Produced by: ATV NETWORK at the Alpha Studios, Birmingham.
Created by: HAZEL ADAIR AND PETER LING
Producer: REG WATSON
Theme Tune: TONY HATCH
Other Crew: Designers: DON DAVIDSON and ELIZABETH DORRITY, Floor Managers: PETER HARRIS and LIZ STERN, Production Manager: MARGARET FRENCH. Music Supervisor: CLIVE ATKINS
Episode Status: All episodes from February 1966 are missing from the archive. One sequence exists from episode 335 ‘Carlos stuck up the tree’.
Cast and story information: ITC Entertainment Programme Synopsis January – December 1966, TV World/TV Times programme listings and some surviving full episode scripts.
| Episode 326 – 31st January |
Written by: Evadne Price & Ken Attiwill |
Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Claire’s Chalet: A new week at the motel. Ruth checks on Claire, and is left dumbstruck with a revelation. When Claire asks if William has spoken to her this morning – Ruth says not in any meaningful way – leaving Claire to inform her that Williams was more than an ‘old friend’. He had previously been her husband. Ruth suggests she’s not there to interfere, but Claire says it would be nice to unload so she shares details of her past with William.
‘We were married in 1939’ she states, adding, ‘it was one of those hectic war marriages. ‘William swept me off my feet. He was the most exciting young man I’d ever met.’ Claire explains how William worked at the War Office, and his uniform was alluring. They married at Caxton Hall Registry Office in a whirlwind romance. It however wasn’t to last. ‘When the bombs started dropping on London, William sent me away with other women out to the safety of the countryside. When I returned to London I found he wasn’t there, he had gone abroad to work. It was then I realised I had hardly known him at all…”
Motel Kitchen: The sound of Carlos singing is driving Marilyn to the edge of sanity, although Christine doesn’t think it is that bad. Marilyn blames that ‘ruddy Madam Hopkins’ and her encouraging him to practice his vocal scales. Meg enters and wonders why so little work is going on, then hears the singing. Marilyn begs Meg to do something about it. Meg says she’ll tell Carlos he’ll have to sing outside – and only in his lunch hour. Marilyn is hopeful her ears will soon be free of the torture.
Jarvis Flat: Brian and Janice are talking about the deal they’ve been offered by Councillor Pearson – if they part with £100 into his pocket he’ll put them on a priority list for a lovely new house on the still-being-built estate out of town. The snag is they have to spend possibly up to 18 months in a slum house for the scheme to work. Janice is concerned about having to live in a dump for that length of time to be on the ‘priority list’ while Brian isn’t sure Pearson can be trusted, what if he takes the £100 and nothing comes of the ploy?
Claire’s Chalet: Claire tells Ruth that seeing William again has stirred up many feelings, and many happy memories. She tells Ruth that it also came initially as quite a shock as she had been told William was dead. Ruth questions if she is then technically still married, but Claire says ‘no’ they were divorced after his relocation overseas. It was later she was sent a letter saying William had passed away. Ruth is a bit bemused.
Motel Restaurant: Later Ruth decides to broach William about Claire’s remarkable story.
Ruth: “Should I call you Mr Forbes now?’
William: “It’s still Fothergill. William Forbes no longer exists. Officially he died in 1945, shot while escaping from a German prisoner of war camp. If you contact the War Office they’ll confirm it..”
Ruth: “It was cruel to plan a fake death? Why? You’d already divorced her”
William then explains it was more than just to cut all ties to Claire. Once he was back in England, having been released at the end of WWII from the prison camp, his M.I Chief had other work for him – undercover and with a new identity. Ruth then asks an up-to-date question ‘What now for Claire and William’.
Meg’s Sitting Room: Hugh and Meg are discussing the situation with Sandy and Fairlawns Hotel. Having been caught trashing its kitchen – which he admits – he’s also been accused of stealing money from the premises during his smashing spree. Meg tells Hugh she’s spoken to Sandy and is sure when it comes to the money he wasn’t behind it.
Hugh suggests that Sandy is likely covering for someone, ‘If you think I’m going to put my own son through some sort of third degree you can think again’ Meg angrily tells Mortimer, adding, ‘Surely you know Sandy well enough to accept he wouldn’t have stolen the money from your hotel?’ Hugh agrees and says if it was his money it wouldn’t be a problem, but it’s the hotel manager Cowley who is accountable for the cash – so it can’t just be pushed aside.
Hugh suggests if Meg isn’t going to get it out of Sandy who stole the cash, then the only option is the police. Meg is furious and tells Hugh to get out of her motel.
| Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON (pre-recorded audio only) Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Winnie Palmer – ELIEEN BARRY Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY |
| Episode 327 – 1st February |
Written by: Evadne Price & Ken Attiwill |
Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Motel Reception: ‘Stevie is lurking in the reception, turning over pages of a magazine, but obviously watching out for someone. When Hugh Mortimer strides out from the private wing – he’s still looking grim and angry – Stevie runs to intercept him, her manner is urgent.
Stevie asks if he’s been to discuss Sandy. She tells Hugh that she is very concerned about him, and could they talk in private. Seeing her genuine worry Hugh agrees. They go to the coffee bar for a chat.
Coffee bar: Marilyn is serving a customer whose back is towards the camera ‘They are wearing tight pants, high boots and long hair and wearing a bizarre stripped jacket’, Marilyn is making conversation as she passes over two coffee cups.
“Oh I do like your new coat, proper kinky isn’t it? …dead exclusive… You’ve had a new perm, ain’t you? I must say it looks real smart…”
When the customer pays and turns around viewers see it is a man with a beard. Elsewhere Hugh and Stevie enter, it’s the first time Mortimer has seen ‘That Place’ coffee bar and he is impressed with the refurbishment. Marilyn welcomes them to the ‘dis-tee-qeck’. Stevie whispers ‘Discotheque’ to Hugh correcting Marilyn.
Hugh says he’s never in all his experience been to a discotheque. Stevie explains it’s a coffee bar, like a club but with no alcohol and people can still dance to the jukebox, and sometimes Meg puts on live acts. Hugh moves the subject onto Sandy. Stevie explains he didn’t steal anything from Fairlawns.
She continues to tell Hugh how Sandy wasn’t alone when he trashed the Fairlawns Hotel kitchen the other evening. Stevie adds the cash thieves are called Vic and Woody; they’re in the coffee bar at the moment at a table over the other side. Meanwhile Vic and Woody are checking out Hugh, wondering who he is.
Reception: (Next morning) William and Claire are catching up after decades apart. He is explaining how he chose his new name from a crisp company, Fothergills. Their conversation is friendly and he invites her to a pub lunch tomorrow.
Palmer House: Ralph has planned to take sister Winnie out for a treat, and is expecting Vi Blundell to babysit Mark, however, Les Blundell turns up instead saying Vi is unwell and unable. Ralph is disappointed, and then stunned when Les says they don’t have to cancel their plans – he’s come to babysit instead. He says it can’t be too difficult – he’s cared for everything from turkeys to calves and piglets.
Motel reception: Brian and Janice are chatting with Gordon Amos about their potential house upgrade via Councillor Pearson. They ask Gordon if Pearson is trustworthy, or if are they likely to be conned out of their money. Gordon says he will see what he can find out but doesn’t think there is much dirt on the fella. Later at the bar, Carlos proposes a new idea for the motel to Meg; ‘Carlos: The Singing Spanish Chef’. Meg declines his “kind offer” but then he bamboozles her by saying if he can’t be a singing chef at the motel then he must look for new employment where he can.
| Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Vic – BRENDAN COLLINS Woody – HUGH JANES Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Les Blundell – ARTHUR R. WEBB Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Gordon Amos – ANTHONY HOWARD Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE |
| Episode 328 – February 2nd |
Written by: Evadne Price & Ken Attiwill | Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Palmers House: Ralph had decided to take Winnie to the motel for dinner. It wasn’t a treat like he’s pretended it to be – but rather a way to ‘get dinner served by his wife’ – which Christine didn’t take kindly to. She is even more annoyed about Mark being left with Les and makes her feelings clear. Christine, now home, once more takes Ralph to task stating she wasn’t impressed by his ‘treat for Winnie’ and she hopes he won’t be repeating it.
Motel Kitchen: The atmosphere is cold, Carlos is not his usual cheery self and the staff have noticed. When Meg pops in for a cup of tea she explains to them why their chef is frosty; ‘Carlos has given his notice’. Meg goes on to explain that he is leaving as she won’t let him be a ‘singing chef’ serenading the restaurant guests. Marilyn calls him a ‘silly nit’ while Ruth asks if he’s really serious – especially as Carlos can’t seemingly sing!
The Crown Inn: Claire and William are having a lunch date. He tells her she is looking very attractive. She asks William if they ‘could turn the clock back twenty years’ with all the wisdom they have gained in the passing of time. He suggests it is never wise to try and recreate a moment in time, but there can be new memories made. William asks about her current husband Paul, a famous painter, but Claire notes the marriage is not a happy one. She calls Paul ‘temperamental’ and ‘selfish’. The chat is interrupted by Brian and Janice entering the pub. William not wishing to be seen ‘with a motel guest’, in case it gets back to Meg, suggests they make a sharp exit.
Meg’s Sitting Room: Meg mentions to Carlos that she has a compromise for his cooking/singing combination. She says before she accepts his resignation they could try out the ‘Singing Chef’ in the coffee bar to gauge what the customers think of his performance. He accepts such a ‘generous offer’.
Carlos: “I will never leave the Crossroads Motel-never! Not even when I am so famous as the Singing Spanish Chef. Even when all the big hotels in London, Roma, Paris, Madrid, New York they come pleading with me to go sing for them, I tell them No! I stay with Senorra Richardson who give me the big chance to sing my folk song…”
Meg wonders what she’s let herself – and the coffee shop regulars – in for.
Coffee bar: Vic has left his jacket on a chair while he and Woody pick music from the jukebox, this allows Stevie to take one of the badges from his coat. She has a plan. Later at Hugh’s office, she proposes to him that they could ‘say the badge was found at Fairlawns; not to fake evidence but to get Vic to admit he and Woody were involved and it was them who stole the money?’ Hugh thinks the idea might work, and asks her to leave the badge with him.
The Crown Inn: Janice and Brian are chatting about the proposition by Councillor Pearson to move into a ‘slum house’ for 18 months, then he can get them moved to a new-build house when the council finalise demolition of the ramshackle house. Neither is convinced Pearson can be trusted, their thoughts are further endorsed when Bill Jeavons (who had previously been seen trying to get a house from Pearson with Janice and Brian) joins them and discusses how he’d given the councillor a deposit of £50 and hasn’t seen or heard from him since. Their dream new home seems to be an unrealistic possibility now.
| Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Les Blundell – ARTHUR R. WEBB Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Bill Jeavons – BERNARD HIGH |
| Episode 329 – February 3rd |
Written by: Evadne Price & Ken Attiwill | Directed by: Alan Coleman |
The Crown Inn: Thursday continues with the closing moments from 328 with Brian, Janice and Bill all realising they’re talking about the same house – 75 Lynham Road. It appears the Jarvis’ have had a lucky escape – Bill hasn’t been so lucky losing £50 on the con. Bill suggests they go to the police, but Brian points out they have no evidence; there is no paperwork just their word against Pearson. Janice says there must be a way for Pearson to be exposed for what he is – a crook. Brian ponders what to do next.
Royal Albert Hospital: Winnie is in Dr. Francis’ office at the general hospital in Heathbury. She is having a check-up after her recent mental breakdown which saw her ‘abduct’ Christine’s baby Mark. The doctor says he is very pleased with her progress and recovery. He adds it is pleasing to hear that she is happy with her home life with her brother Ralph and sister-in-law Christine. However, she is stunned to hear that Christine knows she took the baby – she was under the impression Ralph had kept it a secret.
Motel Kitchen: Carlos is full of the joys of the day. Marilyn is very suspicious as to why he’s being so nice. She’s left speechless when he tells her his spirits have been lifted by Meg giving him his first ‘professional gig’ at the coffee bar. He begins to sing. Marilyn stares at him in a pained silence.
Coffee bar: Hugh is sitting at a table waiting for the arrival of Vic and Woody, who stole cash from his Fairlawns Hotel but are happy to let Sandy take the blame. When they arrive Stevie introduces them to Mr Mortimer and says she’ll go and find Sandy.
Hugh: “I do apologise for this informal way of meeting, but I understand you are friends of Sandy’s, and I wanted to ask you if you know anything about the raid on Fairlawns?”
Vic: “What raid? We no nothing about any robbery”
Hugh then explains about the money being taken from the hotel, and how Sandy was seen. He lies and says Sandy said Vic and Woody were with him. Upon their denial, Hugh adds that ‘he thought as much’ and that ‘anyway, I have evidence to prove Sandy was there when I speak with the police later’. He then shows the boys the badge Stevie took from Vic’s jacket. Vic and Woody are alarmed by the mention of police, but they act cool about the situation. Later Woody spots Vic’s school badge is missing and the two realise Hugh has his badge, not Sandy’s. They plot to silence Sandy and fool Mortimer. In a deliberate conversation for the boys to overhear Hugh mentions to Stevie – who wasn’t able to find Sandy (she never really looked for him) – that he will be meeting young master Richardson tomorrow at 7.30 pm at the Mortimer Investments office in Birmingham. Hugh and Stevie’s plan is in action.
Palmers House: Winnie is in a state over Christine knowing she was behind the abduction of baby Mark. Ralph says the doctor is wrong, he didn’t tell Christine about it as he thinks in this instance Dr Francis is wrong. He feels if Christine knew it would have affected all their relationships. He says it’s unlikely she should ever need to find out, so they should forget about it.
Claire’s Chalet: Ruth and Claire are discussing her reunion with William, and with her failing current marriage Claire’s mind is full of fond reflections of her past twenty years ago with William and the love and romance she happily had for that brief time. Ruth turns the conversation to Paul, her current husband, and Claire’s tone changes.
Claire: “Oh there was nothing romantic about Paul. I married him because I wanted security, and he married me because he wanted someone to look after him…. I’d forgotten there was any colour in life until I met William again. I’ve been happier here these past few days than I’ve ever been since he first went out of my life.”
The episode stop shot after the credits shows Claire taking off her wedding ring.
| Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Bill Jeavons – BERNARD HIGH Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Dr. Francis – NEVILLE BARBER Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Vic – BRENDAN COLLINS Woody – HUGH JAMES Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL |
| Episode 330 – February 4th |
Written by: Evadne Price & Ken Attiwill | Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Meg’s Sitting Room: ‘Meg is arranging a bowl of early spring flowers on her desk’ when Marilyn knocks and enters requiring her urgent attention. She says she has come to verify the facts that she has been told from Carlos, although it all sounds so far-fetched she can’t quite believe it; ‘That Place coffee bar’ is going to be engaging in the talents of The Singing Spanish Chef. Meg tells her it is true, Carlos will be performing at That Place.
Meg: “I had to let him do it, I had to give in or Carlos would have walked out and gone somewhere else – probably Fairlawns – they’d have let him perform, they’d do anything to get him. We’re very lucky to have him, he’s a great chef. Letting him sing is a small price to pay, and it is only for one night.”
Marilyn: “Oh well, I suppose he can’t do too much damage in one night. Maybe a big stage flop will cure him of his showbiz madness.”
Meg is curious as to why Marilyn thinks he’ll not go down with the crowd. She responds ‘The only hit he’ll be with the coffee bar regulars is if they throw eggs at him’ adding ‘Haven’t you heard him sing!?’
Meanwhile, in the motel kitchen, Carlos is on the phone speaking to the local newspaper to get as much publicity for his pending performance as possible.
Brian and Janice’s flat: Gordon Amos has called in for a coffee and Janice and Brian are explaining the con job that Councillor Pearson is undertaking with his run-down rental. Gordon admits that it’s a story, a member of the local council stooping to dubious practices. But, having been burned by the recent Hugh Mortimer articles and the legal action Hugh threatened he isn’t keen on getting involved with another expose for the Castlewich Clarion.
Mortimer Investments HQ: Hugh is in his office when he’s advised two gentlemen are here to see him, 7.15pm, fifteen minutes before Sandy is due for his meeting. Vic and Woody are shown in. ‘A smile hovers over Hugh’s face for a moment, but he then resumes his poker face as he files away papers in his drawer. Vic and Woody stand just inside the doorway, with an air of bluff, but are obviously out of their depth and embarrassed. Hugh looks at them quizzically.’
The pair tell Hugh that they heard Sandy is going to be having a meeting later with him, Hugh confirms this is true, and they go on to note they felt it best to ‘put you wise Mr Mortimer’. Hugh acts surprised – noting they’d said they knew nothing of the Fairlawns’ break-in. They go on to explain that they were covering up for Sandy, that they’d tried to talk him out of the raid, but he wasn’t for changing his mind. They explain they went along to make sure he didn’t do too much damage, but now he’s twisting the story and he must have planted Vic’s badge to frame him. Hugh looks at them in silence.
Palmer House: Doctor Francis has popped in to see how Winnie is doing, Christine opens the door and invites the doctor in. They haven’t met before but he explains how he has been treating her sister-in-law and as he was passing he thought he’d see how she was doing as she appeared a little stressed towards the end of their meeting at the hospital earlier in the week.
Christine calls Winnie from the kitchen but before she comes through, and in the belief that Christine knows Winnie wandered off with Mark at the peak of her mental illness, Dr Francis discusses how happy he is that the family is so united after the issues with Winnie and Mark. Winnie enters and realises the situation unfolding before her.
Mortimer’s Office: Sandy has arrived and is surprised to see Vic and Woody in the office. After a bit of pressure from Hugh the three end up accusing each other of stealing money from Fairlawns. Hugh then pulls out a clear bag with a cashbox in it. He says he’s asked the police to come this evening; it is time to report the theft. Panic-stricken Woody blurts out that isn’t the Fairlawn’s cash box – Hugh closes in on the criminals. Under pressure, Woody sings like a canary and says it was all Vic’s idea and it was Vic who took the money.
Vic tries to leave, but Hugh pushes him into a chair and tells him to sit down and shut up.
Hugh: “You think you’re smart don’t you? Wandering around in your leather jackets with fancy badges and high boots spouting all that big talk. Well, let me tell you, you’re not smart or big. You’re both a couple of stupid sneaky little boys playing at being clever.”
Hugh then reveals Sandy hadn’t told him anything; they put themselves into his trap of an admission. He says they have two options. First, the police – and the law can deal with them. Second, they can pay the money back to him then and there. After some reluctance, they give Hugh the money.
Palmers House: The doctor is bid goodnight and the pleasant atmosphere turns cold. Christine turns to Winnie furious and demands to know the truth – did you abduct Mark?
| Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Brian Jarivs – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Gordon Amos – ANTHONY HOWARD Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Vic Stebbings – BRENDAN COLLINS Woody Woods – HUGH JANES William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Dr. Francis – NEVILLE BARBER Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY |
| Episode 331 – February 7th |
Written by: Dan Douglas | Directed by: Tim Jones |
Palmer House: The Friday cliffhanger resumes as Christine, full of rage, accuses Winnie of ‘stealing her baby’ having just discovered – while at the height of a mental breakdown – Winnie had abducted Christine’s son Mark. As the row ensues Ralph arrives home from work and is thrown into the situation. It isn’t long before Christine realises he knew about it too. Christine says she can’t live in the same house as Winnie and if she’d known about it earlier she’d never have married him.
Motel Kitchen: Monday morning and Carlos is searching through the newspapers trying to see if any have covered the news of his singing venture. Sandy and Stevie are also looking through them, but Sandy is more interested in Sandy Shaw. ‘Sandy Shaw – this is not me!’ Carlos grimly responds, frustrated by the lack of coverage. Stevie then finds a small feature on Rafael’s pending night on stage. Carlos is then insulted by it being barely a paragraph. Later Meg sees the listing and is grateful it is so brief.
Palmer’s House: After a weekend of Ralph and Christine not speaking, and Winnie locking herself away in her room, Ralph is thrown an ultimatum by Christine – if he wants to give their marriage another try, Winnie must move out.
Motel Reception: Ross Baxter ‘dressed in way out clothes and with a very brash manner’ enters and speaks to Marilyn. He tells her that she probably has heard of him – he is a publicity manager to the stars.
Marilyn: “You a reporter then?”
Ross: “No honey, I handle publicity for celebrities. I make the news for them.”
Marilyn: “Oooh, you must know some famous people then, have you ever met The Beatles?”
Ross: “Babe, I knew them when they were only making a hundred quid a week”
He then goes on to explain that he’s come to see the music sensation of Kings Oak – The Singing Spanish Chef, Carlos. She shows Ross through to the kitchen to see what is potentially ‘the next Tom Jones.’
Meg’s Office: Graham Cowley, manager of Fairlawns, has called in to speak with Meg. He tells her he has come to apologise over the accusations of Sandy stealing the money. Meg is bemused (Sandy hasn’t mentioned anything to her). Graham goes on to explain that evidence came to light that showed it was two other boys who took the cash, and it was all resolved by Hugh. Meg is pleasantly surprised. And she notes she will thank Mr Mortimer personally.
Palmer House: Ralph comes home early from work to speak with Winnie alone. He brings up the unfortunate reality that Winnie is going to have to move out, but he will make all the arrangements. Winnie says Christine will never forgive her so it will probably have to be permanent arrangements. Both are upset by the prospect.
Motel Kitchen: Ross and a photographer are staging photos with Carlos for his publicity features. Marilyn is reluctant to be seen with ‘The Singing Spanish Chef’. Ross can’t understand why she wouldn’t want to ‘be pictured with the Rudolph Valentino of the kitchen’. She says he’s more Rudolph the red nose reindeer. Meg enters mid-session and is horrified to learn Ross plans to get Carlos in all of tomorrow’s national newspapers.
| Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Ross Baxter – DAVID BARRY Graham Cowley – TONY WRIGHT |
| Episode 332 – February 8th |
Written by: Dan Douglas |
Directed by: Tim Jones |
Farmyard: Ralph and Les are talking about the situation with Winnie and Christine. After some discussion of how Ralph is trying to find his sister somewhere to lodge Les suggests that she move into the spare room at the farm. Vi is alone most of the day Les thinks she probably would enjoy the company. Ralph believes this is the answer and that it is a wonderful idea.
Meg’s Sitting Room: Sandy is discussing with Meg how Hugh ‘got him out of a tricky spot’ with both Fairlawns and Vic and Woody, however, he only spills this information when Meg mentions Graham Cowley had visited her yesterday explaining who the real culprits were for the thieving. Sandy also reveals that Stevie was Hugh’s right-hand woman in the mission. ‘Oh, you know what she is like, always poking her nose into other people’s business. She was the right detective.’ Meg suggests in this instance she’s saved him a lot of bother and he should thank her. He reluctantly promises he will.
Motel Reception: Claire is sat at the bar while William serves her a drink. They have been reminiscing again. The topic turns to his faking his death, and how he left her all his money. She says she is financially well off and hasn’t spent much of it. She suggests he have some of it back. He declines saying the person he was died 20 years ago and it isn’t his money. Claire says that is just a technicality.
She suggests that Paul, her boring husband, would be better off with a housekeeper. Claire has a plan; why doesn’t she sell up her properties, and withdraw the savings, so they both could ‘disappear off the radar’? William isn’t sure what to make of it. But he can’t argue it is a terrible plan – he did similar in 1945.
William: “Think what you would be giving up!”
Claire: “Think what I would be gaining.”
Hugh’s Penthouse: Meg is expressing her gratitude for what he has done to prove Sandy’s innocence. He tells her he actually rather enjoyed it, playing it all Paul Temple (this is a joke ref to one of John Bentley’s previous roles). Meg hopes Sandy has now learned his lesson to stay away from troubled sorts and she apologises to Hugh for being sharp over the issue initially.
Hugh: “I’m glad we’re on speaking terms again, I was beginning to think this cold war of ours would go on forever.”
Meg: “Have I really been that awful lately”
Hugh offers Meg a gift she had previously rejected; the expensive watch. Hugh suggests this time she accepts it as a peace offering and to a new beginning. Meg accepts it – but then notes watches won’t soften her up when it comes to business.
While Hugh tries to move away from hotel talk, ‘let’s forget business tonight’, Meg is adamant they must discuss his proposition that Crossroads Car Hire becomes part of his Drury Cars empire via a commission scheme. Meg says that if he can promise that the business will be sent to Sam she may approve the idea. She tells Hugh to arrange a proper contract, laid down with the terms and commission percentages with the minimum guarantee. Hugh would prefer a gentleman’s agreement. Meg says if she was dealing with a gentleman she’d agree – but as she’s dealing with a businessman she prefers a contract on paper.
Motel Restaurant: Having had an enjoyable meal Claire is left horrified, as she makes to depart for her chalet. The shocking sight is that of her husband Paul waiting at the reception desk in the motel foyer. She goes back to her table and ponders dessert.
| Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Ross Baxter – DAVID BERRY Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Les Blundell – ARTHUR R. WEBB Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Christine Plamer – ALEX MARSHALL Hugh Mortimer- JOHN BENTLEY Paul Harkness – HARRY WEBSTER |
| Episode 333 – February 9th |
Written by: Dan Douglas |
Directed by: TIM JONES |
Palmer House: Ralph and Christine are having breakfast on the first morning without Winnie living with them. She moved to Les and Vi Blundell’s farm yesterday. While attempting not to mention her ultimately the topic turns to Winnie; Christine, slightly more calm than previously, explains how she feels that she can’t forgive and she can’t forget – even if Winnie was unwell at the time. Ralph asks if Christine could at some point consider Winnie coming back home. ‘It’s no good’ she tells him. ‘I can’t help it, I just couldn’t live with her.’
Motel Reception: Having been unable to find William last night Claire gives him the appalling news that her dull artist husband – who treats her like a housemaid – is at the motel and staying in Chalet 10. She suggests they both pack their bags that instant and flee Burbank before he sees her. William is reserved on the idea, he suggests it would be unkind to leave Meg in the lurch when she’s short-staffed. William proposes that they lay low and think about what they’re possibly suggesting. Claire notes it’s all very exciting. William is a bit more concerned about the prospect of doing a second vanishing act.
Motel Kitchen: Carlos is disappointed with the lack of newspaper inches on his singing venture. Ross says sometimes you need a gimmick; ‘Dog bites man, that’s not news, man bites a dog that’s news.’ Carlos confused by the statement tells Ross he isn’t going to go around biting pugs just for a newspaper feature. Ross suggests a nice accident in the kitchen. How about hot fat over Carlos’ arm; the pictures with the ambulance would work wonders. Carlos says no, he’s already been in hospital and doesn’t fancy it again. Ross then suggests a fire. Dramatic scenes as the chef is seen saving someone from a burning building? Marilyn notes Meg wouldn’t be very impressed if someone burned her motel down just to get in the Midland Gazette.
Ross suggests animals. Marilyn says the only pets the motel gets as visitors are dogs of Mrs Richardson’s sister, and neither dog is that photogenic. She then has a thought – what about baby Mark? Ross likes it, Carlos sings ‘Spanish lullabies to the kid’. Carlos notes he sings folk songs. Ross ponders, ‘Oh, Peter, Paul and Mary stuff eh? A Spanish singing philosopher – great we can work with that without the kid.’
William and Marilyn are at the other side of the kitchen pondering Carlos’ future fame. William thinks there isn’t going to be much of it. Marilyn agrees; ‘my 90-year-old grannie had more coverage in the Kings Oak Chronicle for her birthday than what Carlos has got’.
Motel Reception: Claire has finally decided to face Paul – she meets him for afternoon tea in the reception. She tells him shes tired, she’s sick and fed up with her life and him. He has taken her for granted and it is now time to call it a day. He thinks she is overreacting they just need to find a way to reunite.
Outside Palmers House: Christine is returning home from shopping and enters the house, she hears a noise from the front room and finds Winnie; ‘What are you doing here?!’
| Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Ross Baxter – DAVID BARRY Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Paul Harkness – HARRY WEBSTER Mark Palmer – (Baby) Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY |
| Episode 334 – February 10th |
Written by: Dan Douglas |
Directed by: Tim Jones |
Palmer House: ‘Christine is panic-stricken as she yells at Winnie’. Winnie explains she only popped back to collect her water bottle as it was cold last night, however, Christine doesn’t believe it and suggests she came in the hope of trying to get close to Mark again. Winnie hurriedly leaves while Christine remains resolute that she will not allow Winnie near her child ever again.
Motel Reception: William and Meg are stocktaking the bar. Meg has noticed vodka is becoming more popular, ‘do you think it’s the Russian influence?’ she asks. Hugh pops in for a drink at the bar; Meg suggests they go up to her sitting room and have a private drink there. As they leave Paul comes into the foyer causing William to make a fast escape into the kitchen. He sends Marilyn to deal with Paul by excusing himself by saying he feels a little dizzy. Carlos proclaims that William has been working too hard for a man of his age. William is slightly offended by such remarks.
Meg’s Sitting Room: Hugh and Meg are making small talk, she tells him she had a letter from Jill this morning inviting her to spend a long weekend with her in London. Meg notes that she is likely to accept the offer – it would be nice to see Jill again it seems so long since she was home at Christmas.
Meg: “I could do with the break Hugh, now that Ruth’s here I can go away without wondering what’s happening to the place. It’s been a tough year.”
Hugh asks Meg when she plans to head down to the big city, and when she says next weekend he responds by telling her that’s ‘splendid because it so happens that I’m going to be there myself, so I can offer you a lift.’ Meg accepts without hesitation.
Motel Kitchen: Carlos is showing Sandy and Stevie the posters he’s had made to promote his gig at ‘That Place’ the motel coffee bar. ‘Carlos Rafael: The Singing Chef, A Musical Feast’. Carlos is enthused by the forthcoming evening of entertainment he will offer. Stevie is impressed with the poster. Sandy suggests he needs to get them put up all over the area.
Carlos says that is a kind offer, Sandy asks how much is it worth ‘You would charge your own grandmother to see her across the road’ the chef retorts. Stevie says she’ll do it for free, leaving Sandy with a pout.
Meg’s Office: Marilyn has popped in to discuss the conversation between Carlos and his ‘star manager’ Ross Baxter with their intent to get him a major newspaper article via a gimmick. Marilyn notes their last great ‘big plan’ was for a fire at the motel and Carlos could be a hero. Meg decides it might be wise to cancel the gig at the coffee bar but Marilyn notes that it probably would be too late, as the posters are everywhere. Meg is indignant – she wasn’t told about any posters.
Marsh Lane, Kings Oak: Sandy and Stevie meet up with Ross and Carlos who have all been putting up posters promoting ‘The Singing Spanish Chef’. Ross seeing a mighty fine tree has a thought. He asks Stevie if she’s any good at climbing. When she says she is he hatches a gimmick for the press…
Ross: “OK Stevie, you climb up the tree, and then when you get near the top start to shout for ‘help’. Carlos will then climb up and rescue you. That’s a great PR story.”
Sandy: “This should be worth watching!”
Council Office: Hugh is meeting his constituents at one of his local councillor meetings. Bill Jeavons pops in to speak to him about the issues with Councillor Pearson and his ‘housing scam’. Hugh finds it all very interesting – and is even more curious when he’s told it was a Mr Jarvis who ‘outbid him to jump the housing queue’.
Marsh Lane, Kings Oak: Stevie is up a tree next to the lane and shouting for help. Carlos climbs slowly up the tree as three newspaper reporters watch on. Ross says to Sandy he hopes the TV news arrives before Carlos brings Stevie down. A photographer takes snaps of Carlos as he climbs ever higher up the tree to reach Stevie. Carlos however stops moving – frozen in fear of how high he’s climbed. Stevie comes down a little and tries to rescue him, however he says he can’t move. ‘I think he’s lost his nerve’ Stevie shouts.
| Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Winnie Palmer – ELIEEN BARRY Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Paul Harkness – HARRY WEBSTER Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Ross Baxter – DAVID BARRY Bill Jeavons – BERNARD HIGH |
| Episode 335 – February 11th |
Written by: Dan Douglas | Directed by: Tim Jones |
Marsh Lane, Kings Oak: Firemen are seen rescuing Carlos from the tree, the ATV Today news crew has now arrived and is filming this embarrassing moment, the news reporters are not impressed.
Ross: “Oh he’s a great joker this boy! What a sense of humour, risks his life to rescue the kid, then just for a giggle makes out he’s stuck up the tree himself! How about that?!”
Sandy: (Singing, badly) “Rock a bye Carlos in the tree top, when the bough breaks the chef will drop.”
Motel Restaurant: William is serving Paul and Claire. He is content having realised Paul doesn’t recognise who he is from their past lives. Paul is trying to woo Claire back, leaving William with a touch of jealousy.
Mortimer’s Penthouse: Meg and Hugh have been shopping for their pending trip to London. He’s invited her to see a West End show and she’s looking forward to it, as well as spending some time with Jill.
Meg: “I hate shopping!”
Hugh: “For someone who hates it, you seem to have done plenty of it. I’ve never seen so many bags!”
Hugh also tells Meg about his recent chat with a constituent who informed him of shady dealings which involved, unwittingly, Janice and Brian. Meg says she knew a little of their recent housing issues, but not all the details. When Hugh explains the whole situation Meg declarers they both must be ‘out of their minds’ for even considering trying to jump the housing queue with a cash ‘bribe’. Hugh notes he intends to find out what has been going on, and as it’s a serious issue he’ll expose Councillor Pearson if he can get any evidence.
Meg then talks about how she has a few issues of her own namely Sam Redway – a runaway business success as manager of the Crossroads Garage and Car Hire. Sam has been offered a ‘big job’ near London managing a garage, petrol station and multi-storey car park. Hugh asks what is she going to do. Meg says she wouldn’t stand in Sam’s way of going, and the deal with Drury’s would take care of the car hire but she’ll need to find someone to run the garage and petrol station. Hugh observes he always knew Sam was ambitious. Meg asks if he knew why didn’t Hugh try to keep him in his organisation. Hugh responds ‘Because in five years the way Sam works he’d probably have taken over the Mortimer company.’
Motel Reception: A man is looking around the place, alone, the staff are all in the kitchen. He hasn’t taken to ringing the bell for attention. Instead, he goes behind the reception desk and takes a look through the booking register. He appears to like what he sees.
| Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Ross Baxter – DAVID BARRY Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Paul Harkness – HARRY WEBSTER William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS |
| Episode 336 – February 14th |
Written by: Paul Erickson |
Directed by: Reg Watson |
Motel Reception: Meg returns from her evening with Hugh to find Michael still poking around her foyer. She asks him what he wants. He says ‘Your motel’. Meg is taken aback, but then is relieved when he adds ‘Well one just like this hopefully, one day’. She asks if he’s connected to the hotel trade, and he tells her he’s hoping to be – he’s just starting. Michael tells her that he’d heard about the motel and thinks it’s a great idea – he’d love to have a job at Crossroads, learning all the departments from the kitchen to housekeeping. Meg notes he has come at a good time she is short-staffed and she is interested in his ambition in hospitality. She tells him to leave his details and she’ll be in touch.
Motel Kitchen: The new week begins with Stevie bemused by a Valentine’s card she’s been sent. Marilyn suggests she must have a secret admirer. ‘Some dashing, dark-eyed Romeo. Probably someone from your school.’ Marilyn tells Stevie at least she got one, this year Ms Gates is bereft when it comes to getting any Valentine’s cards. She notes she thought she might at least get one from Benny Wilmot, her on-off romance. Elsewhere in the kitchen, Carlos is trying to explain he has an issue with his voice. A sore throat means he can’t sing – and tonight is the night of the big break gig at the coffee bar.
Mrs Bowles house: Hugh has called round to one of his constituents at her grim terrace house. Mrs Bowles, a pensioner, tells Hugh that it’s been five years since Pearson had any repairs done to her house or any other in the street. Hugh notes that they are rather ‘run down’. She responds more likely to ‘fall down’. Hugh observes dampness and mould in her living room, he asks if she’s reported these issues as they’re not good for her health. She tells him reports have been made to Pearson several times but nothing ever gets done. She bluntly puts it to Hugh that Pearson is not to be trusted. Hugh notes other residents have said similar on the street. She adds that it’s lucky Pearson isn’t their district councillor or he’d never get elected.
Bowles also mentions Pearsons is trying to force her out of the house now her husband is no longer alive. She tells Hugh she has always been good with her rent and has lived in the dwelling since 1937. Hugh mentions her landlord can’t force her to go anywhere if she’s keeping up with her payments and he’s not selling up. The New Rent Act gives her a right to stay. She doesn’t seem reassured by this.
Coffee bar: Marilyn sent an ‘urgent telegram’ to Benny in London and he’s just turned up to see what the fuss is all about. He learns about the big gig this evening – and its star Carlos – can’t sing. Benny says the night can still go ahead they just need to do a little bit of showbiz faking to avoid Carlos being a big flop. Benny suggests he’ll sing, but out of sight, Carlos will just need to mime. Later the coffee bar is busy as customers await the evening entertainment. Carlos and Benny have been practising all afternoon leaving Christine, Sandy and Marilyn to deal with the motel kitchen.
Vic and Woody are, along with a group of friends, intent on causing trouble during the performance. They have come prepared with ripe tomatoes ready to chuck at Carlos should his singing go down badly.
Motel Foyer: Claire is having coffee at the sofas as William servers her. She tells him things are getting desperate; Paul wants to go on holiday in a romantic attempt to revive their marriage, and all she wants to do is leave him.
Claire: “I was married to you before we ever met him, and now I ask nothing more than to be back with you. So now it’s up to you.”
He tells her they can’t really talk here – as Ruth begins to approach – and they will talk later about it. Ruth and Claire then discuss her predicament. Claire tells her she’s made up her mind – she wants William, not Paul. But convincing William it is a good idea is proving difficult.
Coffee bar: Benny has recorded the vocal session for tonight’s gig on a reel-to-reel, which Sandy is tasked with playing from behind the stage hidden by a backdrop of curtains. Carlos will mime and his music tutor Madam Hopkins will provide live accompaniment on the piano. Vic asks Benny what time the Singing Onion will start. Woody mocks ‘You know the Spanish threat to The Beatles?’ Noticing the crowd is getting restless Benny decides it is now or never and takes to the stage to introduce The Singing Spanish Chef.
Benny: “Ladies and gentlemen, the moment we have all been waiting for has arrived! It is with great pleasure that we introduce to you Carlos our singing chef…”
Sandy starts the tape and Carlos comes out onto the stage. He mimes reasonably well, but parts go out of sync – Something Vic notices. He decides to investigate and disappears in the direction of the voice. Sandy is concentrated on the reel-to-reel tape and doesn’t notice Vic behind him – who then unplugs the power supply. On stage Carlos momentarily carries on ‘singing’ but only the piano is heard. The crowd is a mixture of boos, laughing and jeers. The rowdy crowd – led on by Woody and pals -descends into a full-on punch-up. Stevie rushes over to the motel to call the police. Marilyn is hit in the face with a cream bun, she throws her maracas at the culprit, Carlos is being pelted with tomatoes and other food by the crowd.
| Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Mrs Bowles – EDNA MORRIS Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Benny Wilmot – DEKE ARLON Vic Stebbings – BRENDA COLLINS Woody Woods – HUGH JANES William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Ross Baxter – DAVID BERRY |
| Episode 337 – February 15th |
Written by: Paul Erickson | Directed by: Reg Watson |
Coffee bar: Production note by Reg Watson; ‘Fifteen minutes after the battle of That Place we pan into establish the ensuing chaos – tables and chairs upturned – customers and our principals laying, slumped and sitting around the food splattered coffee bar. As we close in on one overturned table it is pushed upright and Carlos emerges from under it. He glances around bemused and bewildered as the sound of police sirens fade into the distance.’
Benny tells him the worst is over, Vic and his lot have been hauled off by the police to spend the night in the local nick. Ross thinks the whole thing is great, another story for the press. William and Meg arrive at the coffee bar and look over the scene of the crime.
Ross: “This is just the kind of break we need…”
Meg: (holding up a broken mug) “Do you really think so?”
It appears Carlos’ sore throat was a touch of stage fright – shouting during the fight has brought out his voice. He begs Meg to let the coffee shop remain open and now he can prove he can sing. Reluctantly she agrees. Starting as a duet with Benny, Meg and co are amazed that Carlos really can sing.
Production note by Reg Watson; ‘Carlos more confident moves forward and while at times a little uncertain, he grows in confidence and starts to enjoy himself. By now the whole place is swinging, Marilyn is playing her maracas and Sandy is giving a beat on the drums. Benny steps back and leaves Carlos to go solo. And, mixed up with this is the reaction of Meg and the others when they hear how good Carlos’ voice is.’
Chalet 10: Paul and Claire are talking, and she tells him she’s decided to move on from the motel. But not with him. The realisation that she is leaving him finally hits him. ‘You mean you’re leaving me for good?’ She confirms her intentions. He begs her to reconsider.
Meg’s office: (The next morning) Meg has invited Michael in for a chat, she informs him he has impressed her and if he means what he said – that he wants to start at the bottom and learn the hotel business – then she is willing to give him the chance.
Motel Reception: Stevie is tidying up and finds the paper which Sandy had been writing on – practising a different style to write a Valentine’s card message – the same message and writing that was in her card yesterday. When she asks him about it later he admits he sent it – but only for a laugh. Lying about it he says he sent one to ‘many, many of the girls at school’. Stevie isn’t convinced by his Lothario explanation but says she’s flattered anyway…
Meg’s sitting room: Meg has Sandy’s school results and she’s very pleased with his exam markings. She’s not so impressed with the huge black eye he’s managed to gain from the coffee bar fight yesterday. Talking to Hugh he turns the attention onto Councillor Pearson and tells her that having spoken to people on the terraced street, in which Pearson owns most of the houses, he’s more convinced than ever it’s a rotten situation.
Hugh: “Meg, that Pearson is a slippery fish – and some of the people on that street who rent from him are unwilling to speak to me at all.”
Meg: “Is there anything you can do?”
Hugh: “I need one of the renters who paid key money to speak out. Or maybe Brian and Janice. With their cooperation, it could be possible that we can lead Pearson into a trap?”
Outside the chalet block: William has caught up with Claire and informs her he thinks maybe it is time to take a risk, they could leave together next week. She stuns him by saying things have changed and that she’s sorry but they just can’t go away together.
| Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Benny Wilmot – DEKE ARLON Marilyn Gates- SUE NICHOLLS Ross Baxter – DAVID BERRY Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE Paul Harkness – HARRY WEBSTER Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY |
| Episode 338 – February 16th |
Written by: Paul Erickson |
Directed by: Reg Watson |
Outside the chalet block: Claire is explaining how Paul broke down earlier and she never realised under all his stiff upper lip just how much he deeply needs her. She says he’s a very frightened man who is afraid of a lonely existence, and his breakdown made her realise she still loves him. She says they are going to give things another try. William says that maybe it is for the best, he has been alone so long would it have worked reuniting after all this time? But he notes her reappearance has certainly made him think about his future. Maybe it is time to move on again. Claire says she’ll be leaving with Paul this evening.
Brian and Janice’s flat: Eric, a former worker for Drury Car Hire, has popped in to see Janice – much to her surprise. He explains he’s been looking at Sam’s flat downstairs – with Redway relocating to his big new job in London Sam suggested Eric take it on. Brian however is rattled by Eric’s seeming flirting with Janice.
Motel Kitchen: It’s Michael’s first day at work and Marilyn is swooning over her new co-worker. When Michael heads off to reception to help Ruth the kitchen staff take to discussing their latest colleague.
Marilyn: “The way he speaks, it’s so nice. Someone like him should be working in a bank or for the county council… And then there is the way he dresses, that’s all quality stuff all that. His jacket is proper tailored from Saville Row. Odd someone like that should want to be chopping cabbages at a motel kitchen…”
Ross enters the kitchen from the back door and attempts to woo Carlos into a career contract. However, the violence at the coffee shop has left Carlos with big doubts – he says he’s safer in the kitchen rather than the stage and has decided showbiz is not for him. Ross says he is losing out on a lot of gigs and money, but respects his decision. Ross then issues Carlos with a £73 agent’s fee for the work he’s done. That confirms it – no more public appearances.
Motel Reception: Hugh is waiting for Meg to return from visiting Kitty and Dick when Michael walks in from the kitchen with clean glasses for the bar, he nearly drops the tray they are on – not out of inexperience but because he’s confronted by Hugh. They both know each other. At the reception doors, William and Ruth say their goodbyes to Claire and Paul as they depart the motel.
| Claire Harkness – AUDREY NOBLE William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Eric West – ALAN HAYWOOD Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS Ross Baxter – DAVID BARRY Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Paul Harkness – HARRY WEBSTER |
| Episode 339 – February 17th |
Written by: Paul Erickson | Directed by: Reg Watson |
Meg’s Sitting Room: Meg is sitting at her desk tidying up some paperwork, William is standing in front of it, he has declined to sit on the chair. He comes straight to the point ‘I’d like to tender my resignation’.
She asks why, but he says it is difficult to explain, and he has always been one for the road as she knew when Finn recommended him for the job. She agrees but says she’s come to depend on him so and she can’t imagine the motel without him, adding he’s practically one of the family now. William is flattered but says the time has come for a new place to call home for a while. Meg is less forgiving when he says he’ll be leaving tomorrow, just as she’s about to head off to London.
Hugh’s Penthouse: Michael pops in to see Hugh following Mortimer spotting him working at the motel. Michael greets Hugh with “Hello uncle”. Hugh asks Michael what he’s playing at working as a kitchen hand at a motel when he had a perfectly good job in the capital. Wasting his university degree peeling potatoes. Michael says he hated the office 9 to 5 and then explains he wants to run a motel – so is learning everything from bottom to top.
Hugh says he could have sorted a better position at Fairlawns, Michael observes that is exactly why he didn’t ask – he wanted to learn the hard way, not be ushered in with all the perks of being part of the owner’s family. Hugh notes Michael’s mother – his sister – is probably livid. Michael confirms she is utterly outraged by his career choice.
Michael asks Hugh not to mention it to Meg, he has already spoken to Jonathan – Hugh’s son – and Jill who both know him and they’ve sworn themselves to silence on the matter.
Brian and Janice’s Flat: Janice is alone just home from work when Eric calls in with some records she can borrow. He begins to get a ‘bit too fresh with her’ after noting one 45 is called ‘Mad Passionate Love’. He begins to stroke her cheek and thrusts himself up against her. Eric is startled as Brian comes in from work. Eric quickly makes his excuses and exits, Janice tells him he arrived home just in time, he was being inappropriate. Enraged he begins to go after Eric – Janice tells Brian it’s not worth the fight, after all, they might be moving out soon so won’t have to deal with him.
Meg’s Sitting Room: Ruth and Meg are discussing the sudden departure of William. Meg observes that while he became part of the motel, unlike the other staff, no one really knew very much about him – other than he was old friends with their previous handyman Finn. Ruth isn’t giving any information away that she knows of some of his past via Claire, as she did promise it would remain between the two of them but she is amused by some of the theories Meg is conjuring lightheartedly.
Meg: “Maybe he was the brains behind the Great Train Robbery. Moscow Radio said at one time the British Secret Service was behind that – so maybe that’s it – not only was he a train robber he is also a member of the secret service.”
Brian and Janice’s Flat: Hugh Mortimer has made an unexpected visit to the couple. He explains he popped by on the hoof as he wanted to have a word with them about something rather difficult to discuss that has been brought to his attention.
Hugh brings up Councillor Pearson and his dubious renting practices to make a profit on the affordable housing shortage in the Midlands. Hugh explains how he needs proof of what Person is up to, and that they are the only people who may be able to do so with an undercover sting. Brian and Janice however say that would mean giving up the chance of a better house. Hugh says he understands is a difficult position to be in. Brian suggests that Hugh doesn’t understand at all – after all he has a country house, a penthouse and a hotel if he fancies a change of décor, they’re not so lucky.
| Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY William Fothergill – DANIEL THORNDIKE Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Eric West – ALAN HAYWOOD Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL |
| Episode 340 – February 18th |
Written by: Paul Erickson | Directed by: Reg Watson |
Motel Reception: Meg is waiting for Hugh to drive her to London for a weekend getaway. He’s slightly late, which she notes to Ruth is very unlike Hugh. He finally arrives and notes the terrible weather, the downpour has caused a few road delays on the road from Heathbury. Meg asks how his chat with Brian and Janice went. He tells her he isn’t sure really, he says he explained the situation but it has put them in a difficult place – do the right thing and lose out on a decent home.
Long Meadow Farm: Les enters the farmhouse where Ralph and Winnie are sitting, Ralph is babysitting Mark and has taken him out to the farm unbeknown to Christine. Les tells Ralph the canal is flooded and has started to spread onto the farmland, he needs a hand to move the livestock. Winnie says it is okay, he can go and help – she’ll sit with Mark. With some trepidation, Ralph agrees.
Motel Kitchen: Ruth and Christine are looking at the worsening weather from the window. Ruth notes she’s pleased she doesn’t have to go home in that, having agreed to stay at the motel while Meg is in London. She asks Christine if Ralph will be coming to pick her up after work, Christine says no, he’s at home looking after Mark, but she has her winter coat and an umbrella. Ruth suggests as it’s bleak she should leave early as it’s quiet.
Long Meadow Farm: A Neighbour to the farm Mrs Shilling is sitting with Winnie, her house has flooded. She says it’s the first time in all the years she’s been there that she’s been flooded. Winnie says as far as she can remember the canal has never burst its banks before.
Country Road: Christine is walking in the pouring rain. She comes across PC Yorke who tells her the road ahead is closed – it’s flooded. Just as she’s about to head back to the motel she spots Ralph among a group of men at the side of a field. She is surprised then angry – where is Mark? He explains Mark is at the farm with Vi, Christine notes Vi is still in bed with flu… he confirms Winnie was the one to offer to care for him. Christine rushes off in the direction of the flooded road.
| Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Hugh Mortimer- JOHN BENTLEY Sandy Richardson – ROGER TONGE Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Les Blundell – ARTHUR R. WEBB Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Mrs Shilling – JOAN PATON PC Yorke – RALPH LAWTON |
| Episode 341 – February 21st |
Written by: Keith Miles |
Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Motel Reception: Winnie arrives with Mark, fearing the floods are going to surround the farm she decides to bring the child and herself up to the motel for safety. Vi refuses to leave her bed Winnie tells Ruth. Ruth also notes that Christine went to go home over half an hour ago so they must have not long missed each other on the road. Winnie says she had to slog her way over part of a field to get to the motel as the road was flooded over. Ruth is concerned that Christine must have gone through the flood water and missed seeing Winnie. But putting that to one side she arranges for Marilyn to look after Mark in a vacant chalet. When she turns to speak to Winnie she finds she’s disappeared (this then cuts to night shots from the ATV news library of floods showing fields full of water, police in boats and animals being moved to safety.).
Country Road: PC Hollerman in his patrol car with a fellow officer when they get a radio message the River Slotter has broken its banks at Severnside with issues right through Kings Oak, Burbank and through to Heathbury. He also gets word a woman has been found in a field near the Long Meadow Farm, she is being taken to hospital. Ralph has caught up with Christine and unable to reach the farm they both head back towards the motel.
Motel Foyer: The reception is taking in locals flooded out of their homes, some sharing chalets, and the old B&B accommodation in the house, the rest are being provided with makeshift sleeping arrangements in the restaurant. Marilyn returning from providing refreshments to the gathered wet and bewildered notes she ‘feels like Florence Nightingale’, Ruth observes they could do with Florence and Grace Darling.
Ralph and Christine make it to the motel, Ralph is alarmed to learn Winnie had been to the motel with Mark, but has since wandered off into the night. Christine is just thrilled Mark is safe.
Chalet 12: Mark is sleeping on a bed, Marilyn takes Christine to see her son. Once inside Christine starts to explain she had thought the worst had happened with him being with Winnie. Marilyn explains if it hadn’t been for Winnie Mark might not have been alive, the farm was flooding and she brought the baby to safety. She should be thanking her sister-in-law not cursing her. It gives Christine something to think about.
Brian and Janice’s Flat: The next morning and Janice is listening to the radio about the flooding, with the centre of Heathbury escaping the worst of it..
A newsreader (voiced by ATV’s Reg Harcourt) notes ‘the extent of the flood damage cannot as yet be accurately assessed, but is likely to be in the region of hundreds of thousands of pounds. Some families have lost their homes altogether…’
Janice notes to Brian they have been lucky living high up, unaffected by the water damage that has affected so many people. She suggests that maybe they should help Hugh expose Pearson, a man who is also a threat to happy homes. Brian agrees.
| Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES PC Holleram – PETER HARRIS Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Mark – (Baby) Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Benny Wilmot – DEKE ARLON Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Radio Newsreader – REG HARCOURT (uncredited) |
| Episode 342 – February 22nd |
Written by: Keith Miles |
Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Motel Kitchen: Ruth, Marilyn and Carlos are talking about it being an important day, with all the recent floods Carlos suggests it must be the start of ‘St Swishings Day’; it will now rain for 40 days and 40 nights. Marilyn says he’ll never guess so Ruth says ‘It’s Tuesday’. He looks a little bemused. ‘But we have one of those every week!’ She adds, ‘Shrove Tuesday’. Carlos becomes a little more interested ‘ah the day of the pancake!’
Ralph arrives late with the deliveries, they are having to get supplies from another farm within the company, and their farm is out of action. Marilyn asks how bad things are. He tells her how it’s not just the farm that has been affected, Winnie – after leaving the motel – was found half-conscious in a field, and she’s in hospital recovering. But she is expected to be fine in a day or two.
Hospital Ward: Ralph and Christine have come to see how Winnie is doing after her near-watery end. Christine notes how Marilyn said how she’d taken Mark to safety at her own risk. She adds how silly she’s been overthinking past issues and wants to make amends – she apologises. Christine then asks Winnie to return home when she’s discharged. Both are shocked when Winnie declines. She says she has realised that she’d eventually just be in the way of their marriage, but at least now she can visit often, and even maybe babysit Mark. Christine and Ralph say that sounds lovely.
Motel Kitchen: Carlos is making pancakes but is disheartened to learn from Stevie that this year Sandy has decided to spend the evening with his friend Boffin.
Stevie: “John Billingham. They call him Boffin, and his mother apparently makes the best ‘proper pancakes’ according to Sandy”
Carlos: (hurt) “What is wrong with the pancakes of Carlos?”
Stevie: “He said you make yours the Spanish way, and you can’t toss the Spanish ones.”
Carlos is now on a mission to become the best tosser in Kings Oak he notes. Encouraged by the staff Carlos takes hold of the frying pan and takes to tossing his pancake, it lands in the water-filled sink.
Motel Restaurant: Hugh, Janice and Brian are dining at the restaurant, but it isn’t a social occasion – they are discussing what to do about shady Councillor Pearson.
Hugh: “Right, let’s get ourselves organised. Now first thing you must do is arrange to meet Pearson. Have you paid him any money yet?
Brian: “No, nothing at all.”
Hugh: “Good. Then tell him you want to see him to complete the deal. Your flat would be the ideal place for the exchange. Leave the rest to me.”
Meg’s office: Ruth is talking to Meg on the phone – who is still in London visiting Jill. Ruth mentions her brother-in-law Doctor Derek Maynard is returning home from Rhodes. He’s been offered a job at the local hospital so once Meg is back she’s going to go house hunting on his behalf. Later Brian enters and asks if he can use the office phone for a private call. Ruth leaves him to it. Brian arranges for Councillor Pearson to visit him tomorrow at 6 pm.
Cannon Street, Birmingham: Production notes state ‘Carlos and Josefina are shopping, she is admiring clothes in a window while Carlos walks ahead looking in an electrical shop. She catches up with him and they both continue down the street.
A car passes them by, it goes around a corner and parks up. They walk past the car as it sits parked and waiting. Josefina goes to another window to take a look while Carlos continues on. He is on a narrow strip of pavement against a blank wall. The car suddenly starts up, and suddenly accelerating it mounts the pavement and aims right for him. Josefina turns and sees the situation and screams.’
| Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Winnie Palmer – EILEEN BARRY Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Josefina Rafael – GILLIAN BETTS Benny Wilmot – DEKE ARLON |
| Episode 343 – February 23rd |
Written by: Keith Miles |
Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Motel Kitchen: (Same afternoon as yesterday) Marilyn is starting to wonder what has happened to Josefina and Carlos. He was supposed to be back at work ‘hours ago’. She says to Christine – who arrives for her shift – that he only went shopping with Josefina for a few bits and should be back now. Carlos has the evening diners to deal with and it’s unusually busy with bookings tonight. Christine notes that they’ve had the ‘Flying Dutchman’ and now they have the ‘Vanishing Spaniards’. She adds that is rather unlike Josefina to be late even if Carlos can sometimes lose track of time.
Marilyn decides to look to more positive things. She’s seen an advert for a scheme in the local newspaper for making money. Benny has urged her to be careful, his mother has got herself involved in it and he thinks its all one big con. Christine says it all sounds very interesting, and she could do with extra income, so asks Marilyn to tell her all about it.
Motel Reception: Carlos and Josefina enter, both looking traumatised. They explain to Ruth what happened in Birmingham.
Josefina: “In town we walk down the street and I stop to look in the shops. Carlos, he goes on. Then this car… it mounted the pavement and nearly knocks Carlos down. Stupid driver.”
Meg’s Sitting Room: Hugh has been looking over some accounts that Ruth isn’t sure make much sense. The phone rings and he takes the liberty to answer it on Ruth’s behalf while he waits for her arrival. He is pleased to hear Meg on the line. (she is seen in a pre-recorded insert from ‘London’)
Meg, equally surprised to hear Hugh, explains she’s stuck in London a little longer due to a ‘serious tooth issue’ while away she’s had mouth pain and has been diagnosed with an impacted wisdom tooth. They’re going to operate tomorrow. Hugh says he will let Ruth know the minute she arrives. Meg asks how things are going with the Janice and Brian issue and he tells her they’re in on his plan to expose Pearson for who he really is – a crook.
Motel Kitchen: Carlos is telling the kitchen staff about his nightmare ordeal in Birmingham with the car. Marilyn notes he could have been killed. Josefina notes they didn’t have time to think so didn’t get any numberplate information so there isn’t much point reporting it to the police.
Christine asks if the driver stopped to apologise, Carlos notes they didn’t they shot off quickly. If he hadn’t managed to jump into a doorway Marilyn would be right, he’d be dead. Marilyn thinks it probably was a drunk driver, there is far too much of that these days she observes. Carlos says no, he thinks it was deliberate. He has an enemy and he needs to find out who, and why. Christine ponders if it could be linked to the crime gang he had a run in previously with? Josefina suggests it is just shock-talk, he is just over thinking. It most likely was just an accident. Later at the motel bar, where Carlos is taking a brandy on the orders of Ruth, he tells her it was no accident;
Carlos: “I have not the shock now. As the car come towards me, I see the face of the driver.. I know from his expression he is trying to kill me.”
Ruth asks if he has any holidays due, he notes about two weeks. She suggests he takes them, she’ll find cover.
Brian and Janice’s Flat: Brian welcomes Pearson into the flat. Janice says she has been to the bank and taken out £100 in £10 notes. She hands him the brown envelope. Brian asks if he’d like to count it first. Pearson says he trusts them. He gives them the key to the house and says they can move in at any time they like now. Brian asks if Pearson could give them a receipt, Pearson says when it comes to official rent that won’t be a problem but as this is a ‘small deal between friends, surely they don’t need one’. At this point Hugh Mortimer and Councillor Hammond (non-speaking) enter from the kitchen. Pearsons plays it cool, so Hugh decides to make the situation clear.
Hugh: “To put it frankly the position you’re in is this Councillor Pearson; You’ve had a nice profitable little racket, and now it has exploded in your face. I’m sure the police will explain it to you in simple terms, extorting money under false pretences.
“What I find most objectionable is the fact you’ve used your position as a councillor for personal gain.”
Palmer House: Les has called in with bad news. He looks around their front room and notes their flood damage isn’t too bad, the farmhouse is a total no-go. He adds that is what he has come to speak to Ralph about. Mr Tomlin the owner of it has decided there is too much damage done, machinery and so forth – so has decided to cut his losses and sell it. The place was on a downward profit spiral anyway. (Something Ralph had been trying to get Les to deal with by modernisation – but never accepted the idea). Les says he and Vi will be moving back into their house in the village, Christine asks where it leaves Ralph, before he can respond Ralph cuts in ‘jobless’.
| Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Josefina Rafael – GILLIAN BETTS Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Meg Richardson – NOELE GORDON (pre-recorded) Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Councillor Pearson – ANTHONY BAIRD Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Les Blundell – ARTHUR R. WEBB |
| Episode 344 – February 24th |
Written by: Keith Miles |
Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Brian and Janice’s Flat: Brian, Janice and Hugh are discussing their expose of Councillor Pearson. Hugh is unsure what will happen to Pearson now, but he notes if the public finds out about the scam he’ll probably be voted out at the next election anyway. Hugh adds he will be asking for an ‘Extraordinary Meeting of the full Council’ as soon as possible to put all the details to them. Of course, he explains it does mean Brian and Janice’s high priority on the housing list will now drop down if Pearsons had even really put them on it in the first place.
Hugh: “He’s probably working out his defence right now, but it won’t get him very far – I shall be the star witness for the prosecution and Councillor Hammond will confirm everything as a witness. Then the decision will be up to the council.”
Motel Reception: The foyer is filling up with boxes, all addressed to a Ms Gates. Ruth attempts to speak to the delivery driver but he disappears off to bring in another box. Ruth fetches Marilyn from the kitchen to explain why the reception is starting to look like a warehouse. Marilyn explains she’s joined a money-making scheme and roped in Josefina and Christine to join her in the ‘Make Your Own Easter Eggs’ project. Marilyn then touches on the idea of doing the work after the restaurant has closed in the kitchen. Ruth says shouldn’t she have asked this before ordering?
Marilyn notes she didn’t think it would arrive so soon, so hadn’t got around to bringing up the suggestion. Ruth asks how much has it all cost. £25 Marilyn says, adding it was her holiday savings. Ruth reluctantly agrees to the idea, as long as it doesn’t happen in work hours and they clean up any mess before the kitchen is needed for breakfast.
Motel Kitchen: Carlos and Josefina are discussing where to go on holiday. Carlos suggests he doesn’t want to go abroad, he says he thinks they should go to Wales. Michael is bemused by the idea – Wales in winter, Josefina is equally unimpressed. ‘No matter’ Carlos notes – he has made up his mind. More boxes arrive at the kitchen door. Marilyn goes to investigate. More for her Easter creativity. She opens one box, it is full of tiny little fluffy display chickens. She takes a note from inside and tells the others what they have to work with:
‘200 mini Chickens, 90 yards of Cellophane, 200 choclate eggs assorted sweets, satin, ribbon, tissue paper and 200 cut-out fold and make cardboard egg holders.’
Ruth says that they can use the kitchen for the project – but the boxes will have to be stored elsewhere. Josefina suggests one of the spare old bedrooms up in the house. Again Ruth reluctantly agrees to it, wondering what Meg will make of it.
| Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSYER Hugh Mortimer – JOHN BENTLEY Ralph Palmer – NORMAN JONES Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Josefian Rafael – GILLIAN BETTS Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY |
| Episode 345 – February 25th |
Written by: Keith Miles |
Directed by: Alan Coleman |
Motel Reception / Jill’s London Flat: A telephone conversation between Jill and Ruth discusses the latest with Meg. Jill says her mother had the operation on her serious tooth issue earlier in the morning, but it hasn’t gone well. Things are more complicated than expected and she’s being kept in at the local hospital for further treatment; they’ve taken the wisdom tooth out and are treating an abscess. Ruth is concerned by the development but says not to worry motel-wise as she’ll continue to oversee things until Meg is fit and well.
Carlos has been listening to the conversation and suggests that if Mrs Richardson isn’t able to work, as she covers the kitchen when he is away, he will cancel his holiday to Wales. Ruth says it’s a quiet week ahead next week, with the recent floods there isn’t a lot of business happening for the motel so it would be best if he took it now as there are a lot of bookings in the weeks after as they head towards Easter. He reluctantly agrees.
Motel Restaurant: A customer who isn’t staying at the motel, only dining – Mr Denning – is very unhappy with the offerings with the reduced menu due to Carlos being away. He is getting more and more drunk and insulting the restaurant and motel. Marilyn tells him he’s had enough to drink and she won’t be serving him any more booze. He takes to throwing a glass.
Marilyn: “I can’t serve you.”
Denning: “Then I’ll break every glass in the motel until you do.” (Picks up another glass and throws it)
Marilyn calls for Michael to come in from the kitchen. Meanwhile Denning goes around smashing anything breakable in his immediate area. Ruth, having heard the racket from reception, enters and asks what is going on. Marilyn explains he’s had too much to drink and is demanding more. Ruth agrees with her and tells him he’s caused a lot of damage and it is now time to leave. He overturns a table, picks up another tray of glasses and drops it to the floor. He heads towards the restaurant bar and throws a stool into the optics. ‘It doesn’t have to be this way if you’d only serve me’. Both refuse. Denning then picks up a chair and throws it through the window.
| Ruth Bailey – PAMELA GREENALL Jill Richardson – JANE ROSSINGTON Carlos Rafael – ANTHONY MORTON Janice Jarvis – CAROLYN LYSTER Brian Jarvis – DAVID FENNELL Josefina Rafael – GILLIAN BETTS Marilyn Gates – SUE NICHOLLS Michael Prescott – JOSEPH MORRIS Denning ‘the drunk’ – PETER HARRISON Christine Palmer – ALEX MARSHALL Stevie Harris – WENDY PADBURY |
Episode 332 has a sequence filmed at Walford Hall Farm (Les and Ralph in the yard). 334 has a scene filmed on a lane in Baschurch doubling up as Kings Oak’s ‘Marsh Lane’. (Sandy and Stevie putting up posters and Carlos and Ross’ tree gimmick).
Episode 335 also has a sequence recorded at Baschurch of Carlos being rescued from the tree. A short sequence of this survives in the archives. A news crew from ‘ATV Today’ are seen filming Carlos stuck up the tree.
Episode 340 has location scenes recorded in Baschurch. This episode also gives us the name of Les Blundell’s farm for the first time Long Meadow Farm. Episode 341 features flood scenes recorded in Baschurch including a road block at night. The Flooding scenes are a mix of stock flood footage from the ATV News archives and small scale flood recreation on location at the road. 342 has scenes recorded in Birmingham city centre (Cannon Street) with Carlos and Josefina shopping and an attempted hit-and-run.
Episode 333 reveals there is also a local paper called the Kings Oak Chronicle, which sits alongside the wider-reaching Castlewich Clarion and the West Midland publication Midland Gazette. There are several cultural references across the month; from Tom Jones, Sandy Shaw, The Beatles, Peter, Paul and Mary to Paul Temple.
335 sees the first appearance of Michael Prescott played by Joseph Morris. Episode 341 sees ATV Director (and floor manager on Crossroads at this time) Peter Harris appear as a policeman. Peter went on to direct children’s series Tingha and Tucker before going onto shows such as The Muppets, New Faces and Spitting Image. 340 ATV Today reporter Reg Harcourt is heard voicing a radio news feature.
342 is the first mention of Ruth’s brother-in-law Doctor Derek Maynard who would become a regular for several years along with his wife, and Ruth’s sister, Sarah, played by Diane Holland. John Porter-Davison as Sam Redway has left the series, but the actor and character will return later.
Synopsis written by Mike Garrett for The Crossroads Years. With thanks to Bob Hope for additional cast information from TV World listings and Rob Wilde for some of the photographs.
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