Porridge was a huge BBC hit in the 1970s, attracting audiences of 20 million every episode with the team from Slade Prison leaving viewers in hysterics.
The cast was led by Ronnie Barker but could be considered all star. Supported by Richard Beckinsale, who died at just 31, the team also included David Jason and Christopher Biggins.
Porridge started in 1974 and ran for just three series, including a two Christmas specials, before ending in 1977.
Here, the writers, Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais give their verdict on the best ever episodes of the British comedy hit.
A Night In (19/9/74)
Godber, a new arrival, struggles adapting to life inside so confides in Fletcher. During the long, cold night they discuss the woes of the world.
Clement says: “Writing an episode entirely about two people in one cell provided a way of showing that prison isn’t funny. Godber being scared and depressed reflected the harshness of the situation.”
The Harder They Fall (28/11/75)
This episode focused on the boxing ring with Godber fighting Nesbitt. But boxing means betting to Grouty, who orders Fletch to fix the fight.
La Frenais says: “Grouty was a great character who came alive in this episode. There’s always a Mr Big in prison and we wanted to explore Fletcher’s relationship with him.”
Porridge: Fletcher chats to Mackay in 1977 episode
No Way Out (24/12/75)
Slade’s Godfather, Grouty, helps an inmate tunnel his way to freedom and expects everyone to help. Fletcher thinks it’s bad news and feigns injury in an attempt to get himself hospitalised.
Clement says: “The final scene is among my favourites involving Fulton. Mr Mackay, slightly tipsy, wants to know how they got rid of the soil and visits Fletcher in hospital.
"It’s a wonderful performance from Fulton. Very subtle and extremely funny.”
The Desperate Hours (24/12/76)
Fletcher and Godber ferment liquor which reaches maturity in time for Christmas. But they’re caught red-handed and sent to the governor’s office. Meanwhile, Barrowclough is taken hostage.
“Both Christmas Specials stand the test of time. Back then, we’d normally write around the kitchen table, surrounded by dogs and children, and with lots of interruptions. It was always chaotic,” smiles Clement.
A Storm in a Teacup (18/2/77)
When Grouty discovers pills have been nabbed from the medical room, he fears Mackay will order a stock-take, exposing Grouty’s lucrative drug-peddling business in the process.
La Frenais says: “This was a great episode and contains a very funny scene where a bottle of pills drops into the unsuspecting Fletcher’s mug of tea.”
