Ken Smith

This is one of the classics of British comedy - a perfect mix of off-beat Geordie humour reflecting a way of life in working class Newcastle long since vanished. We have the street-wise Terry unable, or not wishing, to break away from his Tyneside roots playing off against the more sophisticated Bob who is endeavouring , with Thelma, to break into the Darras Hall set, but not quite getting there. Bob, in many ways, has a lot to answer forIn later years James Bolam refused to appear on a reunion of The Likely Lads on Television - shame on him - he appears to have a short memory - it was playing the part of Terry Collier that launched his career. He should not forget that or the able support given by his colleagues.