A Bit Of A Do. Ted Simcock (David Jason). Copyright: Yorkshire Television
A Bit Of A Do

A Bit Of A Do

  • TV sitcom / comedy drama
  • ITV1
  • 1989
  • 13 episodes (2 series)

A David Nobbs-penned comedy about class and how it affects people's actions and opinions. Also features David Jason, Gwen Taylor, Nicola Pagett, Paul Chapman, Stephanie Cole and more.

Character guide

A Bit Of A Do. Ted Simcock (David Jason). Copyright: Yorkshire Television

Ted Simcock

Foundry owner.   Played by: David Jason

Ted is married to Rita and they have two grown-up children together but this has not stopped him from cheating on her several times. His latest indiscretion comes with Liz.

He is very proud of his foundry business and places considerable importance on the respect that this brings him in society.

A Bit Of A Do. Rita Simcock (Gwen Taylor). Copyright: Yorkshire Television

Rita Simcock

Housewife.   Played by: Gwen Taylor

Rita has, for many years, existed solely as Ted's wife but his latest infidelity causes her to become more independent. She also has to cope with the death of her father and mother and these factors lead to her becoming a stronger person.

A Bit Of A Do. Liz Rodenhurst (Nicola Pagett). Copyright: Yorkshire Television

Liz Rodenhurst

AKA: Liz Badger.  Played by: Nicola Pagett

Trapped in a loveless marriage with Laurence for years, Liz seeks comfort and fulfilment in the arms of other men. Her latest dalliance is with Ted and leads to her falling pregnant.

A Bit Of A Do. Laurence Rodenhurst (Paul Chapman). Copyright: Yorkshire Television

Laurence Rodenhurst (Series 1)

Dentist.   Played by: Paul Chapman

Laurence accepts that his wife is unsatisfied and also accepts that she will have affairs with other men. He is more concerned however, with his public image and standing in society. When news of Liz and Ted's relationship becomes public, Laurence must try to cope with the damage that it does to his pride and reputation.

A Bit Of A Do. Betty Sillitoe (Stephanie Cole). Copyright: Yorkshire Television

Betty Sillitoe

Played by: Stephanie Cole

Betty is blissfully happily married to Rodney and they are rarely seen apart. They are both loyal friends to the Simcocks and the only slight blot on their marriage is their tendency to get drunk at public functions.

A Bit Of A Do. Rodney Sillitoe (Tim Wylton). Copyright: Yorkshire Television

Rodney Sillitoe

Chicken farm owner.   Played by: Tim Wylton

Rodney manages a successful chicken farm and is devoted to Betty. He is frequently subjected to Jenny's views on farming however, and this makes him reconsider his business.

A Bit Of A Do. Neville Badger (Michael Jayston). Copyright: Yorkshire Television

Neville Badger

Solicitor.   Played by: Michael Jayston

Neville has been left bereaved following the recent death of his beloved wife Jane. He still finds it difficult to talk about her and to attend functions but this doesn't stop him from being desired by more than one woman.

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