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  • This week, I journey back to 1974 to explore the enchanting world of Bagpuss - voted Britain's favorite children's program in a BBC poll. Despite only 13 episodes ever being made, this magical series from Smallfilms' Peter Firmin and Oliver Postgate captured my heart and the hearts of a generation.

    Bagpuss followed a simple yet captivating formula: young Emily would bring lost items to her shop, where Bagpuss and friends would clean them up, tell stories about them, and display them for their owners to reclaim.

    Bagpuss himself (the accidentally pink and white striped "old, saggy cloth cat"), the industrious mice from the mouse organ, Madeline the ragdoll, Gabriel the banjo-playing toad, and the pompous Professor Yaffle. Each episode featured traditional folk tales and songs!

    Part of the "Watch with Mother" time slot that created precious shared viewing experiences - memories that have endured for nearly 50 years. These brief but impactful television moments connected families and created lasting impressions that many of my listeners still cherish today.

    What's your favorite memory of Bagpuss? Can you still recite the iconic closing lines?

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  • Welcome back, telly addicts, to another brain-teasing edition of the My 70s TV Childhood Quiz! Whether you're a loyal follower who never misses an episode or you've just stumbled upon this nostalgic treasure trove, I'm thrilled to have you join me for this journey back to the golden age of British television.

    In this 39th installment, I've crafted 20 carefully curated questions across four entertaining rounds guaranteed to transport you straight back to those cherished evenings spent with the family and in front of the box!

    Round One: "Quiz Inquisitors"
    Sharpen your pencils for this opening salvo focused on the quiz and game shows that dominated 70s screens, with special attention to those unforgettable hosts who became household names.

    Round Two: The Marathon/Fil Rouge Round
    My recurring round (named with a nod to the legendary "It's a Knockout") explores the podcast itself and shows I've dissected in previous episodes. Haven't listened to every episode yet? (And honestly, why haven't you?) Fear notā€”educated guesses are encouraged and often rewarded!

    Round Three: "Name That Tune" and "Spin the Wheel" Mashup
    The wheel of fate has spoken and landed on 1972! This musical challenge tests whether you can identify five iconic theme tunes from shows that made their UK television debut in that pivotal year. One tune in particular should be unmistakable to any true fan of this podcast!

    Round Four: TV Times
    We wrap up with a whirlwind tour through general 70s TV triviaā€”from beloved characters and catchphrases to behind-the-scenes tidbits that only true aficionados might recall. The perfect chance to clinch victory if you're playing competitively!

    This week's Bonus Question: In January 1978, ITV screened its first ever "An Audience with..." show. Who was the original host of this now-legendary format? Think you know the answer? Drop me a line at [email protected] with your brilliant deduction!

    Were you scoring like a champion or struggling to recall those once-familiar faces and shows? Either way, I'd love to hear your score and which questions instantly transported you back to your childhood living room. Share your results and memories via email or on any of my social platforms below.

    Take care
    Oliver

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  • A detective series with a supernatural twist! Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) was a uniquely British concoction blending hard-boiled detective drama with supernatural elements and wrapped it all in that quintessentially British humour. From the gritty streets of late-60s London to the ethereal realms beyond, I explore how this show captivated a generation despite not being aimed at children like me at all!

    Mike Pratt brought world-weary charm to Jeff Randall, a man perpetually trying to maintain his sanity while conversing with a ghost only he could see. Meanwhile, Kenneth Cope's Marty Hopkirkā€”forever dressed in that immaculate white suitā€”balanced earnestness with comic frustration at his ghostly limitations. Their chemistry was nothing short of otherworldly.

    There is the fascinating background of creator Dennis Spooner and the show's production by Lew Grade's ITC Entertainment, known for its high production values and distinctive visual style. Mike Pratt's surprising musical career (did you know he co-wrote the theme to "A Handful of Songs" with Lionel Bart?).

    From standout episodes like "My Late Lamented Friend and Partner" to how this one-season wonder managed to balance macabre elements with genuine emotional depth, Why these 26 episodes left such an indelible mark on British television history?

    What's your most vivid memory of this supernatural sleuthing duo? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this perfect time capsule of late 60s/early 70s British creativity!

    Take care,

    Oliver

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  • Welcome back to another fun-filled edition of the My 70ā€™s TV Childhood Quiz! Whether you're a long-time listener or joining us for the first time, this is your chance to put your 1970s TV knowledge to the test. So grab a pen, a notepad, maybe even a friend, and letā€™s see how well you remember the classics!

    This week, we had four exciting rounds, covering everything from beloved cartoons to classic British TV moments.

    Round One ā€“ Scooby Doo, Where Are You?

    The first round took us on a mystery-filled adventure with Scooby, Shaggy, and the gang! From the number of episodes produced to the name of Velmaā€™s family, this was a round for true fans of the show. And of course, who could forget their iconic van?

    Round Two ā€“ Marathon / Fil Rouge

    This round tested how closely youā€™ve been paying attention to previous episodes of the podcast! We revisited The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin, The New Avengers, and even Bodā€”but could you remember the name of the friendly policeman?

    Round Three ā€“ Name That Tune (1971 Edition!)

    One of our most popular rounds! This week, we spun the wheel and landed on 1971ā€”a fantastic year for British television. Did you manage to name all five theme tunes?

    Round Four ā€“ TV Times

    The final round challenged your general 1970s TV knowledge, from Blue Peter to Itā€™s a Knockout and Crossroads. We even threw in a tricky question about The Herbs!

    How did you do? Weā€™d love to hear your scores! Share them with us on our blog, Facebook, X (Twitter), or LinkedIn. And if you love our quizzes, please like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts.

    Bonus Question

    "The final episode of Dad's Army was broadcast on Remembrance Sunday in 1977 and featured Corporal Jones marrying Mrs Fox. The episode ends with the cast facing the camera as Sergeant Wilson proposes a toast to what or who?"

    If you know the answer, let us know by emailing [email protected].

    Thanks for listening, and weā€™ll see you next time for more My 70ā€™s TV Childhood Quiz fun!

    Take care,
    Oliver

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  • School is back in session, making it the perfect time to revisit one of the most iconic school-based dramas in British televisionā€”Grange Hill. When it first aired in 1978, it was nothing short of a revolution. Unlike the idealised portrayals of school seen in earlier shows, Grange Hill felt raw and real, reflecting the struggles, friendships, and tensions that defined childhood for so many of us.

    For those of us heading to secondary school at the time, Grange Hill was both thrilling and unsettling. It wasnā€™t afraid to depict the realities of school lifeā€”bullying, class struggles, and racismā€”through relatable characters like Tucker Jenkins, Trisha Yates, and Benny Green. The show quickly became essential viewing, though not everyone was allowed to watch. Parents and teachers feared it would encourage bad behaviour, but for kids, it was the first time we truly saw ourselves reflected on screen.

    Phil Redmond, the mastermind behind Grange Hill, had to fight to get it on air. The BBC took a gamble on an initial run of nine episodes, but the impact was immediate. Soon, playgrounds across the country were buzzing with discussions about the latest episode. The showā€™s hard-hitting themes continued to evolve, eventually tackling drug addiction, teenage pregnancy, and racial discrimination. The Just Say No anti-drug campaign, led by the cast, even made its way to the White House.

    Despite its serious themes, Grange Hill also had warmth and humour. Who can forget Tuckerā€™s mischief, Trishaā€™s rebellious streak, or the infamous flying sausage in the opening credits? The show balanced realism with storytelling, giving children a programme that respected their experiences rather than talking down to them.

    Were you one of the lucky ones allowed to watch Grange Hill, or did you have to hear about it second-hand? Let us know your memories!


    Guest Information:

    šŸŽ™ Guest Name: Tim Worthington
    šŸŒ Guestā€™s Website: timworthington.org


    Related Episodes

    šŸ”¹ I Do Have a Wooden Heart
    šŸ”¹ Knockin' on Doors, Opening Windows: It's The Sunday Gang

    Take care,
    Oliver

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  • Welcome back to another fun-filled edition of the My 70s TV Childhood Quiz! If you grew up watching television in the 1970s, this is your chance to put your knowledge to the test. Whether you were a devoted World of Sport fan, a lover of classic sitcoms, or someone who can still hum every theme tune from memory, weā€™ve got a quiz that will transport you straight back to the golden age of British television.

    This week, weā€™re kicking things off with a round dedicated to sport on TV in the 70s. You donā€™t have to be an expert in rugby league or a walking football encyclopedia, but a bit of sporting knowledge will definitely help

    For long-time listeners, our next round might give you an edge. Weā€™re diving into topics weā€™ve covered in previous episodes, from classic 70s Christmas adverts to a certain sci-fi show that sparked many first crushes (Including my own). If you've been paying attention, you might just have the upper hand!

    Then it's time to test your ears. Name That Tune (1975 Edition) brings back some of the most iconic theme songs of the era. From kids' TV classics to gripping dramas, weā€™re playing snippets of five theme tunes, but can you name them all?

    And finally, weā€™re rounding things off with a deep dive into 70s TV trivia. Weā€™ve got questions on The Good Life, Chorlton and the Wheelies, Blue Peter appeals, and a certain Coronation Street milestone?

    So, how did you do? Are you a 70s TV mastermind, or do you need to brush up on your classics?

    Weā€™d love to hear your scores! Share them with us on our blog, Facebook, Twitter (X), or LinkedIn. And if you love our quizzes, please like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts.

    Until next time, thanks for listening.

    Take care,
    Oliver


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  • Welcome back to My 70s TV Childhood.

    In this episode, we pay tribute to the late Brian Murphy, best known as the weary, grumpy, yet oddly lovable landlord George Roper from Man About the House and George and Mildred. Murphy, who sadly passed away at the age of 92, had a remarkable career spanning theatre, film, and television. We explore his early days performing for local children, his time with Joan Littlewoodā€™s Theatre Workshop, and the journey that led him to become one of Britainā€™s most recognisable sitcom figures.

    Weā€™ll reminisce about his partnership with the brilliant Yootha Joyce, the cultural impact of George and Mildred, and how George Roper became the quintessential ā€˜henpecked husbandā€™ of 70s television. Brian Murphyā€™s portrayal of George was a masterclass in comedic timingā€”his exaggerated sighs, baffled expressions, and reluctance to do anything remotely energetic made him a character both frustrating and endearing. The dynamic between George and Mildred reflected the social tensions of the era, with Mildredā€™s aspirations clashing against Georgeā€™s stubborn resistance to change. Itā€™s a formula that still holds up today, decades after its original airing.

    While George Roper may have been Murphyā€™s most famous role, his career extended far beyond the confines of sitcoms. Following the success of George and Mildred, he continued to work across theatre and television, with memorable roles in Last of the Summer Wine and One Foot in the Grave. Even as he aged, Murphy remained a working actor, dedicated to his craft and beloved by audiences who had grown up watching him.

    Were you a Man About the House or George and Mildred fan? Do you share my feelings about Tristram?

    Oliver


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  • Welcome back to another fun-filled edition of the My 70ā€™s TV Childhood Quiz! This week, we had a very special guestā€”none other than Sooty himself! Yes, our favourite silent magician joined us in the studio, and letā€™s just say he had a few tricks up his sleeve.

    As always, we put your 70s TV knowledge to the test across four exciting rounds, covering everything from classic kids' TV to iconic theme tunes and deep dives into our podcast archives.

    Round One ā€“ Sooty & Friends This round was all about Sootyā€™s adventures with his human companions. Do you remember who his very first human friend was? Or his magical catchphrase? And what about Ramsbottomā€”ring any bells?

    Round Two ā€“ Marathon / Fil Rouge is dedicated to topics from previous podcast episodes! We revisited Bruce Forsythā€™s Generation Game and the unforgettable Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads? episode where they desperately tried to avoid hearing the football score. But hereā€™s the real questionā€”who played their friend Flint?

    Round Three ā€“ Name That Tune (1975 Edition!) Could you recognise theme tunes from 1975? This round puts your ears to the test with some of the most memorable intros from the era.

    Round Four ā€“ TV Times Our final round was all about TV historyā€”from Doctor Who trivia to The Naked Civil Servant, we challenged your knowledge of iconic moments from British television.

    How did you do? Weā€™d love to hear your scores! Share them with us on our blog, Facebook, Twitter (X), or LinkedIn. And if you love our quizzes, please like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts.

    Until next time, thanks for listening.
    Take care,
    Oliver

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  • Welcome back to My 70ā€™s TV Childhood, the podcast where we revisit the television greats that shaped our lives growing up in 1970s Britain.

    In this episode, weā€™re taking a nostalgic journey into Wait Till Your Father Gets Home, an animated sitcom created by Hanna-Barbera. While it offered a distinctly American take on suburban life, its themes of generational conflict and shifting societal values struck a chord with British audiences who were already familiar with similar clashes through sitcoms like Till Death Us Do Part.

    Harry Boyle, the conservative patriarch of the family, seemed cut from the same cloth as Alf Garnettā€”his traditionalist views constantly clashing with the liberal ideals of his son Chet, feminist daughter Alice, and his inquisitive youngest son Jamie. The show masterfully blended sharp humour with cultural commentary, highlighting major social changes of the era, from feminism to the rise of counterculture.

    Though rooted in Americana, Wait Till Your Father Gets Home resonated on this side of the Atlantic because its portrayal of family dynamics and generational clashes was universal. Just as Alf Garnett struggled to accept the changing world in Till Death Us Do Part, Harry Boyleā€™s bewilderment at modern life provided both comedy and reflection, making the show a unique addition to British households in the 70s.

    What are your memories of Wait Till Your Father Gets Home? Did its humour and themes strike a chord with you back in the day? Let me know by getting in touch via social media or leaving a comment on the blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com. You can also email me at [email protected]. Donā€™t forget to subscribe and leave a reviewā€”it really helps the podcast grow.

    Until next time, thanks for listening.
    Take care,
    Oliver

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  • Welcome back to My 70s TV Childhood Quiz! Iā€™m thrilled to bring you the latest instalment of our fortnightly trip into 70s TV nostalgia. If youā€™re new here, a warm welcome! This podcast is all about celebrating the golden age of television and what it was like growing up in Britain during the 1970s. For our loyal listeners, thank you for your continued supportā€”youā€™re the heart of our community.

    This week, weā€™ve prepared another fantastic quiz to challenge your 70s TV trivia knowledge. Get ready for 20 fun and challenging questions across four themed rounds designed to jog your memory and spark some laughs!

    Grab a pen, pour your favourite drink (mineā€™s a gin and tonic tonight), and letā€™s go!

    Hereā€™s whatā€™s in store this week:

    On the Cobbles: A stroll down Coronation Street during the 1970s.Marathon ā€“ Fil Rouge: Questions revisiting some of our favourite past podcast topics.Name That Tune: The year is 1977ā€”can you identify the shows by their theme tunes?TV Times: A classic trivia round where anything goes!

    Plus, this weekā€™s Bonus Question delves into a 1977 children's drama with an Arthurian twistā€”can you name the show?

    Weā€™d love to hear how you did, so share your scores and memories with us:
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    Donā€™t forget to like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Your feedback helps us grow and keeps the spirit of 70s TV alive! Tell your friends about the quiz and invite them to join the fun.


    Take care,
    Oliver

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  • Welcome back to My 70ā€™s TV Childhood, the podcast where we revisit the TV shows, memories, and moments that shaped childhoods in 1970s Britain. Itā€™s hard to believe weā€™re already in our sixth season! The support and love from all of you listening, sharing your memories, and getting in touch means the world to meā€”thank you!

    In todayā€™s episode, weā€™re taking a nostalgic trip back to one of the ultimate Saturday night TV experiencesā€”The Generation Game. Iā€™ll be reflecting on the impact of this family-friendly game show that became an institution in British entertainment. With Bruce Forsyth as the iconic host, The Generation Game captivated families across the UK, bringing humor, warmth, and fun to our living rooms every week.

    We'll talk about Bruce Forsythā€™s legendary hosting style, his dynamic with Anthea Redfern, and the unforgettable moments, like the infamous "conveyor belt" round. Plus, we'll discuss how The Generation Game reflected the spirit of 1970s Britain and set the stage for future game shows.

    So, whether you remember The Generation Game with Bruce or Larry Grayson, this episode is sure to bring back those cherished memories of gathering around the TV as a family.

    Get in touch! Iā€™d love to hear from you! Were you a Bruce Forsyth fan, or did you prefer Larry Graysonā€™s take on the show? Share your memories and thoughts on our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, and LinkedIn. You can also email me directly at [email protected].

    Donā€™t forget to like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts! Your support helps us continue to bring you more nostalgia-filled episodes.

    Thanks for tuning in, and I look forward to having you join us again next week for our next 70ā€™s TV trivia quiz and a fortnight from now for another regular episode of My 70ā€™s TV Childhood.

    Take care

    Oliver

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  • Welcome to the first episode of Season 6 of My 70s TV Childhood! Iā€™m Oliver Colling, and Iā€™m delighted to kick off 2025 with a brand-new quiz episode to blow away the Christmas cobwebs.

    If youā€™re new to the podcast, a warm welcome to you! My 70s TV Childhood is a podcast dedicated to celebrating what it was like to grow up in Britain during the 1970sā€”a time when television was the heart of family life. For our regular listeners, thank you for your continued support, especially those whoā€™ve been with us since the beginning in 2020. Your loyalty and enthusiasm mean the world to us.

    This week, weā€™re diving into four exciting rounds of TV trivia, including:

    Bay City Rollers: A deep dive into Starsky and Hutch trivia (with no tartan involved!).Marathon - Fil Rouge: Revisiting iconic moments from past podcast episodes.Name That Tune - Ending 1970: Can you guess the shows based on their theme tunes?TV Times: Anything goes in this general trivia round.

    And of course, we have our Bonus Question:
    "In 1976, the BBC launched Multi-Coloured Swap Shop on Saturday mornings. What was the telephone number for Swap Shop from series two onwards for the rest of its run?"

    Thank you to everyone whoā€™s been in touchā€”your messages, memories, and feedback are what make this podcast so special. A special shoutout to Writer in the North on Twitter for your lovely Christmas greetingā€”good luck in this weekā€™s quiz!

    So grab a cup of tea (as we are all on the dry!), settle in, and join me as we take a nostalgic journey through 70s TV trivia. Whether youā€™re here to top your quiz record or just enjoy the memories, I hope you find this weekā€™s quiz both fun and memorable.

    Whatā€™s your favorite memory of Starsky and Hutch? Did the Swap Shop phone number pop into your head instantly? Let us knowā€”your stories mean the world to us.

    From me and all the elves at My 70s TV Childhood Towers, Happy New Year! Hereā€™s to a fantastic 2025 filled with laughter, nostalgia, and plenty of 70s TV magic.

    Take care
    Oliver

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  • Hello and welcome back to another episode of My 70s TV Childhood. This week, weā€™re stepping into the world of one of Britainā€™s most beloved sitcoms from the 70s: It Ainā€™t Half Hot Mum. Created by the iconic duo Jimmy Perry and David Croft, this series brought a unique mix of humour and heartfelt storytelling to our screens.

    Set in World War II, the show followed the antics of a concert party in the Royal Artillery, tasked with entertaining troops before they headed to the front line. From Windsor Daviesā€™ unforgettable Sergeant Major to the chart-topping ā€œWhispering Grassā€ by Windsor Davies and Don Estelle, It Ainā€™t Half Hot Mum offered moments that remain etched in our collective memories.

    Like many shows of its time, this series has its share of controversy. Its portrayal of certain characters and themes sparks debate when viewed through todayā€™s lens. But for many of us, it stands as a cherished memory of family viewingā€”a reminder of simpler times when television brought us together.

    In this episode, Iā€™m sharing my favourite moments from the show, including Monsoon Madness and the floating concert party, as well as reflecting on what made It Ainā€™t Half Hot Mum such an enduring part of our lives.

    As we wrap up the year, I also want to wish you all a Happy New Year from me and all the elves at My 70s TV Childhood Towers. Your support, memories, and company make this podcast truly special.

    Donā€™t forget to join us next week for our special quiz episode. And if youā€™d like to submit a question, email me at [email protected].

    Until then, take care and keep those 70s TV memories alive!
    Oliver

    Take care,
    Oliver

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  • As Christmas Eve jingles ever closer, letā€™s take a moment to unwrap the festive season in 1970s Britainā€”a time filled with wonder, laughter, and the magic of television.

    Christmas as a child in the 70s was pure joy. The excitement began weeks in advance, from crafting endless paper chains at school to rehearsing nativity plays that got more creative each year (a South Sea Island-themed production, anyone?). At home, our trusty but increasingly threadbare Christmas tree emerged from its box once again, and the annual battle with the fairy lights became a family ritual of frustration and triumph when they finally flickered to life.

    The ultimate thrill came with the double issues of the Radio Times and TV Times. These werenā€™t just TV guides; they were treasure maps to two weeks of festive television bliss. Christmas specials werenā€™t ordinary episodes with a sprinkle of tinselā€”they were cultural events.

    In this episode, Iā€™m reflecting on the holiday TV moments that shaped my Christmas memories. Morecambe and Wise were the crown jewels of festive programming. From Andre Previnā€™s legendary ā€œall the right notesā€ sketch to Angela Ripponā€™s unexpected dance number, their shows brought the nation together. Who could forget the star-studded chorus of newsreaders performing ā€œThere is Nothing Like a Dame,ā€ or the touching comedy of Porridge Christmas specials? These werenā€™t just showsā€”they were moments that united families and offered laughter during an era of power cuts and economic struggles.

    And thatā€™s what made 70s Christmases so magical. It wasnā€™t just the gifts or the glittering decorations; it was the togetherness, the joy of shared traditions, and the anticipation that made each festive season unforgettable.

    So, as we gather with loved ones (or simply indulge in some well-deserved quiet time), I want to wish you a very Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year. This podcast wouldnā€™t be what it is without youā€”your memories, your support, and your company make every episode special. Thatā€™s why I do this, why we reminisce, and why weā€™re so grateful for each and every one of you who tunes in and shares this nostalgic journey through 70s TV.

    As I raise a glass of QC British Sherry (perhaps a little more generously than intendedā€”it is Christmas), I toast to you. Hereā€™s to the laughter, the memories, and the joy weā€™ve shared, and to many more moments of nostalgic delight in 2025. Thank you for being part of the My 70s TV Childhood family.


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    Oliver

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  • Welcome to a very special edition of My 70s TV Childhood! This week, weā€™re celebrating Christmas with a listener-powered quiz extravaganza. Thatā€™s rightā€”every single question in this episode has been submitted by you, our brilliant audience. Your response was overwhelming, and while we couldnā€™t include all of your fantastic submissions, weā€™ve curated a selection that spans the golden age of 1970s television.

    From the sci-fi adventures of Blakeā€™s 7 and Sapphire and Steel to the comedic brilliance of Fawlty Towers and The Good Life, this quiz is a nostalgic journey through the iconic TV shows of the 70s. Itā€™s a true testament to the joy of gathering around the television during a simpler time.

    And with Christmas just around the corner, why not turn this into a festive family challenge? Gather your loved ones, grab a glass of eggnog or a plate of mince pies, and see who knows their 70s TV trivia best.

    What about you? Did these questions bring back memories of your favourite shows? Which round stumped you the most? Share your stories and scores with us on the blog or social mediaā€”Iā€™d love to hear how you got on!

    Take care and have a wonderful Christmas,

    Happy quizzing!
    Oliver

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  • Welcome to My 70s TV Childhood! As the festive season jingles ever closer, itā€™s time to unwrap memories of Christmas in 1970s Britain.

    Ah, the Christmas list. A childā€™s masterpiece of dreams, overthinking, and perhaps a little greed. Would Father Christmas judge your requests? Would you strike the perfect balance between modesty and ambition? Tools like the Argos catalogue turned our imaginings into meticulously referenced wish lists, complete with page numbers for ease of parental shopping.

    And then there were the TV adverts. From the magical Mousetrap to Roncoā€™s ever-so-slightly odd Record Vacuum, these commercials cast their spell on us. Even if some of the toys didnā€™t quite live up to the hype (Iā€™m looking at you, Mousetrap), the magic of those 70s adverts still lingers.

    In this episode, Iā€™m reminiscing about the best Christmas presents of my childhood: Action Manā€™s daring missions, the endless adventures of my Hornby Train Set, and the excitement of Subbuteoā€™s Stadium Edition. These werenā€™t just toys; they were moments of pure joy that lit up Christmas mornings.

    What about you? Did your list include toys inspired by TV adverts? Did the festive build-up fill your home with excitement? Share your memories on the blog or social mediaā€”Iā€™d love to hear your stories!

    Take care,
    Oliver

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  • Welcome back to the My 70ā€™s TV Childhood Quiz! This week, weā€™re marching straight into the world of Dadā€™s Army with a special quiz that celebrates the much-loved sitcom and plenty more from the golden age of 1970s British television. Whether youā€™re a devoted fan or just here for a bit of fun, grab a cuppa and join us!

    Kicking things off, our Donā€™t Panic! round salutes Dadā€™s Army. From Private Frazerā€™s surprising day job to the legendary theme tune, this round is packed with questions thatā€™ll transport you back to Walmington-on-Sea.

    Next up, itā€™s the Marathonā€”Fil Rouge round. Revisit classics like Timeslip, Steptoe and Son, and even the Queenā€™s Silver Jubilee. Weā€™re digging deep into the archives for some truly unforgettable moments.

    For the third round, itā€™s all about Name That Tune. Spin the wheel, land in 1975, and guess theme tunes from shows that ended that year. Can you identify these iconic soundtracks? Itā€™s nostalgia overload!

    Finally, the TV Times round closes the show with a grab bag of trivia. From the beginnings of Last of the Summer Wine to Eurovision near-misses, this round will test the limits of your 70s TV knowledge.

    This weekā€™s bonus question: Which actor played The Man from Atlantis? If you know, email us at [email protected]. And donā€™t forget, weā€™re taking your ideas for our special Christmas quizā€”so send us your best questions and you might just hear them on the show!

    Until next time, stay safe, keep those memories alive, and join us again soon for more from My 70ā€™s TV Childhood.

    Take care,
    Oliver

    Until next time, take care and happy quizzing!

    Oliver

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  • Welcome to another episode of My 70s TV Childhood. This time, weā€™re returning to the world of Gerry Andersonā€™s iconic puppet series. Growing up in 1970s Britain, Thunderbirds and other Anderson creations like Stingray, Captain Scarlet, and Joe 90 were a big part of my TV memories.

    We explore the genius of Gerry and Sylvia Anderson and their revolutionary Supermarionation technique, which brought their characters to life. I reminisce about the Tracy family of Thunderbirds, their heroic missions with International Rescue, and the incredible vehicles like Thunderbird 2 and the underused Thunderbird 3 (Why?). Thereā€™s also Lady Penelope and Parker, whose quirky British humour added charm to the show.

    I share my fond memories of playing with a Thunderbird 2 toy and the amusing fact that it was blue instead of its original green, thanks to advice from a child psychologist!!

    In this episode, we also touch on the cultural backdrop of space exploration in the 60s and 70s, which heavily influenced these shows, and revisit the darker tones of Captain Scarlet and the fantastical gadgetry of Joe 90. These shows, despite their puppetry, offered drama, adventure, and a sense of wonder that still resonates today.

    Were you captivated by the heroics of Thunderbirds or intrigued by the darker world of Captain Scarlet? Or perhaps you have your own Gerry Anderson favourite? Want to share your memories of these unique characters? Let us know on our blog, Facebook, or Twitter! Your stories make this podcast even better.

    Take care,
    Oliver

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  • Iā€™m not sure what possessed me to venture into the dusty cellar this week, but Iā€™m glad I did. Deep in the archives of My 70ā€™s TV Childhood Towers, I unearthed copies of the Radio Times and TV Times from 19th November 1975. Armed with these fragile treasures, I pieced together a fascinating snapshot of what was on TV that chilly Wednesday evening nearly 50 years ago.

    It was a typical night of 70ā€™s British television, full of familiar favourites and forgotten gems. BBC1 was its dependable self, with shows like Play School, Magic Roundabout, and Nationwide. Of course, there was Till Death Us Do Part, a sitcom that even now divides opinions as sharply as it did then. On BBC2, things took a more refined turn, but the schedule reminded me of something I had almost forgottenā€”just how often the channel was off-air. Imagine that today, staring at a blank screen for hours!

    ITV offered more variety and, dare I say, flair. Rainbow and The Sooty Show added a splash of colour, while Boy Dominic intrigued me. The drama followed a young boy navigating life in 19th-century Yorkshire, but Iā€™ll admit, itā€™s not one I remember watching. Maybe you do?

    It was also a night that highlighted how much TV has changed. Back then, families were often divided on whether to watch ITV at allā€”Granny, for example, might have disapproved of its ā€œimmorality.ā€ Thinking about that now, compared to the vast and varied content available at the touch of a button, it feels like a story from another century.

    So, what were you watching on 19th November 1975? Did you love the warm familiarity of Nationwide or the sports-filled excitement of Sportsnight? Or perhaps Boy Dominic rings a bell?

    Let me knowā€”Iā€™d love to hear your memories.

    Oliver

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  • Hello, 70s TV lovers! Welcome to a brand-new episode of My 70ā€™s TV Childhood Quiz! Weā€™re excited to take you on another journey through the colourful, quirky, and unforgettable world of British TV in the 1970s. Get ready for four rounds packed with nostalgia, surprises, and a few fresh twists!

    First up is Round One: Animal Magic, where weā€™ll test your memory of the famous four-legged (and sometimes winged!) friends that brightened our screens. How many of these iconic animal stars can you remember?

    Next, we move on to Round Two: Marathon - Fil Rouge, where we revisit episodes from the podcast. Do you remember the dynamic duo from Vision On, or that cheeky troublemaker from the Tufty Club who was always getting into scrapes? This round is a little treat for our loyal listeners!

    Then itā€™s time for Round Three: Mystery Voice, an exciting new addition! Weā€™ll play you snippets from legendary voices of the 70sā€”think you can recognise them just by sound? Listen closely and see if you can identify each one!

    And finally, Round Four: TV Times brings you a whirlwind of trivia from the golden age of television. From The Six Wives of Henry VIII to Worzel Gummidge, itā€™s a round that will put your memory to the test!

    Weā€™re also gearing up for our Christmas quiz, and weā€™d love your input! Weā€™re looking for the very best questions from our listeners. Send your favourite questions and answers to [email protected], and you might see them featured in our festive special!

    So, how did you do? Let us know! And if you enjoyed this episode, why not share the fun with a friend and keep the 70s TV spirit alive?

    Until next time, take care and happy quizzing!

    Oliver

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