A touch of class.
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"What did you do with your eyes?" This significant question came from a young relative recently, to whom I was describing the days when radio provided the bulk of home entertainment. I tried to explain how words and voices could stimulate the imagination, and how excellent some writers, actors and producers were at providing these entertainments.
Notable examples in this genre were to be heard on the BBC during the years 1938 to 1969, written by crime writer Francis Durbridge. His sleuth was a writer and amateur detective Paul Temple, ably supported by his charming wife Steve. Each case, serialized in half-hour episodes, presented the Temples investigating murder cases. The formula comprised frequent changes of scene and situation, danger, fast cars, dry martinis, meetings at lonely places, and the frequent appearance of a significant clue such as a gramophone record or a cocktail stirrer.
Playing the principal parts throughout what survives of the series were the highly accomplished and versatile actors Peter Coke and Marjorie Westbury. Adding to the magic provided by the voices and the sound effects was the theme music, "Coronation Scott" by Vivian Ellis.
"The Spencer Affair" is one of the best of the series. I was happy to acquire it recently in a new 3 CD reissue. In whatever format, this makes ideal entertainment, nowadays recommended for long car journeys, sleepless nights, or nostalgia buffs.
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Pure Nostalgia
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Remember the days before television invaded our lives and we listened to the radio (wireless). This was the stuff that entertained us nightly. Paul Temple first made his appearance on radio in 1938, but this set of 8 episodes was broadcast from November 1957 until January 1958. Paul Temple, aided by his wife Steve, help Sir Graham Forbes of Scotland Yard solve the mysterious death of Mary Diesler. No motive, no robbery, just the clue of a package containing a gramophone record and a note from the mysterious Spencer. The adventure rattles along for 3 and a half hours of sheer entertainment. I listened to it in the car and looked forward to the journey to work each day until Paul finally solved the mystery. Throughly recommended to all, especially the fans over 50 who will remember that haunting theme tune (Vivian Ellis' Coronation Scott). Ah, those were the days! There were 21 series broadcast over a period of 30 years, so I'm looking forward to more being released.
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