The Rag Trade. Image shows from L to R: Harold Fenner (Peter Jones), Paddy Fleming (Miriam Karlin). Copyright: BBC
The Rag Trade

The Rag Trade

  • TV sitcom
  • BBC One / ITV1
  • 1961 - 1978
  • 58 episodes (5 series)

Each working day at Fenner's Fashions is a new struggle between the management and the workers. Stars Peter Jones, Miriam Karlin, Reg Varney, Christopher Beeny, Esma Cannon and more.

The Rag Trade trivia

In 1975, the BBC filmed a new pilot episode for a potential revival, starring Tony Robinson in Reg Varney's previous role. Unbroadcast and uncommissioned, writers Wolfe and Chesney took the programme to London Weekend Television, who made two further series from 1977. Tony Robinson starred in Reg Varney's foreman role.

Episode titles for Series 2 and 3 were only publicised on repeat broadcasts.

Previously Fleming, in Series 4 Episode 11, Paddy's surname is given as Howard.

Throughout the two ITV series - 4 and 5 - there are references to Harold and Paddy having previously had a casual affair, but there had been no hint of any romantic or sexual past, chemistry or liasons during the first two BBC series.

In Series 1, Barbara Windsor's character name is given as Gloria. When she returns in a more major role during Series 3, she is named Judy whilst Carmel Cryan plays Gloria.

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