Product ID: PSCO
Control Number: 7745923
Parsley Sidings 21 Episodes
Parsley Sidings is a witty and whimsical British radio sitcom that finds its brilliance in the mundane, often absurd world of the British Railways. Set at a remote, sleepy railway station somewhere in the Midlands, the program follows the daily frustrations of the station master, Horace Hepplewhite, as he battles incompetent staff, eccentric passengers, and the ever looming threat of modernization. It is a masterclass in ensemble comedy, relying on sharp wordplay and a deep understanding of the "small town" mentality that makes every minor delay feel like a national crisis.
The shows brilliance lies in its focus on the "little man" struggling against a vast, uncaring system. Rather than high stakes drama, the comedy stems from the rhythmic bickering between the staff and Horace’s desperate attempts to maintain a sense of dignity in a station where the trains rarely seem to arrive on time. It is a world of steaming kettles, lost luggage, and the hilarious, cyclical dialogue that turned the British rail system into a playground for the imagination.
The program is celebrated for its rich characterizations and its ability to turn a static setting into a vibrant comedic hub. Horace Hepplewhite was a character who resonated with listeners because he represented the classic "middle management" figure trying to please his superiors while managing a team that was perpetually distracted by tea breaks and local gossip. The show humanized the workplace, proving that even the most repetitive jobs can be a source of profound and enduring laughter.
The Stars
Arthur Lowe: Best known for his iconic role in Dad’s Army , Lowe brought his peerless timing and huffy, self important persona to Horace Hepplewhite. His delivery of pompous indignation made him the perfect anchor for the show.
Ian Lavender: Reunited with Lowe, Lavender played Horace’s son, Bert, a dim witted but well meaning station hand. Their chemistry provided a hilarious paternal dynamic that drove many of the shows best moments.
Kenneth Connor: A veteran of the Carry On films, Connor provided a masterclass in vocal versatility, playing the ancient and often unintelligible station porter, Percy Valentine, along with several other eccentric characters.
Bill Pertwee: Another Dad’s Army alumnus, Pertwee rounded out the cast as the station’s rival and occasional foil, ensuring the dialogue remained fast paced and competitive.
Created by Jim Eldridge, the scripts were noted for their clever use of puns, misunderstandings, and the specific jargon of the railway, which added a layer of authentic charm to the absurdity.
Key Dates
First Broadcast: 1971
Final Broadcast: 1973
Network: BBC Radio 4
Episode Length: Approximately 30 minutes
Format: Situation comedy
Other Information
Parsley Sidings is notable for being one of the final great "traditional" radio sitcoms produced before the medium shifted toward more experimental formats in the late 1970s. For OTR collectors, these recordings are a precious look at a "dream team" of British comedic talent working at the height of their powers. The show is often cited for its cozy, nostalgic atmosphere, evoking a simpler time in travel and public service.
Because the humor is rooted in the universal themes of workplace frustration and the endearing quirks of human personality, the show remains a delightful and highly relatable listen today. It offers a witty, warm, and consistently funny look at the life of a station that time and the express train almost forgot.
This collection comes preloaded on a USB stick, allowing you to easily transfer all episodes to the device of your choice. Enjoy seamless playback a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern convenience.
Suggested Retail Price: $12.49
Mice Price: $9.24
Length: 10
Width: 1
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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