Michael Palin drew on his own memories of family holidays in grey, provincial seaside resorts for this coming of age comedy set in the late 1950s. Sleepy, ultra-respectable Suffolk might suit his parents, but sitting in deckchairs and visiting local churches is not 17-year-old Richard’s idea of fun. In this holiday hell he meets fellow teenager, Edwin – young, good-looking and girl-crazy, and willing to take the naïve Richard under his wing…

Escaping the seaside stalag B&B and its gargoyle of a landlady, as well as the gruesome couple whom his parents have invariably befriended, Richard joins Edwin in a desperate search for excitement in this stuffy coastal town.

Soon, a gorgeous young woman who instantly ignites his imagination, a feisty young Dutch girl and a group of local bikers, make the holiday an eye-opening experience as Richard finally discovers love, lust and the joy of jazz cafés.

Produced By Innes Lloyd Directed By Tristram Powell Written By Michael Palin

Specially composed music by George Fenton. MCPS

Written by Michael Palin

Originally Transmitted 01/02/1987