyn Boyd defends a young doctor who is brought before the General Medical Council accused of improper conduct with a woman patient. Cast: Barrie Cookson... Dr Matthews Hal Dyer... Mr Matthews Fred Hugh... Mr Stunt Owen Holder... Mr Hakin Christine Finn... Marion Shaw Ralph Nossek... Geoffrey Shaw Alan MacNaughtan... Mr Walton Langley Howard... President 5:3 Treasure Trove Wednesday 7th June 1961 8.55pm Directed by Richard Gilbert Synopsis: The finding of buried treasure at Staddon Hall involves Boyd in the defence of its owners, the Carpenters. Cast: Charles Carson... Oswald Carpenter Barbara Leake... Phyllis Carpenter Peter Elliott... Peter Day Edward Higgins... Dt-Supt Brooks Ronald Ibbs... Edward Rickard Leslie Weston... Sam White Robert Webber... Mr Clark Horace Sequeira... Judge Terence Woodfield... Richard's junior 5:4 Out of the Frying Pan Wed 14 June 1961 8.55pm Directed by Richard Gilbert Synopsis: Boyd QC, acting as Commissioner at the County Assizes, gives a young junior a chance to act for the defence in a case of bigamy. Cast: Gillian Raine... Miss Robins, barrister Noel Howlett... Mr Corby QC Carl Lacey... Clerk Pearl Nunez... Emmeline Davis Dan Jackson... Johnson Lionel Ngakane... Davis Donald Hoath... Dt-Sgt Roper William Douglas... Prison officer 5:5 Family Business Wed 21 June 1961 8.55pm Directed by Michael Currer-Briggs Synopsis: Boyd's father is sued for breach of contract over the sale of a collection of jade. Cast: Austin Trevor... Brig. Boyd Phyllida Law... Susan Boyd Campbell Singer... Col Berringer Bay White... Mrs Berringer Donald Stewart... Steinbeck Moira Kaye... Secretary Avril Elgar... Valerie Hodges Nigel Davenport... Meadows QC Noel Dryden... Solictor Brian Hayes... Judge Colin Rix... Court attendant Malcolm Watson... Associate Roger Williams... Usher 5:6 Messing about in Boats Thursday 29 June 1961 8pm Directed by Richard Gilbert Synopsis- Steven Blackford and Alexandra Haydon are sentenced to life imprisonment. To Boyd QC something appears wrong with the case and he finds grounds to bring them before the Court of Criminal Appeal. Cast- Gillian Raine... Miss Robins Henry McGee... Parker John Wyse... President John Boyd Brent... Mr Baker Richard Clarke... Steven Blackford Julie Paul... Alexandra Haydon Ann Tirard... Harriet Haydon David Evans... Paul Haydon Frank Seton... Barman Keith Pyott... Simpson Jeremy Geldt... Dr Bassett Pamela Hewes... Miss Trevor 5:7 Findings Keepings Thursday July 6th 1961 8pm Directed by Michael Currer-Briggs Synopsis: Once more Jimmy Burris is in trouble- and once more Boyd agrees to defend him. But this time there is a ten year sentence hanging over Jimmy's head if the jury finds him guilty. Leslie Dwyer... Jimmy Burris Margaret Bull... Miss Manners Erik Chitty... Mr Prendergast Jean Conroy... Barmaid Chris Carlsen... Reg Carpenter Manning Wilson... Billy Hilder Edmond Bennett... First henchman Max Miradio... Second henchman Edward Dentith... Police sergeant Allman Hall... Mr Gregory Reginald Smith... Judge Weyman MacKay... Clerk (recurring) Owen Berry... Usher (recurring) 5:8 The Runabout Thur 13 July 1961 8pm Directed by Richard Gilbert Synopsis: A pretty girl is 'had up' for speeding- a twist of fate finds Boyd defending her at the Old Bailey on a far more serious charge. Cast: Penelope Horner... Kathleen Ewen Ivor Salter... Dt Insp Courtenay John Wentworth... Mr Ewen Weyman MacKay... Clerk (recurring) Barry Sinclair... Mr Fleet QC William Kendall... Mr Blake Michael Bangerter... Jonathan Blake Brian Hayes... Judge (recurring) Owen Berry... Usher (recurring) 5.9 Sunday's Child Thursday 20th July 1961 8pm Directed by Jonathan Alwyn An elderly couple are charged with abandoning a baby in a country church. There is no doubt that they are guilty but the problem is- whose child is it? Eileen Devlin... Mrs Douglas Elsie Wagstaff... Mrs Davis Oliver Johnston... Mr Davis Bryan Coleman... Insp Burton Daniel Thorndike... Mr Barclay Eric Elliott... Clerk of the court Anthony Bate... Desmond Francis Virginia Maskell... May Davis 5.10 Roast Chicken Thursday 27th July 1961 8pm Directed by Sheila Gregg Boyd goes to the country for a weekend's golf- but finds himself helping some friends involved in a case of arson. Cast: Ronald Leigh-Hunt... Tom Venning Annabel Maule... Hilda Venning Jack Carlton... Martin Vale John Woodvine... Mr Clovier QC Reginald Marsh... Dt Insp Holland Charles Houston... Peter Dunn Frank Gatliff... Magee Brian Hayes... Judge (recurring) Norman Atkyns... Barman 5:11 Death on Tap Thur 3 Aug 1961 8pm Directed by Jonathan Alwyn Synopsis: James Wilson is committed for trial on a charge of murdering his wife. Richard Boyd is briefed to defend him. Cast: Laurence Hardy... James Wilson Patsy Smart... Mrs Wilson Ann Lynn... Betty Catherine Woodville... Susan William Devlin... Mr Stanley QC Tony van Bridge... Inspector Dalston Geoffrey Denys... Judge Laidlaw Dalling... Bob Craddock Sydney Wolf... Usher Ronald Meyer... Mr Fry 5:12 The Headmistress Thur 10 Aug 1961 8pm Directed by Richard Gilbert Synopsis: To the world, Marion Westbury, headmistress of a school for handicapped children, is a deeply religious and dedicated woman. When Boyd QC defends her on a serious charge, he soon realises that it is going to be difficult. The cast: Gladys Boot... Marion Westbury Aimee Delamain... Gladys Westbury Bruce Wightman... Marriott Dannis Handby... Lever Ronald Adam... Mr Noel Reginald Jessop... Inspector Rae Trevor Baxter... Mr Austin QC Donald Bissett... Judge Carl Lacey... Judge's clerk Billy Milton... Clerk Hedger Wallace... Customs man Lionel Wheeler... Prison officer 5:13 The Season of the Year Thur 17 August 1961 8pm Directed by Jonathan Alwyn Synopsis: General Braithwaite cannot resist the temptation to poach salmon on his neighbour's estate. But his weakness leads him into deeper water than he bargained for. Cast: Roger Livesey... General Braithwaite Austin Trevor... Brigadier Boyd (recurring) Michael O'Halloran... McBean Norman Bird... Police sergeant Derek Tansley... Mr Draper QC Brian Hayes... Judge (recurring) Norman Shelley... De Silva Harry Littlewood... First poacher Frank Pendlebury... Second poacher Owen Berry... Usher (recurring) Weyman MacKay... Clerk of Assize (recurring) John Waite... Jury foreman Alan Tucker... Keeper Series 6 started in autumn 1963 and was not fully networked. It seems to have run for 16 stories, announced by Associated Rediffusion as: 1 Fishy Story, 2 A Conspiracy of Silence, 3 Parlez-vous, 4 What the Eye Doesn't See (see 6.3 below), 5 Pictures in the Fire (see 6.9), 6 By Gas That's Murder, 7 The Fourteen Hundred Dollar Question, 8 Thread of Evidence (see 6.7 below), 9 No Hoper (6.14), 10 A Little Learning, 11 Square Peg (see 6.10 below), 12 The Reluctant Persecutor (sic- see 6.15 below), 13 The Case of the Lazy Eye (see 6.16 below), 14 The Hurricane, 15 The Simple Question, 16 End of Term (see 6.10). Some 'leading actors' announced to appear in this series were Dulcie Gray, Edgar Wreford (see 6.13), Guy Deghy, Kenneth Connor (see 6.3), Leslie Dwyer and Carl Bernard (6.9). TV Times stated that in 1963 Boyd QC was screened in six countries abroad, and that included Australia, where according to Michael Denison it was "immensely popular." 6:3 What the Eye Doesn't See Friday 8 November 1963 10.5pm Directed by Pat Baker The story- As Chairman of the Appeals Committee at Springfield Magistrates Court, Boyd patiently hears the case of Bajendra Singh who was found guilty of serving Dins Dog Food in his Indian curry. Cast: Kenneth Connor... Bajendra Singh Roy Dotrice... Mr Jacobs Jeffrey Segal... Mr Victor John Woodnutt... Mr Jackson Patrick Newell... Mr Pyecroft 6:7 Thread of Evidence Friday 6 December 1963 10.5pm Directed by Pat Baker In the Civil Court, Boyd has a hard task defending a young couple, until his Junior comes to his assistance with her superior knowledge- not as a barrister, but as a woman. Robert Brown... Adrian Marshall Howard Douglas... Stationmaster Bill Treacher... Arnold Frank Littlewood... Clerk Richard Bebb... Mr Eadey Mary Yeomans... Mary Dunnett Richard Thorp... Tom Dunnett Joy Shelton... Ann Marshall Kenneth Henry... Judge Gilliane Raine... Sheila Robins John Citroen... Douglas Aldwyn 6:9 Pictures in the Fire Friday 20 December 1963 Directed by Richard Gilbert A fire at the countess's London art salon, and Boyd finds himself defending her in court. Isa Miranda... Contessa Anna Maria Villaresi Carl Bernard... Tarquin Eley QC Windsor Davies... Mr Wood Brian Badcoe... Mr Price Keith Pyott... Judge Frank Seton... Shopkeeper William Job... Adrian Marley Martin Cookson... Usher 6:10 End of Term Friday 27 December 1963 Directed by Pat Baker Boyd accepts a dock brief from Bessie Mann, accused of stealing nine cage birds. Clifford Mollison... Judge Leonard Trolley... Clerk Margot Boyd... Bessie Mann Walter Sparrow... Prison Officer Patricia Hayes... Miss Twiss Peter Gale... Policeman Ernest Clark... Mr Hinson Owen Berry... Usher (recurring) Barbara Bruce... Florrie Moss Robert Hunter... Joshua Ireland 6:13 Square Peg 16th January 1964 Directed by Richard Gilbert Boyd has recollections of his army days when he finds himself Defending Counsel at a district court martial. Richard Warner... Sir Hugh Adair Edgar Wreford... Major Alsop George Tovey... Smudger Smith Cavan Kendall... Private Adair Patrick Connor... CSM Frazer Hugh Morton... Mr McDermott Stuart Nichol... President of Court Martial Edward Phillips... Judge advocate's rep John Maynard... First Recruit Martin Appleby... Second Recruit Clive Marshall... Third Recruit Shane Rogers... Fourth Recruit Martin Cort... Fifth Recruit The three final programmes had originally been announced for series six, but evidently there had not been time to screen them, and they were shown to fill in odd slots. 6.14 The No-Hoper Director: Richard Gilbert March 5th 1964. Synopsis: Joy Tyson, a successful model, pleads guilty to a serious crime and comes before Boyd QC who is Recorder at Springfield Assizes. Her refusal to talk puzzles him, but Boyd discovers the reason for her silence. Rest of cast: Ian Macnaughton (Det Insp Burtenshaw), Walter Brown (Peter Blandford), Daniel Thorndike (Mr Pitcairn), Janine Grey (Joy Tyson alias Alice Springer), John Flint (George Ireland), Hamish Roughead (Clerk) and Peter Hutton (Usher). 6.15 The Reluctant Prosecutor Directed by Richard Gilbert 16th September 1964 Synopsis:Boyd defends an American driven to crime by his hobby Natalie Kent... Bessie White Frederick Leister... Major General Boyd Charles Carson... Toby Bailey Terence de Marney... Hiram P Gruber Derek Nimmo... Mr Barden Donald Bisset... Magistrate Cyril Wheeler... Magistrate's clerk Fred Ferris... Sgt Wilkes Christopher Wray... Court police officer 6.16 The Case of the Lazy Eye, 23 September 1964. Directed by Raymond Menmuir. In the last ever story, Boyd finds himself defending Halfern's Holiday Camps Ltd in a damage claim against them. As he thinks the company is clearly in the wrong it seems an open and shut case - until one witness makes a slip. Cast: Jack Melford... Mr Caston Ernest Hare... Judge Bert Brownshill... Mr Halfern Leslie Sarony... Mr Grogan Eric Dodson... Mr Ormeroyd Derek Martinus... Mr Cox Lavender Sansom... Nurse Joe Gibbons... Mr Western Anne Pichon... Mrs Western Sarah O'Connor... Ann Western Richard Longman... Mr Beresford Richard Wilding... Usher Derek Jones... Boy --- To Boyd QC . . . . . Murder Bag Brief details of some of these live stories: 1.1 CASE 1: SEPTEMBER 16. Monday September 16th 1957 9pm Written and produced by Barry Baker Directed by Jean Hamilton When a Scotland Yard detective sets out to solve a murder, he takes with him a 'Murder Bag.' This exciting new series will show viewers how the contents of the bag are used to trap a murderer. The bag contains rubber gloves, small boxes of various sizes ansd shapes for holding clues like hair, ciragette ends, dust etc, a small but powerful magnifying glass, pliers, tweezers- everything the detective needs for his first survey of the crime. CASE 4: OCTOBER 7 October 7th 1957 Written and produced by Barry Baker Directed by Jonathan Alwyn When investigating a murder, things are not always what they seem, and an innocent face does not guarantee an innocent person. CASE 6: OCTOBER 21 October 21st 1957 Written and produced by Barry Baker Directed by Jonathan Alwyn Murder by poisoning can be a very difficult crime both to trace and to prove, but it's harder to escape the evidence which can be provided by using the Murder Bag. CASE 12: DECEMBER 2 December 2nd 1957 Written by Peter Ling, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Directed by Jonathan Alwyn. According to the local police, this is an open and shut case, but when Supt Lockhart arrives on the scene, he thinks differently. CASE 15: DECEMBER 23 December 23rd 1957 Written by Peter Ling, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Directed by David Boisseau. Supt Lockhart investigates the theft of some turkeys. It's always happening at Christmas- but this time a man is killed. CASE 17: JANUARY 6 January 6th 1958 Written by Barry Baker, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Directed by David Boisseau. In a quiet country village, a man has been murdered. There are plenty of clues for Supt Lockhart to work on, but it is village gossip which gives him a definite lead. CASE 18: JANUARY 13 Jan 13th 1958 Written by Barry Baker, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Directed by John Moxey. Supt Lockhart uses the records department as well as the Murder Bag to track down a killer. CASE 19: JANUARY 20 January 20th 1959 Written by Barry Baker, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Designed by Fredric Pusey. Directed by David Boisseau. Colonel Boulton is found murdered. The obvious supect is an escaped convict named Lofty Potter. But Supt Lockhart knows Lofty of old, and does not want to prefer a charge just yet. CASE 20: JANUARY 27 January 27th 1959 Written by Peter Ling, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Directed by John Moxey. A murderer of unusual cunning matches his wits against the combined forces of Supt Lockhart and the Murder Bag. CASE 21: FEBRUARY 3 February 3rd 1958 Written by Peter Ling, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Designed by Fredric Pusey. Directed by David Boisseau. Amy Carslake, American heiress, is found drowned in her bath. The bathroom door is locked, and it looks like a case of death by misadventure. But a photograph gets publicity, and the affair takes a different turn. CASE 22: FEBRUARY 10 February 10th 1958 Written by Barry Baker, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Directed by Jean Hamilton. Even the rich can be involved in murder. Supt Lockhart- with the Murder Bag is called in to solve an unusual case. CASE 23: FEBRUARY 17 February 17th 1958, now at 9.30pm Written by Peter Ling, based on a story by Glyn Davies. Designed by Fredric Pusey. Directed by David Boisseau. A night watchman is attacked, and a valuable consignment of nickel stolen. During the investigation, a case of robbery with violence becomes a double murder. CASE 24 February 24th 1958 Written by Barry Baker based on a Story by Glyn Davies. Directed by Jean Hamilton. To a tramp, two crossed arrows means 'go anywhere away from here,' but to Lockhart they can point the way to a murderer. CASE 25: MARCH 3 March 3rd 1958 Written by Peter Ling based on a story by Glyn Davies. Designed by Frank Gillman. Directed by David Boisseau. An old bicycle pump and the obduracy of a Swiss shipwright, seem to be the only clues in what Scotland Yard calls The Stolen Anchor Case. CASE 26: MARCH 10 March 10th 1958 Written by Peter Ling based on a story by Glyn Davies. Designed by John Clements. Directed by Jean Hamilton. Somebody in the gang talked too much, and the police are able to make a swift arrest. This adds up to a motive for murder. But as Supt Lockhart discovers, things are not always what they seem. CASE 27: MARCH 17 March 17th 1958 Written by Peter Ling based on a story by Glyn Davies. Designed by Henry Federer. Directed by John Moxey. In the grim atmosphere of a prison, murder is committed. Supt Lockhart is presented with many suspects among the convicts. CASE 30: MARCH 31 March 31st 1958 Written by Glyn Davies Designed by Michael Yates Directed by Jean Hamilton. Jeslousy, greed, love- these three emotions mixed with plain water equal the hardest case of Lockhart's career. Note: this plot is advertised in TV Times for the above date, though the case number should be no 29, and it is possible this programme went out as Case 30 the followuing week (ie April 7th) 2.2 (Case No. 32) LOCKHART BUYS A BROOCH July 7th 1958 8pm Written by Barry Baker based on a story by Glyn Davies. Designed by Frank Nerini. Directed by Cyril Coke. Unpremeditated and senseless killing is one of the most difficult types of murder to solve. Note: Richard Thorp also appeared in Murder Bag, in an unknown story. To No Hiding Place . . . . . Sergeant Cork John Barrie starred in the title role, with William Gaunt as his assistant Bob Marriott. They appeared in all stories. Theme music: Philip Green. Producer: Jack Williams. Charles Morgan, as Supt Rodway starting with the third series, eventually received star billing alongside Barrie and Gaunt. He first appeared as a different character in #10, but made his bow as Sgt Rodway at the end of series 2 (#21), becoming a regular as Supt Rodway in all series starting with series 3 (in all stories except #32, 47, 58). It was announced that AJ Brown was to join the final series in 1966 as Assistant Commissioner John Thor(!), but I can only confirm his appearance in #43. Other slightly regular characters appearing in some stories were: Freddie Fowler as Chalky White who was in all the series, but not every tale, on a semi-regular basis. He was definitely in these: 1, 2, 5, 7, 10, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 21, 29, 32, 33, 37, 38, 39, 40, 44, 45, 48, 51, 57, 61, 62, 64, 65. Arnold Diamond as Insp Bird in later stories of the first series only (6, 7, 8, 10, 13, 14). John Richmond as Supt Nelson in 1, 8, 10, 12, 14. Carmen Silvera as Mrs Fielding in 2, 9 (she is also in #61 in a different role). In the second series, Edward Ogden appeared as Sgt Gardner in 18, 19, 21, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 32, 33, and Barry Raymond was PC Evans in 18, 19, 28, 39. (Note: These characters are not listed in the cast lists below.) 1.1 Case of the Reluctant Widow (Saturday June 29th 1963, 10pm) Script: Ted Willis. Director: Christopher Morahan. If it was murder, who is responsible; the dead man's wife Julie Oxley (Jean Trend)? The young cafe assistant, Clive Graham (Christopher Guinee)? Sergeant Cork discovers the answer. Others in the cast included: Howard Lang as Drayman, Hazel Coppen as Mrs Benny, Peter Halliday as Dr Cato, Hilda Barry as Kate Oxley, Lucy Griffiths as Lucy Wells, Gerald Case as Major Bradnock, Roger Avon as Insp Moss, Kathleen St John as Harriet, Bunty Bruce as Maria, Sydney Bromley as Tramp, George Day as Constable Page, Anthony Cundell as Police Sgt, Edward Argent as PC. 1.2 The Case of the Girl Upstairs (July 6th 1963) Script: Ted Willis. Director: Quentin Lawrence. Lucy Beasley (Margaret Diamond) is certain a crime is being committed in her home, and she implores Sgt Cork to investigate. Is she a bitter, frustrated woman, out to cause trouble, or are her fears justified? Also in this cast: guest star Joseph Furst as Ernst Lukas. Mary Kenton as Charity Beasley, Philip Latham as Arthur J Lowman MD, Meg Ritchie as Jane Beasley, Hilda Fenemore as Nellie, Richard Butler as George Morton. 1.3 The Case of the Two Drowned Men (July 13th 1963) Script: Bill MacIlwraith. Director: Philip Dale. When Sgt Cork and Bob Marriott begin their investigations to find two criminals wanted for murdering a bank messanger, a tip-off takes them to the London waterfront where they uncover a sordid riverside trade. Also in this cast: Paul Curran as Joe Hornby, Victor Brooks as Sgt Dempsey, Sheila Steafel as Annie Blake, Tony Beckley as Steve Gurling, Judy Child as Ma Strickley, Barbara Archer as Maud, James Mellor as Alf Blake, Georgina Patterson as Nancy Stevens, C Ruthven Mitchell as Sid, and Ray Austin as PC Mercer. 1.4 The Case of the Knotted Scarf (July 20th 1963) Script: Jon Manchip White. Director: Philip Dale. Cork and Marriott are called in to investigate the murder of a retired general's young wife, found strangled in a derelict bungalow in the grounds of an old country house in Devon. Also in this cast: Brewster Mason as General Langford, Valerie White as Mrs Henderson, Mischa de la Moote as Doctor, Edwina Carroll as Sorya, Royston Tickner as Insp Bolam, Robert Arnold as Jean-Pierre Ducane, Alan Haines as PC. 1.5 The Case of the Stagedoor Johnnie (July 27th 1963) Script: Richard Harris. Director: Philip Dale. Kate Seymour (Eira Heath), a young star of the music hall, receives poison pen letters, threatening her engagement to Hon James Stratton (Michael Meacham), a stagedoor Johnnie. Cork investigates, finding himself in a tense backstage drama. Also in this cast: guest star Cicely Courtneidge as Bessy Seymour, Robin Wentworth as Harry Marlowe, Jeremy Longhurst as Lord George Creighton, Peter Hoar as Chairman, Fred Hugh as Waiter, John Heawood as Dancer, David Burke as Arthur Stephens, Lyn Ashcroft and Valli Newby as Chorus Girls. 1.6 The Case of the Respectable Suicide (August 3rd 1963) Script: Julian Bond. Director: Philip Dale. Mr Bertam, a respectable and deeply religious man, is found dead by his housekeeper Mrs Holland (Diana King). Sgt Cork and Bob Marriott investigate what seems to be a case of suicide. Also in this cast: June Watts as Polly, Terence Soall as James Lord, Joy Stewart as Sarah Parry, Norman Scace as Rev Septimus Barrow, Robert Young as Typesetter, David Rose as Victor Brandon, Edward Cast as Albert Parry. 1.7 The Case of the Slithy Tove (August 10th 1963) Script: Bruce Stewart. Director: Rex Firkin. An urchin (John Burnham) sees a mysterious gentleman visiting Trumble (Beaufoy Milton), an ex-criminal, in his slum house. Later Trumble is found dead. With the help of the urchin, Cork solves a puzzling case. Others in this cast: Bruce Beeby as Lake, Ann Lynn as Nora Trumble, John Junkin as Perryman, Edmond Bennett as PC, Robert James as Dr Stuart, Peter Fraser as Sam manners, Hugh Morton as Hotel Manager, Barry Wilsher as Hotel Clerk, and Frank Littlewood as Sir William Watt. 1.8 The Case of the Persistent Assassin (August 17th 1963) Script: Fiona McConnell. Director: Geoffrey Nethercott. Prince Frederick of Silesia (Garfield Morgan) arrives in London on a trade mission for his country. Sgt Cork is made responsible for his safety, and faces the problem of discovering those who are plotting the Prince's assassination. Also in the cast: Laurence Davidson as Leon Kortner, Redmond Phillips as Mr Smith and Liane Aukin as Irene Stone. Also: Julian d'Albie as Prime Minister, Langley Howard as Yakov, Eric Hillyard as Monte Gordon, Jack Lambert as Insp Henson, Michael Segal as Frank, Sally Bazely as Maria Sondheim, and Nicholas Meredith as Max Sondheim. 1.9 The Case of the Sleeping Coachman (August 24th 1963) Script: Ted Willis. Director: Geoffrey Stephenson. In spite of severe opposition from the Melrose family, Sgt Cork manages to discover the murderer of a laundry maid, whose body is found in their stable by a drunken coachman. Cast included: Rosalie Crutchley as Victoria Melrose, Mark Dignam as Sir Henry Melrose, with Beatrice Kane as Lady Melrose, Philip Bond as George Melrose, Barry Linehan as Jim Whittaker, John Harvey as Insp Armstrong, Patricia Clapton as Sarah, Dorothea Rundle as Cook, Stuart Saunders as Matt Bishop, and Patsy Smart as Betsy Bishop. 1.10 The Case of the Soldier's Rifle (August 31st 1963) Script: Ted Willis from a story by Bill MacIlwraith. Director: Lionel Harris. A strike at a factory: the army is called in to keep order and during a riot outside the gates a striker is shot. Accident or murder? Guest star Jane Wenham as Ivy Strong with John Boyd-Brent as Alf Strong, and Neal Arden as Charles Robinson. Also in the cast: Brian Badcoe as Mr Clarence, Tom Macaulay as Mr Cook, Basil Henson as Major Edwards, Anthony Cundell as Sergeant Major, Charles Morgan as Ned Fisher, Douglas Ives as Cleaner, Stephen Hall asPrivate Stringer, Maureen Tracey as Sister O'Reilly, Brian Tipping as Peter Rowlands, Alan Haines as George Duncombe, Jean Marlowe as Mrs Duncombe, Ron Eagleton as PC, and Betty England as Mrs Robinson. 1.11 Case of the Public Paragon (September 7th 1963) 1.12 The Case of Ella Barnes (September 14th 1963) Script: Eric Paice. Director: Geoffrey Nethercott. Ella Barnes was o give evidence about conditions of sweated labour in East London to a House of Lords Committee, but before doing so she is found drowned in a canal. Cork and Marriott suspect murder. Guest star Isa Miranda as Magda Brandel, with Robert Cartland as Brandel, and Gwendolyn Watts as Rose Wolf. Other in the cast: Peter Thompson as Joe Whitlock, Richard Steele as Sgt Evans, James Kerry as Alfred Barnes, Wynne Clark as Mrs Sinkins, Maybelle George as Mrs Briggs, Jack Phillips as Stan, Rosemary Ashford as Barbara Ellis, Colin Rix as Barman, Gladys Bacon as Mrs Poulson, Holly Doone as Maria Brunst, and Gerald Rowlands as Charley. 1.13 The Case of the Gold Salesmen (September 21st 1963) Script: Julian Bond. Director: Lionel Harris. With Derek Francis as Klein, Newton Blick as Evans, Jill Melford as Tamara Andreyev, and John Lee as Cartwright, Hugh Futcher as Solomons, John Woodvine as Carlyon, Keith Smith as Estate Agent, Noel David as Costumier, William Redmond as Bank manager, and Rica Fox as Cashier. Second series: 2.1 (14) The Case of the Fenian Men (Saturday December 28th 1963, 7.10 or 7.25pm depending on ITV region) Script: Bill Craig. Director: Josephine Douglas. Cork investigating an abortive Fenian bomb outrage at the House of Commons, is told by an informer that another treacherous attempt is planned. This time it's to be something very special. With Jack MacGowran as Drummer, Norman Rodway as John d'Arcy, Anthony Sagar as Sgt Tovey, Derek Benfield as Mr Spiller, Bryan Mosley as PC Rhodes, Maureen Toal as Biddy, Jack Cunningham as Quinn, Tony Doyle as Bryne, Brandon Brady as Selstrom, Robert Webber as Rev Pryke, and Vernon Smythe as Lord Liscurragh. 2.2 (15) The Case of the Fourth Visitor (January 4th 1964) 2.3 (16) The Case of the Ormsby Diamonds (January 11th 1964) 2.4 (17) The Case of the Medicine Man (January 18th 1964) Script: Bruce Stewart. Director: Jo Douglas. Bob Marriott is faced with two unusual problems. Why was Brother Edward (Lyndon Brook) twice physically attacked, and why does Edward imagine he has the power to perform a miracle and cure Rose (Alethea Charlton) of her lameness? Also in this cast: Peter Sallis as Rev Hubert Wales, with Sydney Bromley as Starkie, Daniel Thorndike as Dr Salter, David Pinner as Henry Chandler, Carlo Cura as Tommy, Fredric Abbott as Powers, Terry Plummer as PC. 2.5 (18) The Case of the Bristol Mail (January 25th 1964) Script: Arthur Swinson. Director: Josephine Douglas The night mail train arrives at its destination on time, but when the mail van is unlocked, it is discovered that it has been robbed. Cork and Marriott are sent to assist the railway police in their investigations. With Paul Dawkins as Alfred Little. Also in this cast: Alan Foss as Joseph Jenkins, Harry Littlewood as William Holt, David Webb as Fred Dale, George Curtis as Railway policeman, Lane Meddick as George Bilson, Bill Meilen as Amis Warren, Leonard Carcknell as Bill Lyne, Ann Way as Mrs Fry, William Forbes as Andrew Forrest, Valli Newby as Mrs Merton, Brenda Cowling as Sarah Jenkins, Jeremy Wilkin as Tom Pocock, Patricia Denys as Betty Chalmers, George Betton as Railway Porter. 2.6 (19) The Case of the Silent Suffragette (February 1st 1964) Script: Bruce Stewart. Director: Philip Dale. A bank is robbed, and in some way two females are implicated, one of them being Lady Martha Devereaux (Jane Hylton), a well-known leader of a movement for the Emancipation of Women. With David King as Walter Roper, Leslie Dwyer as Best. Also in this cast: Magro Croan as Nellie Benton, John Scott as Trumper, Eric Elliott as Politician, Raf de la Torre as Orator, Edmund Warwick as Clergyman, Beaufoy Milton as Accountancy Clerk, Susan Ross as Miriam, and Wendy Marshall as Winifred. 2.7 (20) The Case of The Self made Man (Feb 8th 1964) 2.8 (21) The Case of the Stricken Surgeon (February 15th 1964) Script: Bruce Stewart. Director: Philip Dale. Briscoe, a young surgeon, removes a brain tumour from a young woman, without the permission of the girl's parents, a criminal offence. With Bernard Archard as Sir Wilson Hermitage, Douglas Livingstone as Dr James Briscoe, Olice McFarland as Mary briscoe and Godfrey Quigley as Geohegan. Also with Jane Bowman as Alice Baxter, Alan Rothwell as Carney, Edward Harvey as Mr Baxter, Elaine Mitchell as Nurse, Charles Morgan as Sgt Rodway, Ivor Dean as Dr Rice, Charles Lloyd Pack as Sir George Pleydel, Peter Ducrow as Dr Joseph, and Carleton Hobbs as Dr Joseph Lister. Third series: 3.1 (22) The Case of the Two Poisons (April 4th 1964, 10.10pm) 3.2 (23) The Case of the Six Suspects (April 11th 1964) Script: Bill Craig. Director: Bill Stewart. Sgt Cork has a problem to unravel when he realises that six people are under suspicion for the death of Stephen Lancing, the managing director of a booming African gold mining company. With Archie Duncan as Andrew Gourlay, Donald Morley as Brewster, and Lloyd Pearson as Piggott. Also in this cast: Pat Connell as PC Birch, Annette Carell as Clara Lancing, John Stone as John Hoskins, Richard Klee as Pilcher, Sonia Graham as Hester Lancing, John Baker as Moscrop, Nicholas Grimshaw as The General, and Robert Webber as Greeley. 3.3 (24) The Case of Big Ben Lewis (April 18th 1964) Script: Ted Willis. Director: Josephine Douglas. Big Ben Lewis (John Phillips), an MP who supports trade unions and radical causes, is accused of writing and signing a letter to six members of a union, inciting them to commit murder. Sgt Cork suspects the signature may be a forgery. With Ellen McIntosh as Lily McArthur, George Waring as Harry Whittaker, Gil Sutherland as George Whittaker, Dorothy White as Ellen Whittaker, Denis Holmes as Insp Wilton, Garth Adams as Sgt Mason, Trevor Bannister as Clem Butley, Bernard Brown as Cpt McArthur, Alan Downer as Peter Glover, John Crocker as Mr Soames, Dixon Adams as Joe Dunning, John Lawrence as The Usher, Norman Pitt as Lord Justice King, David Aylmer as Mr White, and Robert Young as Clerk of the Court. 3.4 (25) The Case of the Amateur Spy (April 25th 1964) Script: Julian Bond. Director: Philip Dale A clerk at the Arsenal is murdered, and some secret documents are left on his body. Sgt Cork enlists Jean Dumas (Frederick Bartman), a known spy, to assist in discovering the traitor. With Geoffrey Keen as Minister, and Martin Wyldeck as Woolner. Others in the cast: Philip Anthony as Carruthers, David Weston as Alan, Julie Martin as Doris, David Blake Kelly as Harris, Madeleine Mills as Ann Fish, Jerold Wells as Mr Fish, Rosamunde Burne as Mrs Fish, and Judy Fergusson as Maid. 3.5 (26) The Case of the Elegant Mistress (May 2nd 1964- for my own review) Script: Ted Willis. Director: Hugh Rennie. An army officer is found badly wounded in the rooms of Mary Sanders (Moira Redmond), and she is accused of shooting him. She offers no defence until faced with the true facts by Sgt Cork. With Ronald Leigh-Hunt as Sir Maurice Hampshire, and Harold Innocent as Col Scott-Dunning. Others in this cast: Norman Mitchell as PC Peters, Jack Ritchie as PC Elms, June Monkhouse as Mrs Wharton, Zoe Hicks as Mrs Bell, Neena Harvey as Sister of Mercy, Keith Manser as Groom, Kerry Jordan as Capt Britton, and John Brown as Lt Harding. 3.6 (27) The Case of the Hangman's Noose (May 9th 1964) 3.7 (28) The Case of the Dumb Witness (May 16th 1964) Script: Julian Bond. Director: Philip Dale. A button is found on the window ledge of a house recently burgled. Sgt Cork thinks this is an important clue and starts investigations with an unexpected result. With Warren Mitchell as Kendrick, Manning Wilson as Sgt Leavis, Vanda Godsell as Mrs Whibley, and Geoffrey Frederick as Mike Good. Also in the cast: Jennie Paul as Anna Tapper, Kate Coleridge as Liz, Pamela Manson as Maggie Bates, Arthur Howard as Magistrate. 3.8 (29) The Case of the Monk's Hood Murder (May 23rd 1964) Script: Allan Prior. Director: John Cooper. When her husband dies, Marie Vincent (Elizabeth Shepherd) accuses Dr Snedden (Anthony Bate) of poisoning him. Sgt Cork finds no proof of this. Someone else then dies under similar circumstances: Cork then modifies his opinion... With Jill Dixon as Emma Snedden, Betty Romaine as Mrs Miggs, Jenny Counsell as Martha Cramp, Alan Lawrance as Mr Bannister, Alastair Hunter as Lord Starrington, Peter Hughes as Bleydon, Lewis Jones as Pullard, Barry Boys as Henry Cutts, Edward Waddy as Buller, and Stuart Monro as PC Hedges. 3.9 (30) The Case of the Penny Plains (May 30th 1964) Script: Bill Craig. Director: Philip Dale. Mrs Lily Sinclair (Barbara Murray), a young widow, reports to Scotland Yard that two mysterious attempts have been made to kill her. Bob Marriott, struck by her beauty, eagerly investigates, but in doing so becomes emotionally involved. With Derek Francis as Adrian Fitzgerald Tarbuck, and Michael Barrington as Dilthorne. Also in the cast: Keith Anderson as Dicker, Barbara Leake as Mrs Bainbridge, Violetta Farjeon as Emma Dilthorne, Lily Harrold as Mrs Jarvis, Richard Butler as John Sinclair. 3.10 (31) The Case of the Hero's Return (June 6th 1964) Script: Julian Bond. Director: Philip Dale. Sir Hector Bundy (Wensley Pithey) receives news that the heir to the family title has returned after eight years; hitherto reported as missing, believed killed, fighting in Africa. Sgt Cork has doubts about the claimant being genuine. With Patricia Haines as Calire Carr, Basil Hoskins as Frederick, and Zena Howard as Lady Agatha Bundy. Also in the cast: Carole Mowlam as Felicity Bundy, Hugh Morton as Carter, Brian Hawksley as Roger Phelps, Fred Kitchen as Quigley, Humphrey Heathcote as Henry James, Hazel Terry as Sarah James. 3.11 (32) The Case of the Great Pearl Robbery (June 13th 1964) Script: Ted Willis. Director: John Cooper. A valuable parcel of pearls from Paris sent by M Billot diamond merchant, goes missing somewhere en route to London. Bob Marriott and Supt Rodway investigate, though it's Sergeant Cork who finally solves the case. With John Barron as Monsieur Billot, David Sumner as Jan Van Norden and John Baskcomb as Chris Van Norden. Also in the cast were Chip Coveney as Mrs Else, Frank Seton as Albert Reid, Timothy Parkes as George Pemberton, Maureen Toal as Victoria Smith, Nadine Hanwell as Louise Billot, Katherine McGarrity as Jeanne Billot, Sandra Blaine as Marie Billot, Wendy Varnals as Lucille Billot, Roger Delgado as Insp Puichard, Hubert Willis as Gendarme, Peter Ashmore as Myers Abraham, Douglas Ives as Joseph Grizzard, Richard McNeff as Monty Hardman, and Yvonne Manners as Nell Lyons. 3.12 (33) The Case of the Killer's Mark (June 20th 1964) Script: Ted Willis. Director: John Cooper. Sgt Cork and Bob Marriott go to an old boathouse where a young woman has been found strangled. Three other murders follow in similar circumstances. Cork sets a trap to catch the murderer. With Robert James as Maurice Finch, Toke Townley as Harry Moon, and Carmel McSharry as Lottie Moon. Others in this cast: Amanda Grinling as Martha Cooper, Duncan Livingstone as Adam Wilson, Lewis Wilson as PC Davis, Simon Prebble as PC Forrest, Ian Fairbairn as Dr Sobers, Louida Vaughan as Betty Mills, Anne Woodward as Mrs Saunders, Jeffrey Segal as Insp Beckett, Haydn Ward as PC Morton, Patricia Shakesby as Maud Rogers, Joyce Hemson as Lil Barker, Bill Horsley as Moss. 3.13 (34) The Case of the Cynical Traitor (June 27th 1964) Script: Bill Craig. Director: Philip Dale. Sgt Cork is asked to assist in discovering a traitor who is selling important information to Germany. In spite of restrictions applied by the War office to Cork's methods, he is determined to see justice done. With Peter Dyneley as Field Marshal, Michael Aldridge as Col Farnham, John Harvey as Major Sprott, and Kika Markham as Ann Farnham. Also appearing: Terence Soall as Todd, Jonathan Newth as Capt Peters, Pat Nye as Miss Belton, Jean Conroy as Miss Pelly. Fourth series: 4.1 (35) The Case of the Vengeful Garnet (August 22nd 1964, 10.05 or 10.20pm according to ITV region) Script: Bill Craig. Director: Philip Dale. A thief confesses to stealing Sergeant Cork's wallet; in doing so, he states publicly that Cork had traced him first- and had been bought off with a £50 bribe. Cork is suspended from duty pending further inquiries. With Jane Griffiths as Mrs Wilson, Donald Hewlett as Charles Garnet, AJ Brown as Sir Edward and Gerald Cross as Insp Price. Also with Kate Story (Polly), Robin Ford (Brady), Michael Segal (Freddy), William Lyon Brown (Magistrate), Dennis Edwards (Counsel), and Fred McNaughton (Warder). 4.2 (36) The Case of the Wounded Warder (August 29th 1964) Script: Julian Bond. Director: Peter Collinson. Sgt Cork is called in to investigate a serious accident to a warder in a prison and in doing so, he has to resort to unorthodox methods. With Bernard Bresslaw, John Moffatt, Leslie Dwyer, Tony Beckley and John Wentworth. 4.3 (37) The Case of the African Murder (September 5th 1964) Script: Ted Willis. Director: Philip Dale. Cork and Marriott are sent out to Lagos to investigate the murder of an agent connected with the French West Africa Company. With Mary Kenton as Margot Brinton, Aubrey Richards as Dr Glyn Williams, and Michael Hawkins as Richard Brinton. Other in this cast: Heather Emmanuel as Angellee, Paul Gillard as Capt Fraser, Rosemarie Dunham as Freda Somers, Royston Tickner as George Somers, Tommy Ansah as Bokaro, Edward Dentith as Police sergeant. 4.4 (38) The Case of the Dutiful Murderer (September 12th 1964) Script: Julian Bond. Director: Bill Stewart. While Cork and Marriott are eating at a Chinese restaurant owned by Feng (Peter Sallis), a friend of Cork's, Feng's daughter Lotus (Lucille Soong) elopes with her lover. Tragedy follows, and Cork is involved with the Elders of the Tong. With Michael Atkinson as President of the Tong, Christopher Guinee as Chang, and Geoffrey Hibbert as Hsien. Also with Dallas Cavell as Barrett, Roger Avon as Supt Percy. 4.5 (39) The Case of the Pious Patriarch (September 19th 1964) Script: Bruce Stewart. Director: John Cooper. Marriott, sent to investigate a case of an anonymous letter received by a well known MP, encounters the family, and is struck by their odd behaviour and their strange religious beliefs. With Norman Tyrrell as Enoch Chatterton MP, Catherine Woodville as Vera Chatterton, and others in the cast: John Porter Davison as Thomas Chatterton, Adrienne Poster as Alexandra Chatterton, Gerald Rowland as Paul Chatterton, Len Lowe as Singer, Sidney Vivian as Barman, Derek Smith as Bert, Ann Lancaster as Lil Mayhew, Jill Hyem as Diana, Desmond Jordan as McNulty. 4.6 (40) The Case of the Merry Widower (September 26th 1964) Script: Ted Willis. Director: Philip Dale. Harry Bell (Barry Keegan) finds that jewels have been stolen from his safe and he suspects his daughter. Sgt Cork, who is an old friend of Bell, is asked to assist in discovering the truth. With Jennie Linden as Julia Bell, Diana Coupland as Ruth Bell, and Victor Brooks as Yates. Others in this cast: Anne Stallybrass as Parsons, Irene Sutcliffe as Greta Schulz. Note- This was the final story in this series, and there was now a break of over one and a half years before the final series was made. Series 5 (and last) 5.1 (41) The Case of the Fellowship Murder (Saturday April 9th 1966, 9.10-10.5pm- London transmission date- some other areas like ABC premiered the series as late as 1968.) 5.2 (42) The Case of the Wayward Wife (Saturday April 16th 1966) 5.3 (43) The Case of the Missing Cabinet Maker (Saturday April 23rd 1966) Script: Martin Worth. Director: Bill Stewart. Albert Quigg, a cabinet maker, cheats his workers of their wages. Soon after Sgt Cork is called in to investigate, Quigg mysteriously disappears. With Diana King as Mrs Quigg, John Glyn-Jones as Mr Scroop, Charles Lamb as Joe Robb, with Alan Hockey as Quigg, Walter Sparrow as Bill Finch, William Victor as Leslie, David Webb as Harold Gooch, Alex McDonald as Paddy, Edna Morris as Florrie and Betty Romaine as Mrs Bowey. 5.4 (44) The Case of Horseless Carriage (April 30th 1966- London, January 2nd 1968- ABC Midlands/North) Script: Gerald Kelsey. Director: Philip Dale. Cork and Marriott investigate the death of Charles Stevens, who has invented a horseless carriage. With Noel Dyson as Mrs Stevens, Noel Coleman as James Longthorne, David Burke as Joe Tyler, Nicholas Courtney as Huss, with Kenneth Thornett as Supt Harper, Fred McNaughton as Tom Yarrow, Pat Connell as PC Childs, Diana Beevers as Ruth Stevens, and Lynne Ashcroft as Lottie. 5.5 (45) The Case of the Prominent Thespian (May 7th 1966) Script: Michael Pertwee. Director: Victor Menzies. Cork is mystified by Sir Harry Tresize, a famous actor, whose actions are eccentric and alarming. With Hugh Manning as Tresize and Ellen McIntosh as Lady Leila Tresize. Others in this cast: Frank Barrie as PC Potts, Harry R Fripp as Old Gentleman, Jeffrey Segal as Winford, John Stuart as Dr Brown, Gillian Moxey as Mildred, Cyril Renison as Constable, and Mitzi Rogers as Eva James. 5.6 (46) The Case of the Dutiful Bride (May 14th 1966) 5.7 (47) The Case of William Huckerby, Platelayer (May 21st 1966) Script: Stuart Douglass. Director: Valerie Hanson. William Huckerby, a railway platelayer, slipped down an embankment and was run over by a train. It is questioned whether or not he was drunk at the time. Cork finds out the truth. With Maureen Pryor as Alice Huckerby, Harry Landis as Richard Hewatt, Lockwood West as Coroner, and Daniel Moynihan as Alfred Norton. Also with Eric Hillyard as Barman, Colin Douglas as Chairman, Donald Tandy as Brother Matlock, Leonard Woodrow as Police constable, Peter Hughes as Anthony Bromley, Frank Sieman as Dr Stanford Bell, Robert Young as Jury Foreman, and Brian Tipping as Hospital Patient. 5.8 (48) The Case of The Notorious Nun (Saturday May 28th 1966, Friday March 29th 1968 in Granada region) Script: Bruce Stewart. Director: Ian Fordyce. Cork and Marriott are faced with an unusual mystery when a police constable is discovered severely wounded in a nun's cell in the Convent of Divine Reparation. With John Phillips as Col Havelock, Pauline Letts as Mother Madeleine, and Terence Soall as Father Stanislaus. Also in this cast William Buck as PC Ward, Simon Brent as Gregg, Angela Thorne as Sister Scholastica, Sally Travers as Sister Bridget, Donald Tandy as PC Farley, John Breslin as Packer. 5.9 (49) The Case of the Rogue Regiment (June 4th 1966) 5.10 (50) The Case of the Travelling Texan (June 11th 1966) Script: Bill Craig. Director: Bill Stewart. Cork and Marriott invesitgate a robbery from Colonel Slocumb's caravan, touring the country with his Wild West circus. With David Knight as Zac Ledbetter, Eddie Byrne as Col Slocumb, David Bauer as Sam McCready, and Patricia English as Georgia Slocumb. Also in the cast: Holly Doone as Felicity, Rick Jones as John Culver, John Walker as Mr Budge, Terry Richards as Svenson, John Raven as Chief Running Wolf, Peter Carlisle as Cpt Fremont. 5.11 (51) The Case of a Lady's Good Name (June 18th 1966, July 7th 1966 9.40pm Westward TV, February 6th 1968 ABC) Script: Allan Prior. James Meredith (Geoffrey Palmer) escapes death when a knife is thrown at him by a mysterious stranger. Cork and Marriott seek a man with a birthmark who might lead them to the culprit. With Tony Beckley as Alex Devere, Jennifer Daniel as Emma Fitzroy, Terence Edmond as Harry Dutton, and Austin Trevor as Joseph Fitzroy. Also with Janet Kelly as Betsy, Patricia Denys as Meg Martin, and Joe Ritchie as Limpy Joe. 5.12 (52) The Case of Albert Watson, V.C. (June 25th 1966, 9.10pm) Script: Stuart Douglass. Director: Kevin Shine. (No William Gaunt in this story.) Albert Watson (Ronald Lacey) receives the Victoria Cross for bravery on the North West Frontier. During a quarrel with his father, Albert kills him, and barricades himself in his house, with Sgt Cork as hostage. With Moray Watson as Hon Percy Monkton-Parker, and Ewan Hooper as Dept Assist Commissioner Hornby. Also in this cast: John Flint as PC Moffatt, Marty Gauntlett as Lizzie Watson, Dorothy Dampier as First bystander, Michael Stainton as Second bystander, Darroll Richards as Third bystander, Patrick Scanlan as PC Turnbull, Bill Horsley as PC Walpole, Edward Brooks as PC Gibbons, Humphrey Heathcote as Sgt Barnaby. 5.13 (53) The Case of Vanishing Victim (July 2nd 1966) 5.14 (54) The Case of the Threatened Rajah (July 9th 1966) 5.15 (55) The Case of Devil's Daughter (July 16th 1966, 9.20pm ATV London, March 12th 1968 ABC) Script: Bruce Stewart. Director: Bill Stewart. Rachel Harmey (Ann Lynn), a girl who performs a mind reading act in the music hall, foretells the death of a famous MP. Cork and Marriott are unconvinced of her reliability. With Michael Atkinson as Peter Faraday, and Robert James as Benedict Caradus. Also in this cast: Fergus O'Kelly as Cornelius Shaugnessy, Pat Dodd as pianist (also in #47), Antony Brown as Charles St Clair MP, Peter Elliott as Pawley, Norman Pitt as Quillan, Maurice Durant as Jack Harmey, Peter Hoar as Percival Humphries, Eddy Connor as Bill Battersby, and Josephine Tewson as Martha St Clair. 5.16 (56) The Case of the Unpopular Judge (July 23rd 1966) 5.17 (57) The Case of the Painted Boat (July 30th 1966) Script: Evelyn Ford. Director: Philip Dale. Mysterious diggings in a neighbour's garden, and a narrow boat tied up nearby, arouse the suspicions of Ebenezer Webster (Harold Goldblatt), so he calls in Sgt Cork. With Avis Bunnage as Charlotte Dawson, and John Junkin as Jacko. Others in the cast were Bobbie Oswald as Annie, Joyce Cummings as Millicent Webster, Kristin Helga as Kate, Richard James as Alan Webster. 5.18 (58) The Case of the Strolling Players (August 6th 1966 London, but shown on Sunday June 9th 1968, 3.50pm in ABC Midlands/North) Script: Martin Worth. Director: Alastair Reid. Cork and Marriott are called in to investigate the death of a young actress, a member of Jasper Greene's Touring Company. With Jack Gwillim as Jasper Greene, Yvonne Coulette as Emily Greene, Robert Cartland as Charles Pike, Angela Douglas as Lucy Rogers and Barry Warren as George Darcy. Also with Diana Hoddinott as Sarah Amberley, Denis Cowles as Ticket collector, Peter Hager as Sgt Heath, Laidlaw Dalling as Albert Bassett, and Pat Dodd as Pianist. 5.19 (59) The Case of the Chelford Changeling (August 13th 1966 London, December 23rd 1967 on ABC Midlands/North) Script: Bill Craig. Director: Alastair Reid. Sgt Cork and Bob Marriott are called in by a Local Constabulary to investigate the kidnapping of a boy. In doing so, some past scandal is unearthed to do with the local Lord of the Manor. Cast also includes: Alex Scott as Amos Kedge, Gerald Rowland as John Medway, Basil Henson as Sir Radlett Grainger, George Waring as Insp Abbott, Elvi Hale as Melissa Medway, John Humphry as Charles Medway, Renny Lister as Sarah Fincham, Royston Tickner as Blundell. 5.20 (60) The Case of the Silent Bell (August 20th 1966 London, March 26th 1968 Midlands and STV) 5.21 (61) The Case of the French Mademoiselle (August 27th 1966, ATV London, December 17th 1967 ABC Midlands/North 3.50pm) Script: Evelyn Ford. Director: Jon Scoffield. Nanette Gaillard (Pamela Strong), the organiser of a gang of forgers in France, has escaped to England. The French Surete ask Sgt Cork to try and find her for them. Also starring John Bailey as Eustace Barrington, Thomas Heathcote as Joshua Catchpole, Peter Elliott as Mr Myake, Carmen Silvera as Martha and Arnold Diamond as Inspector Dupont (in series 1 he had played a British inspector!). Others in this cast: Peter Brayham as Ju-jitsu instructor, William Marlowe as Benjy Miller. 5.22 (62) The Case of the Simple Savage (September 3rd 1966) Script: Bruce Stewart. Director: Bill Stewart. Chief Tama (Inia Te Wiata), a Maori leader, comes to England to be presented to Queen Victoria. Cork and Marriott investigate some burglaries in which Tama seems to be involved. With Blake Butler as Wilfred Laverock, Philip Latham as Greely, Madeleine Christie as Queen Victoria, and Dorothy Reynolds as Emily Laverock. Also appearing: Robert Young as Trivett, Susan Whitman as Jenny, Virginia Denham as Rose, Barbara Assoon as Hula, Christopher Banks as Quill. 5.23 (63) The Case of the Fallen Family (September 10th 1966) 5.24 (64) The Case of the Crystal Ball (September 17th 1966 ATV London, October 14th 1967 ABC) Script: Michael Pertwee. Director: Valerie Hanson. While investigating the loss of a valuable diamond, Cork becomes involved with a circus type medium Madam Zina (Barbara Leake). Also with Charles Lloyd Pack as Lord Westworth and David Battley as James Starkey. With Doy Young as Susie, Alan Lake as Mr Johnson, Mischa de la Motte as Wilkins. 5.25 (65) The Case of the Silent Policeman (scheduled for August 20th 1966, but postponed to September 24th 1966 on ATV London, shown on October 28th 1967 on ABC) Script: Malcolm Hulke. Director: Alastair Reid. A nightwatchman is attacked during a fur robbery. Cork and Marriott's investigation takes them to a local police station, the organisation of which arouses Cork's suspicions. With Bernard Archard as Insp Fox, Christopher Guinee as PC Clark, Patricia Heneghan as Mrs Clark, and Fulton Mackay as Sgt Norris. Others in the cast: Charles Saynor as Larkin, Richard Coleman as PC Portello, Faith Cox as Mrs Binney, Patsy Smart as Doris, Pamela Shotto as Mrs Fox, Sheelagh McGrath as Ada. 5.26 (66) The Case of the Hooded Students (October 1st 1966) - the final story ever My thanks to Alan Collins for his help in unravelling the transmission dates for Sergeant Cork To Videotape Crime menu Sergeant Cork . . . . . . . The Man in Room 17 Richard Vernon starred as Oldenshaw, and Michael Aldridge as Dimmock. Another regular in the first series was Willoughby Goddard as Assistant Commissioner Sir Geoffrey Norton. 'The Man' of the title was actually Oldenshaw, an immodest ex-Oxford type with a superior IQ. His partner red-brick-type Dimmock was more direct. Director-producer Dick Everitt claimed the series was a mix of comedy thriller and pure adventure, "what it definitely is not, is neurotic or kinky." This perhaps to counterbalance some of Granada's other excellently individualistic Friday night dramas. Room 17 was Somewhere in Whitehall, the secret centre for the Department of Special Research that handles cases which have baffled the security services. Unusually, two teams of backroom staff made the series, one group for scenes outside The Room, and one for The Room, from which Dimmock and Oldenshaw never stray. After 13 stories in 1965, 13 more followed in 1966. This time Oldenshaw was joined by Defraits (Denholm Elliott). Also Amber Kammer as Tracy Peverill invaded the all male Room 17 in selected stories. The programme was renamed The Fellows (Late of Room 17) for a final run in 1967 of another 13 stories. Dimmock from series 1 returned in place of Defraits. He and Oldenshaw became Cambridge Fellows appointed by the Home Secretary to All Saints College. Also appearing in each story was Mrs Hollinczech who looks after their research data. Jill Booty, wife of the producer of this series Robin Chapman, played this part. James Ottaway as Thomas Anthem and Michael Turner as Nashe were other semi-regular characters. Roy McAnally, Roy Marsden and Allan Cuthbertson appeared in a sequence of stories which gradually become more surreal, almost 'kinky,' despite those original claims. All 39 programmes survive in the archive, though only one has been released on dvd to date. Brief details of the stories: 1.1 Tell the Truth (June 11th 1965, 9.40-10.35pm) - with Dinsdale Landen, Meg Wynn Owen and Vladek Sheybal. A case of suspected industrial espionage but no leads. Scotland Yard, under pressure from the government, pool their best brains, but still no progress. Chief Supt Cannon (Jonathan Adams) reports failure to the Assistant Commissioner. They suggest that if the government want the problem solved, the only way is to try and interest Room 17. 1.2 Hello, Lazarus (June 18th 1965) - with Adrienne Corri, David Langton and Frederick Jaeger. Crawshaw, a millionaire, is reported killed when a charter plane crashes in the North Sea. Room 17 are intrigued. They know that Crawshaw had a phobia about flying. Why should a man who can afford to travel in any way he pleases, choose the one way he hates? 1.3 Years of Glory (June 25th 1965) - with Laurence Hardy, Viola Keats. Gene Anderson also starred, as she died on May 5th 1965, it suggests that this story was taped before then. A retired general's house is burgled and his secretary murdered. The general denies anything is missing but he has kept diaries from the war which could be embarrassing to the government. Room 17 are asked to locate them. 1.4 Confidential Report (July 2nd 1965) - with Zena Walker, Leonard Sachs, Laurence Payne. A beautiful young journalist has written a confidential report for British Intelligence on a member of a friendly government. One night it is stolen from her flat. The report could be used to devastating effect if published. Room 17 are asked to recover it before any damage is done. 1.5 The Millions of Muzafariyah (July 9th 1965) - with Barbara Jefford, Hugh Burden and Gerard Hely. An attempt on the life of an official in the Foreign Office brings Room 17 into contact with the Middle East. They discover that although the official was stabbed only once, he has two wounds. 1.6 The Seat of Power (July 16th 1965) - with Michael Gough, David Horne and Colin Jeavons. A top agent from a foreign power is sent over to this country. Room 17 discover his apparent intentions but it seems much too easy a task for so experienced a man. Has he a more sinister objective? (More story details will be added later) To Videotape Crime menu Man in Room 17 Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . Inspector Morley (Late of Scotland Yard) Investigates. Pictured on the left is Tod Slaughter, who plays Reilly in the series, in a scene from one of the 'missing' stories. To Main Crime Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . Synopsis for 5.9 Peggy screened August 27th 1963 John Clint was played by William Holmes, Anne Cassett by Jill Tracey Return To No Hiding Place