Series 1, Episode 1 - Homeward Bound
Patrick and his family move back to his hometown. Whilst exploring the local area, Patrick and his daughter Charlie bump into some old school friends.
Further details
Patrick and his daughter, Charlie, settle into their new home whilst Helen, Patrick's wife, is away on business. When they realise they have no kitchen fitted, they go out to explore the area and find the local Fish and Chip Shop.
Billy goes to fix a pipe at Joe and Maria's pub and then to his ex-wife Moira's house to fix her doorknob. Despite being out of work, he refuses money and will only take payment in kind (a pint and some chips).
Patrick grew up and went to school in this area, and immediately recognises an old school friend, Billy, from across the street but it nearly lands him in trouble. They reminisce over old times but time seems to have distorted their memories.
Moira offers Billy's services to fit Patrick and Helen's kitchen, but Patrick feels awkward because he doesn't want Billy to refuse money when he's out of work, but equally he doesn't want to pay him if he's no good. Patrick is very wary of 'cowboy' plumbers and tries to exert his authority over Billy. Billy is disgusted to find out that Patrick is not just a teacher, but an unemployed teacher! Despite their initial problems with each other, their friendship is soon renewed and strengthened (over a few pints.) The episode ends with Patrick, Moira and Billy toasting Joe and Maria's 12 years of running the pub.
Broadcast details
- Date
- Friday 20th July 2001
- Time
- 11:30am
- Channel
- BBC Radio 4
- Length
- 30 minutes
Upcoming repeats
- Friday 8th November 2024 at 2:30pm on Radio 4 Extra
- Friday 8th November 2024 at 8:30pm on Radio 4 Extra
- Saturday 9th November 2024 at 4:30am on Radio 4 Extra
Cast & crew