On the 31st July 1968 a tv comedy was born that was to last to last for 9 years and 80 episodes – 3 of which are sadly still missing to this day – a much-loved gem that is still enjoyed by many today.
Fast-forward 50 years to 2018 and Gold is showing the very first episode on the same date and time it was originally aired as well as a host of specials to mark this occasion.
So settle back and enjoy this wonderful British classic and don’t be a stupid boy by missing it.
It’s 1940 and Britain is on the alert for an imminent Nazi invasion. With full-time troops occupied overseas, the coastal defences are left to a handful of veteran soldiers – The Home Guard. And in Walmington-on-Sea, one inept, feeble and inadequately armed platoon is very keen to do its bit.
Dad’s Army was written by Jimmy Perry and David Croft, who went on to write other classic comedies such as It Ain’t Half Hot Mum and Hi-de-Hi. David also teamed up with Jeremy Lloyd for ‘Allo, ‘Allo! and Are You Being Served? The cast includes such great character actors as Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, Clive Dunn and Bill Pertwee.
The Man And The Hour: In the very first episode of the series, Captain Mainwaring assumes command of the Local Defence Volunteers, an assumption others are not so eager to make.
Monday 30th August, 7.15pm: We’re Doomed: The Dad’s Army Story: Comedy drama about how the creators of Dad’s Army overcame BBC management scepticism, focus groups and cast constipation to get the much-loved show to air.
Wednesday 1st August, 8pm: 1976 Christmas Special: The Love Of Three Oranges: The vicar organises a bazaar to which each member of the platoon donates something. Hodges, the greengrocer, donates three rare oranges. Mainwaring is determined to buy one of the oranges for his wife.
Thursday 2nd August, 8pm: Series 5 Episode 9: Mum’s Army: Captain Mainwaring discusses with Sergeant Wilson a scheme to recruit female members into the platoon in order for them to take on some noncombatant activities.
Friday 3rd August, 8.40pm: Series 1 Episode 5: The Showing Up of Corporal Jones: Major Regan from area headquarters decides that Jones is too old to be in the Home Guard, and announces that unless Jones can complete the assault course in fifteen minutes, he will be removed from the platoon. (Black and White)
Eastieoaks 