The UK’s Forgotten Sitcoms (2003 to 2008)

I’ve been digging through old magazines, newspapers, and online reviews to find out what critics and viewers thought about sitcoms, way back in the early days of TV and even up to now. In this video, I’m taking a look at some sitcoms you might have forgotten about that aired between 2003 and 2008.

The UK’s Forgotten Sitcoms (1977 to 1986)

I’ve been digging deep – through old newspapers, dusty books, and even forgotten corners of the internet – to find out what people thought about sitcoms, way back when TV first started, and all the way to today.

I’m focusing on some shows you probably don’t remember, and maybe for good reason! Some of these shows are real treasures, while others… well, let’s just say they’re best left buried in the past. This video is a trip down memory lane, taking you from 1977 to 1986.

The UK’s Forgotten Sitcoms (1970 to 1976)

I’ve been on a real nostalgia trip, diving into books, old newspapers, magazines, and even those forgotten corners of the internet to see what people thought about sitcoms – from the very first ones to the shows we’re watching today.

In this, the first of five videos, we’re going to take a look at some sitcoms that might have faded from your memory. Some were absolute gems, while others… well, let’s just say they might be best left to the history books.

The UK’s Sitcoms loved by viewers, hated by critics

It’s a familiar story: the public falls head over heels for a TV show, while the critics remain largely unimpressed. In this YouTube video we delve into four beloved British sitcoms that perfectly illustrate this divide. These shows demonstrate that sometimes, the audience knows best. I’ve sifted through countless articles, websites, and reports to uncover the public’s affection and the media’s more measured responses.

New Video: Roy Clarke, not just a sitcom writer …

Firstly, sorry there hasn’t been a new video from me for just over a year. 2024 was not a good year and multiple obstacles prevented me from producing anything, although I have been writing scripts for several video series.

This first video of 2025 delves into the literary world of Roy Clarke, the legendary writer behind iconic sitcoms like “Last of the Summer Wine” and “Keeping Up Appearances”.

While well-known for his television and radio scripts, Roy also wrote a collection of books that capture the same wit and social observation that made his shows so well loved. From Hyacinth’s hilarious etiquette guide to chronicles of the eccentric characters in “Last of the Summer Wine”. In this video we look at their themes, humour, and unique perspective on British life.

Summer Wine Decanted

“Summer Wine Decanted” is the title of the book based on my YouTube series. It is the story of the BBC TV sitcom Last of the Summer Wine from its humble start to becoming a world-wide favourite and the longest running situation comedy in the world.

It has biographies of the actors and covers every major character and many of the regular and occasional supporting characters appearing in the show’s 37 year run.

There is also an in-depth Trivia section, covering details you might find interesting, things you missed when you watched the show and behind-the-scenes secrets.

Available now on Amazon: Summer Wine Decanted: The Ultimate Guide to Last of the Summer Wine and at other online book stores

The "Summer Wine Decanted" book is available from Amazon and other online bookstores

Trenches and Trees

In August 1914, Lord Kitchener, the war minister, began a recruiting campaign calling for men aged between 19 and 30 to join the British Army.

Harry Williams, my Grandfather, was born in 1896 and volunteered for the army before his 19th birthday. Men could volunteer at age 18 but were not allowed to serve abroad until they were 19 years old. This did not deter Harry!

It is not an encyclopaedic record, but it is a true account of his army exploits. Despite his claim to be uneducated, his writing has a colourful style, punctuated by his unique humour and descriptive narrative of the often pitiful conditions he and his comrades were subjected to.

The Grimsby Evening Telegraph described it as
“a very emotional and sentimental read”

Grimsby Evening Telegraph

He recounts the challenge of telling his parents he had joined the Army, especially as his mother who was strongly against military service. Harry describes the early days of training, and the difficulties faced by new recruits adapting to harsh conditions and learning the unforgiving realities of military life.

Harry’s story provides a powerful and insightful portrayal of the realities of war, highlighting the courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie of the soldiers who fought on the Western Front.

Trenches and Trees book cover

Read more about Harry’s book on the Trenches and Trees web site.

The book is Available from Amazon and other online book stores.

Harry’s story vividly describes some events that no-one should ever be exposed to – let alone a teenage boy.

The Channel 4 TV web site described it as a
“Moving narrative history”

Channel 4 TV web site (Archived page)

They sent mere boys to fight a tragic war, one million British men never returned home.

More to come …

Sorry there has not been much happening here recently.

I have been researching for a new series of videos, the script is mostly complete, we are waiting for better weather before we can do any filming!

There are also a couple of other video series ideas in early stages of production.

There is even another extra episode of “Summer Wine Decanted” to come!

Meanwhile, the “Summer Wine Decanted” book is available from Amazon and many other online book stores.