tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49019443018529194702024-03-16T13:05:24.362+00:00Curious British TellyBen Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.comBlogger372125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-45130969034503471472024-02-17T13:37:00.000+00:002024-02-17T13:37:00.355+00:00YouTube Pick: My Brother David<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJQN4S3Mc7UY7xSalH3Dfu3iXM7iyBKI-odVMvLMMUPrjtNDEnG_yrJYVnnjYiEa8siwClmpG1AM2-5AHD3lljUYrrxrUOaY9mlDe-96WT76USdKjzI4N-FxRuLLj1ZHKFRVA3jAdXoHFr6EJTR6KY2z3yySCN5bQ0qnVOkomFaLVf06TR8yKUJ7EtTZAn/s1324/My%20Brother%20David.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1017" data-original-width="1324" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJQN4S3Mc7UY7xSalH3Dfu3iXM7iyBKI-odVMvLMMUPrjtNDEnG_yrJYVnnjYiEa8siwClmpG1AM2-5AHD3lljUYrrxrUOaY9mlDe-96WT76USdKjzI4N-FxRuLLj1ZHKFRVA3jAdXoHFr6EJTR6KY2z3yySCN5bQ0qnVOkomFaLVf06TR8yKUJ7EtTZAn/w363-h279/My%20Brother%20David.png" width="363" /></a></div><br />The tale of David Scarboro isn't one I was overly familiar with, but his short life and career on British television is, in itself, very much like the soap opera which defined his early fame. Full of highs, lows and tragedy, it's almost as if the infamous <i>EastEnders </i>doof doofs were positioned perilously above his head once he found fame. And the excellent 1989 edition of <i>Scene </i>entitled <i>My Brother David </i>tells an emotional story, all family pride and revulsion at the way the press tore his life apart.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LMJkVa7GwFA?si=K7HMKvrwsTdXC0Qb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></i></div><i><br />My Brother David </i>popped up on my YouTube feed and immediately grabbed my attention. Back in the days of four television channels, the rapid rise in popularity of <i>EastEnders </i>made it a national talking point. The cast were suddenly elevated to public figures and, of course, this captured the attention of the tabloids. Here were some new targets for them to pick over and slap across the pages whenever a misdemeanour - invented or otherwise - occured.<br /><br />For David Scarboro, as <i>My Brother David </i>shows, the press truly went to town on his private life. Once his career had appeared to falter on Albert Square, they relished the opportunity to ratchet up the pressure on him in order to sell more papers. It feels an intense invasion of privacy, and in many ways the interest they centred on him rivalled the press attention usually reserved for members of the Royal Family, members of Parliament or major pop stars.<br /><br />There appeared to be a concerted campaign to destroy his young talent, and this evidently worked as his final <i>EastEnders </i>appearences were muted and felt out of step with the rest of the cast. Ultimately, it was a campaign which ended in suicide. Sure, there could have been other contributing factors such as mental health disorders brought on from drug use, but this is purely speculation. And the fact remains that the press intrusion into his life only accelerated any personal problems he had.<br /><br /><i>My Brother David </i>is an absorbing documentary, made all the more poignant by the contributions made by his family members. Somehow, perhaps due to the anger and injustice they felt, they manage to hold it together on camera, and this acts as a wonderful tribute to their beloved son and brother. Sadly, as we saw with the Caroline Flack tragedy a few years ago, little changes in the way that the British press operates, and so the eternal cautionary tale of fame goes on.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-43244082415015467172024-02-11T17:55:00.001+00:002024-02-11T17:55:39.775+00:00BBC Select: A Failed Subscription Service<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5wYJ4x1y6Etn8SfuoGlQedYkB8xza-9momZ_DqmKo3S3RXhrrd3jCTxI2SSUDL4KdtPrr9vVGlEuQWqnjbJgOM20UjZE6MvT6IMDvLWji04D8GYqN0_tqtfAeqHOWRlj3WOFL63lcbrgSvOc6LMpB489NXlF6eL2DldHZIYueDITxCC9ZQbI4MABLyCAD/s733/bbc%20select.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="733" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5wYJ4x1y6Etn8SfuoGlQedYkB8xza-9momZ_DqmKo3S3RXhrrd3jCTxI2SSUDL4KdtPrr9vVGlEuQWqnjbJgOM20UjZE6MvT6IMDvLWji04D8GYqN0_tqtfAeqHOWRlj3WOFL63lcbrgSvOc6LMpB489NXlF6eL2DldHZIYueDITxCC9ZQbI4MABLyCAD/w390-h295/bbc%20select.png" width="390" /></a></div><br />If, in 1987, you had been watching television very late at night, we’re talking post-closedown late, you could have stumbled across something very interesting on BBC2. To be precise, you would have encountered an encrypted engineering test. These tests would have made little sense to the average man on the street. But, for the BBC, they represented tentative steps into their first subscription service. And it failed spectacularly.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br />Very little is known about the encrypted engineering tests from 1987, with barely any recordings being captured and no references in the press. What we do know, though, is that they paved the way for British Medical Television (BMTV). Originally launched in the early 1980s, BMTV started life as a service which produced a monthly video tape and was sent to every GP in the country.<br /><br />However, BMTV had their sights set higher than a straight-to-video model. They wanted to broadcast on the airwaves. And, in 1988, they struck an innovative deal with the BBC to make use of BBC2 once normal programming had finished for the evening. Pushing the envelope of innovation further, these broadcasts would be encrypted.<br /><br />Doctors who had subscribed to the BMTV service would be provided with a direct television recorder (DTR), this machine would decrypt the scrambled signals and send a signal to the doctor’s VCR to start recording. Once the recording had finished, the DTR would conveniently instruct the VCR to rewind the tape. All the doctor had to do was press play the next morning.<br /><br />BMTV was officially launched, by HRH The Princess Royal, in February 1988 with its first broadcasts expected to air in May that year. Quite when BMTV began broadcasting is unclear, no listings were carried in the press or the Radio Times. In December 1988, it was reported that BMTV had ordered 15,000 decoders from Philips, and expected to have 50,000 subscribers within two years. What I can tell you is that, by February 1989, 1200 doctors had signed up to the service, which comprised a 15-minute service every evening.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9AEPOy93v2s?si=faPvxIJkxyE47Ntn" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><br />Thankfully, footage of BMTV has survived through video recordings which ran on through the night. This footage is encrypted, of course, but the Discret11 encryption method means you can, just about, make something out. Now, you don’t need me to tell you that BMTV was a very niche service. It wasn’t for a mainstream audience. But it served a purpose, and delivered it in a new way. Doctors now had access to a new source of information.<br /><br />The launch of BMTV caused very few ripples outside of the television industry. There was, however, enough confidence instilled in the BBC for them to use it as a springboard for something more ambitious. Director General, Michael Checkland, revealed in September 1989 that not only would the BBC be taking a 15% share in BMTV, but they would also be expanding the subscription service. The plan was to establish a subsidiary company, one which add new services alongside BMTV.<br /><br />Industry rumours quickly began to circulate. The BBC would launch “weekly video magazines” for the public to digest, with previously neglected subjects such as gardening, yachting and natural history being given time to shine. The government, meanwhile, were keeping an eye on the situation and the broadcasting minister, David Mellor, was keen to stress that the BBC should remain funded primarily by the licence fee. Any subscription services should, he argued, be restricted to the late-night hours.<br /><br />Momentum appeared to be building for the BBC’s new service. But then BMTV ended in financial disaster. On 31st January 1990, BMTV made its final broadcast. By now, the service - which was running for an hour per day - had 4000 subscribers, each one paying £90 per year to access BMTV.<br /><br />Financially, BMTV had been far from a success, a result compounded by constant problems with the Discret11 encryption system. The failure of the enterprise was estimated to have cost the BBC around £500,000. Nonetheless, the BBC remained optimistic about the future, with their head of broadcast services, John Radcliffe, claiming that BMTV had demonstrated a demand for specialised subscription services.<br /><br />This optimism was regularly touted to the press and, by the summer of 1990, ambitious plans to launch seven new subscription channels in Spring 1991 were announced. At this juncture, there were no plans to involve mainstream programmes in the subscription service. Instead, the off-air space would be dedicated to specialist interests such as natural history and, it was reported, there was a possibility that Irish broadcaster RTE was interested in developing programmes aimed at Irish people living in the UK.<br /><br />Television industry magazine Broadcast was having none of it. Highlighting the fact that BBC1’s viewing figures were rapidly falling, they doubted that niche subscription services were going to turn around their fortunes any time soon.<br /><br />However, in November 1990, the BBC announced that the service - now titled BBC Select - would be receiving an £8 million investment. Furthermore, it outlined the broad categories that BBC Select’s programming would cover: community services, leisure, professional business and educational content. The long term aim was for BBC Select to house 30 services, but the BBC admitted they were unlikely to turn a profit until the mid-1990s.<br /><br />Come the start of 1991 and things were looking… disappointing? February 1991 found Marketing Director of BBC Subscription Television, Chris Townsend, revealing that the economic recession had led to a drop in consumer spending. Consequently, the spring 1991 launch was off. And it was unlikely that BBC Select would launch until the first half of 1992.<br /><br />Although it was being increasingly plagued by bad luck, the BBC Select service trundled on. Some exciting news emerged in September 1991 when it was reported that the BBC was planning a sci-fi subscription service, one which would feature archive programming including Doctor Who and Blake’s 7. Sadly, and we’re jumping ahead here, this service never launched and most likely morphed into UK Gold, which would launch on Sky in November 1992.<br /><br />September 1991 also saw news of the BBC Select decoder being announced. Backed by VideoCrypt encryption technology, the BBC Selector would allow subscribers to decode the scrambled broadcasts. Switching itself on at night via an internal clock, the Selector would automatically search through the available channels to detect any VideoCrypt signals being broadcast.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsb1M2n3pVjksAJbIxhd7cXLUbuHbFSyAnB6LqikFGoDQYJPt6RXEsRKjMoIel3H5typu6ytd3ur3udyAChwQ9Q3mRVwQL-kzrFxLdCqJunbUnZzQZN_fPOZtCMiuBCAiw99P8YH_mxHDEEPuYjp8ZlVe-l6ARQ94aKKq1xQx5XqS5v-RILlTF0zSLpds/s412/bbc%20selector.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="297" data-original-width="412" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsb1M2n3pVjksAJbIxhd7cXLUbuHbFSyAnB6LqikFGoDQYJPt6RXEsRKjMoIel3H5typu6ytd3ur3udyAChwQ9Q3mRVwQL-kzrFxLdCqJunbUnZzQZN_fPOZtCMiuBCAiw99P8YH_mxHDEEPuYjp8ZlVe-l6ARQ94aKKq1xQx5XqS5v-RILlTF0zSLpds/w425-h307/bbc%20selector.png" width="425" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">A BBC Selector connected between a TV and VCR</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Once detected, the Selector would remain tuned to that broadcast and, if the consumer was a subscriber to the service, decode the encrypted signal through the supplied smart card. Infra-red signals were then transmitted from the Selector to the attached VCR to initiate and terminate recordings. The total cost for purchase and installation would eventually be set at £275.<br /><br />This news acted as a much needed boost in the arm for the service, and it was backed up by a BBC estimate that BBC Select would have 500,000 subscribers by 1996. Therefore, 1991 was ending much more confidently for BBC Select. But what would 1992 have in store for it?<br /><br />BBC Select got off to a good start in 1992, well, it finally launched, a result which had seemed out of reach several months before. But, at this point, BBC Select was a free, unencrypted service. The first service to air was The Way Ahead, a 12-part series which provided a comprehensive overview on the new disability allowance. Whilst this debut - which came at 2am on BBC1 - bore little resemblance to what BBC Select was supposed to be about, at least it had arrived. And, apparently, it could start moving forwards.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJAZMiNHEnHeBUvhHu4YPG2dnHnS0BbkBwEa0MRaZ-ckXDZESgIgnHA-gjLgaeb7eWOrCVBAwC2plP5OHDn_sRDGKEDykyu91oR_mSJl1H4bRqbG9kCbGviNi7K_5CCsSvrpgty8TO5AGy5G4pm_excd57wScFMzKyBN98lsq21uIBxCkW_PUHN2R_W7vE/s603/scrambled.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="603" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJAZMiNHEnHeBUvhHu4YPG2dnHnS0BbkBwEa0MRaZ-ckXDZESgIgnHA-gjLgaeb7eWOrCVBAwC2plP5OHDn_sRDGKEDykyu91oR_mSJl1H4bRqbG9kCbGviNi7K_5CCsSvrpgty8TO5AGy5G4pm_excd57wScFMzKyBN98lsq21uIBxCkW_PUHN2R_W7vE/w370-h284/scrambled.png" width="370" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">A scrambled BBC Select signal from 1992</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Unfortunately, bad news was never far away for BBC Select. April 1992 brought news that Quay Subscription Television, who were due to provide the Farming Now service had gone into liquidation. Prior to this, BBC Enterprises had made an unsecured loan to Quay, and BBC staff unions could be heard rolling their eyes all around White City at this waste of the licence fee. Farming Now was officially postponed until 1993, where it failed to materialise.<br /><br />Better news, however, came in the form of the Executive Business Club service which had started free previews in March 1992 under the BBC Select banner. It must be noted that BBC Select’s broadcasts, despite originally being mooted for BBC2’s downtime, was intermittently switching between BBC1 and BBC2. This was mostly likely down to scheduling issues, but proved little problem to the BBC Selector due to the way in which it sought out VideoCrypt signals.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AZbbFfDaRD0?si=ZACDdg_VyoJPPGAn" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><br />It was around this time that a curiously cute trail promoting BBC Select began airing on the BBC. Featuring a West Highland Terrier and a Bulldog watching the overnight broadcasts, the trail managed to sum up everything you needed to know about BBC Select and the Selector in just over a minute.<br /><br />Finally, in June 1992, BBC Select’s first subscription service launched: the Executive Business Club was here and it was encrypted. A management training scheme, Executive Business Club had started, much like BMTV, as a video cassette service but now, as part of a collaboration between the BBC and Management TV International, it was broadcasting on the airwaves. In the same month, the Royal College of Nursing began broadcasting a free, unencrypted programme each week for nurses.<br /><br />TV Edits, a language education series, began transmitting its encrypted programming in September 1992. And, hot on its heels, came Accounting Television in November 1992 and Legal Network Television in February 1993. But BBC Select was struggling. In July 1992, it was announced that the fledgling service had already lost £3.2 million. Hardly an auspicious start. And things would not get much better in 1993. Well, they would actually get a lot worse.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UCi9c14dYHI?si=13iTo1RF4kOq8V9h" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><br />While the mixture of free and subscription content continued, June 1993 brought news that the BBC were freezing any plans for further subscription services. So, despite the original ambitious plans of having 30 pay services, BBC Select had screeched to a halt with just four. These services would limp through 1993 and into 1994, but all subscription services had ended by December 1994. In total, the estimated loss at this point for BBC Select was £18 milllion.<br /><br />BBC Select carried on through 1995 with its free programming comprising trade union content, nursing updates, educational topics and programmes focusing on disability and benefits issues. The name BBC Select eventually disappeared in September 1995 when the service was renamed BBC Focus. October 1995 saw BBC Focus swallowed by the newly established Learning Zone overnight service, and that was that.<br /><br />Not many people, outside of TV anoraks and those involved in making the programming, remember, or were ever even aware of, BBC Select. But it’s an intriguing premise, and one which could have been financially viable if the BBC had tapped into their rich archive. Quite why they didn’t, is a mystery, but I suspect there may have been contractual issues, much like the early days of their BBC Video output where the most lucrative programming was bogged down in debates with Equity.<br /><br />Nonetheless, BBC Select certainly fulfilled Lord Reith’s aims of educating and informing. For professionals, in a (just about) pre-internet age, BBC Select represented an opportunity to receive regular and guaranteed content which wouldn’t be held up in the post. But, in the early 1990s, this doesn’t appear to have been a pressing demand for the public. In fact, BBC Select feels much more like an experiment, and an expensive one at that, for the BBC to explore further funding options.<br /><br />The content produced for BBC Select is far from essential programming for future generations to pore over, but its story is much more interesting. There’s nothing else quite like it in the BBC’s history but, who knows, maybe they’ll deliver something as innovative as BBC Select again. And hopefully, this time, it’ll be a success.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-47736874019775274612024-01-28T18:39:00.002+00:002024-01-28T18:39:38.384+00:00Early Children's ITV Continuity Captured<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4vIw5Fr3Ly-wn-G6P4TDGma6d3osURUR5uCJiqSH72NlZSyRD6yzDsN-WnM4XGWmwJUHQ7VQviKGu5y1nw3w97L4hixe_a04DbfRgY1XqbqcXu_lHVpwdhNP7u5_xqewQ8WzWQW1utFKiZlFTnIg357wKSkGpPzwr6QWm1ST8JNp4OJAL66tS4iC1sDW0/s625/Snapshot.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="625" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4vIw5Fr3Ly-wn-G6P4TDGma6d3osURUR5uCJiqSH72NlZSyRD6yzDsN-WnM4XGWmwJUHQ7VQviKGu5y1nw3w97L4hixe_a04DbfRgY1XqbqcXu_lHVpwdhNP7u5_xqewQ8WzWQW1utFKiZlFTnIg357wKSkGpPzwr6QWm1ST8JNp4OJAL66tS4iC1sDW0/w404-h311/Snapshot.PNG" width="404" /></a></div><br />I’ve been digging through some Betamax tapes this weekend and, as luck would have it, the first one I pulled out of the box had an absolute gem on it. And it came in the form of a rare clip of Children’s ITV continuity.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YDNhakcQxr8?si=zu5M435UWSA80Bl8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Starting in January 1983, after the demise of the Watch It! slot, Children’s ITV would become a long running brand which only went off the air in September 2023. The first month of continuity, from a rocketship set, was helmed by Matthew Kelly before he handed over to Isla St Clair, who covered February 1983 before Derek Griffiths took over in March.<br /><br />This particular clip comes from 11th February 1983 and finds Isla St Clair in the hot seat. It may only be a brief piece of continuity, but footage from this era is rare, with only a couple of clips of Isla’s Children’s ITV presenting duties available on YouTube. As far as I’m aware, due to their lack of commercial value, these pre-recorded links were not stored in the archives by ITV. Therefore, snippets such as these are not only classed as missing footage, but provide a valuable link to the past.<br /><br />I’ve found a few of these over the years, but this is the oldest Children’s ITV one so far. The collection this Betamax tape came from was owned by someone who, I suspect, used to record the afternoon film with a timer function, so they often ended up recording a few minutes of footage afterwards. This is why we get all of Isla’s introduction, but only the opening moments of an episode of Rainbow before the recording stopped.<br /><br />As ever, I’m always on the lookout for old Betamax and VHS tapes from the 1970s/80s, so please get in touch if you have any to donate. Hopefully, we can find some more gems such as these.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-52310042501253933312024-01-27T11:46:00.002+00:002024-01-27T11:46:59.238+00:00Free E-Book: The Curiosities of British Children's TV<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXha52cAhyphenhyphenOXVy2i_f31Ytu8fv9nUBzOSk-zAYLVkBprLuZ08vpJ-JC_DFpIf2eNMlQ8GC8qF82TjYyKKaxpf4wgtvKO0HPmY714fI86XpQKM2824h3fR4P0w5eh_GYzWpf-4sMpvOiqcfRAr5swuJZg3RGhlKm580aK1bhvDTediwVQGAwnBA-ptKX5qL/s1360/book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1360" data-original-width="880" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXha52cAhyphenhyphenOXVy2i_f31Ytu8fv9nUBzOSk-zAYLVkBprLuZ08vpJ-JC_DFpIf2eNMlQ8GC8qF82TjYyKKaxpf4wgtvKO0HPmY714fI86XpQKM2824h3fR4P0w5eh_GYzWpf-4sMpvOiqcfRAr5swuJZg3RGhlKm580aK1bhvDTediwVQGAwnBA-ptKX5qL/s320/book.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br />I wrote a couple of books on children’s television a few years back (<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Ben-Ricketts/author/B0775VGFFL" target="_blank">both available on Amazon</a>) and, luckily for you, I’ve made the e-book version of The Curiosities of British Children’s TV free for one day only. Just <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Curiosities-British-Childrens-TV-ebook/dp/B07335M1GW" target="_blank">head over here </a>to pick a copy up, and let me know what you think of it.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-59926249370840619732023-12-22T12:16:00.000+00:002023-12-22T12:16:06.497+00:00New Print Article: The Birth of Teletext<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Mwc33qzEAhXKpcZ1sheqP1WTUj5J7O4CCVmsLjXkDTRmgDYUNMHdnIPHHxFqIkRHMTX-S7BZwgUlTkiKqFHayqulmg9LzsDSIguuJz-ueOgD9R7-CapMWNStLvcPl1an1lmir5aTug3zLK1dT77dHnfxjsaboGDBOPj0Yz72LIiiH5Fa5MW7ecjIW-2g/s679/001-BoB-0124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Mwc33qzEAhXKpcZ1sheqP1WTUj5J7O4CCVmsLjXkDTRmgDYUNMHdnIPHHxFqIkRHMTX-S7BZwgUlTkiKqFHayqulmg9LzsDSIguuJz-ueOgD9R7-CapMWNStLvcPl1an1lmir5aTug3zLK1dT77dHnfxjsaboGDBOPj0Yz72LIiiH5Fa5MW7ecjIW-2g/s320/001-BoB-0124.jpg" width="226" /></a></div><p>A year on from <a href="http://www.curiousbritishtelly.co.uk/2022/12/new-article-in-best-of-british-january.html" target="_blank">my last published article</a>, I’m back in the pages of <a href="https://www.bestofbritishmag.co.uk/" target="_blank">Best of British</a> with The Birth of Teletext.</p><p>Ever since I first laid eyes on Pages from Ceefax back in the mid-1980s, I’ve been a little obsessed with teletext. We didn’t actually get a teletext television set until 1997, so it always felt like an exciting world of information which was just out of reach. Sure, I used to see it at friends’ houses, as we caught up on the football news and played Bamboozle, but I couldn’t get my teeth stuck into it.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p>Eventually, though, I was able to start digesting the various teletext services. And I did this with gusto. This, remember, was still just-about-for-most-people the pre-internet age. Therefore, Ceefax and Teletext represented a fascinating world of content and information which you simply couldn’t get elsewhere. I even used to go on the German satellite channels and scan through all their pages, and I couldn’t speak a word of German. As you can tell, I was very popular with the ladies at the time.</p><p>But how exactly did the teletext revolution start? And when did it start? Well, you have to go all the way back to 1974. Which, when you think about what it delivered in an age where Harold Wilson, is staggering. Anyway, this is what my article looks at, those earliest days where viewership was low and no one knew whether this experiment was going to take off.</p><p>The latest issue of Best of British is available at all good newsagents, so please go and take a look.</p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-32783126551117295282023-12-16T19:05:00.001+00:002023-12-16T19:07:37.534+00:00All the Slices of Archive TV Christmas Footage I've Found<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRK6KYP62u6IUASkRQ61S6jaT0SR9Ua-BQYGKgjh4yca9QegzHO4SaeINdYJDKNMkPvCpvnODaswZkJjEHnnq1VJ4LMqFkzaWULdJPiqTFecup4U2NZyHy9oU_Q5H5_2ZY7hxwRH8Tx0Zk4qddJISn4a24wBvbocrfG0PCcdIg2vZ0WjLSjDZ3rOCJi22/s1352/thames%20christmas.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1020" data-original-width="1352" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRK6KYP62u6IUASkRQ61S6jaT0SR9Ua-BQYGKgjh4yca9QegzHO4SaeINdYJDKNMkPvCpvnODaswZkJjEHnnq1VJ4LMqFkzaWULdJPiqTFecup4U2NZyHy9oU_Q5H5_2ZY7hxwRH8Tx0Zk4qddJISn4a24wBvbocrfG0PCcdIg2vZ0WjLSjDZ3rOCJi22/w350-h263/thames%20christmas.png" width="350" /></a></div><br />Christmas television has always been a landmark event. Or, at least, it always was. These days, scanning through the Christmas issue of the Radio Times with a highlighter is more a novelty than a necessity. Times change, and so do our viewing habits. But, luckily, old video tapes full of home recordings offer up a fossilised view of the way it once was. And, as I've been scanning through old video tapes for seven years now, I've found more than my fair share of Christmas TV footage.<br /><br />Now, I <i>could</i> show you the various repeats of the 1977 Christmas edition of <i>The Morecambe and Wise Show </i>alongside<i> </i><i>Blackadder's Christmas Carol </i>and <i>The Snowman</i>, but they're currently all being shown 24/7 on some digital channel somewhere. So, instead, I've decided to gather together all the ephemeral slices of archive TV Christmas I've found over the years. Some are fascinating, all of them are intriguing, and it's unlikely you would have seen any of them since they were originally broadcast.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><b>16/12/1986 - ITV - The Giddy Game Show (Christmas)</b><br /><br />
<b><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tas1ocWIdPY?si=Eoi-Ug0iYZq48Rxa" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></b><br /><br />Heading back just 37 years and it's time to take on the genteel games of the <i>The Giddy Game Show </i>from Yorkshire Television, but with a Christmas twist. And, as well as featuring the usual trio of Gus, Giddy and Gorilla, we're also treated to some in-vision continuity for Children's ITV courtesy of Matthew Kelly.<br /><br /><b>25/12/1984 BBC1 Junction and Continuity</b><br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O_cumVHTrzg?si=AgJmG0LQGD0BlXTE" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Several tidbits of vintage fun from Christmas 1984 here, kicking off with the closing moments of <i>The Paul Daniels Magic Christmas Show </i>before we're served up a rundown of the Boxing Day schedule on BBC1. Perhaps the best moment within the footage, though, is the charming, rotating snowmen ident which introduces the <i>Just Good Friends </i>Christmas special.<br /><br /><b>25/12/1987 Children's ITV and Thames Continuity<br /><br /></b><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9lKFWZTiAyE?si=LkLB1oZTT_4aH-kT" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />This is easily one of my all-time favourite tape finds. Hailing from Christmas Day 1987, it starts with the very end of the <i>Wide Awake Club</i>,<i> </i>with Timmy Mallet explaining the virtues of Christmas time to a budgie, before, quite magically, Philip Elsmore appears dressed as Father Christmas to present some in-vision continuity for Thames. Finally, it's over to the Children's ITV studio for some more in-vision continuity with Gary Terzza and Debbie Shore. Although I can't specifically remember watching any of this, it's highly likely I was tuned into ITV whilst this went out. And that makes me immeasurably happy.<br /><br /><b>26/12/1986 BBC2 Afternoon Schedule<br /><br /></b><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ffzqu3QYghg?si=gAvcjfQN3lCaZEjf" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />The day after I received a pair of Thomas the Tank Engine slippers from Father Christmas, the Boxing Day afternoon schedule on BBC2 looked like this. Not much of interest here, in all honesty, but <i>The Most Swirling, Swinging, Sliding, Spinning, Up and Down Ride of Your Life </i>is, no doubt, a nice time capsule of the excitement on offer at the time (and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1unVsyuMezE" target="_blank">it can be found here</a>). Perhaps the best feature of this continuity is the snow melting off the BBC2 logo, even if it is crudely animated.<br /><br /><b>25/12/1991 Just What I Always Wanted! BBC1 John Wells<br /><br /></b><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G1ORwqMJq4A?si=YCSaSm0kE8jGFfup" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />I've always considered this one of the stranger finds I've dug up on video, but also one that barely anyone is interested in (as of this time of writing, it's only garnered 972 views in six years). John Wells was a satirist who spent three decades, from the 1960s, involved with television. And in 1991 he was rewarded with a five minute slot on Christmas Day. It's a rather eccentric and rambling look at the joys of Christmas, but it's hard to ignore its curious and quintessentially British charm.<br /><br /><b>25 & 26/12/1976 - BBC1 - Top of the Pops Continuity<br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6U3oX-_Q-i0?si=NBTxxjlHKdKXhq6G" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /></b><br />The oldest footage I've ever found, from 47 crazy years ago (yes, nearly half a century), is also some of the shortest. However, this Christmas footage is vaguely historical as it contains the only known direct capture of the 1976 Christmas BBC ident. Another piece of footage exists, but this was captured by pointing a camera at the TV. Admittedly, my capture of it is far from perfect, all interference at the start and short lived, but at least you can grab a screenshot of it. You can read more about it here.<br /><br />I thought I'd found more Christmas bits and pieces over the years, but it appears these are the only substantial ones. Anyway, I hope all these clips provide you with an alternative helping of Christmas nostalgia.<br /><p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-7453809827337474832023-12-02T23:40:00.002+00:002023-12-03T08:53:15.038+00:00Philip Schofield's Final Day on Children's BBC<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6uAYVTPoG2gStx8OFDxDkdYUvCRfbdjqsgOeDNHEV_0zIIY_6kshO5GJAIKdQXPT4UDgMLWNHhciFbcFAudWrdSeW4-bCWgA_3hKa2coIS8uK-ngrUSBeYAEk7ii-jUS_X_1PsVg9_3Vm3mcqOTNilQ27yb2s8ovsxWF4H-Zx225HuyXeXSKceapohJD/s1126/childrens%20bbc.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="944" data-original-width="1126" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6uAYVTPoG2gStx8OFDxDkdYUvCRfbdjqsgOeDNHEV_0zIIY_6kshO5GJAIKdQXPT4UDgMLWNHhciFbcFAudWrdSeW4-bCWgA_3hKa2coIS8uK-ngrUSBeYAEk7ii-jUS_X_1PsVg9_3Vm3mcqOTNilQ27yb2s8ovsxWF4H-Zx225HuyXeXSKceapohJD/w371-h311/childrens%20bbc.png" width="371" /></a></div><br />2023 was a disastrous year for Philip Schofield's television career and private life, and it remains to be seen whether he'll ever return to our screens again. However, back in 1987, life for Schofield was very different. Following two years presenting the Broom Cupboard sections for Children's BBC, he had quickly risen from an unknown into the hot future of British television. <i>Going Live! </i>was just around the corner and, by the 1990s, Philip would be cemented as part of the lineup of British television's primetime schedules. But what happened on his final stint in the Broom Cupboard?<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br />Personally, I can't remember the pre-Broom Cupboard era - some of which I recently dug up on Betamax - even though I was undoubtedly watching. The Broom Cupboard, however, felt like it had always been there. And so did Philip. Even though it was 36 years ago, I can still remember, as a four year, feeling sad that Philip was leaving. Whether I caught his final afternoon on Children's BBC, I can't remember, but luckily someone's <a href="https://youtu.be/CTI7FfmTunc?si=Cf-Y5lRmbMNG5we2" target="_blank">uploaded it to YouTube</a>.<br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CTI7FfmTunc?si=Cf-Y5lRmbMNG5we2" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />And isn't it peculiar? The opening sequence, which feels very downbeat, is quite unlike anything else seen on Children's BBC up until that point. The animated intro, all BBC Micro, for Children's BBC starts but a worried voice announces that Philip has been sent for a meeting with Michael Grade, head of programmes at the BBC. Grade, who puts in a surprisingly strong acting performance, informs Philip that Gordon the Gopher is to become the BBC's next big star, he could soon be starring with Selina Scott and the role of <i>Doctor Who </i>is his if he wants it. Meanwhile, Schofield is to take up a new position in the post room.<br /><br />After Philip trudges morosely through the corridors of Television Centre, he emerges into the centre of Television Centre's outside area. Yes, the Broom Cupboard won't even be seen today. But Philip isn't alone as, already auditioning for his old role, Vince Purity (Colin Bennett) - host of <i>You Should Be So Lucky! - </i>is on hand to describe Schofield as a "burnt out specimen" for good measure. There's also time for some blooper footage, consisting of several takes from a sketch which was included in an edition of <i>But First This </i>from earlier on in the month. <br /><br />After this, everything gradually returns to a sense of normalcy, with Philip introducing the afternoon's programmes and undertaking his farewell lap. Not only does Tony Hart send a pre-recorded good luck message, but the presenters of <i>Newsround </i>also pop by to bid farewell to Schofield. The newshounds are also joined by a youthful Andy Crane who, of course, is due to step into Philip's shoes as the new presenter of Children's BBC.<br /><br />We're fortuitous that this footage has turned up, as most continuity was discarded as soon as it was broadcast. The footage appears to have originated from a home-recording, and full captures of an entire set of Children's BBC continuity is rare, so we're lucky this has been preserved. It felt, at the time, like an end of an era, but Children's BBC would continue to run quite successfully after Schofield left. Whether he ever returns to our screens is currently unknown but, as with most content featured on Curious British Telly, this footage acts as a reminder of simpler times for all involved.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-56196375103614133892023-11-30T22:14:00.001+00:002023-12-03T09:10:05.238+00:00Navigating Career Transitions: A Guide to Embracing Change and Finding Success<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1A_q3LrwLeoQakYTBgQcIilqbwvuidfk-uA5OrQMd1a3x871gmAjfrt-XSM53diVCn81lxEiW202H2WTTP04zM1ELIi569H27fonck31rsgRQl0puQnplARv6lWIAjmVXtXGnOBhUXNbe0VtI1hgwfdI8_V2E6aa9GZP71t-yElKVTa5JIi1GFUoXrO8/s605/Picture1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="605" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1A_q3LrwLeoQakYTBgQcIilqbwvuidfk-uA5OrQMd1a3x871gmAjfrt-XSM53diVCn81lxEiW202H2WTTP04zM1ELIi569H27fonck31rsgRQl0puQnplARv6lWIAjmVXtXGnOBhUXNbe0VtI1hgwfdI8_V2E6aa9GZP71t-yElKVTa5JIi1GFUoXrO8/w382-h254/Picture1.jpg" width="382" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">Career transitions are an inevitable part of professional
life, and in today's dynamic job market, individuals often find themselves
navigating through various changes in their career paths. Whether prompted by
personal growth, economic shifts, or a desire for new challenges, successfully
managing these transitions is crucial for long-term career satisfaction and
success. This article explores key strategies and insights to help individuals
navigate career transitions effectively.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<h1>Understanding the Motivation:<span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal">Before embarking on a career transition, it's essential to
understand the underlying motivations driving the change. Whether it's a desire
for increased fulfillment, skill development, or a response to external factors
like industry trends, clarity about the reasons behind the transition lays the
foundation for a more focused and purposeful journey.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h1>Self-Assessment:<span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal">A successful career transition begins with a thorough
self-assessment. Evaluate your skills, strengths, values, and interests to
identify transferable assets and areas for development. Assessing your
professional identity ensures that the next step aligns with your authentic
self, increasing the likelihood of long-term satisfaction in the new role.<span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h1>Research and Exploration:<span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal">Thorough research into potential industries, roles, and
organizations is critical during a career transition. Attend industry events,
engage in informational interviews, and leverage online resources to gain
insights into the culture, requirements, and opportunities within your target
field. Exploring different options helps in making informed decisions and
minimizes unexpected challenges.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h1>Skill Development and Training:<span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal">Identify the skills required in your desired field and
invest in acquiring them. This may involve formal education, online courses,
workshops, or self-directed learning. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous
improvement and adaptability enhances your marketability in the new career
landscape.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h1>Networking:<span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal">Building a robust professional network is invaluable during
career transitions. Leverage existing connections and actively seek
opportunities to expand your network within the target industry. Networking not
only provides valuable insights but can also lead to mentorship, job referrals,
and a deeper understanding of the professional landscape.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h1>Building a Strong Personal Brand:<o:p></o:p></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal">Craft a compelling personal brand that showcases your unique
value proposition. <a href="https://resume-example.com/">Update your resume</a>,
LinkedIn profile, and other professional platforms to reflect your skills,
achievements, and aspirations. A cohesive personal brand communicates a
consistent message to potential employers and colleagues, strengthening your
professional identity.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h1>Adapting the Mindset:<span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal">Embracing a positive and adaptable mindset is crucial during
career transitions. Recognize that challenges are part of the process, and view
them as opportunities for growth. Cultivate resilience and maintain a
forward-thinking perspective to navigate uncertainties with confidence.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h1>Seeking Guidance and Mentorship:<span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal">Navigating career transitions can be challenging, and
seeking guidance from mentors or career coaches can provide invaluable
insights. Experienced mentors can offer advice, share their own career
transition stories, and provide emotional support, contributing to a smoother
and more successful journey.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Career transitions are transformative experiences that, when
approached strategically, can lead to newfound fulfillment and success. By
understanding motivations, conducting thorough self-assessment, and embracing a
proactive mindset, individuals can navigate these transitions with confidence.
Continuous learning, networking, and seeking mentorship further enhance the
transition process, ensuring a smooth and rewarding professional journey.
Remember, a career is a dynamic and evolving path, and each transition presents
an opportunity for growth and personal development.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Larry Berkeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05756327036089673433noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-70405039034878278092023-11-30T19:19:00.003+00:002023-12-03T09:10:26.074+00:00A Mirror Into Society: The Good Life 1975 Series<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">On this date: 1975 - The first episode of The Good Life was shown on BBC1. <a href="https://t.co/Ze4a4q5Spf">pic.twitter.com/Ze4a4q5Spf</a></p>— 🇬🇧📺 Classic British TV 📺🇬🇧 (@Classicbritcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Classicbritcom/status/1510969766848221192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
<p>Mentioning this archetypal film, The Good Life, brings smiles to many
British Sitcom fans of the 1970s. The movie was developed by expert comedy
writers Bob Larbey and John Esmonde, who wrote other series,
including Ever Decreasing Circles and Please Sir. The Good Life
featured characters like Felicity Kendal, Penelope Keith, Richard Biers and
Paul Eddington.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><o:p></o:p><p></p><p>The sitcom consisted of 30-minute episodes, including two specials and
four-episode seasons. Two things influenced the development of the show:<o:p></o:p></p><ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Jimmy Gilbert's desire to find a space for Richard
Biers and his promotion to the leadership of comedy at BBC.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Esmonde and Larbey's conversation about middle age, as
they were at that time approaching 40.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul><h2>Far-Reaching Influence</h2><p>Amazingly, TV shows continue to influence different areas of life. A good
example is the <a href="https://www.casimba.com/en-gb/">online casino</a> industry,
where gambling platforms use the popularity of these shows as a
basis for slot game themes. Slots like The Godfather are usually
crafted around favourite TV shows to immerse players on a different level.
Further, movies and shows can represent different societal themes, forming a
basis for raising awareness.<br />
<br />
In the Good Life show, Esmonde and Larbey craft a story of a man who, at 40,
was employed at a job he didn't like and was miserable but decided to start a
new life. After thinking through what kind of life such a character would
desire, the writers ended in self-sufficiency. The two writers presented
the idea to Jimmy Gilbert, who liked it and later approached Richard Biers, who
would feature as Tom Good in the series. After a successful collaboration, the
writers produced a pilot episode, which they forwarded to the Controller of
BBC-1 for approval. <o:p></o:p></p><h2>The Set Up<o:p></o:p></h2><p>Life is approaching 40, and <a href="https://televisionheaven.co.uk/reviews/the-good-life">Tom Good</a>
doesn't seem to be satisfied with the achievements he has made so far. It's
been eight years working for JJM Limited with his friend, Jerry Leadbetter, who
seems to excel while Tom is lost in ever-increasing discontentment. After
taking stock of his life, Tom is tired of commuting daily, doing a job he
dislikes and receiving little pennies as a salary. He, therefore, quits his job
and tries a self-sufficient life in a suburb, Surbiton.<o:p></o:p></p>
Good receives unwavering support from his wife, Barbara, although he is indifferent to her feelings.
Even though he showcases determination and courage, Tom is cultured in
obstinacy and chauvinism. However, this does not stop Barbra from quitting her
secure job to support her husband's dreams. This sitcom takes a different
approach as it uses harmony as its plot, contrary to most TV shows' prevalent
thought of conflict.<br><br>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Good Life - Margo's Muddy Moment (1975) <a href="https://t.co/R19qw7FyYp">pic.twitter.com/R19qw7FyYp</a></p>— 🇬🇧📺 Classic British TV 📺🇬🇧 (@Classicbritcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Classicbritcom/status/1642319372281683970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2023</a></blockquote><p>In the suburb, the Goods have a different neighbouring couple: Jerry and
Margo Leadbetter. Jerry is hard working and has to beat the traffic of <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2020/04/05/good-life-still-digging-sublime-seventies-sitcom/">daily
commutes</a> to offer Margo the life she is used to. Contrary to Barbra, who's
very supportive, Margo is pretty awful, with humourlessness, snobbishness and
intolerance. Thanks to her spouse, Margo can live a luxurious life while
staying at home and caring for the house. </p><p><o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Margo appears to be controlling and determines the direction of their life,
while Jerry keeps her happy. Jerry is neurotic because of his responsibilities
and envies his neighbours' achievements. Although the show begins as a vehicle
for Biers, the Leadbetters become stars in their own right in later
episodes. <o:p></o:p></p>
In summary, the Good Life is a prime display of the real-life experiences of people seeking
self-sufficiency. The humour combines inoffensive and warming storylines to
express the core battles that individuals have to conquer to enjoy the best of
life.</span> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
Larry Berkeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05756327036089673433noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-11423563021573840762023-10-29T09:31:00.001+00:002023-10-29T09:31:24.811+00:00Betamax Find: In Front of the Children (1983)<p style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="" class="sizing-normal" data-attrs="{"src":"https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/9e99e1c8-1793-4986-ad01-eed45d440d1b_826x625.png","srcNoWatermark":null,"fullscreen":null,"imageSize":null,"height":625,"width":826,"resizeWidth":508,"bytes":473950,"alt":null,"title":null,"type":"image/png","href":null,"belowTheFold":false,"topImage":false,"internalRedirect":null}" height="330" sizes="100vw" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9e99e1c8-1793-4986-ad01-eed45d440d1b_826x625.png" srcset="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_424,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9e99e1c8-1793-4986-ad01-eed45d440d1b_826x625.png 424w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_848,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9e99e1c8-1793-4986-ad01-eed45d440d1b_826x625.png 848w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1272,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9e99e1c8-1793-4986-ad01-eed45d440d1b_826x625.png 1272w, https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9e99e1c8-1793-4986-ad01-eed45d440d1b_826x625.png 1456w" style="text-align: center;" width="436" /></p><div class="captioned-image-container" data-pm-slice="0 0 []"><figure><a class="image-link is-viewable-img image2" data-component-name="Image2ToDOM" href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9e99e1c8-1793-4986-ad01-eed45d440d1b_826x625.png" target="_blank"><div class="image2-inset"><div></div></div></a></figure></div><p>There’s not a person in the country who didn’t love at least one children’s programme on the BBC whilst growing up. It’s an impossible proposition, the quality of the output was simply too high. And, no doubt, it’s equally as high now but it’s been a few years since I last tuned in. My daughter, you seen, has since transitioned over to YouTube for her entertainment needs, so I have no idea what the <em>Twirlywoos </em>are up to these days. Or <em>Sarah and Duck</em>. But Curious British Telly isn’t, thank god, about the present. It’s about the past.<br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LxFwqx2aGgk?si=jAkH9PHcvNCCNEXp" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />That’s why I was delighted to unearth this 1983 documentary on the first 60 years of children’s programmes on the BBC. Found on a Betamax tape, <em>In Front of the Children </em>is presented by the dependable John Craven, in a fetching jumper and tie combination, as he traces the origins of children’s programmes on BBC radio up to contemporary hits such as <em>Postman Pat</em>. Featuring interviews with those who were there in the early days, and have long since departed this mortal coil, it’s a treasure trove of insights and history.</p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-71166599969876687532023-10-09T19:31:00.002+01:002023-10-09T19:31:56.471+01:00The Book of Beasts - Out Now!<!-- Google tag (gtag.js) -->
<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XSGXHG30KP"></script>
<script>
window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];
function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}
gtag('js', new Date());
gtag('config', 'G-XSGXHG30KP');
</script>
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikti-1XoHRG__yMgwWEhui29GQnnMzlhN8YjuwU-SS4c5dA2hk1dB5scE_pmSQQQLqvwnTrG9ynEEeLbWouyGmjtK9qGxbGGzO6i7cJ74gLaNg_0L8aHlCIfhRQOgbP9Wk419fke9cfvJkBXuCGrvRFIiIO0a2PSDEe99RtIpnrrZCuQYPE8bOxmDpqrE-/s905/thebookofbeasts.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikti-1XoHRG__yMgwWEhui29GQnnMzlhN8YjuwU-SS4c5dA2hk1dB5scE_pmSQQQLqvwnTrG9ynEEeLbWouyGmjtK9qGxbGGzO6i7cJ74gLaNg_0L8aHlCIfhRQOgbP9Wk419fke9cfvJkBXuCGrvRFIiIO0a2PSDEe99RtIpnrrZCuQYPE8bOxmDpqrE-/w265-h400/thebookofbeasts.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br /><i>Beasts</i> is one of the calling cards of 1970s British folk horror, and this is an unarguable fact. Unless, of course, you haven't watched it. And, in that case, you need to rectify this immediately. Each episode of Nigel Kneale's much lauded anthology series, which aired in 1976, is a chilling blend of intricate plotting, rich characters, social commentary and, of course, an atmosphere which causes the hairs on the back of your neck to spring to attention. It's a series which has been much discussed and pored over since it first aired, but there has never been a definitive tome on the series. Until now.<br /><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span>Yes, thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/aneercs" target="_blank">Andrew Screen</a> - a long time friend of Curious British Telly - <a href="https://headpress.com/product/the-book-of-beasts/" target="_blank">The Book of Beasts has arrived</a> to tell you the entire story of every inch of the the series. And then tell you a little bit more for good measure. Andrew has been working on the book for as long as I can remember, and the sheer size of the book - 430 densely packed pages - immediately tells you why. This is more than just a review of the series, this is a deep dive into the depths of the mechanics behind <i>Beasts</i>. With full access to Nigel Kneale's archive, Andrew has retraced almost every step that Kneale took whilst writing the series and getting it produced. And, best of all, Andrew has tracked down those involved with the programme to gather together an exhaustive list of insights on the production.<br /><br />The book was only released last week, and I've barely made a dent in it, but the opening section which looks at <i>Murrain</i> - the unofficial pilot for <i>Beasts</i> - is a fascinating read and one which contains jaw-dropping levels of detail. It's going to keep me busy for a long, long time and it also acts as an excellent excuse, as if you would ever need one, to rewatch <i>Beasts</i>. So, if you've ever watched and enjoyed <i>Beasts</i>, this is the book for you and can be found over at <a href="https://headpress.com/product/the-book-of-beasts/" target="_blank">the Headpress website in a variety of formats</a>.<br /><br /><i>P.s. I'm not on commission, and I purchased the book out of my own pocket!</i><p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-69019879067418159462023-09-25T19:11:00.001+01:002023-09-25T19:11:08.792+01:00Betamax Find: Claire Rayner's Casebook (Homosexuality)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0d3lPdeVUaPQezLHdIFfSa8s10xNyeOhsCdkPSweBdxfSbkVZCuBG8k6UUFinGJd-MUcyXMc6NiAWUDAxWK1ECkB51p8i-2UmlINDnpgWiZjEjL6Cl796elWR2ZkgU41OTxFX6OOBHxVaINIL94Jll7C0YgcXGOwUOMKqnFw0w2ZsooxsWARY4wnuHMRh/s826/claire%20rayner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="826" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0d3lPdeVUaPQezLHdIFfSa8s10xNyeOhsCdkPSweBdxfSbkVZCuBG8k6UUFinGJd-MUcyXMc6NiAWUDAxWK1ECkB51p8i-2UmlINDnpgWiZjEjL6Cl796elWR2ZkgU41OTxFX6OOBHxVaINIL94Jll7C0YgcXGOwUOMKqnFw0w2ZsooxsWARY4wnuHMRh/w359-h271/claire%20rayner.png" width="359" /></a></div><br />Every now and then, I come across something on an old video tape which strikes a chord with people. At the weekend, I dug up a 1983 edition of <i>Claire Rayner's Casebook</i>, a series which looked at the various problems and hardships people faced in their everyday lives. Episodes ranged from divorced parents through to alcoholics and couples who couldn't have children. Rayner, of course, is well remembered as a beacon of hope and advice, so I was delighted to unearth, on a Betamax tape, the 10th March 1983 episode of <i>Claire Rayner's Casebook</i>, which focused on homosexuality.<span></span><p></p><a name='more'></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A5G0DzwCHj8?si=6p37nNC6u8cxktN-" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><br />I've now put it up on YouTube for everyone to watch, and it's already received plenty of interest and debate <a href="https://twitter.com/CuriousUkTelly/status/1705978069582790959" target="_blank">on Twitter</a>. Foolish as I am, I had been completely unaware that Claire Rayner was the mother of Jay Rayner - an individual I have a lot of time for - and <a href="https://twitter.com/jayrayner1/status/1705991556908368250">he was equally delighted</a> to see the footage resurface. And it's a fascinating programme, detailing the tribulations of being gay in the early 1980s and highlighting the lack of progress which had been made in the 20 years since the legalisation of homosexuality.<br /><br />Anyway, <b>this </b>is why I spend hours sifting through old videotapes and rolling my eyes wearily at yet another recording of <i>Diamonds are Forever. </i>Revisiting these snapshots of the past can instantly bring up emotions, viewpoints and arguments which feel as relevant now as they ever did. Naturally, society has progressed significantly in the last 40 years, but it's still far from perfect. And many of the comments made by the interviewees in this episode still ring true today.<br /><br />So, enjoy the video and, hopefully, more of <i>Claire Rayner's Casebook </i>will turn up in the future.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-25940209974969610282023-09-18T21:22:00.002+01:002023-09-18T21:22:15.263+01:00A King Rollo Comic Strip from July 1983<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XtLi9MIcPmVdjbDNMOOUahedQHswuox-8aPRaiRmNMmXSMMPcpHtCLcD00nW7jZN0hod6XCyxUpTgJlswKxd4BMR-f9hxzh4bq5MDg5YSVvPHeDCV0WFi0hoB7qmohqX7tUqzEheCD-4NcJKpFYSUxNOsdLn9jNtTjIDqZbzJDhQnXsaC9y1F9fUliNJ/s460/rollo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="460" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XtLi9MIcPmVdjbDNMOOUahedQHswuox-8aPRaiRmNMmXSMMPcpHtCLcD00nW7jZN0hod6XCyxUpTgJlswKxd4BMR-f9hxzh4bq5MDg5YSVvPHeDCV0WFi0hoB7qmohqX7tUqzEheCD-4NcJKpFYSUxNOsdLn9jNtTjIDqZbzJDhQnXsaC9y1F9fUliNJ/s320/rollo.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Digging deep into my collections of Buttons comics, most of which I picked up in a job lot off Ebay in 2021, I found this charming King Rollo adventure which I just had to share. It's from the 23rd July 1983 edition of Buttons and, as you can see, features King Rollo learning a lesson in gluttony.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7QYhe4MEsFz2cs6zMNKb-B057hiE2xadLqZVCCTAAt8gArwDy_eA1QAy_AmJaF7eS6Kxzz6DMQzvj7dfvtKVWNJeZCVq5TfuEjZUwyYBMri5CY8VNZgaGJ6RJzhNhLbEnraBExzs8ff2JE_K75mto6qEkQ6f9UylsyJRyRZmBVO5lUk_SDfUm7o_zLDDs/s1649/king%20rollo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1649" data-original-width="1218" height="799" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7QYhe4MEsFz2cs6zMNKb-B057hiE2xadLqZVCCTAAt8gArwDy_eA1QAy_AmJaF7eS6Kxzz6DMQzvj7dfvtKVWNJeZCVq5TfuEjZUwyYBMri5CY8VNZgaGJ6RJzhNhLbEnraBExzs8ff2JE_K75mto6qEkQ6f9UylsyJRyRZmBVO5lUk_SDfUm7o_zLDDs/w588-h799/king%20rollo.png" width="588" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Click for full size version</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />I sincerely doubt that this comic strip, or indeed any of those featured in Buttons, have been reproduced since, and this makes them relatively rare. So, <a href="http://www.curiousbritishtelly.co.uk/2023/07/a-bertha-comic-strip-from-september-1986.html" target="_blank">as with the Bertha strip I shared a while back</a>, I shall intermittently be putting these little slices of childhood ephemera online for people to rediscover.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-52826908362107978642023-09-18T18:04:00.002+01:002023-09-18T19:45:11.835+01:00Is it Time to Revive the British Superhero Classic Misfits?<p>British television writers are famous for offering their unique takes on
classic themes, and the way that Misfits subverted superhero themes was a prime
example of that. The black comedy from Howard Overman ran for five series
between 2009 and 2013 but was ultimately cancelled due to falling ratings.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Many fans were left flabbergasted at the decision to stop <a data-cke-saved-href="https://vocal.media/geeks/could-misfits-ever-make-a-comeback-with-series-6" href="https://vocal.media/geeks/could-misfits-ever-make-a-comeback-with-series-6">making
Misfits</a>, as its storylines and characters remained popular until the end.
With the superhero genre now booming in the mainstream, could it be time to
bring back this much-loved show in a new iteration?<o:p></o:p></p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VsBYXLYNZlE?si=OKgljGbmvr_xMPJu" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>
<h2><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Misfits Proved That
It Could Survive Losing Cast Members<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p>There were various things that made Misfits a British television gem, but
one of the key aspects was that it managed to survive after shedding its
original cast. The first series in 2009 was popular thanks to star turns from
Robert Sheehan and Iwan Rheon, but these actors outgrew the E4 offering quickly
and went on to secure bigger roles.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Some thought that the series wouldn’t draw the same viewership when
Sheehan’s Nathan left at the end of the second series. However, it arguably
grew stronger when Joe Gilgun joined the cast as Rudy. The This is England star
became the glue that held the series together and helped usher in a new set of
actors.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Misfits was well-loved because it completely flipped the traditional
superhero model, making it a breath of fresh air compared to the Hollywood
template. In the UK series, superpowered beings weren’t on missions to save the
world most of the time. Instead, it imagined what various powers could be like
if they were randomly instilled on delinquents who were stuck on community
service. This led to some hilarious situations.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h2><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Superhero Themes
are Abundant in Popular Culture<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p>Misfits finished airing ten years ago in 2013, but fans aren’t giving up on
their hope for a revival at some point. It would be a perfect time to bring it
back, as the superhero genre has expanded and changed drastically over the last
decade. Misfits could be compared to The Boys on Amazon Prime, which also
challenges classic superhero tropes. That offering has been hugely popular,
with viewers desperate for content in a similar vein.<o:p></o:p></p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M1bhOaLV4FU?si=O-6Wl0lON2mryF96" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>Superheroes are huge in the gaming industry as well, highlighting the
franchise potential for Misfits if it returns. For example, there are titles
like Marvel Strike Force and Injustice 2 on mobile. The online casino industry
also has innovative superhero options, such as the <a data-cke-saved-href="https://mrq.com/blog/flyx-casino-strategies" href="https://mrq.com/blog/flyx-casino-strategies">FlyX casino</a>
game. This offering involves a superhero flying higher and higher. Bettors need
to use a strategy to cash out at the right time, with splitting bets and FlyX
Martingale both popular options.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Since Misfits ended its run, many television series have enjoyed success
from branching out into games as well. If Misfits returned, it could leverage
this model to attract new viewers. One of the most successful examples of this
was Narcos, which branched out into the popular <a data-cke-saved-href="https://mrq.com/blog/flyx-casino-strategies" href="https://mrq.com/blog/flyx-casino-strategies">Cartel Wars</a>.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Misfits has to go down as one of the top British series of all time, as it
perfectly captured the dry humour of people from the country. Viewers were able
to see themselves in the characters and imagine what they would do if they were
bestowed with such powers as well. It would be great if the series was
resurrected.<o:p></o:p></p>Larry Berkeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05756327036089673433noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-45432739072826157202023-09-11T20:36:00.004+01:002023-09-11T20:36:53.106+01:00New 'Old' Episode of Bric-a-Brac Emerges onto YouTube<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjospuExWf4OuMdn252-qnL7mrCG_diStL85-jIyo456t0B5tOdxQhbNryM8B_3pjA6XFcpaOAz6fpRRV3oEBRPGIjq8V0xK8wl6U8acseiOhywfM1tqY1pxOvrcEjHqrQ2Xx0Z-p1FTjQ8J1xu7g25lmOBhMF2GFEm0-8FWTOFfFGRHE67CPoEJ15vHyB9/s812/bric-a-brac.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="812" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjospuExWf4OuMdn252-qnL7mrCG_diStL85-jIyo456t0B5tOdxQhbNryM8B_3pjA6XFcpaOAz6fpRRV3oEBRPGIjq8V0xK8wl6U8acseiOhywfM1tqY1pxOvrcEjHqrQ2Xx0Z-p1FTjQ8J1xu7g25lmOBhMF2GFEm0-8FWTOFfFGRHE67CPoEJ15vHyB9/s320/bric-a-brac.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />In what can only be described as excellent news, Neil Miles (tape archaeologist extraordinaire) has captured a complete episode of <i>Bric-a-Brac </i>and uploaded it to YouTube. Starring the inimitable and highly charming Brian Cant, <i>Bric-a-Brac </i>focused on the wonder of phonetics and ran for two series in 1980 and 1982.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T-S0qY5xHYc?si=Gj73rWK-HurJY_tQ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><br />This particular episode, which originally aired on 18th August 1982, was the first episode of the second series - the copy which Neil managed to find is from a 1985 repeat airing. I get the feeling that this episode was previously up on YouTube - I put a screenshot from the episode on Twitter back in 2015 - but it's not been on there for several years. Anyway, a few other episodes have disappeared over the years, so it's excellent to have it back. At present, there are only two complete episodes online (and one nearly complete episode), but hopefully more will emerge one day.Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-40498564799631179722023-09-08T19:09:00.002+01:002023-09-08T19:09:36.615+01:00Don't Forget About the Curious British Telly Substack<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rOEGwLkMDgArfMgxWwSVAPBsVC-1FF0EpT4Tqcnc3vg87f6uap9Bvj-0HqP6xc1d6MWE53Hcu9t45QQ-vYWz2HT0zHO77M6HwCd88k887T2QbEWCkoFCarTbeOUg6_NqGlrod2mhOG9V1gT0BIHBy4kTIKE7iZx6UVv8_z7s_8cNHJE_9ly8uPDqDEV-/s189/substack.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="189" data-original-width="189" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rOEGwLkMDgArfMgxWwSVAPBsVC-1FF0EpT4Tqcnc3vg87f6uap9Bvj-0HqP6xc1d6MWE53Hcu9t45QQ-vYWz2HT0zHO77M6HwCd88k887T2QbEWCkoFCarTbeOUg6_NqGlrod2mhOG9V1gT0BIHBy4kTIKE7iZx6UVv8_z7s_8cNHJE_9ly8uPDqDEV-/w181-h181/substack.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Just a quick reminder that the <a href="https://curiousbritishtelly.substack.com/" target="_blank">Curious British Telly Substack</a> is alive and well. If you're not familiar with Substack, then read on. Substack is, in fact, many things: a newsletter, a blog, a website and, indeed, whatever you want it to be in terms of a publication. It can be read either online or you can sign up for all updates to sent to you via email. I've been fairly active on there recently, so there's all sorts of extra Curious British Telly bits on there. If you want to take a closer look then head over to curiousbritishtelly.substack.com/</p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-78576717288007700522023-09-08T17:55:00.002+01:002023-09-08T22:13:27.397+01:00Remembering Paul O’Grady’s Cheeky Forgotten Sitcom “Eyes Down<p>Welcome to The Rio bingo hall in Liverpool. It’s where short-tempered
manager Ray Temple (Paul O’Grady) tries to corral his lackadaisical staff and
impress the elderly collection of customers who frequent his establishment. To
top it off, this curmudgeon hates them all. All the while he’s dealing with
self-loathing that produces outbursts that’d make Lily Savage smile from ear to
ear. The Rio isn’t Ray’s Ritz and he’s quite disappointed about it.</p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Eyes Down was a 2003 sitcom that lasted for two series. Broadcast on the
BBC, it was written by Liverpudlian actress-turned-writer Angela Clarke and
starred O’Grady alongside Rosie Cavaliero, who recently appeared in The Power
of Parker, Neil Fitzmaurice and Edna Doré. A young Sheridan Smith, fresh off
her breakthrough in Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, was also part of
the talented ensemble cast.<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hzSwfqOctTx7KIpA0_ykVtAGMGg-o6mZU_jRGfLhT15L2ztDsX7aeOpptqfMqcdN_RMuP6jWOeYb-4yBehIraVeUfUfI2G7pDJPK4fp6Rh3MkPF5H8vsHEPvXIjL5FIVRTDuh2kFTjFYgGmyuoLwc-lBXseP3OKZQbac1FaP3XLaEy8iW2XU_4S8d5u9/s2070/picture%201%20eyes%20down.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1380" data-original-width="2070" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hzSwfqOctTx7KIpA0_ykVtAGMGg-o6mZU_jRGfLhT15L2ztDsX7aeOpptqfMqcdN_RMuP6jWOeYb-4yBehIraVeUfUfI2G7pDJPK4fp6Rh3MkPF5H8vsHEPvXIjL5FIVRTDuh2kFTjFYgGmyuoLwc-lBXseP3OKZQbac1FaP3XLaEy8iW2XU_4S8d5u9/s320/picture%201%20eyes%20down.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Source: <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/3UbsiRcrFV4">Unsplash</a><br /><p><o:p></o:p></p>
<h2><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It’s Paul O’Grady’s
show<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p>It is, of course, the late O’Grady who shines. His rendition of Tony
Christie when the PA system goes down in episode 3, “Stars in Their Eyes”, is a
highlight. As is his panic in “The Clairvoyant” after a fortune teller predicts
his death the following night.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>There’s also Series 2’s opener, “Next Big Thing”, which features a giddy Ray
excited about his new game, “Guess the Ball”. He realises that while bingo
remains rooted in its traditions, there’s always room for a quirky innovation.
Just look at today’s <a href="https://www.buzzbingo.com/live-bingo">live bingo</a>
online and the amount of game variations you see, such as Buzz Bingo’s Double
Bubble which boosts your prize if you claim any double numbers. For Ray,
however, his new game is short-lived after he gets distracted by a dishonest
photographer promising Sheridan Smith’s Sandy a shot at a modelling career.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Although Eyes Down enjoyed <a href="https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/paul-ogradys-bbc-bingo-sitcom-26756548">reasonable
ratings</a>, the BBC decided not to renew it for a third series. While it
enjoyed the presence of sitcom veteran Christine Gernon in the director’s
chair, Angela Clarke’s script lacked the spark of her obvious inspirations.
Victoria Wood’s smart observational comedy and the quirks of Peter Kay are
present in Clarke’s work but aren’t as tightly constructed. Her characters are
also a bit one-dimensional.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKQgBSX_09jZIWPJQjrUw-hD2P6Y_OZrNLG8l8PIxfVg5FzbA6PqJXp6kljK1WVQlcacqRghWWPeL-ENZSQ82GUjeu9GFWITkkNSuJWtw9pYAQ9ygDYEdAcXSkZDZrCfCZbbax5OVTel3uzmy5uBFXgCJ2focCdhg2bSnqUt3iRuoiLN3iv1lse6s065s/s1280/picture%202%20eyes%20down.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="1280" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKQgBSX_09jZIWPJQjrUw-hD2P6Y_OZrNLG8l8PIxfVg5FzbA6PqJXp6kljK1WVQlcacqRghWWPeL-ENZSQ82GUjeu9GFWITkkNSuJWtw9pYAQ9ygDYEdAcXSkZDZrCfCZbbax5OVTel3uzmy5uBFXgCJ2focCdhg2bSnqUt3iRuoiLN3iv1lse6s065s/s320/picture%202%20eyes%20down.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Source:
<a href="https://pixabay.com/es/photos/prensa-modelo-bingo-n%C3%BAmeros-papel-3025962/">Pixabay</a><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<h2><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Lots of things to
like<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p>That’s not to say the cast don’t do their best. O’Grady had the chance to
take off the Lily Savage wig and make-up and showcase all of his talent. Just
like much of his work before and since, he’s a joy to watch. Doré, perhaps best
known for her role as Mo Butcher <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2014/apr/14/edna-dore">in
Eastenders</a>, is also wonderful as the kindly bingo hall cleaner, Mary. She’s
particularly good in “Thief”, an episode in series 2, when she’s the unlikely
hero after Ray gets cornered following a robbery.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>As well as other standout performances, especially from Rosie Cavaliero,
Eyes Down has plenty to like. It is also unique in its bingo hall setting.
Other popular sitcoms of the 1990s and 2000s like Phoenix Nights (working men’s
club), Early Doors (pub), and The Royle Family (terrace house), are fondly
remembered partly because of where their stories took place. While Eyes Down
can’t class itself in the same league as the aforementioned classics, it is
nevertheless an entertaining and consistently amusing alternative that's now
been sadly forgotten about. <o:p></o:p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-30570647231627757972023-09-08T17:55:00.001+01:002023-09-08T17:55:27.786+01:00Random Episode: Thinkabout (25/11/1985)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7YBz5erE5BdhG0_iggMptd2muIzOCz_MRvShN9KPXMM81--KWUUjcrJgEsc59qMAUnyOGVebX6-o4PPHOjd4MSVZEAO2PYSHZTE_rEJSur2azZe0zHQkiwF-N_wGahN1-ey4j8v90B2gv0QXAAP0Y0Ek3EFCxosW06SFLM4z5_JMoHAPjT3682JMS1INF/s785/thinkabout%20frank.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="785" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7YBz5erE5BdhG0_iggMptd2muIzOCz_MRvShN9KPXMM81--KWUUjcrJgEsc59qMAUnyOGVebX6-o4PPHOjd4MSVZEAO2PYSHZTE_rEJSur2azZe0zHQkiwF-N_wGahN1-ey4j8v90B2gv0QXAAP0Y0Ek3EFCxosW06SFLM4z5_JMoHAPjT3682JMS1INF/w374-h299/thinkabout%20frank.png" width="374" /></a></div><br />Over the many years that Curious British Telly has been running, I've covered plenty of children's programmes which have become obscured by the mists of time. However, barely any of these have fallen under the sub-genre of educational programming. You know the type, the programmes which you watched at school when the teacher would wheel out the TV in a caged fortress. So, today, we're going to take a look at a fine example of these in the form of <i>Thinkabout</i>.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br />Truth be told, I can barely remember any of the schools programmes I watched whilst at school. Sure, I can remember <i>Look and Read</i>, <i>How We Used to Live </i>and <i>Words and Pictures</i>, but that's about it. Perhaps this lack of recall is down to the fact that many of these programmes were far from exciting. Sure, it always meant a break from the classroom and not doing any work, but the content was always educational, wasn't it? Luckily, it turns out, not everything was long division and algebra. There were, as <i>Thinkabout </i>proves, many which felt more like one of the lunchtime 'fun' slots for children.<br /><br /><i>Thinkabout</i>, which appears to have originally run for two series between 1984 - 85 on BBC2, was repeated up until 1990, so there's every chance I was sat in front of it at some point. Only one episode has emerged online - hence this edition of Random Episode - but it certainly doesn't ring any bells with me. But, from what I can glean, it's an interesting and charming little show.<br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d1PnXqlY7TI?si=cbRL113wzPsFl6aV" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Let's start by looking at the theme tune, which is an absolute cracker. Sounding much like any assembly hall in the mid-1980s, the theme tune for <i>Thinkabout </i>contains some simple synths alongside a basic drumbeat as a small chorus of primary school children chime harmoniously with lyrcis about finding new ways to do things and the importance of thinking about how things work. Coupled with the animated photo montage of children - resplendent in mid-80s fashion, the winner of which is the Pittsburgh Steelers top - larking about and, uh, finding things out, <i>Thinkabout </i>sets out its stall early on.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggd7zI67LkORKAPedi6rWCeAPt3UPY02gz8b4hVVOgHEUrAONsP8Ci2mI5pbjsGsaOnpzzbCQ-R5T2pTt_Pa50avXIneuXF-59soygg5AG040KpGd9ewlqtHbJuKdDzy-0z1b7hS4Zy8rsJnNNQBMRRQPN76U0ayzGjvrIf91oMGqQE7Kaev73slGXs4hN/s457/thinkabout%20cutting%20RT.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="257" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggd7zI67LkORKAPedi6rWCeAPt3UPY02gz8b4hVVOgHEUrAONsP8Ci2mI5pbjsGsaOnpzzbCQ-R5T2pTt_Pa50avXIneuXF-59soygg5AG040KpGd9ewlqtHbJuKdDzy-0z1b7hS4Zy8rsJnNNQBMRRQPN76U0ayzGjvrIf91oMGqQE7Kaev73slGXs4hN/w223-h397/thinkabout%20cutting%20RT.png" width="223" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Radio Times Clipping - 15th September 1984</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Naturally, it's very difficult for me to get a full handle on the series as I've only got access to one episode. And there's very little information regarding the series online. However, after getting in touch with one of my contacts - the ever reliable Graeme Wood - I was able to get hold of perhaps the only press clipping known to man regarding <i>Thinkabout</i>. It's a brief preview of the series, but it confirms that the raison d'etre of <i>Thinkabout </i>is to "interest even the youngest children in scientific ideas and language associated with practical aspects of life."<br /><br />It certainly sounds educational, but in reality it's relatively light on hard learning, as you would expect for a programme aimed at 5 - 7 year olds. The series appears to focus on the activities taking place at a block of flats where Frank (Jim Dunk), who looks like a classic woodwork teacher, is some form of resident handyman. He's joined by the eternally cheerful Sally (Vicky Licorish) who assists Frank with whatever his weekly task is. And, in this edition of <i>Thinkabout, </i>they're decorating the flats.<br /><br />But Frank and Sally aren't on their own. They also have a band of tiny helpers in the form of Sharon, Nicky and Bradley. The theme of this particular episode is "cover up" so there's, well, several instances of things being covered up whilst the team go about decorating the flats e.g. covering themselves up in overalls, covering up a bit of dirt with wallpaper and covering Bradley in a dust sheet. It all sounds very slight and basic, but it's convivial and genuinely feels much more like it belongs in the lunchtime slot than an educational one, all it needs is a jolly story in the middle.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ_DiCZI_DvCU1TAFtUX07a1WceoRgiAJnH6_Ktc2b2paf7Qnqmqh4ZVHrYKtsGAwBndbpfBOrcjk37GQex4rD_VnT0HvZJChr23lWxWXQFhbXO65uVaZt1UOHGNjB6C94R6jTCupUGCzvORBMlaHjYOStNW8GajD8trAXO9NpeYUAVk9Z2Vg841nIXf8M/s777/thinkabout%20dinosaur.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="622" data-original-width="777" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ_DiCZI_DvCU1TAFtUX07a1WceoRgiAJnH6_Ktc2b2paf7Qnqmqh4ZVHrYKtsGAwBndbpfBOrcjk37GQex4rD_VnT0HvZJChr23lWxWXQFhbXO65uVaZt1UOHGNjB6C94R6jTCupUGCzvORBMlaHjYOStNW8GajD8trAXO9NpeYUAVk9Z2Vg841nIXf8M/w384-h307/thinkabout%20dinosaur.png" width="384" /></a></div><br />The action in the flats is broken up with several interstitials, so let's take a look at some of these curious beasts. Firstly, early on in the episode, there's an admittedly cutesy, but incongruous animation featuring a dinosaur uncovering a series of layers on a present which gets larger and larger as each layer is removed. Then there's some location footage from a primary school where a child - apologies for laughing so loud at this - suggests a good way to keep rain off your head is to cover it up with a drawing - eventually they agree that a saucepan is probably a better method. We also get treated to a joyous hymn dedicated to 'covering up' which involved coconuts, gloves and a penguin on a slide.<br /><br />I can't say that the educational aspect of <i>Thinkabout </i>on this showing is particularly strong, but apparently there were related notes for teachers to stimulate further learning. Nonetheless, this Random Episode of <i>Thinkabout </i>proved enjoyable enough and, if it were 1985 again, I would be making sure I tuned in for some additional entertainment. And, my oh my, those cockney accents on the kids - especially Bradley's - are remarkable, you simply wouldn't hear them on television today.<br /><br />I'm only aware of one other <i>Thinkabout </i>episode being available - and that's within the BFI Archive - so, if you happen to have any old recordings of <i>Thinkabout</i>, then please get in touch and I'll get them online!Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-66777634763458984562023-08-26T13:05:00.001+01:002023-08-26T13:06:16.630+01:00Four Fantastic Minutes Straight from 1979<!--Google tag (gtag.js)-->
<script async="" src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XSGXHG30KP"></script>
<script>
window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];
function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}
gtag('js', new Date());
gtag('config', 'G-XSGXHG30KP');
</script>
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibl5nExADRc3mXAs2AAXAUl1QzpErJJmMVAw-ZnRSrc3HFRxrfiTsGqsJj4xPyYgmYEu80tKrOMXgznYlHnPtHAe3PwNvEOVEM4YB9hCho0Z5JmOwi_iCZW-p2XbSXE3_Mfpa2ZOKQFBOzhlZMTHlMuvGqpx9WqSZ9CXd6R_9BFOD_aKlMGHnCZC7z8Lx6/s832/thames%201979.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="832" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibl5nExADRc3mXAs2AAXAUl1QzpErJJmMVAw-ZnRSrc3HFRxrfiTsGqsJj4xPyYgmYEu80tKrOMXgznYlHnPtHAe3PwNvEOVEM4YB9hCho0Z5JmOwi_iCZW-p2XbSXE3_Mfpa2ZOKQFBOzhlZMTHlMuvGqpx9WqSZ9CXd6R_9BFOD_aKlMGHnCZC7z8Lx6/w363-h275/thames%201979.png" width="363" /></a></div><br />My ongoing quest to salvage ephemeral goodness from British television's distant past continues, and, once again, I've been able to dig all the way back into the 1970s. And it's all courtesy of the mammoth haul of Betamax tapes which <a href="https://curiousbritishtelly.substack.com/p/the-continuing-madness-of-betamax" target="_blank">I picked up back in June</a>. These intriguing tapes all date from the early 1980s, but the owner had previously owned a Philips VCR and had copied several of these tapes over to Betamax. Previously, I had found some <a href="http://www.curiousbritishtelly.co.uk/2023/06/ive-dug-up-1976-christmas-bbc1-ident.html" target="_blank">very brief BBC continuity for <i>Top of the Pops</i></a>, but I've now uncovered four minutes of footage which contain nearly everything you could want.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R9VYWsnR9Pg?si=s1LRWAvnCv8SvrYp" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Dating back to February 12th 1979, when James Callaghan was still prime minister, this footage follows on from an episode of <i>Danger UXB </i>during its original run. First up is a series of ads, which start with a promo for the relatively new Daily Star, having only launched in November 1978. Naturally, it's very much of its era, featuring a Starbird and footage of the Bee Gees in the studio. This is followed by a typically humourous John Smiths advert which finds two Yorkshiremen discussing Tchaikovsky on their way for a pint at The Three Ferrets. Next up is a bright and bouncy advert for Shredded Wheat featuring the Malt Street Kids before the a brief, final advert arrives to try and flog us Roskens hand conditioner.<br /><br />Following this, we're in to in-vision continuity from Thames which features Peter Marshall providing a rundown on what else is coming on Thames that evening. The background of the continuity studio is, in my opinion, one of the best from the many regional ITV franchises, and remained in place for several years. Anyway, Marshall soon hands over to Elton Welsby, who had only been with ITV for a year at this point, as he's here to entice viewers into watching the highlights of Man Utd vs Fulham in an FA Cup 4th round replay. Welsby then makes way for <i>News at Ten</i> which is presented by the legendary Reginald Bosanquet, who has a set of headlines which are now a staggering 44 years old.<br /><br />And then the recording stopped. It's a shame there wasn't more, and it would have been amazing to find a rundown of what was on Thames the following evening, but you can't have everything all of the time. The good news is, I've still got an absolute mountain of Betamax tapes to go through, many of which have 'Philips Copy' written on them, so I could yet find more intriguing slices of late 1970s television.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-68571449014117527012023-08-13T17:11:00.002+01:002023-08-13T17:11:58.790+01:00YouTube Pick of the Day: Tees Street Isn't Working (1985)<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dkObD25w4Kc" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><p>The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ThamesTv" target="_blank">Thames channel on YouTube </a>is packed full of fantastic gems from the archive, and that's exactly where today's YouTube Pick of the Day comes from. The video itself is part of an edition of current affairs programme <i>TV Eye</i>,<i> </i>which aired between 1978 - 1986, and focuses on the socioeconomic problems blighting the lives of those living on Tees Street, Birkenhead.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a>Down on Tees Street, there's an unfortunate statistic hanging in the air: only one adult, over the age 20, has a job. And, with almost unparalleled levels of irony, they work in the unemployment benefits office. The film, which is presented by Denis Tuohy, looks at the lives of the inhabitants of Tees Street, and reveals just how accurate <i>Boys from the Blackstuff </i>was. However, far from being a work of fiction, the narratives on offer here are devastatingly real. With an unemployment rate of 45% amongst males in the area, accelerated by the dying shipyard industry, the future appears bleak.<br /><br />It's a stark watch, and you can feel just how drained those living on Tees Street are. Even with the leg up of government schemes for new businesses, those struggling to make ends meet are resigned to a lengthy wait in the dole queue. Quite what happened to those on Tees Street is, to me, a mystery, but Tees Street itself had a far from happy ending. I found <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/41695432@N04/albums/72157623586567576/" target="_blank">some photos of Tees Street</a>, taken in 2010, and almost the entire street had been demolished, with all the residents now long gone. The end of what was once, no doubt, a thriving community, and a sad indictment of how quickly they can be swept aside by the local authorities.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-80116784605799752032023-07-23T08:57:00.003+01:002023-07-29T17:15:15.852+01:00A Bertha Comic Strip From September 1986<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSat3yHcN9WGvp7acufjWN_NHbL2jWlQmyFN0rVuyPLg89W7rpeAKqetweO-_9ouZFnO32bESNrgAP84B5PW_M1ljmUra6v9Rrv88OJaVkZzAwSTKxfr3ODf1GMFkS5EIWIBzAlSjmrhgaZVadM8niktwDhBsrVtyM1qHF45Ga9UIV81SlItrKYXuu2Xe/s400/bertha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSat3yHcN9WGvp7acufjWN_NHbL2jWlQmyFN0rVuyPLg89W7rpeAKqetweO-_9ouZFnO32bESNrgAP84B5PW_M1ljmUra6v9Rrv88OJaVkZzAwSTKxfr3ODf1GMFkS5EIWIBzAlSjmrhgaZVadM8niktwDhBsrVtyM1qHF45Ga9UIV81SlItrKYXuu2Xe/w295-h295/bertha.jpg" width="295" /></a></div><br />Digging through my pile of Buttons comics, which I picked up on Ebay a few years back, I spotted this exclusive Bertha comic strip and thought it would make a fine addition to Curious British Telly. It hails from September 1986 and features a quick story about fireworks which didn't feature in the television series. So, yes, being an official piece, this is part of the <i>Bertha </i>canon, an intriguing body of work which, no doubt, Disney will be snapping up in no time to milk dry.<span><a name='more'></a></span>Anyway, here it is for you to enjoy:<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbh-Vsii2PVlNbbmoRgfrhZ5SwZHuB6-mK2qawmzqmSnktPW5QQmus3mOEj5k24Asv7rX8zdvkbREzoWQeYA2HwIl2fBjQQYklMOJSYIWbTYqwyZ1Sm6Supr_l9g9tiXV-tHvXznTPzaLsuKAFtO1eAADFMWjaXSaZBeXwCMRDQ6RlkOU60HPRDooCou1I/s3392/betha%201986.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3392" data-original-width="2488" height="634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbh-Vsii2PVlNbbmoRgfrhZ5SwZHuB6-mK2qawmzqmSnktPW5QQmus3mOEj5k24Asv7rX8zdvkbREzoWQeYA2HwIl2fBjQQYklMOJSYIWbTYqwyZ1Sm6Supr_l9g9tiXV-tHvXznTPzaLsuKAFtO1eAADFMWjaXSaZBeXwCMRDQ6RlkOU60HPRDooCou1I/w466-h634/betha%201986.png" width="466" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click image to view a larger version</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-62139135845293967592023-07-23T08:57:00.002+01:002023-07-29T17:14:25.191+01:00A Peek Into the Secretive Realm of Farewell Ceremonies<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjG31paRVT33MunAda35jBPhbakUTu5plkyrIhzhAmJ1zNDuTZQ-eB4H2SQC-MGY-EmVCgwAwyjaV9vwBBAd1JTtv70HIqaORi9jFADpCXfhbsi1GHg7sO-NguCzv6o-4rnlqxI500yA1dM781WpebBtMoWK11xnf3CuZUrpsA3L06BxACdC9uIwpba8YO/s612/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="612" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjG31paRVT33MunAda35jBPhbakUTu5plkyrIhzhAmJ1zNDuTZQ-eB4H2SQC-MGY-EmVCgwAwyjaV9vwBBAd1JTtv70HIqaORi9jFADpCXfhbsi1GHg7sO-NguCzv6o-4rnlqxI500yA1dM781WpebBtMoWK11xnf3CuZUrpsA3L06BxACdC9uIwpba8YO/s320/Picture1.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Death is an inevitable part of life, and every
culture has unique customs and rituals surrounding funerals and farewell
ceremonies.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In the United Kingdom, funeral directors play
a crucial role in orchestrating these solemn events. However, beyond the sombre
facade lies a world of intriguing customs and traditions that add depth and
significance to how the British bid farewell to their departed loved ones.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This blog post aims to delve into the
secretive realm of available <a href="https://rosycompany.co.uk/funeral-directors/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">funeral
directors to help</span></a> and shed light on the curious customs passed down
through generations.</p>
<h2><a name="_s83osuhi3yt5"></a><span lang="EN">1. Professional Compassion:
Beyond the Call of Duty<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_3kmzpfuv5bgk"></a><span lang="EN">The Role of Funeral Directors<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Funeral directors in the UK are responsible
for managing funeral arrangements, providing emotional support to the bereaved,
and ensuring that the final farewell ceremony reflects the wishes and beliefs
of the deceased and their family.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_h81jkkksamkp"></a><span lang="EN">The Sympathetic Approach<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">The role of British funeral directors extends
far beyond the logistics of a funeral service. With their compassionate
approach and commitment to personalized farewells, they navigate the delicate
emotions surrounding death with finesse. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">British funeral directors are known for their
understanding nature. They offer comfort and solace to grieving families during
one of the most challenging times of their lives.</p>
<h2><a name="_de5co6vx1muk"></a><span lang="EN">2. Tailoring Farewell Ceremonies:
A Personal Touch<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_jf1w676fz6tm"></a><span lang="EN">Customizing Funeral Services<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Unlike standardized funeral practices, British
funeral directors are keen on personalization. They work closely with the
family to design a farewell ceremony that celebrates the life of the departed
individual in a unique and meaningful way.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_lss53rjh6wqn"></a><span lang="EN">Incorporating Hobbies and
Interests<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Funeral directors often find creative ways to
incorporate the hobbies and interests of the deceased into the service. Whether
it's a floral arrangement representing a favourite pastime or a slideshow of
cherished memories, these personalized touches make the ceremony truly special.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_rrsgtyci7iu7"></a><span lang="EN">3. Green Funerals: Embracing
Sustainability<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_p3afntfo2pb3"></a><span lang="EN">The Emergence of Green Funerals<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">In recent years, green funerals have gained
popularity in the UK. Funeral directors have adapted to this trend by offering
eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable caskets and natural burial
sites, to minimize the environmental impact.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_f3hetjf61ier"></a><span lang="EN">A Commitment to Nature<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Green funerals reflect the growing concern for
the environment, and many families find comfort in knowing that their loved
one's final resting place contributes positively to the earth.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_4ckgdtqn92up"></a><span lang="EN">4. The Rising Trend of Pre-Paid
Funerals<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_8z35gwdr6ork"></a><span lang="EN">Peace of Mind for the Future<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Pre-paid funerals have become a popular choice
among the British population. Funeral directors offer plans that allow
individuals to pre-arrange and pre-finance their funeral, providing peace of
mind and financial relief for their families.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_z3bnsgvjpv20"></a><span lang="EN">Personalization of Pre-Paid
Funerals<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Even with pre-paid plans, funeral directors
ensure that individuals have the flexibility to personalize their farewell ceremonies.
This way, they can have a say in how they want to be remembered.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_3cwxrcrpjkmx"></a><span lang="EN">5. Digital Memorials: Preserving
Memories Online<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_c6l9bbu05kcu"></a><span lang="EN">The Digital Era<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">As technology advances, so do the ways of
memorializing loved ones. Funeral directors now assist in creating digital
memorials, such as online tribute pages and memorial videos, to keep cherished
memories alive in the digital realm.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_gq0xzs123cm8"></a><span lang="EN">Connecting Loved Ones Worldwide<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Digital memorials bridge geographical gaps,
allowing friends and family from across the globe to participate in the
commemoration of their dearly departed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_qo2ubd9zb3e"></a><span lang="EN">6. Traditional vs. Contemporary
Funeral Practices<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_cr2hdhl9r1sh"></a><span lang="EN">Embracing Modern Approaches<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">While traditional funeral practices hold a
special place in the hearts of many, contemporary funeral directors are
introducing modern elements to cater to changing preferences. From
live-streaming funeral services for remote attendees to incorporating
multimedia presentations, they ensure that the farewell ceremony is both
inclusive and memorable.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_icoip562axid"></a><span lang="EN">Balancing Tradition and
Innovation<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Funeral directors strike a delicate balance
between preserving cultural and religious traditions and embracing innovative
ways to honour the life of the departed. This harmony creates a meaningful and
heartfelt experience for all involved.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_vy0qeem403sx"></a><span lang="EN">7. The Art of Eulogies<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_iy1lh2djel5"></a><span lang="EN">Crafting Personal Tributes<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Eulogies play a significant role in
celebrating the life of the deceased. British funeral directors skillfully
assist family members and friends in crafting heartfelt and personal tributes
that beautifully capture the essence of the departed soul.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_xj8q30h5ipi"></a><span lang="EN">Delivering Emotional Speeches<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Not only do funeral directors help create
eulogies, but they also guide those delivering them. They support speakers
emotionally, helping them find the courage to share their memories and stories
during the service.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_jkmz68wnictv"></a><span lang="EN">8. Funeral Etiquette: A Guide for
Attendees<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_fop5inwqbp1q"></a><span lang="EN">Dress Code and Conduct<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">During a farewell ceremony, funeral directors
educate attendees on appropriate dress codes and conduct. Respecting the
occasion's solemnity and the grieving family is of utmost importance.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_iu7l6a6ivcd0"></a><span lang="EN">Offering Condolences<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">As part of their compassionate approach,
funeral directors guide attendees in sensitively offering condolences to the
bereaved family. This guidance ensures the grieving family feels supported and
comforted during their loss.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_uv05uhlqqcfp"></a><span lang="EN">9. The Legacy of Funeral
Traditions<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_rcgl7sffnpyn"></a><span lang="EN">Passing Down Customs<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Funeral directors play a crucial role in
passing down funeral customs from generation to generation. Preserving and
honouring these traditions, they contribute to the richness of cultural
heritage.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_f7j76wez5coj"></a><span lang="EN">Evolving Traditions<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">While some customs remain unchanged, funeral
directors also observe the evolution of funeral practices over time. This
adaptability ensures that farewell ceremonies stay relevant and meaningful for
contemporary generations.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_7fzboci39ccm"></a><span lang="EN">10. The Unsung Heroes: Behind the
Scenes<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h3><a name="_tmeculo0lz35"></a><span lang="EN">The Preparations Unseen<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Beyond organizing the ceremony, funeral
directors diligently handle all the behind-the-scenes logistics, ensuring that
every farewell aspect is carefully orchestrated.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3><a name="_7ij0rltinuc3"></a><span lang="EN">Providing Closure<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">The attention to detail and dedication of
funeral directors offer a sense of closure to the bereaved, allowing them to
focus on grieving and healing without the burden of logistical concerns.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2><a name="_kz7i87t1pufd"></a><span lang="EN">Parting Ways: Celebrating Life,
Love, and Legacy</span><span lang="EN" style="background: rgb(247, 247, 248); color: #374151; font-family: Roboto; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Roboto; mso-fareast-font-family: Roboto;"><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">In the realm of British funeral directors,
compassion, personalization, and adaptability are the cornerstones of their
service. They approach each farewell ceremony with the utmost care, ensuring
that the deceased is honoured in a way that reflects their unique life. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As times change, so do the customs surrounding
death, and funeral directors gracefully embrace modernity while upholding
age-old traditions. Their unwavering commitment to the families they serve
makes them the unsung heroes of these solemn occasions.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">To find a reputable funeral director, consider
seeking recommendations from friends or family who have used their services.
You can also research online reviews and testimonials to ensure you choose a
compassionate and professional funeral director.</p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-3203138183778821432023-06-30T21:29:00.000+01:002023-06-30T21:29:15.017+01:00I've Dug Up the 1976 Christmas BBC1 Ident<!-- Google tag (gtag.js) -->
<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XSGXHG30KP"></script>
<script>
window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];
function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}
gtag('js', new Date());
gtag('config', 'G-XSGXHG30KP');
</script>
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgQ2yxFx58yqwb_qjDkxD2mwNo3ViOguxgwncC0bWFHqknSMQE53mfK8aupQkwhyU-Td5sW0RG2yxD5NW0idKi6mUA1FOrSZdgvb5STGn94f_dkMAA7oL-IiH2qke3HReU2X8QMkt911DmSLbu3obygx2qqzCXpbAPy7iw7wRD6uASlG3i5UPnfg6HNWN/s640/Snapshot_25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgQ2yxFx58yqwb_qjDkxD2mwNo3ViOguxgwncC0bWFHqknSMQE53mfK8aupQkwhyU-Td5sW0RG2yxD5NW0idKi6mUA1FOrSZdgvb5STGn94f_dkMAA7oL-IiH2qke3HReU2X8QMkt911DmSLbu3obygx2qqzCXpbAPy7iw7wRD6uASlG3i5UPnfg6HNWN/w380-h285/Snapshot_25.png" width="380" /></a></div><br />I wasn't aware, until the last 24 hours, that the 1976 Christmas BBC1 ident had only been preserved in a particularly poor picture quality. However, <a href="https://curiousbritishtelly.substack.com/p/i-finally-find-some-1970s-footage">after I stumbled across some Christmas 1976 recordings.</a>.. well... I was informed the version of the ident I'd found was a significant upgrade.<br /><br />So, if you cast your eyes upwards, there it is. All the way from 1976, it's a clearer view - although faaaaaar from HD - of this 47 year old ident. In my opinion, it's far from knocking the daddy of the BBC Christmas idents off the top spot, with that position obviously taken by the 1977 rotating Christmas pudding. Nonetheless, it's a nice find and hopefully it'll tickle your fancy.<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-74648685929032421122023-06-19T18:26:00.000+01:002023-06-19T18:26:10.397+01:00Archive Tape Digging: June 2023 (Betamax Special)<!-- Google tag (gtag.js) -->
<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XSGXHG30KP"></script>
<script>
window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];
function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}
gtag('js', new Date());
gtag('config', 'G-XSGXHG30KP');
</script><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwp7eRiafCcuFXPgTG3MdcHTeKCUU9zssyB3Z7Cnrl2ISWrOsrlzxozi9hLezaiqX66vvyxGbSwiWXBx0nw-UusGYEBxNgyY2IVRlzIIE9DnJY_RDh0aVFWg94Ok8niIcx-O9NiYPBnqpYzYxvvGwKqey5hCD0sJAlFyZNsSG8aGBr-FT_mt_m6C1LlC8A/s2048/betamax%20tapes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwp7eRiafCcuFXPgTG3MdcHTeKCUU9zssyB3Z7Cnrl2ISWrOsrlzxozi9hLezaiqX66vvyxGbSwiWXBx0nw-UusGYEBxNgyY2IVRlzIIE9DnJY_RDh0aVFWg94Ok8niIcx-O9NiYPBnqpYzYxvvGwKqey5hCD0sJAlFyZNsSG8aGBr-FT_mt_m6C1LlC8A/w350-h466/betamax%20tapes.jpg" width="350" /></a></div><br />It's been a long old time since I last did an edition of Archive Tape Digging, a situation enforced on me by a lack of tapes in the last few years. Sure, I've picked up a few in the last year, but in such small quantities there's been little to get excited by. Thankfully, following the purchase of my Betamax player, I've had <a href="https://curiousbritishtelly.substack.com/p/first-impressions-of-the-betamax" target="_blank">not one</a>, but <a href="https://curiousbritishtelly.substack.com/p/the-continuing-madness-of-betamax" target="_blank">two pickups</a> of Betamax tapes.<br /><br />As a result, I've now got close to 400 Betamax tapes to plough through. Progress, so far, has been relatively slow. But this is actually a good thing. You see, the reason that I've barely made a dent in this mountain of tapes is that they keep throwing up interesting finds. And these all need digitising in real time, so it's time consuming affair. The amazing payoff, of course, is that I've got a veritable bounty of finds to share with you.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><b>28/04/1983 - BBC1 - Jury: Gerald's Story</b><br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FzUeMkV_r8s" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><p></p><p><i>Jury </i>was a courtroom drama written by Ken Blakeson which ran for 13 episodes on BBC1 in 1983. Rather than being the BBC's answer to <i>Crown Court</i>, <i>Jury </i>was a very different beast indeed. Centering around the trial of a young man charged with rape, each episode focused on a different juror to demonstrate how the trial would not only affect their lives, but how their lives would contribute towards their verdict. This particular episode follows Gerald (Hugh Lloyd), whose life, externally, appears to be perfect, but will be put under intense pressure due to the trial.<br /><br />The very definition of a Curious British Telly programme, <i>Jury </i>seems to have been erased from history with barely a mention online. And, as for footage, there was precisely zero seconds available to view, so it's a fantastic find to share with the world. If, by chance, you have any other episodes on video, please get in touch!<br /><br /><b>15/03/1983 - BBC2 - Just Another Day: Battersea Dogs Home<br /></b><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_AWTnYbWABM" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />I can't begin to tell you how cock-a-hoop I was to find an episode of <i>Just Another Day</i> lurking on a video tape. And, in fact, I found the entire first series from 1983 on this particular Betamax tape. Several of those episodes were already online, but the series' very first episode wasn't. Accordingly, we can now head back to 1983 and spend a day at Battersea Dogs Home presented by the soothing tones of John Pitman. Aside from being nostalgia aplenty, the series also acts as a remarkable time capsule of the era.<br /><br /><b>12/04/1983 - BBC2 - Just Another Day: Sotheby's</b><br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BLFaNzJqN2s" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p><p>Yet more <i>Just Another Day </i>goodness with this episode based at auction house Sotheby's, so you can expect to see expectant sellers and valuation experts who have seen it all before. Again, I was over the moon to be able to bring even more <i>Just Another Day </i>in front of modern eyes and deliver a much needed trip back to a different era.<br /><br /><b>10/12/1983 - ITV - After The Day After</b><br /><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y3J9qTnaCB8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Following on from the UK premiere of nuclear disaster movie <i>The Day After</i>, Yorkshire Television broadcast <i>After The Day After</i>. A studio-based discussion programme, <i>After The Day After </i>was hosted by Robert Kee and featured the audience and various guests (including Michael Heseltine) debating the impact of the film and its connection to contemporary world affairs. God only knows what they made of <i>Threads</i>, which would air the following year.<br /><br /><b>31/08/1982 - BBC1 - A Day at the Zoo (Partial)<br /></b><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dh9rBRfSJJY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Much like <i>Just Another Day</i>, <i>A Day at the Zoo </i>spends 24 hours in a British institution, and this programme features London Zoo as its subject. Hosted by Esther Rantzen, it's a fantastic slice of archive television which takes in buying vast quantities of food for the animals, the day-to-day running of the zoo and a particularly tender section where Esther Rantzen feeds an orangutan. Sadly, only the first half of <i>A Day at the Zoo </i>was on the tape. Hopefully the entire programme will turn up at some point.<br /><br /><b>08/08/1983 - ITV - Thames News and Looks Familiar<br /></b><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3IEg2mgcxkI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />It's always exciting, well, in my humble but well informed opinion, to dig up some regional news. And that's exactly what we've got here, with Tina Jenkins - looking resplendent in her Princess Diana inspired fashion - presenting an edition of Thames News.<br /><br />However, it gets ever better as it's directly followed by an episode of <i>Looks Familiar. </i>A nostalgia programme looking back at the entertainment world of the 1930s and 40s. <i>Looks Familiar </i>is hosted by Denis Norden and features a set of guests comprising Bill Owen, Eartha Kitt and Larry Grayson discussing the era. The footage also features, at the <a href="https://youtu.be/3IEg2mgcxkI?t=1133" target="_blank">18:53 mark</a>, a quintessentially British advert for British Lamb. What more could you want?<br /><br />So, yes, it's been an amazing start to the Curious British Telly experience with Betamax and it's an endeavour which, with this current batch of tapes, is going to take me several months to complete. There's a few other bits and pieces up on the YouTube channel, so make sure you check out t<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@CuriousBritishTelly/videos" target="_blank">he full set of videos</a> there. Also, for paid subscribers of the <a href="https://curiousbritishtelly.substack.com/" target="_blank">Curious British Telly Substack</a>, there will be exclusive clips posted on there as well, so please consider signing up if you can afford it!</p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4901944301852919470.post-8146816475951281562023-05-24T20:15:00.002+01:002023-05-24T20:15:49.916+01:00Curious British Telly Enters the Betamax Age<!-- Google tag (gtag.js) -->
<script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XSGXHG30KP"></script>
<script>
window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];
function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);}
gtag('js', new Date());
gtag('config', 'G-XSGXHG30KP');
</script>
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNzhwmutO-ctowQ8fU_EVf2XPviUk-KjWQyWW2vL1LqvhZL_OQnTwcN8DbqaxKGihO54Yz6LQN_O5Pn3kuSohmsbS4BVdd8G4FgEgOM68tpY9MU5kVhF_DGq0e6iuuT275MtDXwoAqTXGbvcrIbVaxGOYiCT8uA5N9wGzSPAUl7wTsMq0NvbBcWcyXyA/s8160/20230523_173625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6120" data-original-width="8160" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNzhwmutO-ctowQ8fU_EVf2XPviUk-KjWQyWW2vL1LqvhZL_OQnTwcN8DbqaxKGihO54Yz6LQN_O5Pn3kuSohmsbS4BVdd8G4FgEgOM68tpY9MU5kVhF_DGq0e6iuuT275MtDXwoAqTXGbvcrIbVaxGOYiCT8uA5N9wGzSPAUl7wTsMq0NvbBcWcyXyA/w439-h329/20230523_173625.jpg" width="439" /></a></div><br />Yes, the rumours are true, Curious British Telly has <i>finally </i>invested in a Betamax player. It's something I've wanted to get hold of for years, ever since I first started trawling through old VHS tapes. But the price of a fully functioning, excellent condition model had always been a little prohibitive. Okay, £175-ish wasn't exactly going to send me into a financial meltdown, but it was difficult to justify in the grand scheme of things. Luckily, the Substack I set up a while back has managed to secure a few paid subscribers and their funds have made this possible. Eternal thanks, once again, to them.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgjCFNlND4gOELc5UpCVODXzOtGB_2ukVkzGLCb1barbOl12NJojGkIoGMN-uDM2Nc15CJtkw8jFtPKUKndHRP7EntLJ7sDoxUgqdgVJyggbee1N3_aBtiWSEcSOIYA0UygaZyhrzaAj4NylNe2wB27CGH_yvfhRGNKkfSEwqxAwss1O14p24a81RPWg/s8160/20230523_173833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6120" data-original-width="8160" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgjCFNlND4gOELc5UpCVODXzOtGB_2ukVkzGLCb1barbOl12NJojGkIoGMN-uDM2Nc15CJtkw8jFtPKUKndHRP7EntLJ7sDoxUgqdgVJyggbee1N3_aBtiWSEcSOIYA0UygaZyhrzaAj4NylNe2wB27CGH_yvfhRGNKkfSEwqxAwss1O14p24a81RPWg/w437-h328/20230523_173833.jpg" width="437" /></a></div><br />Anyway, yes, I've now got a Sanyo VTC-5000 machine and it's in excellent condition. You can find out more about the whole experience on the Substack by <a href="https://curiousbritishtelly.substack.com/p/curious-british-telly-has-got-a-betamax" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. In the next few weeks, assuming no disasters occur, I should have some early to mid-80s Betamax tapes to put the player through it's paces. And this is very exciting, as I've barely done any tape trawling in the last year. So, hopefully, I'll be digging up some interesting footage very soon.<br /><br />And, of course, if you have any old Betamax tapes with 1970s/80s recordings on, please get in touch!<p></p>Ben Rickettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749284122022718064noreply@blogger.com1