A Very Private Man

Synopsis

A young couple dream of moving to the Yorkshire Dales, with hilarious consequencesListen now to this delightful comedy from the archive starring Rodney Bewes (The Likely Lads) as David Parkinson, a young husband and a man with big dreams of country life.David and his wife Helen decided to swap the frenzy of Croydon for the serenity of the Yorkshire countryside. They dream of the idyllic life up north, and there is also the opportunity to escape the dreaded mother-in-law back down south… Having left without a forwarding address the couple hope for some peace - but there are obstacles to overcome. When they finally reach their new secluded home, David’s dream of isolation is even more remote. There are teething problems with country life and the couple’s relationship is put to the test. A romantic reconciliation meal does not quite go as planned and it’s panic stations for Helen as her mother arrives unannounced. Can she keep her and David apart? Helen prepares to celebrate her mother's birthday and David has fears for their marriage. Things go from bad to worse when a visit is planned by his mother which is enough to drive Helen to get back on the job ladder.Recorded in front of a live audience in Manchester and packed with north vs south jokes, this is a must listen for fans of The Likely Lads and Whatever Happened To The Likely Lads?Cast and creditsWritten by Terry GregsonProduced by Ron McDonnellDavid Parkinson - Rodney Bewes Helen Parkinson - Ann Bell Mrs Henderson - Daphne Oxenford Mrs Arthur - Paula Tildrook Mr Sands - Peter Wheeler Mrs Wilshaw - Marlene SidawayFirst Broadcast BBC Radio 4, 2nd February - 9th March 1981©2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd