Permission to Write....

Googie Withers!!!!

2010-01-31T18:22:00.009Z

I'll name that film in.....erm, just a moment...

Hello and a very belated Happy New Year! Apologies for the distanct lack of blogs over the last few months. I've been very remiss in my posting -and there's been loads of news too! Hopefully I'll get through most of it over the coming weeks. First though, onto a fantastic piece that one our listeners has written; a certain Mr James White-Aldworth. Now many months ago, James listened to Tony and I talk about the many references to old films that Messrs Perry and Croft make throughout Dad's Army. Somehow, we managed to inspire Mr White-Aldworth to begin a task that he had been mulling around in his mind - to document every film mention throughout the entire run of Dad's Army! So here it is, with a introduction from James - a spreadsheet that chronicles every film reference made by Pike, Wilson and all the others! You can view or download the spreadsheet by clicking on the image below but first, here's an intro from James himself.

Welcome my name is James White-Aldworth and I have been a Dad’s Army fan for roughly 25 years. Having, as many of us were, been inducted into the world of Walmington on Sea by my Grandfather Godfrey ‘Dan’ Brown I became a fully fledged addict myself.

I have been listening to James’ Dad’s Army Podcast and was inspired by something he and his colleague Tony discussed a couple of years ago. Whilst watching an early episode of Dad’s Army the two wondered if the many references made to films by the cast were in fact real films that the characters really could have been watching at the time. Coincidently this was a thought that had passed through my mind. As a big film fan myself I too had often wondered whether the real population of Great Britain had watched these films escaping the dark nights of the war and pre-war years. Also these references are often my favourite moments in the episodes as two or three characters drift off into recollection and discussion of a film as Captain Mainwaring becomes more and more frustrated and finally snaps.

So I set myself to work watching every episode and of course the Movie noting down the films referred to and by whom. Then I began to investigate. I discovered that in only a couple of cases I couldn’t find a film of the same name in the correct period that conclusively was the film in question.

So behold my friends and I hope you too find similar interest in discovering a little more detail in the tapestry of Dad’s Army and perhaps even venture out and seek out these films for yourself.

Dad's Army Film References

An Evening with Frank Williams

2009-11-22T16:26:00.014Z

The Vicar has left the Building....

The first event the Dad's Army podcast has co-ordinated with the Dad's Army Appreciation Society took place yesterday evening, in a church hall in Kentish Town. Frank Williams played host to over 70 attendees who braved the driving rain to hear Frank talk about his time in Dad's Army and his wider career.

Frank spent over an hour speaking to the attendees and relished regaling the rapt audience with stories from his time on Dad's Army. He also talked about growing up in the second world war and about his first job within the acting business.

The evening also saw the UK premier of a new documentary about Frank entitled 'Dad's Army and Beyond: The Frank Williams Story' which the audience gobbled up and then asked questions of Frank. Producer Oliver Crocker and Director Mervyn Cumming were also on hand to discuss their experiences of making the documentary. It is hoped that the programme will be made available through the Appreciation Society in the near future - more news on that as it happens.

Episode 41 of the podcast will be a longer than usual podcast and will feature Frank's interview in full. It will also include a five minute interview Frank gave to Radio London early yesterday morning to promote the event.

On a personal note, I was mortified (as was Frank, Oliver and pretty much everyone else there) at how bad the sound was for the first half an hour of the night - which included two screenings of Frank's work. It was almost impossible to make any of the words out at all - as Frazer would have said, it sounded as though the actors were 'mumblin', mumblin'!! At the time though, this was far from a laughing matter. Fortunately, this was a temporary hitch and we able to vastly improve the quality of the sound after the first very awkward half an hour. Many thanks to all the wonderful attendees for being so patient with us - lessons have been learned.

The technical difficulties aside, the food was great, the premier of Oliver's documentary was exceptionally well received and many people came up to me after the event and said how much they enjoyed the evening. You were all so very kind!!

Hope you enjoy the podcast of the evening once I've managed to edit it all together - should be online over on the main podcast page by mid-December.

You've had your chips!!

2009-11-14T15:51:00.005Z

Frank Williams event just one week away

Pre-booking for the Vicar and Chips event has now closed - however, do not worry if you have not managed to make your booking, you can turn up on the night - but we will not be able to provide you with dinner! So your evening will be Vicar and no Chips. As such, the entry price to those of you arriving on the night will be £6.00, but remember to have eaten beforehand!

For full event details, see the below blog-entry.

Come and meet his Reverence!

2009-10-21T09:05:00.006+01:00

Vicar and Chips event nears

Frank Williams will be attending an evening wittily (ahem) entitled 'Vicar and Chips' on Saturday 21 November 2009 at a church hall in Kentish Town. The Dad's Army podcast and Dad's Army Appreciations Society are jointly organising the evening.

As the title suggests, the evening will centre on Frank Williams and will feature several clips from his television and film career including some of Franks most recent work for independent production companies.

The highlight of the evening will be the full, un-cut British premier of 'Dad's Army and Beyond: the Frank Williams Story'. Oliver Crocker (producer), Mervyn Cumming (director) and of course Frank will be present and will be interviewed - by me! Poor souls. The DVD will also be on sale to attendees who will of course, have the opportunity to get copies signed by Frank, Oliver and Mervyn.

The details are:

Venue:
Our Lady Help of Christians
4 Lady Margaret Road
Kentish Town
London
NW5 2XT

Time:
6.30pm to 10.00pm

Price:
£7.50 per ticket (includes fish and chip supper)

In order to book you can complete the booking form below and send it off as quickly as possible. Tickets are selling well but are limited - there are however a number still available.

BookingForm

Vicar n Chips!

2009-08-22T09:27:00.016+01:00

Frank Williams event announced for November 2009

Frank Williams will be appearing at an event the podcast is jointly organising with the Dad's Army Appreciation Society on 21st November 2009. The centrepiece of the evening will be the premier of Dad's Army and Beyond: the Frank Williams Story. The producer of the show will also be present and hopefully the director too. I will be interviewing all three after the screening, and the audience will have a chance to ask questions too. Oh, and you get a fish n chip supper too! Listen to podcast 37 for more details.

The event will begin at 6.30pm and be held in a Church Hall - yes, the Vicar is returning to a church hall!

The address of the venue is:

Our Lady Help of Christians
4 Lady Margaret Road
Kentish Town
London
NW5 2XT

A map can be found by clicking here.

Dad's Army Appreciation Society members can book by filling in the booking form published in the most recent Society magazine (PTSS 61) or can visit the Society's members page, non-members can e-mail me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com to request a form - or until I an figure out how to upload a pdf document onto the blog! Tickets cost £7.50 each.

Godfrey's Ghost

2009-07-28T11:43:00.009+01:00

New Arnold Ridley book to published September 2009

A new book about Arnold Ridley is being published by Mogzilla Life on 1st September 2009. The book has been penned by Arnold’s son Nicolas, and is called “Godfrey’s Ghost: From Father to Son”. Nicolas has kindly sent the podcast the following information about the book.

Arnold had a fascinating life which stretched from the rule of Queen Victoria to the ascension of Margaret Thatcher to the office of Prime Minister. He fought in two world wars, wrote a best selling play that is still frequently performed today and is perhaps most famous for playing the eldest member of the Walmington-On-Sea Home Guard, Pte. Charles Godfrey.

You can request a signed copy of the book be sent to you pre-publication from Mogzilla’s Godfrey's Ghost webpage – otherwise the book will be available in both hardback (£15.99) and paperback (£9.99).

Pike's Broadcast to the Empire updated 14 July 2009

2009-07-10T13:11:00.021+01:00

Ian Lavender to star on LBC Radio

Ian Lavender is guesting on Steve Allen's popular LBC radio chat show, 'In coversation with....' The interview is being recording this weekend. However, at the time of writing, I cannot find out for sure when it will be broadcast. LBCs scheduling has an 'In conversation with...' show going out this Sunday at both 7:00am and 9:00pm although it is not clear if this will be the Lavender interview. LBC goes out on 97.3 FM. If anyone knows or manages to find out when the show is due to go out, please let me know by sending me an e-mail james@dadsarmypodcast.com or by leaving a comment below. Thanks!

**UPDATED 14 JULY 2009**

Ian's interview was broadcast on London Broadcasting Radio (LBC) on Sunday 12 July 2009. Ian spent an hour talking to Steve Allen (pictured above) about his life and career. As one would expect, Dad's Army featured prominantly. At one point, Ian said that every role he has won since his days in Dad's Amy was due to his success as Frank Pike. Ian also talks about his part as Derek Harkinson in EastEnders and his past stage performances. In the final ten minutes, Ian talks candidly about his health and describes what happened when he suffered a heart attack whilst he was a member of the EastEnders cast. Moving stuff.

Ian is currently playing Monsignor Howard in the stage version of Sister Act at the London Palladium.

The interview is currently available by visiting the LBC listen again website and then clicking on 'In coversation with...'. You will need to sign up in order to download the interview and pay a nominal charge.

Pike at the Palladium

2009-07-06T10:16:00.013+01:00

Ian Lavender to star in Sister Act

Ian Lavender has been cast as Monsignor Howard in the London Stage show Sister Act. The play opened at the London Palladium on 2 June and currently booking until February 2010 - although it has not been confirmed how long Lavender will star. The show has received mixed reviews - and I will bring you mine once I have booked my ticket! I never thought I'd have a reason to go and see Sister Act - cheers Mr Lavender! The former stupid boy stars alongside Sheila Hancock and Patina Miller and has received third billing. Ian's biog apprears on the production's official website.

Good luck to Ian - in all seriousness, it is good see Ian back treading the West End boards - I wish him the best of luck.

Colin Bean RIP 1927 to 2009

2009-06-22T15:11:00.005+01:00

Private Sponge actor passes away

It is with great sadness that I report that Colin Bean passed away on Saturday 20 June 2009. Colin played Private Sponge throughout the whole of nine years Dad's Army was produced and was a keen supporter of the Dad's Army Appreciation Society for many years. An ever-present section leader in the Walmington-on-Sea platoon, Private Sponge was seen in the second rank in most parade scenes. As time moved on, he was given several speaking parts and a little character development. Colin's career was varied, but he will be best remembered for the part he played in Dad's Army.

In later years, Colin regaled audiences with stories about his time filming Dad's Army in the popular 'An Audience with Colin Bean' events, some of which were filmed and can be seen on YouTube.

The story is reported in Wigan Today and can be read here.

Rest in peace Colin, you will be most affectionately remembered.

Podcast 35

2009-06-21T16:14:00.017+01:00

Locations Tour 2009

Apologies for the long interval since I've last blogged - been really busy at work, home and, you'll be pleased to hear, with loads of Dad's Army related stuff.

Firstly, the 2009 locations tour podcast is now online over at the main podcast page. Make sure you check out Episodes 35a and 35b. Frank Williams was an absolute gem - I really can't get enough of that man. He is so enthusiastic about Dad's to this day, and he is so eloquent and articulate when talking about his memories of filming Dad's Army. What is also clear is his affection for his co-stars. There is no hint of envy or jealousy about the fact that he played such a minor role compared to the regular cast members. What amazes me is how youthful he is on these tours - they are not short events (four hours without a loo stop!) and the terrain is often rough enough to challenge even the fittest of fans, but not only does Frank cope admirably, he positively enjoys himself. Anyway, as always, let me know what you think of this podcast by sending me an e-mail - james@dadsarmypodcast.com If you happen to be based in or live near London then keep an eye out on the blog for a Frank related event in November this year - can't say too much at present as we're still in the early stages of planning, but if its comes off then tickets will be as keenly sought after as Walker's silk parachute-knickers!

Dad's Army podcast on Twitter!

The podcast now has a Twitter page - www.twitter.com/dadsarmypodcast I'm very new to all this interwebby promotion stuff, but realise that the next generation of fans will expect there to be a very strong, online presence (other than the podcast itself), so this is my attempt to get with it. I will try to post all the latest dad's army and podcast news on this page so make sure you keep an eye on it, and post responses! Twitter is one of the easiest modern-day networking sites to use - all you need to do is sign up (takes two minutes) and click on 'follow' and you'll be kept up to date on all things Dad's Army.

And finally.....

Keep you ears peeled for a rather exciting announcement about the future of the podcast very soon. All very mysterious I know, but I should hopefully be able to announce something fairly major that will greatly enhance the enjoyment listeners' get out of the podcast over the few weeks. More soon.

Tour of Locations 2009

2009-05-11T19:04:00.012+01:00

Perry and Croft weekend 2009

A set of photos taken on the tour of Dad's Army locations that took place on 9 May 2009 is now available by clicking on the slideshow to the right. The tour was organised by the Dad's Army Appreciation Society and visited several locations on the Ministry of Defence ground at Stanta. The MOD ground is usually a no-go area to members of the public so this specially arranged tour was a real treat. We were accompanied by Frank Williams who shared several of his memories whilst filming at Stanta.

As there was last year, there will be a podcast containing the commentary from Frank, and our tour guide Tony Pritchard of the Appreciation society. What Tony doesn't know about Dad's Army really isn't worth knowing! The recordings will form podcast 35 and be on-line as soon as I have had a chance to edit the numerous anecdotes I managed to record.

New podcast online

2009-05-02T20:47:00.004+01:00

Episode 34

Episode 34 of the Dad's Army podcast is now on-line and available to listen to or download from the main podcast page.

This month, Paul Carpenter from the Dad’s Army Appreciation Society joins me for the whole episode and previews the premier event on the Society’s calendar, the 2009 Perry and Croft Day which is due to be held on Sunday 10 May at at Bressingham Steam Museum. Paul announces which stars will be appearing (subject to work commitments and good health) and provides an insight into what it takes to put on such an event.

We then discuss the first episode of Dad’s Army I ever saw, Don’t forget the Diver – an absolute classic series 4 episode from 1970.

Episode 35 of the podcast will feature a number of interviews with the stars of Dad’s Army - I hope to be talking to several of the cast and crew at Bressingham.

Take a listen to episodes 20 and 21 of the podcast to hear coverage of last years event.

As always, we’d love to hear from you so please send in your feedback to james@dadsarmypodcast.com.

New podcast on-line

2009-04-09T22:08:00.003+01:00

Frank Williams stars in Episode 33

Episode 33 of the Dad’s Army podcast is now on-line and available to listen to over at the main podcast page or on iTunes. This month we are joined by none other than Frank Williams himself – the Reverend Timothy Farthing, to discuss the often controversial film interpretation of Dad’s Army.

The entire podcast team were present for this one – and Frank shares his experiences of being part of the production and talks about his many talented co-stars. The film has always divided fan opinion – some believing the series made a seamless transfer from TV to the silver screen whilst others believe it a travesty of the telly series. Why not have your say? E-mail us at james@dadsarmypodcast.com but above all, enjoy the podcast.

1975 Stage Show gets CD release

2009-03-29T20:14:00.004+01:00

Sergeant Wilson's Little Secrets - secret no more!

The 1975 Dad's Army Stage Show recording is finally getting a release on CD. The release will be available to buy, courtesy of Warner Brothers, on 13 April 2009.

The recording features the original cast and is identical to the vinyl version released many years ago. Warner went back to the original recordings when mastering this release and found some extra material recorded by John Le Mesurier - which did not make it onto the original vinyl version - unfortunately the decision was taken not to include this additional material on the CD. it may however find the light of day in a future release but no further information is available at this time.

The Amazon listing for the CD is can be seen here.

Dad's Army and Beyond: The Frank Williams Story

2009-03-07T09:31:00.006Z

Producer of new documentary interviewed on the Dad's Army podcast

Episode 32 of the Dad's Army podcast is now online and available to listen to from the main podcast page, or to download from iTunes.

This month we go through the latest Dad's Army news, sift through the podcast's mailbag and bring you an exclusive interview with Oliver Crocker - the Producer of Frank Williams new documentary, 'Dad's Army and Beyond, the Frank Williams story'. Oliver talks about filming with Frank and tells some fantastic stories.

Frank and Oliver have worked together before - in a typecasting busting move, Frank stars as a really nasty piece of work in the Devonfire production, Tanner. A trailer for the film is on YouTube and features Frank - you can view it here;

Episode 33 will feature Frank himself as he joins the entire podcast team talking about the sometimes controversial, Dad's Army movie. As always, please send in your feedback to james@dadsarmypodcast.com and enjoy the show.

Podcast to record Dad's Army Movie special!

2009-02-17T12:25:00.010Z

Your comments are required!

Following several requests from listeners, this weekend, the entire podcast team will be recording a round table discussion about the sometimes controversial, 1971 Dad's Army movie. I have great pleasure in announcing that Frank Williams, (the Reverend Timothy Farthing) will be joining us for what promises to be a very entertaining and lively discussion. If you have comments about the movie in general, or have any questions you like us to put to Frank then please send them to me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com by 6:00pm Friday 20 February (GMT) and I'll do my best to include them in the podcast.

The recording will form Episode 33 of the podcast and is likely to be on-line mid to late March 2009. Episode 32 should be on-line at some point over the next 10 days or so. The podcast's main page is here.

New Dad's Army podcast now on-line

2009-01-21T13:52:00.004Z

Episode 31

The first Dad's Army podcast of 2009 is now on-line and available at www.dadsarmy.podomatic.com.

This edition of the podcast is a little different from the usual format – Paul Carpenter from the Dad’s Army Appreciation Society brings you a review (featuring several wonderful clips) from the recently recovered audio versions of the 1968 Christmas Night with the Stars sketch and the off-air recording of series 2’s A Stripe for Frazer. Thanks to Paul for putting together such a fantastic piece of audio and giving all you lucky podcast listeners the opportunity to hear what is in effect, brand new Dad’s Army.

If that wasn’t enough, Clare returns to the podcast and reviews the classic Christmas Special, My Brother and I.

Podcast 32 will be the long promised feedback episode and as I have yet to record it, you have a great opportunity to get your comments on the show. I am particularly interested to hear what episode of Dad's Army you would like us to review and chat about in the future. Send in your thoughts to me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com or click on 'comments' at the foot of this posting.

Stupid Boy on Mastermind!

2008-12-30T20:44:00.004Z

Ian Lavender to star on Celebrity Mastermind

Ian Lavender will be appearing on Celebrity Mastermind at 8pm on New Years Day on BBC1. Good to see that Ian is maintaining his high profile! See the official BBC what's on listings here.

Dad's Army at the British Film Institute

2008-12-29T14:16:00.008Z

Oddities and Rarities event: 22 December 2008

What a fantastic evening! Somewhat of a surprise for me, Frank Williams was present and as always, was in fine form.

There were several sketches screened that I hadn’t seen before. The Buckingham Palace piece was a long two-scene piece that was really quite excellent. I also really enjoyed the stage performance of the Cornish Floral Dance sketch, particularly Wilson walking off in a huff!

The newly discovered audio of the 1968 Christmas Night with the Stars sketch was also a joy to listen to, although some, if not most, of the humour is clearly visual. The two small Christmas Night sketches were included on as well, and it was great to see them on the big screen. However, the most prominent piece of footage was an edited version of a new documentary about Frank Williams. The piece was presented in person by Oliver Crocker (the producer) and Frank Williams and looks to be a really interesting piece about Frank’s career. Keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for more about this project with both Oliver and Frank over the coming weeks about the new venture.

A complete listing (I think!) of snippets shown is below:

Dad’s Army and Beyond: The Frank Williams Story

Resisting the Aggressor through the Ages

Extract from ‘Goodnight Sweetheart’ that parodied Dad’s Army

The Coward Revue

The Harry Secombe Show

The two Green Cross Code adverts

The Royal Variety Performance

Royal Television Gala

The Black and White Minstrel Show

1968 Christmas Night with the Stars sketch (audio only)

Extract of the newly rediscovered off-air recording of A Stripe for Frazer (audio only)

Two Barclays Bank adverts

Broadcast to the Empire

You can see Andrew Ruff's (the official DAAS photographer) photos of the event by clicking on the slideshow to your right. Thanks to Andrew for his permission to re-produce the photographs. The above photos were taken by me at the event and show Frank working his public!

Bressingham 2009

2008-12-19T19:01:00.007Z

Perry and Croft Day 2009 announced

The date for the now annual Perry and Croft Day has been announced for 2009. The event, to be held once again at Bressingham Steam Museum, will take place on Sunday 10 May. Past years have seen stars aplenty attend - Jimmy Perry, David Croft, Bill Pertwee, Ian Lavender, Clive Dunn, Frank Williams, Harold Snoad, Michael Knowles and Pamela Cundell have all made appearances, some attending practically every year since the event began in 2000. Make sure you check out the photographs from previous Dad's Army Days and Perry and Croft Days by clicking on the slide show to your right.

There is no need to buy tickets in advance for the event, but if you intend to travel some distance to Bressingham, then it may well be worth your while to arrange accommodation as soon as possible - guest houses and B&Bs are almost always fully booked long before the annual event.

Entrance is usually exceptional value for money and will be around the £10 mark - but members of the Dad's Army Appreciation Society get in cheaper and may have access to some members only areas inside the museum. You can join the DAAS for a ludicrously cheap annual fee at www.dadsarmy.co.uk.

In addition to the Dad's Army cast and crew, actors and production teams from other Perry and Croft programmes will be invited too. Keep an eye on the DAAS website for the latest information.

Room on Newsnight

2008-12-17T13:43:00.004Z

Restoration Reported on current affairs programme

A feature concerning the restored colour version of Room at the Bottom appeared on Newsnight last week. A video of the piece has now been uploaded onto the Newsnight website – watch it by clicking here.

The BBC also have reported on the new the recently re-discovered Dad's Army audios tracks here.

Room at the Bottom in colour - on BBC2 this weekend!

2008-12-11T13:21:00.009Z

Re-colourised season 3 episode being shown this Saturday!

The highly regarded season three episode Room at the Bottom is being shown on BBC2 this weekend in colour - for the first time in nearly 40 years. Despite originally being made in colour, the episode only existed in the BBC archives in black and white only. Due to some hi-tech wizardry, the episode has been restored to colour and will be broadcast in the UK on Saturday 13 December 2008 on BBC2 at 8:25pm. Ian Lavender has recorded an introductory piece that will be transmitted before the episode. What away to end the 40th Anniversary year!!

This week's Radio Times has a double spread covering the story and features an interview with Ian Lavender. Lavender chats about the new version of the episode and talks about his eternal association with Pte Frank Pike.

You can read the BBC press release concerning this story here.

Father Christmas exists! (Updated 5 December 2008)

2008-11-25T13:16:00.017Z

'Lost' audios found

The podcast has received early reports that an audio version of the 1968 Dad's Army 'A Christmas Night with the Stars' sketch has been found and returned to the BBC. This special sketch is one of two previously 'lost' sketches recorded for festive celebratory programme - the other being the Cornish Floral Dance sketch. The re-discovered audio of the 1968 special has no official title, but features members of the platoon arriving at the Church Hall dressed as Father Christmas giving various different reasons for their attire. **UPDATE 5 DECEMBER 2008** This story has now been confirmed by the BBC!! Great news!

Rumour also has it that a new, high quality audio version of the television version of a Stripe for Frazer has also made its way back to the BBC. dadsarmy.tv reports the story.

The podcast will bring you further details when the these two stories have been confirmed. **UPDATE 4 December 2008** The Dad's Army Appreciation Society have now confirmed that a recording of A Stripe for Frazer has been found and returned to the BBC.

'Mini' Dad's Army night in December

The BBC have announced that they are screening the newly colourised version of the season three episode Room at the Bottom as part of another evening dedicated to Dad's Army. The broadcast date is currently Saturday 13 December and the scheduled to begin at 7:10pm on BBC2. The new version of the episode is also being shown as part of the BFI's Dad's Army 'Oddities and Rarities' night later in December (see blog posting Sunday 16 November)

Latest news

2008-11-16T15:14:00.007Z

Dad’s Army: Oddities and Rarities

The British Film Institute in London is joining in the 40th Anniversary Celebrations on Monday 22 December 2008 by screening a number of rarely seen pieces of footage including home movies, interviews and rumour has it, a brand new colourised version of season three’s Room at the Bottom. The evening promises to be one to remember. Tickets are under a tenner each but are selling like hot cakes – be quick to nab one at http://www.bfi.org.uk/whatson/dads_army_oddities_and_rarities_0

Podcast 29

The latest Dad’s Army podcast is now on line and available to download or listen to at www.dadsarmy.podomatic.com This episode is another live commentary, this time of season five’s The King was in his Counting House. This alternate format is developing and this time around we go through the vast amount of feedback we’ve received over the last few weeks. The commentary version of the podcast is not a permanent format – episode 30 will return to the tried and tested format and will cover all the latest Dad’s Army news and events of last few months. As always, feel free to contact me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com, comments are always welcome and are usually read out on a future podcast.

Pte. Godfrey in the papers!

2008-10-05T20:07:00.003+01:00

Ridley's war

Chris Hastings of The Telegraph has written a comprehensive article about Arnold Ridley's wartime experiences. Many aspects of Ridley's life were seemingly mirrored through Godfrey's adventures on screen in Dad's Army. Ridley was a fascinating man and lived and fought through both world wars. Take a read of Hasting's article - amongst those whom he discusses Arnold's life with is Nicholas Ridley - Arnold's son, who is planning to visit the battlefield where his father sustained a crippling bayonet wound that troubled him for the remainder of his life. It's a great article and not a little touching. Read it here.

Dad's Marches on!!

2008-09-29T19:59:00.009+01:00

New Dad's Army Stage Play tour in 2009

Following the success of the 2008/09 tour, Calibre productions have announced that four more episodes will be adapted for a new tour in 2009. Very little additional information is available at the moment - but as soon as we have it, it'll be on the blog!! Click here to see the announcement on Calibre's site, and for a short video of this year's tour.

The new episodes have yet to be chosen by Calibre - why not have your say?! Which episodes would you like to see on stage? Just click on 'comments' below this post and make your suggestion!

Eric Longworth's obituary

2008-09-24T14:01:00.003+01:00

Telegraph publish obituary for Eric Longworth

An obituary for Eric Longworth appeared in the Daily Telegraph on the 22nd September 2008 and is available to read here.

New podcast imminent (updated 18 September 2008)

2008-09-16T12:02:00.008+01:00

Episode 27

The first new episode of the Dad's Army podcast for over a month will be on-line this evening. In a last minute change to the content, Paul Carpenter and Tony Tarran take over the featured episode segment and provide inside information on Is There Honey Still For Tea?

In addition, there is my review of the recent Jonathan Ross and Comedy Connections programmes that formed part of the 40th anniversary celebrations.

You will be able to listen to the new podcast at http://www.dadsarmy.podomatic.com/, through iTunes or on our myspace page.

**UPDATED 18 SEPTEMBER 2008**

Episode 27 is now on-line. Have you not listened to it yet?!

Dad's Army Podcast round-up

2008-09-03T13:30:00.009+01:00

New podcast coming soon

Despite my earlier message about my taking a break from producing podcasts (Podcast on Hiatus on Friday 8 August), I am planning to record a new episode at some point over the next week or two. Work on our bathroom has finally finished (barring torpedoes) and my wife has just over a month to go if she delivers according to schedule - so I should have plenty of time to record a short podcast over the next few days. Once again, it is likely that James will join me (yes I know it's confusing having two James' on the show) and we'll be discussing one of the first episodes of Dad's Army I ever saw - series four's Don't Forget the Diver. Please feel free to send in your thoughts about this episode to james@dadsarmypodcast.com

Podcast tops the chart!!

Yes, thanks to all our listeners out there, the Dad's Army Podcast was number one in podOmatic's Television and Film category for twenty four hours after podcast 26 was uploaded a few weeks ago. This really is a milestone for the podcast and I would like to thank everyone who has supported the podcast by listening to the show, and especially to those who get involved in sending in feedback and MP3s to us. The increase in listeners is probably due in part to the coverage Dad's Army attracted over it's 40th anniversary - but whatever the reason, it's great to see the numbers increase significantly. Thank you!

Series one poll results

The podcast's poll for your favourite episode from series has now closed - and the very first episode, The Man and The Hour has come top of your list with 31% of the vote. The Showing up of Corporal Jones was second, attracting 23% of your vote. Watch out for the next poll coming soon - which will ask you to vote for your favourite episode from series two.

Comedy Connections

2008-08-29T11:02:00.007+01:00

New Dad's Army documentary to be screened this evening

The BBC series, 'Comedy Connections' finally concentrates on Dad's Army, and will be screened on BBC1 tonight (Friday 29 August 2008) at 10.30pm. The programme is being repeated tomorrow evening (Saturday 30 August 2008) at 11:10pm on BBC2 and last for forty minues. The following information has been published on BBC's website;

The gentle war time comedy Dad's Army has charmed millions of viewers since its first transmission forty years ago, becoming one of the most popular and best-loved series of all time. Set in wartime Britain, its cast featured many veterans of stage and screen including Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, Arnold Ridley and John Laurie. The series created a template for future ensemble sitcoms, and established one of British TV's most successful writing partnerships - Jimmy Perry and David Croft. Neither of the writers gave the show its name: originally called Fighting Tigers, the title Dad's Army was imposed on the show by the BBC's Head of Comedy, Michael Mills. With contributions from writers David Croft and Jimmy Perry, and actors Clive Dunn, Ian Lavender, Frank Williams, Bill Pertwee, Wendy Richard and Pamela Cundell.

Make sure you set your video!! Feel free to send in your comments to us about the programme to james@dadsarmypodcast.com and they'll be read out on a future podcast.

Anchor not sunk yet

2008-08-26T17:35:00.004+01:00

Dad's Army hotel could be saved

The Anchor Hotel used by many of the cast during location filming has been derelict and due for renovation for some time now. Several fires have been attended by the fire brigade and the boarded up hotel has been a trouble spot for over the last few years.

Well, now it appears that the seemingly inevitable fate of demolition might yet be averted. The Eastern Daily Press published the following article on their website on the 8th August 2008. The report alleges that Breckland Councillors have now decided to enter negotiations to acquire the town centre site.

Nothing further has emerged since the publication of the article, but it would be fantastic to think that this site could still be owned by a Council who has a vested interest in keeping the legacy of Dad's Army a prominent part of Thetford's future.

We'll keep you posted!

With thanks to Ian Sherwood.

Eric Longworth 1918 to 2008

2008-08-21T17:30:00.006+01:00

Eric Longworth, who played Walmington-on-Sea's Town Clerk, passed away peacefully on Monday 18 August 2008. Eric recently celebrated his 90th birthday in July.

Eric was a stoic ambassador of Dad's Army, and his line in The Godiva Affair has become legendary throughout fandom - I wonder if another actor could make his character synonymous with the word 'fleshings' quite as fantastically as Eric did.

The actor frequently attended Dad's Army events, and I, along with many other members of the Dad's Army Appreciation Society, were lucky enough to see and speak to him at the programme's 40th Anniversary event held at the Imperial War Museum in London this year. Little did we know that we wouldn't see him again.

The Dad's Army Appreciation Society published the following about Eric's life and and career on their website;

Eric had decided from an early age to become an actor, but had his hopes dashed when his father died and Eric had to help support the family. He was 17 at the time. Up to his call up in 1939, which included a spell in Bombay, he had joined the Crompton Stage Society, a local amateur company, playing character parts to stall his ambitions. After demob, he decided to go professional, joining the Oldham Rep, staying with them for 11 years. A break in acting occurred when he decided to work as a theatre manager between 1951 & 1957. His first TV appearance was in 1963, and was usually cast as civil servants or retired colonels. Eric appeared in a 1972 episode of 'Lollipop' written by Jimmy Perry, which could have lead to him being chosen for the part of the Town Clerk. During the Dad's Army Stage Show, Eric understudied (but, as he states, was thankfully never used for) Arthur Lowe. he has made a few films, and latterly did the occasional voice over.

Eric will be sadly missed, and all of us at the podcast send Eric's family and friends our condonances. Rest in peace Eric and in the knowledge that your portrayal of Claude Gordon will continue to make countless viewers laugh for many years to come.

Podcast on hiatus!

2008-08-08T12:35:00.011+01:00

We'll be back......

This note is to let you know that I will be taking a break from the Dad's Army podcast for the next couple of months. There are two reasons for this; 1) and of course, most importantly, I am about to become father for the first time at some point during the next six weeks and 2) we have builders from hell in refurbishing our bathroom. I sincerely hope that point number 2 is fully delivered before point no 1!!

Never fear though, the podcast will be back - I am just not sure when at this stage. Keep subscribed to the feed though - we may have the odd one two pre-recorded files ready during the hiatus.

Thanks again to you all for your support - keep the feedback coming in and we will catch up on it all when the podcast returns.

In the meantime, the following is a video I found on YouTube that made me smile....and I will update thw blog every now and again.

Warmest regards,

James

Jonathan Ross Special airs

2008-08-03T21:52:00.009+01:00

Dad's Army tribute airs on BBC1

Tonight saw the broadcast of the celebratory programme recorded to mark the 40th anniversary of Dad's Army. Jonathan Ross was joined by Ian Lavender, Bill Pertwee, Frank Williams, Pamela Cundell, Jimmy Perry and David Croft in a one-off special looking back on the programme, its origins and examined the careers of the actors involved. Ross was also joined by 'celebrity' fans Ronnie Corbett, Jon Culshaw and John Thompson.

Ross presented in his usual, laid back demeanor, but the most notable thing for me was how this programme was edited. At complete odds with the original audience of Dad's Army, this programme was made in the era of disposable television. This was clearly demonstrated by Ross spending longer talking to the celebrity guests than the cast and writers themselves. Now to a degree I understand that it is important to have current stars feature to maintain the interest of the casual viewer, but it was criminal the way Jimmy and David were limited to just five minutes between them. Both Frank Williams and Bill Pertwee were hardly given any airtime at all.

Lastly there was the tribute to those cast members no longer with us - which was poignant, if fleeting. However the way John Le Mesurier was hardly mentioned was generous given that you could be forgiven for not realising that James Beck actually starred in the programme. I am not sure that Beck's name was actually mentioned by Ross even once.

Disappointing for me, but at least they didn't carry out the threat to include the audience singing the theme tune.

Despite my gripes, it was fantastic to see the cast as they are today on prime time (ish) telly once again - and it was fantastic to see Ian, Pam and Jimmy clearly loving being in the limelight once again. The set used was fantastic - it's a shame to think that we may never see it again. If only they could sell that one to Bressingham.....

Here's to the next 40 years.

BBC Celebrates Dad's Army 40th Anniversary (Updated 2nd August 2008)

2008-07-31T08:21:00.018+01:00

Never Too Old...unseen documents and pictures from the BBC's archives

The Press Office at the BBC have issued a release concerning a wealth of Dad's Army archive material to mark Dad's Army's 40th Anniversary. You can read the statement by clicking here, but the text of the release is below.

The BBC Archive remembers Dad's Army by releasing many never-before-seen documents and pictures which tell the story behind one of the UK's most-loved comedy series.

On 31 July 1968, TV viewers met a group of elderly soldiers and a "stupid boy" for the very first time.

Dad's Army became an instant classic with its gentle humour, nostalgia and pride in the men who gave their all for Britain, despite their limited means.

This new collection contains many items not available to the public until now, including candid post-war letters from the actors as they began their careers and internal BBC memos that show just how popular the series was right from the start.

A photo gallery also looks at the stars of the show from the first episode to the last, as well as taking a peek behind the scenes.

Discover why the famous title sequence generated heated debate
Read the press release which announced the very first episode
Find out what top BBC managers really thought of the series

The Dad's Army collection is part of the archive content the BBC will be making available to UK audiences this year.

With thanks to Katie Ball.

Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August 2008

Dad's Army is being celebrated in style this weekend on the BBC giving fans absolutely no reason to go out! Never mind the hot weather, Dad's is back on the telly! All the following times are British Summertime (BST) and are based on the listings published in the Radio Times.

The running order is:

Saturday 2nd August

BBC2

17:00 to 18:30 Dad's Army (the movie)

20:00 to 20:35 Jimmy Perry's favourite episode (the episode title is not listed but I guess will probably be Branded)

20:35 to 21:30 Don't Panic! The Dad's Army Story (An old documentary presented by Victoria Wood gets another airing.)

21:30 to 20:10 David Croft's favourite episode (again, the title is not listed - however David Croft told me in a recent interview that his favourite was Mum's Army)

20:10 to 11:00 Reputations: Arthur Lowe (A documentary about Arthur Lowe - again, another repeat)

Sunday 3rd August

BBC1

19:00 to 20:00 Jonathan Ross Salutes Dad's Army (the only new BBC material to celebrate the anniversary.

We will be discussing the Jonathan Ross programme on a future podcast, so if you would like us to discuss your views, then please e-mail them to us at james@dadsarmypodcast.com - MP3 recordings preferred but text e-mails are of course also very welcome.

Dad's Army 40th Special recorded at the BBC (updated 23 July 2008)

2008-07-22T13:00:00.018+01:00

Cast and crew re-united for special celebratory programme

The BBC recorded a special programme to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Dad's Army on Thursday 17 July at their studios in White City, London. The programme was hosted by Jonathan Ross. The stars and crew were re-united and many fans were present at the recording. Unfortunately I could not attend, but this report from blog-reader Esther Layton reviews the recording. Feel free to comment on Esther's article by clicking on 'comments' at the foot of this post, or head on over to the Perry and Croft forum (registration is required) where you can discuss the recording with Esther and many other fans who attended last Thursday. A broadcast date has yet to be confirmed by the BBC despite many different dates being quoted on various on-line news sites.

Wow! What can I say? We had a marvellous time - it was really great to see all the surviving cast members under one roof. They all had plenty of stories to tell about the programme, the actors and the relationships between them as friends and colleagues. Of course, the brilliant writers took centre stage! There were several special guests as well, celebrity fans of the show. The audience sang the theme tune and it will be shown during the evening, so all of our ugly mugs will be on screen! Plenty of archive clips, interspersed with details about the war and the history of the Home Guard. Jonathan Ross was a wonderful host (as he always is). His keen interest and natural exuberance shone through and everyone involved made it a fantastic, fun (and FREE!) evening. I went with my Mum and two friends. We all agreed - a lovely experience.The BBC hasn't set a broadcast date yet - so we'll have to watch this space! (see update below - ed).

I hate to say it, but I do have one criticism of the evening. James Beck was included in a montage of clips dedicated to the actors who have died, but, unlike the other deceased performers, nothing was mentioned of him during the programme itself. I thought that was not good.

Many thanks to Esther for the review.

The Sun reported the story here, once again in extra big font.

Feel free to send in your own thoughts about the event to james@dadsarmypodcast.com

**UPDATE**

This programme, entitled Jonathan Ross Salutes Dad's Army will be broadcast on Sunday 3 August 2008 on BBC1. Transmission time will be either at 18:00 hours or 20:30 hours, BST. That's six o clock or half past eight for those Captain Mainwarings of you out there!

Source: The Dad's Army Appreciation Society

Dad's in the News

2008-07-13T20:52:00.013+01:00

Dad Ringers

Jon Culshaw has been seen in Thetford recording some links for the BBC' s special programme, Jonathan Ross Salutes Dad's Army. The Bury Free Press reported the story along with a picture of Culshaw last week. The article claims the broadcast date is 1st August 2008. Read the full story here.

40th Anniversary press coverage round-up

As previously reported (see the Dad's 40th post on 10th July), Dad's Army celebrated it's 40th anniversary in London last week. The event attracted massive press interest, and many news companies and papers were quick to pick on the story. Virgin Media have a video of Ian Lavender and Clive Dunn being interviewed at the Imperial War Museum here.

Links to other articles are available below. Most centre on Ian Lavender's comments about today's television, but others contain quotes from other cast members.

The Mirror's coverage is available here, the Telegraph's, here. The Sunday Express reports the story here. Even OK Magazine and Hello! have picked up on the story and have photos of the event on their pages. ITN also briefly mentions the reunion.

Many other on-line news sites report the story, but are more or less just repetitions of each other.

It's great to see Dad's Army feature so prominently in the news again!

Dad's 40th (updated 11th July 2008)

2008-07-10T16:28:00.020+01:00

40th Anniversary of Dad's Army celebrated

Yesterday (9th July 2008) saw a number of Dad's Army stars and fans celebrate the anniversary of programme at the Imperial War Museum in London. The first episode, The Man and the Hour was originally transmitted on 31st July 1968, and the Dad's Army Appreciation Society, together with the Imperial War Museum organised an celebration to remember. The event attracted significant interest from the press, and the story appeared in many of today's national dailies. The Sun's story is available on line here and focusses on some of Ian Lavender's comments - the sentiments of which he echoed when I interviewed him for the podcast. The BBC were also there, filming interviews with the cast and production crew.

In attendance were Jimmy Perry, David Croft, Clive Dunn, Ian Lavender, Bill Pertwee, Frank Williams, Pamela Cundell, Eric Longworth, Harold Snoad, Mary Husband, Jefferey Holland, Ronnie Grange and Joan Le Mesurier. We were also joined by the former forces sweetheart, Dame Vera Lynn.

Tony and I from the podcast were there too with our trusty MP3 recorders, and we managed to speak to many of the stars. Look out for podcast 25 where you will get to hear the speeches made by the stars, and my interviews with them - including one with none-other than Dame Vera Lynn! I never thought I would be chatting to the person who sung the immortal words we'll meet again, don't know where, don't know when about Dad's Army!!

Pictures of the event will be on the blog over the next few days. If you attended then event then please feel free to send in your photos and stories about the day to me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com - it would be great to hear from you. I'm off now to find Dame Vera's back-catalogue on iTunes....

**updated 11 July 2008**

The BBC also reported the story on-line here.

New Dad's Army Podcast on-line

2008-07-07T13:41:00.005+01:00

Episode 24

Episode 24 of the Dad’s Army Podcast is now on-line and available to listen to or download over at the main podcast page.

This week we catch up on the latest Dad’s Army news, talk about It Sticks Our Half a Mile - the 1980’s Dad’s Army spin-off currently airing on BBC7, and have a rummage through the mailbag and read some e-mails that you have sent us. We also welcome Clare back to the podcast – she joins me to discuss the series four episode, The Two and Half Feathers.

As always, we’d love to hear from you – send your e-mails to james@dadsarmypodcast.com. The link to the BBC7 listen again site is available here.

Enjoy the podcast.

James

The Victorious Vicar!

2008-07-02T14:18:00.009+01:00

Timothy Farthing tops the poll

The Reverend Timothy Farthing (played by Frank Williams) has topped June’s poll which asked readers of the blog to vote for their favourite non-regular character. Fifty three of you cast your vote, and the Vicar topped the table with 28%. Second was Maurice Yateman – better known as the Verger with 18% whilst Claude Gordon, the Town Clerk, brings up the rear with just one vote. In all fairness, some non-regular characters featured considerably more than others, and the only real surprise to me is Hodges coming third with roughly half the votes that were polled for the Vicar. The full results will remain on-line for a few weeks over in the poll section.

July’s poll is now on-line (just to the right of your screen) and asks readers for their favourite episode from series one. The episodes in this series are rarely discussed by Dad’s Army fans, and some claim that series 1 and 2 are the weakest of the entire nine seasons. It will be interesting to see whether or not this poll attracts as many votes as the more general polls.

Remember you can still vote for your favourite regular character – can anyone overtake Walker?!

It Sticks Out....on BBC7

2008-06-25T12:37:00.011+01:00

Dad's Army sequal broadcasting on BBC7

It Sticks Out Half a Mile, the early 80s Dad’s Army radio-only sequel, is being broacast on the BBC digital radio station, BBC7. All 13 episodes are being aired, seemingly on Tuesdays at 17:30 BST, although this timeslot is not confirmed as being the same every week.

The first episode was broadcast on Tuesday 24th June 2008 - but don't panic, the episodes are available on BBC7's 'Listen Again' service for six days after broadcast. You can hear the latest show by clicking here at any point during the show's run.

It Sticks Out stars Bill Pertwee, John le Mesurier and Ian Lavender reprising their roles of Wilson, Pike and Hodges, intent on restoring the dilapidated Frambourne Pier. More information about the individual episodes are available on the Dad's Army Appreciation Society's website by clicking here.

New Dad's Army Podcast now on-line

2008-06-19T14:05:00.008+01:00

Episode 23

Episode 23 of the podcast is now on-line and available to listen to or download from our main site.

This week James and Tony discuss Croft and Perry Day 2008, interview the delightful Pamela Cundell who played Mrs Fox in the series and talk about the BBC’s plans to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the show. Our featured episode this week is series four’s The Test.

The sound quality is not so good in this podcast I'm afraid - mainly because I am in the middle of decorating my office at home - it's floor-boarded and therefore very echoey. I also forgot to covert our conversation about the 40th anniversary show into stereo. Hope this doesn't spoil your enjoyment too much.

I am still experiencing problems with the upgrade of the podcast player - when listening to the show the sound occassionally drops a few seconds or sometimes just stops playing altogether. In addition, the last 30 seconds or so do not play. The best way to get around this is to listen to the show on iTunes (or another podcatcher) where these problems do not occur. Hopefully podomatic will sort this rather irritating problem soon.

We’ll be back with podcast 24 in three weeks or so when we’ll be discussing The Two and Half Feathers – feel free to let us have your comments on this episode and we’ll include them in the show. Enjoy the podcast.

TTFN,

James

Green light for Dad's Army adverts!

2008-06-14T14:06:00.002+01:00

Dad's Army Green Cross Code adverts on YouTube

No, not new ones, but two adverts filmed when Dad's Army was being broadcast in the '70s are now on YouTube. Both films were included as extras on the Christmas Special BBC DVD released last year, but are now available to everyone on-line.

With thanks to Ian Sherwood

Croft and Perry Day 2008 - pictures

2008-06-10T13:22:00.010+01:00

Bressingham Steam Museum - Sunday 11th May 2008

I have added some photographs taken by Tony at this year's Bressingham event. You can see the mini-slideshow on the right hand side of this blog - click on the slideshow to be taken to the public album hosted on the Picasa site. Captions are there too but only viewable on the Picasa site. I have also uploded some additional shots to the locations tour album.

Feel free to duplicate any of the photos or use them on your own website or download if you wish - but if you reproduce them on-line or in a publication, I would be grateful if you credit the podcast.

All Bressingham 2008 and Locations Tour photos taken by the Dad's Army podcast. Ian Lavender (Pte. Frank Pike) is pictured above.

Dad's Army Podcast round-up

2008-06-09T13:12:00.012+01:00

Favourite Character Poll re-opened

Due to popular demand, I have re-opened the Favourite Character poll last week. As regular blog-readers will know, the original six-week survey attracted 85 votes and put Walker fairly and squarely in first place. I was then inundated with e-mails (well, I received five) from readers expressing their disappointment that they did not get an opportunity to vote. So, the poll will now stay open for the foreseeable future - it will be interesting to see how the results develop over the next few months.

Podcast 23

Episode 23 of the Dad's Army podcast is scheduled for release on the 21st June 2008. The break between 22 and 23 has been longer than usual - mainly due to boring tasks that I just haven't been able to put off any longer - the main one was to redecorate my office. You will be pleased to know that unlike Mainwaring, I do not have a paper door. Anyway, Episode 23 sees the return of Tony to the podcast when we will be discussing The Test. If you have any comments on this episode you would like us to discuss then please e-mail them to me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com by Friday 13th June 2008 - MP3 recordings would be even better. We also discuss Bressingham 2008 and Tony interviews Mrs Fox - yes, Mrs Fox is coming to the podcast! I am actually quite scared.... You can hear a brief preview of Pamela's interview right now by heading over to the main podcast page.

Comments on individual podcast episodes

There have been problems for listeners when leaving comments over on the main podcast page (see the 'Special Announcement' blog posting of 28th May 2008) which have now, I am reliably informed, been rectified. All previous comments that mysteriously disappeared have now returned! So please get scribbling and leave your comments by clicking 'Leave a comment' or 'comments' under the play button for each episode.

Broadcast to the Empire - with Jonathan Ross...

2008-06-02T13:06:00.010+01:00

40th Anniversary Special green-lighted

The BBC have annouced that there will be a one-hour special programme broadcast later this year to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Dad's Army. The programme will be called Jonathan Ross Salutes Dad's Army and it is therefore no surprise to learn that the show will be fronted by Jonathan Ross. Ross is said to be a big fan of the show and often references Dads Army in his Radio 2 show. You can read the BBC's official annoucement here.

The show is being recorded in London on 17th July and you have the opportunity to apply for tickets by clicking here and then selecting 'Current Shows'.

With thanks to the Dad's Army Appreciation Society

New Dad's Army podcast on-line

2008-06-01T17:26:00.009+01:00

Episode 22

Episode 22 of the Dad's Army podcast is now on-line and available to download from http://www.dadsarmy.podomatic.com/

This week sees the second and final of the Croft and Perry Weekend Specials and features speeches made by Pamela Cundell, Harold Snoad, Michael Knowles, Jimmy Perry and David Croft at the Dad’s Army Appreciation Society’s annual members meal.

The cover-art this week is of David and Ann Croft at the event – with me at the same table! If you like the sound of the event and would like to attend in future years, then you will need to join the Appreciation Society to be in with a chance of getting a ticket. Joining is ludicrously cheap – take a look at www.dadsarmy.co.uk for details.

We’ll be back in two or three weeks time with a ‘regular’ episode of the podcast and Tony and I will be discussing ‘The Test’. Feel free to send us your comments on this episode and we’ll read out your e-mails, or play your MP3s during the show. Contact us at james@dadsarmypodcast.com

This is Your Life

2008-05-30T12:22:00.001+01:00

Arnold Ridley

A superb short video of Arnold Ridley on This is Your Life has been posted on YouTube. The clip is approximately eight minutes long and features all the regular Dad's Army cast. You can view the video by clicking on the video below.

Special Announcement

2008-05-28T21:55:00.004+01:00

Dad's Army Podcast site 'upgrades'

Hello everyone.

Just a quick message for those of you who are wondering what's happened to the main podcast site ! Well, I'll try to explain.

PodOmatic, the company who hosts this podcast in cyber world, ‘upgraded’ their site last weekend. Now there may be very few noticeable differences to listeners, but there are a whole host of changes been made in the way podcast hosts maintain their pages. ‘Glitches’ podOmatic all them – I call them something altogether more rude!!

Anyway, the two main differences you’ll notice are;

1) All your past comments have disappeared. I have however, been informed that this is purely temporary. In fact, I can still see them when I log into the site to update it. I just can’t publish them – neither can listeners leave new comments for the time being.

2) The podcast player that opens when you hit ‘Play’ has changed. It looks flashier, but unfortunately misses the first few seconds off from each episode. Similarly, some episodes drop off half way through. These problems I am also assured are temporary. In the meantime, the best way to listen to the podcasts maybe through iTunes or Myspace.

Now I have already uploaded Episode 22 to the podOmatic server and it is still due to be made available to listen to this weekend however - I have described just two of the changes you’ll see – there are hundreds of changes for me in the way I publish episodes! So if I have difficulty, please bear with me. Episode 22 is a cracker so I hope any problems you experience will be worth it.

If these problems do not rectify themselves, then I will look for an alternative host – so thank you for you patience. Hopefully things will be back to the ‘smooth, well-oiled machine’ you are used to very soon.

Special Edition of the Dad's Army Podcast now online

2008-05-19T13:09:00.009+01:00

Frank Williams and Harold Snoad join DAAS members on locations tour

As mentioned in my last posting (Location, Location, Location...) we at the podcast were lucky enough to attend a guided tour of locations used whilst filming Dad's Army all those years ago.

Accompanied by my trusty MP3 recorder, I managed to speak to Frank and Harold as they recounted their memories of filming. The Dad's Army Appreciation Society were also on hand and jammed-packed full of Dad's Army trivia which the attendees lapped up.

Click on the cover-art above to be redirected to Episode 21 of the Dad's Army podcast. Please feel free to let me know what you think of this podcast, especially as it's the first massive departure from our regular format - my e-mail address is james@dadsarmypodcast.com Feedback is always welcome, be it positive or negative. Alternatively, you can leave your comments on this blog by clicking on the 'comments' tag at the foot of each posting.

In a fortnight's time, Episode 22 will be on-line and will feature the speeches and interviews made at the DAAS members meal. It will be the most star-laden podcast yet and will include discussions with David Croft, Jimmy Perry, Michael Knowles, Pamela Cundell, Harold Snoad - and a University Professor who lectures in Dad's Army!!

Location, Location, Location....

2008-05-16T12:22:00.010+01:00

Tour of Dad's Army film locations

On Saturday 10th May 2008, the Dad's Army Appreciation Society (DAAS) organised a tour of locations in and around Thetford that were used in the series . A old red routemaster collected a group of DAAS members and their guests at around 11:00am. We were accompanied by Frank Williams (the Vicar) who was able to entertain us with stories about the cast and crew whilst filming was taking place, and by Harold Snoad who was responsible for suggesting Thetford be used for external shooting all those years ago. Harold was also responsible for finding suitable locations for non-studio bound scenes in series 1 to 4 - unfortunately we only visited one location used during Harold's time on the programme and that was Brandon station, used in The Big Parade.

Other locations visited included;

Elvedon Hall (the tower is pictured above and in the final scenes of Battle of the Giants)

The field where Mainwaring is chased by a dog with a grenade in his mouth in Fallen Idol

The bridge where the fire engine used in Brain vs Brawn was stopped by the Army

The green where the pageant was held in Knights of Madness

The church used for the external Church scenes in Ring Dem Bells and The Captain's Car

The Anchor Hotel which featured in The Man and the Hour and was used as cast and crew accommodation

Both Tony and I from the Dad's Army podcast were invited to come along and we managed to secure a number of recordings with the event organisers and Frank and Harold. You will be able to hear those interviews on episode 21 of the podcast due for release over the next few days.

Pictures taken on the tour were few in number as I was so busy making recordings, but click on the slideshow to your right to see the photos we did manage to take. If you were with us on the tour and took some pictures and would like to see them on this page, then please e-mail them to me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com - we will credit all photographs we recieve.

All slideshow photos taken by James at the Dad's Army Podcast

Writing duo receive BAFTA

2008-05-14T10:08:00.005+01:00

Croft and Perry receive special award

Prolific sit-com writers David Croft and Jimmy Perry have received a special award from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). The award was made on Sunday 11th May - the same day as the Croft and Perry Day at Bressingham Steam museum. Dad's Army received a BAFTA in 1971 for best comedy and this new award will be seen by some as very overdue. You can read the official BAFTA statement on their website - there is also a video of about 8 minutes showcasing pieces of their work intercut with interviews of Ian Lavender, Su Pollard and Ruth Madoc.

I was lucky enough to be sitting at the same table as David Croft at the annual Dad's Army Appreciation Society dinner the night before the award was announced, and I recorded a brief interview with him.* Unfortunately I was unaware that the award was being made the following day so did not speak to him about it at all!

Congratulations to both Jimmy and David - I am sure their work will be enjoyed by many for generations to come.

* This interview will feature on a future Dad's Army podcast due for release very soon

Bressingham is coming.......

2008-05-05T16:34:00.017+01:00

Croft and Perry Day, Sunday 11th May 2008

The year's highest-profile Dad's Army event is taking place at Bressingham Steam Museum next Sunday.

This year will be particularly special as it's the programme's 40th anniversary. Guests invited include Jimmy Perry, David Croft, Harold Snoad, Ian Lavender, Bill Pertwee, Pamela Cundell, Eric Longworth, Michael Knowles and John Clegg. There will a whole host of other stars there too from many other Perry and Croft programmes.

I have included few pictures of previous Bressingham events in this posting - my usual podcast co-presenter Tony is pictured with Jones' van. There is also a picture of a house in Nether Row - the road was used in many episodes taken in Thetford town centre.

If you are planning on coming to Bressingham then please come up and say hello - if we're not roaming the museum looking for interviews then we'll be in or aound the DAAS tent.

There is special mini-podcast previewing the event with Tony Pritchard, one of the day's organisers available on the main podcast page. This brief podcast gives you a little bit of history about the event and offers an insight into how much planning goes into putting on a really spectacular day.

For more information about the event, hop over to either the Dad's Army Appreciation Society's page, or the Bressingham Steam Museum site.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Walker first past the post

2008-05-01T21:55:00.006+01:00

Walker takes over a third of your votes in popularity contest

Joe Walker, played by James Beck (pictured), has been voted the most favourite of the regular Dad's Army characters by readers of the blog. Eighty-five votes were cast and 39% of you said Walker was your favourite member of the platoon. Pike and Godfrey attracted just 2% of your votes each. You can see all the results in the poll section to your right.

Thanks to everyone who took part in the poll. Make sure you cast your vote in May's poll for the most popular non-regular character.

New Dad's Army Podcast on-line

2008-04-28T15:11:00.006+01:00

Episode 19

Episode 19 of the Dad's Army podcast is now available to listen to or download from the main Dad's Army Podcast page.

Lots of news this week about the programmes 40th anniversary and the events that are being held to celebrate the milestone. There's the Appreciation Society' Croft and Perry Day at Bressingham Steam Museum on the 11th May, and Thetford Council are planning an whole weekend of celebration. We talk about what in store for those who pay Thetford a visit on either the 26th or the 27th July. Check out www.dadsarmy.co.uk or www.explorethetford.co.uk for more info on both events.

Paul Carpenter of the Dad’s Army Appreciation Society joins us once again, this time to discuss the season five story, Time on my Hands.

We will be back at the weekend (3rd or 4th May) with a special podcast previewing the Bressingham event. As always, please send your feedback to james@dadsarmypodcast.com

Does Dad's Army influence your life?!

2008-04-25T16:31:00.008+01:00

Letter to the Hotspur

“Television is an escapist activity, hardly based on the real world. Even the so called ‘reality shows’ select the most bizarre and unusual elements of reality and parades it in front of millions under the banner of light entertainment.”

I don’t think there’s much of an argument against the above statement. The key question in my mind is “does it matter?” Well, I think it very much depends on how seriously people take what they see on television.

There is that very old cyclical debate whether or not television mirrors society or if society influences what we see on television. There are strong arguments that support both sides and I suppose it's obvious that an individual’s view depends on where it is they are looking from. For instance, a successful television producer who delivers a graphically violent drama may claim that they are representing a small element of society and may even believe themselves to be quite virtuous in enlightening the rest of the population how this small minority live. Of course, they claim, their work cannot possibly influence their intelligent viewers and make them more inclined to accept violence as normal facet of life. The teenage viewer however may take a different view when in court attempting to explain why someone else is to blame for stabbing his latest victim.

So what’s my point here?! Why is this strange paragraph on a Dad’s Army blog?! Well, I was wondering who’d be the first to ask that, and I will try to explain. You see, I do believe television affects the actions of both children and adults.

Dad’s Army is a gentle, life affirming programme – we’ve all heard it described as such on several occasions. There was a time when I was a teenager when all I used to watch on television was Dad’s Army. I used to see at least one episode each day, and I listened to an episode of the radio play every night when I went to bed. I was always fast asleep long before Pike got his head stuck in the park gates. Not long after I discovered the world of Walmington-on-Sea, pretty much most of my humour became an unfunny version of Perry and Croft’s scripts. Every time I could offer the rebuttal “stupid boy”, I did. Every time I missed something obvious, “I wondered who’d be the first to spot that”. Whenever someone picked a classmate to play on their football team who I thought was a bad choice, I asked the captain “do you think that’s wise?” I began asking “if I could be excused” when I needed the loo. I started scratching my left ear whenever I wanted to labour a point, I shouted “Death!! Death!!! The Ruby will bring you Death!!” whenever a girl or female relative showed off a new item of jewellery and most of all, I strongly encouraged my friends (yes I did have them) that whatever they did, they should not panic. Along with getting electrisified, contracting verdegis and getting croup, my teenage years were somewhat dominated by – yes, what I’d seen on the telly.

Now imagine I had taken that to the ‘n’th degree (some of you will think I probably did) – would I have attempted to decapitate someone by using a cheese-slicer? Would I have use a chair in unarmed combat?! Would I have chucked an empty glass bottle from the top of a clock-tower? No, of course not. Violence on telly presents the point I am making in a sensationalist way – I could have used the way friendships are exaggerated out of all proportion on a show like Friends – and how it could be responsible for making people feels as though their real-life friendships are boring, eventless and unfulfilling.

In today’s society, with the boundaries between reality and fiction so blurred, and the way society is portrayed in the media I think its no wonder that that television has become so influential – and with that influence comes responsibility. Whilst television is there to entertain, society needs to remember that no matter how convincing telly is – it’s a vastly exaggerated version of life and its impact on the viewer should not completely dis-regarded.

Thanks for sticking with me if you have got this far – articles like this will be rare! Feel free to post a comment.

James Beck

2008-04-22T13:09:00.008+01:00

Visit to James Beck's Memorial Tree

Article and photo by Katie - site owner of the James Beck MySpace page

My friend and I went to St Paul's on Saturday afternoon (dodging the thundery downpours!) and after some digging around and getting rather muddy, we found Jimmy's Memorial plaque but sadly no tree.

Jimmy's plaque, which was in remarkably good condition, was on it's own in a flowerbed. The nearest tree was very large and was far too old; a smaller tree directly behind the old tree (surely not a spot you'd choose) and one other tree some distance from the plaque, which could possibly have been about the right age but had other dedicates and plaques attached to it. So it was all rather confusing!

My friend and I did manage to find someone inside the Church to ask about the Memorial Gardens. Unfortunately, this guy thought it was all rather hilarious (apparently 1973 is 'the dark ages'!!) and just kept saying that in the eyes of the Church none of the plaques exist and we could more or less choose any tree and stick the plaque in front of it!! My friend commented that it felt a bit like being in the middle of a Monty Python sketch!

Since getting home, I have contacted The Rector in the hope there maybe some Church records showing which tree is Jimmy's but I have not heard back from him yet. This is the photo I took of the plaque. While taking the photo, the sun came out for the only time in the whole day!

Many thanks to Katie for the article - feel free to e-mail in your Dad's Army stories or pictures to james@dadsarmypodcast.com

Tour Marches On

2008-04-17T17:30:00.012+01:00

Windsor Dates added to Dad's Army Stage Play Tour

Six extra dates have been added to the touring stage play. The production will now call at Windsor and play at the Theatre Royal. The tour, already into its second leg was originally intended to finish after the curtain went down on the evening performance at Malvern on the 7th June this year.

The extra date reflects how well the production is being received and means that the show will have been on the road for five months this year alone.

The new dates are Monday 9th June to Saturday 14th June 2008.

More on the future of the Stage Play very soon!

The View from Scotland

2008-04-16T12:24:00.014+01:00

The Edinburgh News reviews Stage Play

Liam Rudden of the of the Edinburgh News has written a comprehensive review of the touring play when it performed in Belfast last week. Quite why a Scottish paper sent a reporter to Belfast to see the play when the production plays at Newcastle next month is not made clear! The review however is positive, and it is good to see the show is still attracting publicity half way through the current run.

You can read the review by clicking on the Edinburgh News logo.

**Updated 17 April 2008**

Liam Rudden, the writer of this article has contacted us at the podcast after reading our original post above. Liam says in his e-mail;

"Just to answer you query, the Edinburgh Evening News didn't sent me to Belfast to review Dad's Army. I love the series and Belfast was the earliest chance on the tour I had to catch it. The piece I wrote was for my weekly column, and the point I suppose I was making locally was that such a brilliant piece of family entertainment deserves to tour north - at the moment there are no Scottish dates."

Many of our listeners north of the boarder will agree that is a pity that the stage play has not visited a theatre in Scotland on either of its runs.

Thanks to Liam for getting in touch.

New Dad's Army Podcast

2008-04-15T12:45:00.012+01:00

Episode 18 now on-line

Episode 18 of the podcast is now available to listen to on-line or to download from www.dadsarmy.podomatic.com

This fortnight James brings you a round up of the recent goings-on in the world of Dad’s Army, sifts through the Podcast’s mailbag and introduces a new voice to the show. Don’t forget to nominate your favourite Dad’s Army episode before 9th May and be in with a chance of winning the bumper prize draw. This week’s featured episode is season one’s The Enemy Within the Gates - just the fourth episode of Dad's Army to be made.

We'll be back in three weeks time with podcast 19 - when amongst other things, we'll bring you a preview of the upcoming Croft and Perry Day (being held at Bressingham Steam Museum on 11th May 2008 and organised by the Dad's Army Appreciation Society). In the meantime, please get in touch with us at james@dadsarmypodcast.com

Enjoy the podcast.

Dirty Don enrols at Oxford

2008-04-11T17:36:00.009+01:00

Dad's Army play arrives in Oxford

Katherine MacAlister of the Oxford Mail has interviewed Leslie Grantham prior to the play opening at the New Theatre next week. Grantham still manages to come up with something different each time he's interviewed about his part as Walker, and the way MacAlister writes her story makes Grantham sound almost like a normal person. You can read the article by clicking on the Oxford Mail's logo.

Purveyor of essential supplies on-line

2008-04-08T12:54:00.010+01:00

James Beck on MySpace

I recently discovered a comprehensive tribute on the MySpace 'social networking' site to James Beck and his career. The page is maintained and updated regularly and has a number of really interesting features about the actor. Katie, the site owner, chronicles Beck's career - which extends vastly beyond Dad's Army. I recommend that any James Beck fans heads on over to www.myspace.com/jamesbeck29 to take a look.

More Time on Your Hands?!

Due to a technical glitch (okay, a cock-up on my part) our discussion about Time on My Hands (see blog entry 24 March 2008) for Episode 19 of the podcast is going to be re-recorded. For this feature, I will be joined once again by Paul Carpenter of the Dad's Army Appreciation Society. Paul is a fountain of knowledge of all things Dad's Army, so if you have any questions about this episode that you would like me to put to him, please e-mail them to me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com We are due to record next Tuesday (one week from today) so please let me have your questions, or indeed any other comments you may have about this episode before the 15th. You can listen to the latest podcast by clicking on the badge below, and Podcast number 18 will be on-line some point over this coming weekend.

End of an era

2008-04-06T10:54:00.007+01:00

Never Too Old

It was my birthday a couple of weeks ago. Not that I’m feeling particularly old you understand but yesterday’s showing of Never Too Old on BBC2 evoked a rather surprising emotion. I felt as if I was experiencing the end of an era. Silly you may think, given that this episode went out originally in 1977 and I have seen it more times than I can remember on VHS and DVD – but perhaps the knowledge that I was just one of many thousands of viewers watching it at the same time had a strange effect on me. Television usually feels such an intimate, personal pastime and it’s generally only when there are major world events reported that it feels as if you are part of an international community of viewers. However, rightly or wrongly, Never Too Old stirred up those very feelings in me. How many other viewers raised a glass with Mainwaring to Britain’s Home guard – and indeed the relatively small group of writers and actors who helped immortalise the volunteer force? I unashamedly, was one.

The fact that the cast and crew knew that this would be the last episode had something to do with the strange, epoch-ending feeling the episode has – along with the fact that every bit-member of the cast were included. It’s also very sad that Jimmy Beck was not around to witness the end of the series and see the institution that Dad’s Army became – and still is, many years after the final programme was broadcast. After watching this episode, go back if you can to the pre-credits sequence of very first episode- The Man and The Hour. This is set after the war is over and low and behold, Walker is there – minus moustache. Perhaps Walker was just away in Never Too Old – and returned to Walmington on Sea after this episode was set. It’s a grand thought isn't it?

So the programme ends forever – no more new Dad’s Army episodes were made after Never Too Old, and what finer way would there have been to end the series. I defy anyone with an affection for this programme to turn off the television after the credits have rolled for the final time with a dry eye.

Dad's Army features in top 25 'Classic Put Downs'

2008-03-31T12:52:00.013+01:00

You Stupid Boy!

The classic put-down 'You Stupid Boy' has been included in a list of classic television put-down lines prepared by the Radio Times. This story was reported at the end of last month in a number of media publications - the Daily Telegraph published an article on the 27th February and included David Croft's comments on the development of comedy on TV over the years. The article is available here or by clicking on the Telegraph's logo above.

Sky News also reported the story on 26th February but in less detail. Read the article by clicking here or on the Sky News logo. This article also features link to a video interview with Leslie Grantham when he was promoting the stage play last September.

"You stupid boy" only came in at number 25 on the list - although practically every news agency that reported the story led with the 'Stupid Boy' quotation, or included a prominent picture from Dad's Army in their article!

New Dad's Army podcast on-line

2008-03-29T11:52:00.011Z

Episode 17

Episode 17 of the Dad's Army podcast is now on-line and available to listen to at www.dadsarmy.podomatic.com

This fortnight sees the much delayed discussion of the season 3 classic, Branded. In addition, Tony reviews the stage play after seeing it twice the week the production was in Poole! We also have an update from the Dad's Army Appreciation Society on the Perry and Croft day being held at Bressingham steam museum in May this year. All this and the regular news and feedback features.

Please get in touch with us and let us know what you think of the podcast or anything else Dad's Army related at james@dadsarmypodcast.com

Coventry Coverage

2008-03-26T13:09:00.005Z

BBC Midland Today interview

The BBC Midland Today programme reported on the stage play whilst the production was at Belgrade Theatre in Coventry last week. Timothy Kightley (Mainwaring), Leslie Grantham (Walker) and Ed O'Driscoll (Producer) all featured and were interviewed in uniform, on the stage at the Theatre. There are also a few seconds coverage of one of the lost episodes, A Stripe for Frazer where Kern Falconer (Frazer) and Tom Richardson (Pike) are caught on film.

The video is available to view on-line by clicking here.

Time on Your Hands?

2008-03-24T18:17:00.011Z

Your Comments Welcome

We are recording comments on the final episode of series five, 'Time on My Hands' this coming Wednesday evening (26th March) and would very much welcome your views. The discussion will appear on a future podcast (probably Episode 19 or 20) and it would be great to be able to incorporate fans views of the story.

It's notable for a number of reasons - the prolonged scene at the top of the Town Hall, Mr Blewitt (played by Harold Bennet and pictured above) reeling off a number of high quality German products and we see the platoon coming face to face with the Luftwaffe. Well, one of them anyway.

Please send us your comments at james@dadsarmypodcast.com

Leslie Grantham sent to Coventry

2008-03-22T16:52:00.007Z

Private Walker interviewed

Leslie Grantham has given an interview to BBC Coventry and Warwickshire as part of the publicity surrounding the play as it arrived in Coventry last week. The Beeb have published a text interview available here or by clicking the image of Leslie and interviewer Bob Brolly to your left. You can also hear a five minute audio interview with Grantham by clicking here.

Dad's Army Hotel Blaze

2008-03-20T13:34:00.002Z

The Anchor Hotel catches fire

One of the hotels used by the cast whilst location filming caught fire last night. Firefighters were called to The Anchor Hotel in Thetford shortly before 6.00pm yesterday evening and EDP reported the story at 9.15pm. The hotel has been boarded up and disused for the last couple of years, but EDP reports two people being rescued by emergency services. No reason has been given for the cause of the fire. You can read the story written by Jon Welch by clicking on the image to your left.

**Updated 21st March**

EDP have updated their story - arson has now been ruled out as a cause. Those rescued from the fire are believed to have lit a fire to keep themselves warm. Fortunately they were not seriously injured. You can read the update by clicking on the EDP logo to your right.

With thanks to Ian Sherwood.

The Stage on the stage...play!

2008-03-17T22:20:00.000Z

Dads Army features in 'The Stage'

The popular Theatre Magazine 'The Stage' has reviewed the touring stage play. The article is written by Graham Williams who saw the show when it performed at Hackney. It's the only review I have come across so far that discusses Timothy Kightley's portrayal of Mainwaring. You can read the review by clicking on the image to your left.

Make your Mark...

2008-03-14T09:39:00.000Z

Branded comments wanted

Episode 17 of the Dad's Army Podcast is due for download on the 29th March - and our featured discussion will be about the highly acclaimed series three episode, Branded. This is 'The one where Godfrey is a coward and a hero' as Friends followers might say. The episode has a unusual number of dramatic rather than comedic moments and the actors get to portray traits of their characters that are rarely seen. Not to mention Frazer getting a splinter in his nose.

We would love to know what you think about Branded so we can share your thoughts with other fans by reading out comments on the podcast. Please e-mail what you think of the episode to us at james@dadsarmypodcast.com Thanks you to those who have already e-mailed us about other episodes or anything else Dad's Army.

You can listen to the podcast directly from our main website by clicking here, on iTunes or at our MySpace site www.myspace.com/dadsarmypodcast

Croft's Craft

2008-03-12T12:18:00.000Z

David Croft Interviewed

Jeremy Miles of The Daily Echo has interviewed David Croft about his writing career as part of the publicity surrounding the stage play's arrival in Poole. David also discusses the circumstances that left three episodes of Dads Army missing from the BBC archives. You can read the article by clicking on the image of David to your left. Unfortunately, the Echo refers to the co-writer as Jimmy Croft on one occasion - but remainder of the content is good stuff.

Getting the Bird.....back!

2008-03-10T20:24:00.000Z

Seagull Prop finally returned to owner

The ongoing saga of the missing Seagull (as reported on Permission to Write on 2nd and 4th March) has finally reached it's conclusion. The unidentified thief sent the stuffed bird to The London Paper offices who in turn passed the prop back to Ed O'Driscoll of Calibre Productions. Sid was unharmed and is due to make his return to the stage at the Poole Lighthouse theatre this week.

Until I can find an on-line version of the story, the blurred, scanned image of the London Paper article is below. Please feel free to e-mail me at james@dadsarmypodcast.com if you find the story on the net before me!

The man from Walmington on Sea? He says...can I be excused?!

2008-03-10T16:40:00.001Z

Brian Jackson interview

An interview with Brian Jackson - the original man from Del Monte and currently starring as Pte. Charles Godfrey in the touring stage show, features in the Bridport News as part of the promotion of the production's arrival in Poole this week. Brian speaks candidly about his career and his part in the play. You can read the interview by clicking on the image of Brian to your left, or by clicking here.

New Dad's Army Podcast on-line

2008-03-08T18:28:00.001Z

Episode 16

Episode 16 of the Dad's Army Podcast is now on-line and available to download, or listen to, at www.dadsarmy.podomatic.com - or click on the image to your left. This week we cover all the recent Dad's Army news and discuss the feedback we've received from listeners.

We also feature part 2 of our discussion about the extras on the Christmas Specials DVD released last year.

Don't forget to tell us what you think - and to make sure you enter the prize draw by nominating your favourite episode. You can do both by e-mailing us at james@dadsarmypodcast.com

Recent stage play media coverage

2008-03-06T12:49:00.000Z

Dad's Army arrives in Blackpool

The touring stage play arrived in Blackpool this week, and has received several mentions in regional media. The Blackpool Gazzette covered the opening night, and interviewed Leslie Grantham - who now has lead billing following Peter Martin's departure. You can read the article by clicking here or on the image to the left.

Robin Duke from the Lancashire Evening Post has also covered the production's arrival in Blackpool. Duke's article is more of a general piece about the play. You can take a look at the story by clicking here or on the logo to the right.

Daily Mail Coverage

The play was reviewed in a number of national dailies when the 2008 leg of the tour kicked off in Hackney last month. The Daily Mail covered the story - although not particularly comprehensively in terms of words - but did publish some great photos of the cast. You can take a look at the pictures by clicking on the image of the cast below.

Stolen Seagull Saga continues....

2008-03-04T13:22:00.000Z

Ransom note received

The Evening Standard and its associate free paper the London Lite reported last night that the seagull-napper has been in contact - and had sent in a ransom note. Those holding the stuffed bird hostage demanded that pigeons in Trafalgar Square be fed before any release can be considered. The story can be read by clicking on the image of the criminal to your left.

Despite making a rather silly demand of the show's producers (feeding pigeons in Trafalgar Square is now illegal thanks to Red Ken) the story does give more publicity to the touring play which is a good thing. I only hope those behind the theft are enjoying themselves - I am sure that they will be cutting out these news articles and showing them to the grandkids with a strange sense of pride - although surely the automatic reaction would be, "haven't you got anything better to do Grandad?!"

The play has now reached Grand Theatre in Blackpool, and is moving onto the Poole Lighthouse next week. Check out the remainder of the tour dates by clicking here.

Touring stage play in the media

2008-03-02T11:05:00.000Z

A couple of news articles appeared in the national press over the last week or so.

One of our....birds is missing

The first one appeared on the This is London website last week - for quite a surprising reason! One member of the audience decided to pinch the model seagull used as a prop! You can read the article by clicking on Sid the Seagull to your left.

Souveniers are great I know, but I think is going a little too far! Anyway, if you've seen this seagull - or it turns up on e-bay in a few months time, you now know what it looks like. The Producer of the play gave chase and caught the alleged middle-aged seagull-napper - by which time there was no sign of the stuffed bird - perhaps having being passed on to another member of the organised crime-ring behind the heinous plot.

Hackney Review

The Times delivered a more traditional review of the play available to read by clicking on the Times Online logo. Don't forget to check out the Stage Play Special Podcasts available to listen to on our website by clicking on the link below

More soon,

James

Permission to speak, sir!

2008-02-29T22:19:00.000Z

Well hello there, and thank you for taking the time to read this blog.

The Basics

In case you are new to Dad's Army, then firstly - where have you been?! Dad's Army was a British television programme that ran for nine series from 1968 to 1977. Written by Jimmy Perry and David Croft, the comedy follows the movements of a Home Guard platoon based in the fictional town of Walmington-on-Sea. I won't go into more detail - there are many websites that go into the history of the programme and the characters elsewhere on the net - the best in my opinion being the Dad's Army Appreciation Society's and is available at www.dadsarmy.co.uk Anyway, this blog is not intended to be a documentary on the series - more of a chronicle of events that concern Dad's Army as they arise - along with my opinion! Yes, believe it or not, Dad's Army is still very much alive and as popular as ever.

The Podcast

Podcast?! There's a Dad's Army Podcast?! Well yes, strange as it may seem! In May 2007 I started producing a very amatuer downloadable production discussing the series. The show was very simple, completely un-edited and consisted primarily of myself chatting with Tony, my co-presenter, about one of the classic Dad's Army episodes. We had just 200 listeners after our second show. Almost a year later, we now have 4,000 listeners all around the world and regularly receive feedback from them. The podcast is now edited - although not professionally and sounds far better than when we started a year ago, although clearly there is still room for improvement. We have managed to interview a variety of people associated with Dad's Army - including a recent interview with Frank Williams who played the vicar in around 40 episodes. The podcast is available to download from iTunes, or directly from our website - http://www.dadsarmy.podomatic.com/ or by clicking on the podcast's badge below.

The Blog

This blog is really for me to share any Dad's Army news with you that I can't get on the podcast either due to recording deadlines or time restrictions. I'll also report on the odd press article or event that fans may be interested in and post any pictures that may be of interest. I may also use if for a number of other things I haven't thought of yet! We'll just see how it goes.

That's it for the introdution - hope you enjoy the blog and please feel free to post your comments.

James

Permission to Write....

Googie Withers!!!!

An Evening with Frank Williams

You've had your chips!!

Come and meet his Reverence!

Vicar n Chips!

Godfrey's Ghost

Pike's Broadcast to the Empire **updated 14 July 2009**

Pike at the Palladium

Colin Bean RIP 1927 to 2009

Podcast 35

Tour of Locations 2009

New podcast online

New podcast on-line

1975 Stage Show gets CD release

Dad's Army and Beyond: The Frank Williams Story

Podcast to record Dad's Army Movie special!

New Dad's Army podcast now on-line

Stupid Boy on Mastermind!

Dad's Army at the British Film Institute

Bressingham 2009

Room on Newsnight

Room at the Bottom in colour - on BBC2 this weekend!

Father Christmas exists! (Updated 5 December 2008)

Latest news

Pte. Godfrey in the papers!

Dad's Marches on!!

Eric Longworth's obituary

New podcast imminent (updated 18 September 2008)

Dad's Army Podcast round-up

Comedy Connections

Anchor not sunk yet

Eric Longworth 1918 to 2008

Podcast on hiatus!

Jonathan Ross Special airs

BBC Celebrates Dad's Army 40th Anniversary (Updated 2nd August 2008)

Dad's Army 40th Special recorded at the BBC (updated 23 July 2008)

Dad's in the News

Dad's 40th (updated 11th July 2008)

New Dad's Army Podcast on-line

The Victorious Vicar!

It Sticks Out....on BBC7

New Dad's Army Podcast now on-line

Green light for Dad's Army adverts!

Croft and Perry Day 2008 - pictures

Dad's Army Podcast round-up

Broadcast to the Empire - with Jonathan Ross...

New Dad's Army podcast on-line

This is Your Life

Special Announcement

Special Edition of the Dad's Army Podcast now online

Location, Location, Location....

Writing duo receive BAFTA

Bressingham is coming.......

Walker first past the post

New Dad's Army Podcast on-line

Does Dad's Army influence your life?!

James Beck

Tour Marches On

The View from Scotland

New Dad's Army Podcast

Dirty Don enrols at Oxford

Purveyor of essential supplies on-line

End of an era

Dad's Army features in top 25 'Classic Put Downs'

New Dad's Army podcast on-line

Coventry Coverage

Time on Your Hands?

Leslie Grantham sent to Coventry

Dad's Army Hotel Blaze

The Stage on the stage...play!

Make your Mark...

Croft's Craft

Getting the Bird.....back!

The man from Walmington on Sea? He says...can I be excused?!

New Dad's Army Podcast on-line

Recent stage play media coverage

Stolen Seagull Saga continues....

Touring stage play in the media

Permission to speak, sir!

Pike's Broadcast to the Empire updated 14 July 2009