Open All Hours - Fifty Years of Laughter

Open All Hours - Fifty Years of Laughter
"Open All Hours" is a British sitcom created and written by Roy Clarke, which aired on the BBC from 1976 to 1985, spanning four series and 26 episodes. The show centers on the life of Arkwright, a miserly and eccentric shopkeeper played by Ronnie Barker, and his long-suffering errand boy and nephew, Granville, portrayed by David Jason.

Plot and Characters
Arkwright is known for his penny-pinching ways and his constant scheming to make more money, often at the expense of his customers and his nephew. He runs a small corner shop in a suburb of Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Arkwright's most notable characteristic is his stammer, which adds to his quirky and humorous persona. He is also infatuated with Nurse Gladys Emmanuel, played by Lynda Baron, who lives across the road and often resists his clumsy romantic advances.

Granville, on the other hand, is a dreamer who feels trapped by his uncle's tight grip on both the shop and his life. He frequently daydreams about a better life and often gets into trouble due to Arkwright's penny-pinching antics. Granville's character brings a sense of youthful yearning and a touch of melancholy to the series.

Production and Filming Locations
The series was filmed on location in Balby, a suburb of Doncaster, with exterior shots taking place on Lister Avenue. The shop used for filming was actually a hairdresser's salon. The interior scenes were shot in a studio with a live audience, adding to the show's lively and engaging atmosphere.

Legacy and Sequel
"Open All Hours" was followed by a sequel, "Still Open All Hours," which began airing in 2013. This series continues the story with Granville, now grown up and running the shop after Arkwright's death, alongside his son Leroy, played by James Baxter. "Still Open All Hours" maintains the charm of the original while introducing new characters and scenarios.

Reception
The original series was highly popular and is considered a classic of British television comedy. It ranked eighth in the 2004 Britain's Best Sitcom poll, highlighting its enduring appeal and the affection in which it is held by audiences. The show's humor, characterized by its gentle, character-driven comedy and memorable performances, has left a lasting impact on British popular culture.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Wikipedia pages for Open All Hours and Still Open All Hours, as well as the British Comedy Guide's episode list for a comprehensive overview of the series.

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