My 70's TV Childhood

I’m not sure what possessed me to venture into the dusty cellar this week, but I’m glad I did. Deep in the archives of My 70’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 70’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 forgotten—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 I’ll admit, it’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 all—Granny, for example, might have disapproved of its “immorality.” 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 know—I’d love to hear your memories.OliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Hello, 70s TV lovers! Welcome to a brand-new episode of My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz! We’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 we’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 it’s time for Round Three: Mystery Voice, an exciting new addition! We’ll play you snippets from legendary voices of the 70s—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, it’s a round that will put your memory to the test!We’re also gearing up for our Christmas quiz, and we’d love your input! We’re looking for the very best questions from our listeners. Send your favourite questions and answers to quiz@my70stvchildhood.com, 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!OliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood! In today’s episode, we’re on a wild ride through the zany five-minute gems that made British teatime magical in the 1970s. Just before the news, these teatime treats burst onto our screens, packing unforgettable characters and stories into a few short minutes. From the peculiar Hector fussing over his garden, to Dougal’s dry wit on The Magic Roundabout, to Ludwig’s bizarre egg-shaped antics, each one brought something unique, and sometimes a bit strange, to our living rooms.Take Hector’s House—Hector the meticulous dog was all about keeping order, with Kiki the Frog and Madame Zaza the Cat stirring things up just enough to keep us laughing. Meanwhile, The Magic Roundabout gave us surreal humour mixed with wisdom as Dougal the dog, Florence, and Zebedee took us on quirky adventures. And let’s not forget The Wombles, recycling Wimbledon Common’s rubbish long before it was cool—teaching us all to find treasure in the trash!Then there was Ivor the Engine, the little Welsh steam train chugging through gentle tales of dragons and runaway donkeys. And what about Captain Pugwash, the bumbling pirate whose “fearless” antics always needed Tom the cabin boy’s help? It was the perfect mix of pirate mischief and wit.In the world of Crystal Tipps and Alistair, everything was a rainbow-coloured, wordless adventure with groovy music to match. Or Barbapapa, the shape-shifting blobs who turned every story into a kaleidoscope of transformations. And for pure, delightful oddity, there was Ludwig, the glass egg who played classical violin while saving woodland creatures—unforgettable in the most surreal way.Of course, there’s no teatime without Paddington Bear, whose kind-hearted mischief became a British icon. With his marmalade sandwiches and a sense of wonder, Paddington made teatime that much sweeter.These five-minute marvels were more than just shows—they were little daily escapes into worlds of humour, adventure, and pure imagination. Want to share your memories of these unique characters? Let us know on our blog, Facebook, or Twitter! Your stories make this nostalgia journey even better.Take care,OliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Welcome to the latest episode of My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz! Today, we’re taking another nostalgic journey through the 1970s, revisiting unforgettable moments from British TV. In this episode, we’ve got four rounds packed with fun and challenging questions about classic 70s TV. Whether you’re here for the first time or you’re a seasoned listener, it’s all just for fun—so come along and test your knowledge!We kick things off with a Halloween special that returns to some chilling 70s classics, from the frights of Tales of the Unexpected to spooky moments like the faceless nun from Armchair Thriller. And for the true fans—do you know who originally voiced Shaggy in Scooby Doo? This round is definitely for you!Next, we’ll revisit memorable shows and personalities we’ve covered on the podcast, such as The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club, Rainbow, and Happy Days. We’ll bring back episodes from My 70’s TV Childhood to test your memory of iconic characters and unforgettable moments.Then, we’ll have our Spin the Wheel/Name That Tune mash up,  where we play five theme tunes from shows that aired in 1979. Think you can name them all? It’s a test of your tune-spotting skills to see just how well you know your 70s soundtracks!Finally, we’ll wrap up with a tribute to 70s TV trivia, featuring questions that explore everything from iconic characters in Space: 1999 to theme song composers and the beloved gardener Percy Thrower from Blue Peter. This round is perfect for any trivia enthusiast.And don’t forget this week’s bonus question! We’re asking about a classic children’s show that’s been a BBC favourite since 1972 and is still going strong. If you think you know the answer, email us at quiz@my70stvchildhood.com, and don’t miss your chance to contribute to our upcoming Christmas quiz!Tune in to relive these classic moments with us. If you enjoy the episode, why not tell a friend and share the joy of revisiting 70s TV together? Until next time, keep those memories alive, and we’ll see you soon for more from My 70’s TV Childhood!Take careOliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood! This episode is an absolute treat for fans of 1970s British sci-fi as we take a journey into the time-bending world of Timeslip.But before we leap into the past—or the future—I’m thrilled to announce some fantastic news! We’ve been shortlisted for Best TV and Film Podcast at the UK Independent Podcast Awards for the second consecutive year! It’s a real honour, and I want to thank each and every one of you for your continued support. We couldn’t have made it this far without you!Now, onto the show! In this episode, we’re revisiting Timeslip, a lesser-known gem from 1970s British television. Airing in 1970, this sci-fi series followed two teenagers, Simon (played by Spencer Banks) and Liz (played by Cheryl Burfield), who stumble upon a mysterious time barrier and are suddenly thrust into different time periods and even parallel universes.Timeslip was not just your average adventure show. It cleverly mixed scientific ideas with deep philosophical themes like ageing, identity, and memory—heady stuff for a children's program! One storyline that left a lasting impression on me was "The Time of the Ice Box," where Simon and Liz meet their future selves. The concept of seeing what you might become was both exciting and a little unsettling, especially as a young viewer.We’ll also chat about those iconic 1970s special effects, which, while simple by today’s standards, had their own charm and magic. The time barrier might have been created using basic lighting tricks, but it transported us to different worlds, capturing the imagination of a generation.And, of course, we can’t forget the incredible performances from Spencer Banks and Cheryl Burfield, who really brought Simon and Liz’s adventures to life. They made us believe in the emotional weight of their journey, as much as the thrilling escapades through time.Although Timeslip only lasted for 26 episodes, its legacy has endured, especially for those of us who fondly remember the thought-provoking questions it raised about the future and the choices we make in life.I’d love to hear your memories of Timeslip. Did it inspire your love for time travel? Or were you captivated by its deeper themes? Let me know by sharing your thoughts on our blog or social media!Take care,OliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Welcome to another episode of My 70’s TV Childhood, the podcast where we take a nostalgic look back at the television and memories of growing up in 1970s Britain. Today, we bring you quiz number 29, filled with questions about the TV shows, characters, and actors who defined our childhoods. It’s an Octoberfest special, so expect to encounter some iconic figures linked to the month of October.This quiz will test your knowledge across several rounds, starting with our Octoberfest Round. We’re celebrating the birthdays of some unforgettable TV stars born in October, including Brian Blessed, Bob Hoskins, Roger Moore, and Michael Gambon—guaranteed to stir memories of classic 70s television.Next, we move on to the Marathon - Fil Rouge Round, revisiting some of the TV shows we’ve discussed in previous episodes. With questions on Rentaghost, Mr. Benn, Rainbow, Follyfoot, and Crackerjack or CRACKERJACK!!!!! -  well that's the way it sounds in my head.Then, it’s time for the Spin the Wheel/Name That Tune Round, featuring questions on theme tunes from 1978! You might remember the tune, but can you name the show?Finally, our TV Times Round will test your knowledge of classic 70s TV in a big way.Don’t miss the Bonus Question this week! In 1975, ITV released a sitcom set in Liverpool about a sailor who returned home after two years at sea. It starred Ken Jones, alongside Alison Steadman and a young Keith Chegwin. It was so poorly received that the final episode was never aired. What was it called?We’d love for you to get involved in our Christmas Quiz this year—submit your quiz questions at quiz@my70stvchildhood.com and don’t forget to share your scores with us on social media or by email. Thanks for listening!Contact us on:Facebook @My 70s TV ChildhoodTwitter @70sTVChildhoodYouTube @my70stvchildhoodBlog at my70stvchildhood.comEmail at  Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.comTake care, OliverGet in touch!Support the show

Welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood! I’m Oliver Colling, and this episode holds a special place in my heart.Before we dive into the wonderful world of Tony Hart, I’d like to take a moment to dedicate this episode to my dear friend, Anthony Martin, who sadly passed away suddenly on September 18th, 2024. Anthony was a great fan of this podcast, always excited to join in on our quizzes—even if he didn't always get the answers right! We will truly miss you, Anthony. This episode is for you.I wanted to also share that we’ve been recognised in the podcast industry for the second consecutive year! We’ve been shortlisted for Best TV and Film Podcast at the UK Independent Podcast Awards, with the winner to be announced at the glamorous ceremony later this month. Thank you to all our listeners for your incredible support that has helped us reach this milestone!That’s not all! We were also featured on BBC Radio 2 in their Midnight Mastermind segment, where I had the pleasure of challenging host Phil Williams with three questions about Trumpton. If you’d like to catch the segment, it’s available on BBC Sounds from the OJ Borg show aired on September 20, 2024. You can find us about 26 minutes into the episode. I’ll also share a link to the audio on our blog for easy access. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!Now, let’s journey back to the happy times of the 60's, 70's  and early 1980s, when Tony Hart was a household name and a source of inspiration for countless budding young artists. His gentle and encouraging style made art accessible to everyone, leaving a lasting impression on British television.Tony introduced us to the joys of drawing, painting, and creativity, making it feel like anyone could create something beautiful. For many children, his show was the first step toward a lifelong passion for art.We’ll also reminisce about his collaborations with beloved characters like Morph and the brilliant animation team that brought these ideas to life. Tony’s iconic sketches, delivered with charm and warmth, sparked creativity in living rooms across the UK. And who could forget that wonderful theme music that would lull us into a dreamy state as we admired the artwork of other children in the gallery? Each week, Tony took us on a delightful artistic journey, inspiring us to explore our own creativity.If you have any memories of watching Tony Hart or were inspired by his creativity, I’d love to hear from you. Let us know your thoughts by commenting on our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com or joining the conversation on social media.Take care, OliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Hello, and welcome back to The My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz! This week, I’m bringing you 20 brand new questions across four rounds, all celebrating 1970s television.In Round One, titled “And Just Before the News...”, we’re diving into those five-minute shows that used to air just before the teatime news on BBC 1 during the 1970s.Round Two is our “Marathon or Fil Rouge” round, where all the questions are based on topics we’ve covered in previous podcast episodes. If you’re a regular listener, you might have a bit of an advantage here.For Round Three, we’ve got the fan-favourite “Name That Tune” round. I’ll spin our wheel to pick a random year from the 1970s, and our AI-powered theme tune generator will give us five theme tunes from shows that premiered in that year. Let’s see how many you can guess!Finally, in Round Four, we have “TV Times”, where I’ll ask you some random trivia questions about anything and everything 1970s television.Bonus Question: Like many other families, we rented our TV from Radio Rentals for many years. What was the brand name of the television sets provided by the company? Send your answers to quiz@my70stvchildhood.com.Last Week’s Bonus Question: In what month and year did the BBC’s Ceefax teletext service go live? The answer is: September 1974.Thank you for joining me for another quiz! Whether you aced it or found some stumpers along the way, I hope you’ve enjoyed taking a trip back to the 70s.I’ll be back next week with another podcast episode, and in two weeks with the next quiz. Don’t forget to like, rate, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!Contact us on:Facebook @My 70s TV ChildhoodTwitter @70sTVChildhoodYouTube @my70stvchildhoodBlog at my70stvchildhood.comEmail at  Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.comTake care, OliverGet in touch!Support the show

In this episode of My 70’s TV Childhood, we return to  the much-loved 1970s British sitcom The Good Life. By popular request from listener Danny (thank you, Danny!), we reminisce about the journey of Tom and Barbara Good as they trade in suburban comfort for a life of self-sufficiency. Created by the brilliant duo Bob Larbey and John Esmonde, The Good Life captured audiences with its wit, charm, and sharp social commentary.Join us as we explore the origins of the show, the incredible chemistry between its stars—Richard Briers, Felicity Kendal, Paul Eddington, and Penelope Keith—and the lasting legacy of its themes. From Pinky and Perky the pigs to the infamous peapod burgundy, The Good Life delivered laughs and more than a dose of charm..First airing between 1975 and 1978, the show tackled issues like sustainability and self-sufficiency—concepts that resonate even more today. Tom and Barbara were truly ahead of their time!Whether you remember watching The Good Life as a family or have rediscovered it in reruns, this episode is sure to bring back some fond memories.Let us know your thoughts by commenting on our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com or joining the conversation on social media!Take care, OliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Hello, and welcome back to The My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz! This week, I’m bringing you 20 brand new questions across four rounds, all celebrating 1970s television.In Round One, titled “Variety Pack,” we’ll dive into questions about the Royal Variety Performance, a huge TV event in the 1970s that entertained millions of viewers across the UK.Next is our “Marathon or Fil Rouge” round, where we look back at topics we’ve covered in previous episodes of the podcast. If you’re a long-time listener, this round should feel like home turf.Then we’re spinning the wheel again for our famous “Name That Tune” round, where our AI-powered theme tune generator will take us back to TV shows that ended in 1979. I’ll play five theme tunes, and you’ll see how many you can guess!Finally, we’ve got “TV Times,” a general trivia round with questions covering anything and everything about 1970s television.Bonus Question: In 2012, the BBC’s Ceefax teletext service was decommissioned. In what month and year did it go live on BBC television? Send your answers to quiz@my70stvchildhood.com.Last Week’s Bonus Question: What was the name of the Dennis Potter play pulled from broadcast in 1976 and shown for the first time in 1987? The answer is: Brimstone and Treacle.Thank you for joining me for another quiz! Whether you aced it or found it tricky, I hope you’ve enjoyed testing your knowledge of 1970s TV. Don’t forget to like, rate, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!Take care,OliverContact us:Facebook: @My 70s TV ChildhoodTwitter: @70sTVChildhoodYouTube: @my70stvchildhoodBlog: my70stvchildhood.comEmail: Oliver@my70stvchildhood.comGet in touch!Support the show

Welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood! Today, we're returning to the colourful and somewhat surreal world of Rainbow, one of the most iconic children’s television shows of the 1970s. As regular listeners know, our podcast is all about the magic of growing up in 1970s Britain, when TV was a central part of our daily lives and a source of endless fascination for kids across the country.Rainbow, a show that first aired in October 1972 on ITV, produced by Thames Television. Unlike many children's shows of the time, Rainbow stood out for its unique format, combining education, music, and a quirky cast of characters who quickly became household names. We’ll look back at the earliest days of Rainbow, starting with the show's original presenter, David Cook, and how it evolved over the years, especially with the arrival of Geoffrey Hayes, who became the face of the show.One of the show's most memorable aspects was its eclectic mix of characters: Bungle, the oversized bear with a penchant for goody two shoes behaviour (and a somewhat terrifying original costume), Zippy, the loud-mouthed puppet with a zip for a mouth, and George, the shy, soft-spoken pink hippo who often played peacemaker. We’ll explore how these characters interacted, entertained, and occasionally terrified their young audience.Rainbow was also known for its music, from its psychedelic opening theme to the many songs performed by various musical groups over the years, including the beloved trio, Rod, Jane, and Freddy. Ah, the joys of 70s television!If you have any memories of watching Rainbow—whether it’s the early episodes with David Cook, the antics of Zippy, or the songs that you still hum to this day—we’d love to hear from you! Visit our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com, or connect with us on Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube, or LinkedIn. You can also email me directly at oliver@my70stvchildhood.com.Join us next week for another round of our 70s TV trivia quiz, and don’t forget to tune in for our regular podcast in two weeks' time. Take care, and remember to like, rate, and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts!Take care,OliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Hello, and welcome back to The My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz! This week, we bring you 20 brand new questions across four rounds, celebrating all things 1970s television.In Round One, “Back to School,” we’re returning to schools, just in time for the Autumn term!  Whether you loved or loathed your school days, we’ve got some questions to jog your memory.Round Two is our "Marathon or Fil Rouge" round, with questions based on topics we've covered in past podcast episodes. Don’t worry if you haven’t heard them all—take your best guess!In Round Three, we return to the fan-favourite “Spin the Wheel and Name That Tune.” We’ll spin our wheel to pick a random year from the 1970s, and our AI-powered theme tune generator will play five theme tunes from shows that premiered that year.Finally, in Round Four, we bring you “TV Times,” where anything goes, as long as it’s 70s TV trivia!And don’t forget this week’s bonus question: What was the name of the Dennis Potter play that was pulled from broadcast at the last minute in 1976 and was finally shown for the first time in 1987? Send your answers to quiz@my70stvchildhood.com.Thank you for playing along—whether you aced it or found a few stumpers, we hope you’ve enjoyed this nostalgic trip back to the 70s!We’ll be back next week with another podcast episode and in two weeks with the next quiz. Until then, keep enjoying your 70s TV memories, and don’t forget to like, rate, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!Contact us on:Facebook @My 70s TV ChildhoodTwitter @70sTVChildhoodYouTube @my70stvchildhoodBlog at my70stvchildhood.comEmail at  Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.comTake care, OliverGet in touch!Support the show

Welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood! Today, we’re returning to the quirky world of Little Big Time, a show that took a unique approach to children’s television in the 70s. As many of you know, our podcast explores the magic of growing up in 1970s Britain—a time when families gathered around the box, and TV was a relatively new and exciting phenomenon for us Brits.Today, we’re revisiting Little Big Time, a show that featured a curious blend of pop music and madcap sketches. Unlike today’s stars like Taylor Swift, who fill massive arenas, pop stars of the 70s were more accessible, often appearing on various TV shows, from children’s programming to mainstream hits like Top of the Pops.One show that stands out in my memory is Little Big Time. Airing on ITV, it was a vibrant, slightly chaotic mix of comedy, music, and dance, set in a circus-like auditorium. The show, which premiered in 1968, was meant to boost Freddie and the Dreamers’ popularity, following their last big hit in 1964. The show included an eclectic range of acts and sketches, and despite its ambitions, it has left only scattered fragments in our collective memory.If you have any insights or memories of Little Big Time—or just want to share your thoughts on 70s TV—drop us a line. Visit our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com, or connect with us on Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube, or LinkedIn. You can also email me at oliver@my70stvchildhood.com.Join us next week for our quiz episode, and don’t miss our regular podcast in two weeks. Take care, and don’t forget to like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts!Take care,OliverContact us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Hello, and welcome back to The My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz. This week, we’re celebrating our 25th quiz with 20 fresh questions across four rounds, all focused on the unforgettable TV of the 1970s.In Round One, "Blue Peter Badge," we’ll start with five questions about the iconic children’s show, Blue Peter. Test your knowledge on one of the most beloved shows of our childhoods.Next, in Round Two, it’s time for our "Marathon or Fil Rouge" round. We’re diving into questions about topics we’ve discussed in past podcast episodes. Don’t worry if you haven’t listened to them all—you can still take a guess!For Round Three, we’re combining "Spin the Wheel" with "Name That Tune" in a special mashup. We’ll spin the wheel to select a random year from the 1970s, and our AI-powered theme tune generator will play five theme tunes from TV shows that first aired in that year. Finally, in Round Four, it’s our "TV Times" round, where anything goes as long as it’s related to 1970s television.And don’t forget this week’s bonus question: Which of these characters did not appear in the first episode of Grange Hill? Was it Benny Green, Tucker Jenkins, Judy Preston, Michael Doyle, or Alan Hargreaves? Send your answers to quiz@my70stvchildhood.com.Thanks for playing along with us—whether you aced it or found a few tricky ones, we hope you’ve enjoyed the journey through 70s TV nostalgia.We’ll be back next week with another podcast episode and in two weeks with the next quiz. Until then, keep enjoying your 70s TV memories, and don’t forget to like, rate, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!Contact us on:Facebook @My 70s TV ChildhoodTwitter @70sTVChildhoodYouTube @my70stvchildhoodBlog at my70stvchildhood.comEmail at  Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.comTake care, OliverGet in touch!Support the show

Hello and welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood. Today we’re celebrating one of the most beloved characters from 1970s British television—Basil Brush. Who could forget his signature “Boom Boom!”!  Basil Brush was more than just a puppet; he was a TV icon.In this episode, we explore Basil’s journey from his early days as a sidekick on The Three Scampies to becoming the star of his own show by 1968. With his cheeky humour, sharp wit, and those unforgettable interactions with his human co-stars, Basil captured the hearts of viewers across the nation. He became a symbol of 70s entertainment.We’ll also take a fond look back at The Basil Brush Show, where Basil’s banter with his human co-stars, most notably Mr. Derek and later Mr. Roy brought laughter and warmth to living rooms across the nation. The show’s blend of humour, music, and storytelling made it a favourite for both children and adults alike.Basil Brush also subtly reflected the social changes of the 70s, addressing contemporary issues while maintaining a light-hearted and fun tone, delivering laughs and lessons in equal measure.Join us as we revisit the antics of this iconic character, explore his impact on 70s TV, and uncover why Basil Brush remains a nostalgic favourite to this day.Don’t forget to share your own memories of Basil Brush or any other 70s TV favourites on our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com. You can also connect with us on social media or drop me an email at oliver@my70stvchildhood.com.Next week, we’ll be bringing you our 70’s TV trivia quiz, and in two weeks, don’t miss our next episode of My 70’s TV Childhood.Until then,Take care Oliver……Boom Boom!!Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Although we’re not live from Norwich, we’re still "The Quiz of the Week!"Hello and welcome back once again to the My 70’s TV Childhood Podcast. This week’s quiz has a special theme: 1970s quiz and game shows. As always, it’s just for fun and follows the usual format: 20 questions over four rounds, with a point for each correct answer. So grab a pen and paper, top up your drink and get ready to play.We start with Round One, called "Quiz Inquisitor," featuring five questions about the hosts of some iconic 70’s quiz and game shows.Next, we move to Round Two, which is our usual Fil Rouge round with questions based on topics we’ve covered in previous editions of the My 70’s TV Childhood podcast.For Round Three, we have a special game show-themed edition of our "Name That Tune" round. Our AI-powered theme tune generator is back online, so get ready to identify five theme tunes from classic 70’s UK game shows.Finally, Round Four is our TV Times general trivia round, but this week, all the questions are related to quiz and game shows.This week’s bonus question is about the legendary show "Sale of the Century," which achieved the highest-ever rating for an ITV game show on 22nd December 1978. Can you name the unusual event that boosted viewer numbers for this particular episode? Email your answers to quiz@my70stvchildhood.com.So how did you do? Are you ready to play for the car in The Sale of the Century or are you left with only a Blankety Blank chequebook and pen for comfort?" I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s quiz. If you enjoy the quiz and our podcast, please tell your friends and take time to like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. We’ll be back next week with our next podcast and in a fortnight with our next quiz. Until then, take care, and don’t forget to join us again soon for more from My 70’s TV Childhood and the My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz!Take care,OliverContact us on:Facebook @My 70s TV ChildhoodTwitter @70sTVChildhoodYouTube @my70stvchildhoodBlog at my70stvchildhood.comEmail at  Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.comGet in touch!Support the show

Hello and welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood. I’m Oliver Colling, and today’s episode is all about those unforgettable Public Information Films that shaped our lives in 1970s Britain. Remember Edward Judd’s “Think Bike” warning? Or the Green Cross Man, played by Dave “Darth Vader” Prowse? These films were not just memorable but also often shockingly brutal in their messaging.The Central Office of Information, established in 1946, produced these films to inform the public on various issues from health and welfare to safety. Their archive is now available via the British Film Institute, offering a unique insight into post-war British culture.Public Information Films were well-made, often featuring celebrities and high production values. They aimed to shape behaviour and keep us safe, albeit sometimes by terrifying us. From the dangers of old fridges to the chilling “The Finishing Line,” these films left a lasting impression.We also revisited classic characters like Tufty the squirrel and his road safety messages, as well as the infamous Jimmy Savile advising on seatbelt safety. These films taught us everything from road safety to avoiding hazards at home.Join us as we dive into the nostalgia and impact of these cinematic gems. Don’t forget to share your own memories on our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com, social media, or via email at oliver@my70stvchildhood.com.Next week, join us for our 70’s TV trivia quiz and in two weeks for another episode of My 70’s TV Childhood.Contact Us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Hello and welcome back once again to the My 70’s TV Childhood Podcast. Our quiz this week has a theme: Summer holidays. In the UK at the time of recording, schools are breaking up for holidays. To recreate the spirit of a 70’s TV Childhood Summer, all of our questions this week refer to the Summer holidays and the special TV shows that were put on to entertain us during the seemingly endless long school holidays.This week’s quiz follows the usual format: 20 questions over four rounds, with a point for each correct answer. So grab a pen and paper, top up your drink—I’ve got a gin and tonic this week as I’m recording on a weekend evening—and get ready to play.We start with Round One, called "Holiday Special," featuring five questions about TV shows shown during the 1970’s Summer holidays.Next, we move to Round Two, which is our usual Marathon or Fil Rouge round but with a holiday-themed twist. Interestingly, this round is named in honour of It’s A Knockout or Jeux Sans Frontières when it went on its summer holidays! All the questions relate to items we’ve mentioned in previous editions of our podcast, My 70’s TV Childhood.For Round Three, we would normally have our Spin The Wheel, Name That Tune combo mashup round featuring our AI-powered theme tune generator, but due to the CrowdStrike IT outage, we’ve gone back to pre-digital methods of Name That Tune! We have five signature tunes of shows regularly shown on UK TV during the Summer holidays.Finally, Round Four is our TV Times general trivia round, but this week, all of the questions have a connection to Summer holiday TV.This week’s bonus question is about a TV show that, although made in the 60s, was regularly shown during school holidays in the 70s. The Monkees was one such show. Can you name all the members of The Monkees (without cheating)? Email your answers to quiz@my70stvchildhood.com.How did you do? Whether you aced it or found it challenging, I hope you’ve enjoyed this time’s quiz. If you enjoy the quiz and our podcast, please tell your friends and take time to like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. We’ll be back next week with our next podcast and in a fortnight with our next quiz. Until then, take care, enjoy the Summer, and don’t forget to join us again soon for more from My 70’s TV Childhood and the My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz!Take care,OliverContact us on:Facebook @My 70s TV ChildhoodTwitter @70sTVChildhoodYouTube @my70stvchildhoodBlog at my70stvchildhood.comEmail at  Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.comGet in touch!Support the show

Hello and a warm welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood, where we celebrate growing up in 1970s Britain and reminisce about the pivotal role television played in our lives and our families' lives back then. It was an era when TV programs were a communal social experience—before streaming and catch-up services—where being in front of the box at the right time was crucial, or you'd miss out.Thank you to everyone who has shared their memories with us. Hearing from you means a lot, though I’m a bit behind on replies due to the demands of real life. If you want to reach out, visit our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or LinkedIn. You can also email me at oliver@my70stvchildhood.com. I'd love to hear your stories.Work has been hectic lately, and I’m sure many of you can relate to how it sometimes overtakes our personal time. I always try to switch off on weekends, now opting for a quiet Friday evening at home with my wife, enjoying a gin and tonic and a bowl of crisps—a far cry from my teenage years spent pub-hopping with friends. It's funny how perspectives change with age, isn't it?Thinking about Fridays in the 1970s as a child, it was always a special time—a break from school and a chance for more playtime with friends, visits to relatives, and, of course, TV.  After school, it was home to catch some children’s TV, where one show in particular always reminded us that the weekend had begun:Crackerjack! Crackerjack was a whirlwind of comedy, music, and quizzes, all performed live in front of an audience buzzing with energy—thanks in part to the fizzy drinks likely consumed pre-show. The audience's enthusiastic shouts of "Crackerjack!" were a trademark. Michael Aspel, Don Maclean, and Bernie Clifton reflected on its magic in a Radio 4 documentary.A BBC institution since 1955, Crackerjack had a lineup of legendary hosts: Eammon Andrews, Leslie Crowther, and later, Michael Aspel and Ed "Stewpot" Stewart. Each brought their unique style to the show, which became a Friday afternoon staple.The heart of Crackerjack was its lively cast: Jan Hunt, Don Maclean (not the singer!), and the unforgettable Peter Glaze. Glaze’s comedic timing and music hall roots made him a standout, whether he was doing a quick double take or enduring Maclean’s drumbeat on his stomach.The show wasn’t just laughs; it featured big-name musical guests and a beloved quiz segment, Double or Drop, where children from the audience faced off in increasingly difficult questions—balancing prizes with the risk of accumulating cabbages.As the show closed with its signature pencil giveaway, the weekend truly began. Crackerjack was a Friday institution, spanning generations until its 1984 finale, evolving with new hosts like Stu Francis and introducing quirky acts like The Krankies.Share your Crackerjack memories with us on our blog, social media, or via email. Join us next week for our 70’s TV quiz  and in two weeks for another podcast episode. Take care,OliverContact Us:Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]Blog: [Link]Facebook: [Link]Twitter: [Link]Youtube: [Link]Get in touch!Support the show

Hello and welcome back once again to the podcast world’s favourite quiz based on the award-shortlisted podcast My 70’s TV Childhood. Just because it’s the only one based on the podcast doesn’t make a difference, as I know how much you all enjoy playing along at home either on your own or with family and friends.This week’s quiz follows the usual format: 20 questions over four rounds, with a point for each correct answer. So grab a pen and paper, settle down with your favourite beverage, and get ready to play. This week, I’m sipping a Pina Colada made with fresh coconut milk—OK, I’m not really, I’ve got a cup of tea as usual.Our first round is called “Born on the Fourth of July.” As this episode is due to be released soon after American Independence Day, I’m going to ask you about five actors or actresses who were born on the 4th of July, and what I need you to tell me is what year they were born. Let’s get started.Then we have our Marathon or Fil Rouge round, where I ask you questions based on subjects that we have covered in our previous podcasts. If you haven’t listened to them all, and I don’t blame you if you haven’t, given we’ve recorded over one hundred episodes, then don’t worry, you should be able to have a guess at most of the questions.In the third round, it’s the Name That Tune round, where we use our specially constructed wheel of fate to choose a year from the 1970s, which I will then input into our AI-powered theme tune generator. It will select five signature tunes of TV shows first screened in the UK in that year. And this week, it’s 1977.And finally, this is our general trivia round called TV Times.How have you got on? Are you sitting on a large majority or have you lost your deposit? Whichever way, I hope you’ve enjoyed this time’s quiz.Join us again next week for our next podcast and in a fortnight for our next quiz. I look forward to seeing you again soon for more from My 70’s TV Childhood and the My 70’s TV Childhood Quiz!Take care,OliverContact us on:Facebook @My 70s TV ChildhoodTwitter @70sTVChildhoodYouTube @my70stvchildhoodBlog at my70stvchildhood.comEmail at  Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.comGet in touch!Support the show