Sorry! Not around much...

At the moment i am suffering a lot with my leg, as it hates this horrible cold weather we are having, but i just thought I'd pop on quickly and let you all know that I've not vanished off the face of the planet, I'm still here.

As soon as the weather starts getting warmer or my leg improves or both (i wish) then I'll be back, just keep on popping by and one day you'll have a nice surprise of something that wasn't there the last time you visited.

So in case i don't get back before Christmas i just want to wish everyone who visits all the best for the season, hope you all get what you want, and you have a peaceful one, and see you all back in 2009, (but i hope before then if i can).

Today we remember Ray Thaw

On 15th November 1944, Ray Thaw was born, today is the anniversary of Ray's birthday, and fans of John remember him with affection for all his help on the John Thaw site that he give. Rest in Peace Ray and today I'm also thinking of your family who will be remembering you today especially.

New releases on DVD in FRANCE!!

My friend Theresa has told me that Martine who lives in France, says the following are now on DVD over there, so hope this is of some help to our French friends:

The Sweeney

Inspector Morse

Kavanagh QC

If anyone has any information on releases in your country let me know and I'll post it here for everyone else.

My Top Ten The Sweeney Stories - No 4

Hello Everyone, sorry i've not been around much, would prefer to have given you these top ten over ten days, but as my leg is rather sore for me to sit at a pc at the moment and also looking after a kitten who is rather frisky to say the least, i'm getting a little side-tracked. But normal service will resume shortly.

Thou Shalt Not Kill… (First screened on UK TV on 24th November 1975, writer Ranald Graham.) Can Regan ensure people's safety in a deadly hostage situation when a bank robbery goes wrong?

John is at his absolute best, and shows Regan's angry side for not allowing him to catch the villians before deaths happen, a great story, Ronald Lacey is brilliant as one of the robbers, his final scene is truly harrowing, but for his character understandable.

My Top Ten The Sweeney Stories - No 5 Regan

Regan… (First screened on UK TV on 4th June 1974, writer Ian Kennedy Martin.) Jack Regan is a good cooper, but his tough, intuitive style is becoming unfashionable in Scotland Yard seeking a new, technocratic image. When a policeman is mysteriously murdered, Regan breaks all the rules to find the killer but he finds there are men in the Flying Squad equally prepared to break him.

I've never forgot watching this for the first time when it was screened, I'd not long been out of hospital and to watch John for part of the evening really made my day. I said to my mum that I thought Regan would make a good series, so wasn’t surprised when it was.

I really love this story, about this loner policeman (Regan) who really wants to nick villains his way, and not always by the book, but realises that he also needs help even though he doesn't really want to ask Carter for it.

The music for this story was excellent and very moody to show how Regan felt and thought, seeing him with the old lady who had lost her grandson, was beautifully done, and so tender, only John could give Regan the roughness but also the gentle side of his character, and it shows in this story. Brilliant

My Top Ten The Sweeney Stories - No 6 Messenger of the Gods

Ooops, what have you done?

Messenger of the Gods… (First screened on UK TV on 7th September 1978, writer Trevor Preston.) A huge consignment of mercury has been stolen and Regan and Carter believe 'Lukey Carter' was part of the gang. But Lukey has an alibi - on the night in question he was with a lady and it wasn't his wife-to-be.

This stars the lovely Diana Dors, and she steals this story from John and rightly so, I wouldn’t cross her, ha-ha!!

The scene where Regan helps carry her and puts her on the sofa and she’s sat on the cake, and gets up and slaps him, is so funny, but I bet that hurt, ouch!! Then poor Regan getting an ear full in the station from her, and doing a runner at the end from her with Carter when they see her coming to the station.

Sorry for delay in posting but kitty is rather a handful, and i'm getting seriously scratched and bitten, think i'll need new skin and blood transfusion by the time he's one, ha-ha!! Will try and post when i can, though also in a lot of pain with my leg too, never rains but pours oh well never mind, take care everyone.

My Top Ten The Sweeney Stories - No 7 Nigh Out

Night Out… (First screened on UK TV on 6th February 1975, writer Troy Kennedy Martin.) The irresponsible, praise seeking Superintendent Grant, the head of a rival Crime Squad is aware that a team of villains is searching the contents of a bank vault.

For something special, but he won't act until he's traced the source of the radio signals that will lead him to their boss. Grant discovers that the woman who lives above the pub that is situated next door to the bank, and whose window the villains intend to use in their eventual rooftop getaway, is a face from Regan's past. Regan is drafted in against his will and forced to pay her an unexpected visit.

This is a very funny episode, especially as Regan doesn't want to be with his lady friend to start with, but then he gets into the swing of things and starts enjoying himself, even having her cook him a meal.

Great scene when Regan falls on the roof into the water, makes me laugh, and then when his lady friend puts his gun in the dishwasher, this is such a good episode love it!! Also love the outtakes for this episode that are on the boxset as a bonus, very funny.

My Top Ten The Sweeney Stories - No 8 Sweeney 2

I wouldn’t doze off if I were you!

Sweeney 2… (First released in UK cinemas 14th May 1977, writer Troy Kennedy Martin.) As his final instruction before being arrested and sent down for corruption, Chief Inspector Jupp (Denholm Elliott) tells Reagan to nail the gang responsible for some particularly violent bank robberies, one of whom uses a gold-plated sawn-off shotgun.

My two favourite ways of seeing John are in blue and wearing a leather jacket, and I get both in this film, ain’t I lucky!!

Also love the final scene where Regan and Carter are having a good time in the pub and Regan’s girlfriend arrives, and he’s so happy, great! It’s a real good feel type film this, especially the ending, as it was time for John to move onto other things and leave Regan behind.

My Top Ten The Sweeney Stories - No 9 Faces

Faces… (First screened on UK TV on 8th September 1975, writer Murray Smith.) Three high profile robberies in the space of two days are the work of mercenaries hired by European political agitators. A covert government intelligence agency warns Regan off but he's determined to catch the villains.

I had to pick this because of the kitten that Colin Welland his holding and it curls up on his arm to go to sleep, so cute I love it! Also seeing John in those green overalls makes him look really sexy, and he really looks like a workman without trying.

My Top Ten The Sweeney Stories - No 10 I Want The Man

Well it looks like The Sweeney is what you have all voted to see, so here goes.

Hijack!

I Want The Man… (First screened on UK TV on 10th November 1975, writer Ray Jenkins.) Maynard a retired boxer is planning to do a job, using money from a jewellery hest to finance it, passed from villain Frankie Little to Maynard’s girlfriend in a restaurant. Regan is tipped off by Popeye, his informant, but when he gets there she has done a runner with the jewellery and Popeye has been abducted by Maynard’s men.

My ultimate favourite scene in this story is from the photo, where the squad are trying to guess what the villain’s plans are, Haskins says ‘Hijack’, to which Regan replies ‘Hello Guv’, with a straight face, wonderful!!

Another scene that gets to me is a tenderer but a horrible one for Regan because of his job, and that’s having to search underneath the baby and you can tell he hates himself for having to do it, but it’s his job.

Normal service will resume shortly...

I hope!!

Sorry for not being around much at the moment but blame the cat!!!! We have a 10 week old little fella called Bluey, and i love him to bits, but he's a handful and all my time is spent keeping an eye on him so he doesn't get into what he shouldn't, (i'm sure he wants to be an electrician as he's forever chewing the cables), ha-ha, but he is good most of the time, (says i with fingers crossed)!!

This means that i don't have anytime for myself to do anything else, haven't had chance to work on my top ten for next month yet, mind haven't been on the pc much either, as i'm far too tired, but i hope to be back and posting when he gets a bit more calmer and not into stuff to much.

So everyone please bare with me, i will be back with you all as soon as i can, even if i only have a few moments of an evening while my sister is looking after him, as long as i don't fall asleep at the pc, ha-ha!!

Review: Colin Dexter at Ramada Hotel

ALMOST completely deaf, with deteriorating eyesight, on paper Colin Dexter may not sound like a particularly promising public speaker.

The author of Inspector Morse, however, is a witty raconteur with a fine line in self-deprecation.

Dexter, 78, related fascinating tales of working with John Morse and Kevin Whately and explained the inspiration behind the famous character.

The biggest laughs and applause were saved for an anecdote about his first attempt at completing a walk-on part in the show, hampered by his inability to hear the director’s call of “take one”.

Other highlights included a reading from one of his Morse novels, to prove that Morse did indeed “get some action with the ladies”, and a story about his attempts to watch Billie Piper’s raunchy Secret Diary of a Call Girl TV show behind his wife’s back.

The sell-out audience at The Ramada was transfixed by Dexter and the drop of a pin could be heard when he was working his way toward his many punchlines.

After the interval, he answered any questions and could have gone on all night. Judging by the audience’s reaction, nobody would have minded.

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 1 Blood Money

Blood Money… (First screened in the UK television on 10th March 1997, writer Matthew Hall.) When surgeon Hilary Jameson successfully operates on a computer tycoon involved in a car accident, she has every reason to suppose he'll survive.

Within a matter of minutes, however, the patient's wife learns that he is dead. What happened in that brief period? This is the problem Kavanagh must solve when he prosecutes on behalf of the widow.

As I said with the previous one I could easy have swapped them around, and maybe next time I’m asked they will be. But for now this is my number 1 choose, it’s no better than the previous one or worse, they are both for me the best, but you have to put them in some kind of order so here they are.

This again is a very emotional episode, and often has me in tears, as it makes me think of my mum who I lost through cancer, and of course John.

For me the opening scenes of the operation are a little un-nerving as I hate the sight of blood, but it’s also appropriate for the telling of the story.

The best performance in this story goes to Josette Simon who plays Hilary Jamerson, she is remarkable. I was really pleased that her character was cleared of all blame.

I thought the kiss between Sheila and John was beatifully done and very tender, nice moment.

The funniest part was the guys at the end in Peter’s room having tea, and then Helen comes in and Peter wants to tell her what everyone thinks of her. But because she’s just given Jeremy a plum job he tries to tell him that everything is fine, very funny.

I thought Sheila was fantastic as the grieving widow, the scene where she plays Sarah at home after hearing the news and breakdown, is really powerful and very emotional.

I also love where she’s in court giving evidence, and dear old Jeremy is getting several over on Kavanagh, by getting her to tell what Kavanagh doesn’t know, very good.

But then as always Kavanagh comes back trumps with Hilary and gets down to what really happened to Sarah’s husband, much to Jeremy’s amazement.

Good to see the hospital not getting away with what they thought they would, just for the sake of funds for their centre.

Ashmolean prepares for £61m revamp

Photographer Theo Chalmers and graphic designer Greg Jones in front of the giant poster of Laurence Fox and Colin Dexter

Oxford Mail
By Andrew Ffrench
Giant posters of Morse author Colin Dexter and Lewis actors Kevin Whately and Laurence Fox are urging passers-by to visit Oxford's Ashmolean Museum before it closes for a major revamp.

The dramatic photographs celebrate the museum's famous collections in the run-up to the launch of the revamped building in a year's time. The images are designed to get people visiting the museum before it closes on January 1 for major building work.

There will be no public access to the Beaumont Street museum or café until autumn 2009, but the shop will remain open for business. The large-scale graphics are on show for four weeks.

Museum director Dr Christopher Brown said: "We are extremely grateful to the individuals who have generously given their time and support to this campaign.

"Photographer Theo Chalmers has created a magnificent series of portraits with which the public can identify. Our thanks also goes to Oxford Bus Company, which has been working with us on an innovative project to keep the Ashmolean in the public eye during the final phase of the museum’s exciting developments."

Other well-known faces will also be appearing on OBC buses in the near future. The portraits illustrate Oxford's history of crime and punishment, and the subjects are pictured holding items related to the imprisonment of the Oxford Martyrs in the Saxon tower of St Michael at the Northgate Church, in Cornmarket Street.

Thomas Cranmer, Nicholas Ridley and Hugh Latimer were imprisoned for their Protestant faith under the Roman Catholic rule of Queen Mary, before being burned at the stake in Broad Street in 1555 and 1556.

An online exhibition is being developed for people to upload their favourite stories about the Ashmolean collections, or to share experiences which they have enjoyed at the museum.

Founded in 1683, the museum is the most important museum of art and archaeology outside London.

The £61m refurbishment, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, will include 39 new galleries.

Designed by renowned architect Rick Mather, the development will also feature a new education centre, conservation studios, a walk-through between the museum and the Cast Gallery, and Oxford’s first rooftop café.

To find out more about the online exhibition, visit http://www.ashmolean.org/

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 2 Ancient History

Ancient History… (First screened in the UK television on 17th March 1997, writer Nigel Kneale.) Kavanagh prosecutes an apparently blameless family doctor in an unprecedented war crime trial. The court hears devastating testimony as victims of Nazi atrocities re-live their experiences in concentration camps, but it's left to a witness for the defence to reveal the final truth.

I think my NO 1 and 2 were the very best of Kavanagh, and sadly something has to be at 2, and this is the one I've chosen, though ask me another day and it would have been no 1, because I love both stories equally, neither of them to me are better than the other.

Anyone who knows me knows I’m mad interested on the Second World War, and for this reason alone I had to pick this story, it is very harrowing to listen to those who were victims of what happened during their time in concentration camps.

Credit where credit is due, Warren Mitchell as Rypin, Frederick Treves as Beck and Sara Kestelman as Halina are outstanding, and bring this story to life, they should have got awards for their performances in this.

The scene where James is questioning her in court, and then turns and says softly to himself, “Why didn’t he shoot her”, only John could have given this story the grace and dignity it deserved.

Even watching Matt, searching the internet, and James still finding him doing it the following day, and the scene with Lizzie’s father, I just love this story so much, it sure is one of the best Kavanagh dramas, and dam hard to put at no 2.

John is at his pure best in this story, and it shows in the courtroom scenes, especially questioning Halina but also the others who were also convicts of the concentration camps.

Colin Dexter to appear at Library Theatre, Manchester

Colin Dexter, the man behind the phenomenally successful series of Inspector Morse novels, presents From Books to Box, an entertaining one-man show in which he explains the trials and tribulations involved in transforming full-length novels into 90-minute screen dramas, many of which starred the much-loved Manchester actor John Thaw.

His first Inspector Morse novel, Last Bus to Woodstock, was published in 1975. He started work on it during a windswept family holiday in a cottage in North Wales, and, 13 novels later, the final instalment, The Remorseful Day, was published in 1999.

In the manner of Alfred Hitchcock appearing in minor roles in many of his films, Colin, a graduate of Cambridge University and a former teacher, made a brief appearance in a few of the 33 episodes of the BAFTA-award winning Morse made between 1987-2001 - although he was not given a speaking role until 1993!

Dexter appears at the Library Theatre for one night only on Sunday, 16th November at 7.3pm. For more information, please click here.

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 3 In God We Trust

Oh, bless...

In God We Trust… (First screened in the UK television on 14th April 1997, writer Russell Lewis.) Driven by a desire for justice, and to help his former colleague Julia Piper, now married to an American lawyer, Kavanagh flies to the US to assist with the appeal of a convicted murderer on Florida's death row. While he's away his wife, Lizzie learns that she has Cancer.

From the very beginning you can tell this is going to be a very emotional and powerful story, starting with the murder shots being shown in black and white.

But there is also humour within the story the scene in the underground car park with the gunman is rather funny until Julia’s waters brake, and James has to rush her to the hospital then you know it’s serious.

James fighting a lost cause trying to get William Dupree clemency when the governor Cotton is against him because of his grandson, who he knows did the killings.

The brutal truth of the execution of Dupree and the grandmother screaming but you don’t hear her, and then after it’s over you see her drained, she wasn’t the only one by the end of this story.

The scenes at home with Lizzie and James are delightful and charming, James and the viewers still not knowing what’s coming.

The Boat scene is one of the most emotional scenes I've seen on television and it was beautifully acted by John and Lisa, I just loved it. When James says “I don’t know what to do” Lizzie says: “All you have to do is love me”, and James replies “Always”, tears me apart, it so reminds me of my mum dying of cancer, and I never got to tell her how much I loved her!!

COLIN DEXTER WINS!!!

Last night saw the Crime Thriller Awards on ITV3, where at this event the viewers who had been voting for the six selected authors was to be announced, and win the inaugural ITV3 Writer's Award for Classic TV Drama.

...And the winner was Colin Dexter, he was so humble about it, thanking Ted Childs, Chris Burt, then Kevin Whatley finally saying John Thaw who he missed terribly, he's not the only one said i.

I'm so pleased that Colin won as it shows everyone that Inspector Morse hasn't been forgotten, and he's still as popular now as he was 33 years ago when Colin first wrote about him, and i'm sure he will continue to be one of the favourite detectives because his character was so well written.

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 4 A Family Affair

The Look...

A Family Affair… (First screened in the UK television on 17th January 1995, writer Adrian Hodges.) When a father takes the law into his own hands and snatches his young son, it leads to a custody battle another case for Kavanagh. Allegations of child abuse and professional misjudgements create further complications.

George Costigan is a marvellous actor (anyone seen him in Sherlock Holmes with Jeremy Brett, he was incredible in his role, one of his best accomplishments) and has appeared several times with John over the years, I thought his performance in Kavanagh was pure class, and this is one very complicated case.

The scene where Lizzie sets the clock early so she and James can have some love before he goes to work, is beautifully done, and his James's face in the morning when his daughter comments to him is wonderful.

The scene between Michael and Peter, and the teacher are very disturbing, the way the father hits the teacher with a baseball bat, ouch!!

Then we have James, Jeremy, Peter, and Tom watching the sex video in James’s office, but trying not to look as if they are paying attention, very funny.

Lovely to see the singer Toyah making her drama appearance in Kavanagh (though she might have done stuff that I don’t know about), thought she was rather first-rate and had me in stitches.

John Shrapnel who played the judge I thought was exceptional, granted he came to the wrong decision in the end, mind couldn’t blame him the way the father managed to persuade everyone.

Finally the last scene with Peter (played by Peter England) the young lad, I thought was outstanding, and watching him finally breakdown because his father didn’t want anyone to know what he had secretly planned with his son, pure class!!

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 5 End of Law

Are you sure?

End of Law… (First screened in the UK television on 25th April 2001, writer Stephen Churchett.) (2-Hour Special) The body of a beautiful young Hungarian computer science graduate is discovered and a middle-aged businessman denies her murder although her body was found in his hotel room.

When he is found guilty, an appeal is prepared and questions emerge about the dead woman, was she working as a prostitute or plying a more secretive international trade? Meanwhile approaches are being made to Kavanagh to become a judge, so how much support will Sarah be able to rely on from one of London's most highly respected criminal advocates?

As we see here things were changing for Kavanagh, and the possibility of him becoming a judge. Though several people had other ideas if he carried on with the case, not that, that prevented him from doing his job.

I think the lovely Samantha Bond was excellent as Sarah Swithins and I’m sure she would have been a good character to have had in the series had it continued.

James and Peter talking about him becoming a judge, and peter thinking of reasons why he shouldn’t, those reasons being the same ones why Peter himself didn’t take up the position when it was offered to him in the past.

Loved the scene with James and Kate by the river, all those lovely boats, and also the guy who was working on his boat.

When James is walking and thinking as to whether to take the position of judge, or to carry on with the case and never be asked again, possibly a hard decision for some but not for James who makes the right one.

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 6 Memento Mori

Don't believe everything that he says...

Memento Mori… (First screened in the UK television on 17th March 1998, writer Russell Lewis.) Kavanagh is back in chambers after the death of his wife. In this case, Kavanagh is defending a mild-mannered doctor (Tom Courtenay) accused of murdering his wife.

Although the prosecution has several witnesses who provide evidence, the accused maintains his innocence, claiming that the drug he described was simply to treat her manic depression. After the verdict, however, Kavanagh learns of an ironic twist.

It’s great to see John’s very dear friend Tom making a breathtaking appearance in this story, and he’s terrific. Tom as Dr. Felix Crawley is amazing, his court room scenes are electrifying and he sure is one of the best guest stars the series ever had.

The funeral of Lizzie was very moving, loved how Peter laid his hand on James’s shoulder to let him know he was there for him, and then seeing James doing the housework and being so bored at home, I really felt for him, knowing he should be at work where he’d be happier.

Finding Emma in his office, James was rather astounded can’t say I blame him, loved the scene when Emma give her concert recital and James and his kids were there, loved the song!

Kate with her father on the stairs because of missing her mum, and then at breakfast saying she was supposed to be there for him, I thought was rather touching.

Usually Jeremy is a clown most of the time in this series, but not this time, he’s very serious in court and skilful at questioning Dr. Felix Crawley getting him angry enough to convict himself.

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 7 Mute of Malice

Make me one, please! No tomato though...

Mute of Malice… (First screened in the UK television on 3rd March 1997, writer Charles Wood.) Kavanagh defends a client who has become mute after announcing he has killed his brother. The suspect is an ex-soldier who served with UN forces in Bosnia; could the trauma of his time spent there in some way be connected?

How do you communicate with someone who either can’t speak or won’t, not to mention bring it over on screen and keep everyone interested? This would have been hard thing to do with anyone else, but in the hands of James and Alex it comes off with compassion for their client.

The opening scene in Bosnia with the dead bodies is very disturbing, and you can appreciate from the start that the priest Edgar is going to have problems.

Loved the scene with the judge and Jeremy’s wig business, had me in fits of laughter, and then buying himself a new one, and the judge still being strange with him.

Nice of James to make lunch, though he didn’t make me one, mind I don’t like tomatoes so that’s most likely why, ha-ha!!

Richard Pasco was inspiring as the vicar and so different from his role in Dead on Time, lovely to see him again.

Also the scene with Lizzie at home alone, having all the lights on and stereo and TV to make it seem as if the house was full, felt sad for her, as I know how that feels being isolated.

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 8 Men of Substance

The reason i picked this photo is i just love the colour of his braces, with a crisp white shirt he looks so smart, and it's nice to see him in 'office' but without his jacket on.

Men of Substance… (First screened in the UK television on 4th March 1995, writer Matthew Hall.) Kavanagh is forced to replace the prosecutor who suffers a heart attack while on a Customs case involving the importation of drugs from Holland.

A lorry from Holland is found to be smuggling 15 kilos of heroin into the country and everyone involved in the shipment denies all knowledge of the haul. When their heavies threaten Kavanagh's wife, he becomes more determined than ever to put them behind bars.

The scene where Lizzie and James are arguing is very well done, I know how it feels when parents are at each others throats, and Lizzie is very good at giving him that ‘look’ when James isn’t home when he should have been.

When Matt punches his so called best mate in the club at his birthday party after he sees him and her dancing together, is very well choreographed. Then poor Lizzie being besieged by the heavies sent by Gregson in the hope that Kavanagh won’t do his job in court, but it only makes him more determined to get him put in prison.

The lovely scene where James holds Lizzie after the assault at home, I thought was beautifully and tenderly done, these two worked well together, a shame Lisa was taken out of the series as I rather liked her. As for Tom in the garden party, he was suffering in this story, and nice to see him also getting a large part of the story.

What a lovely scene of James and Lizzie in the park and as they are about to kiss, the entire pigeons fly up in the air, thought that rather funny. Finally the lovely scene between father and son at the end having a drink together, I loved seeing so much of the family, and they are a typical family with all their problems etc.

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 9 The Ties That Bind

The Ties That Bind… (First screened in the UK television on 7th April 1997, writer Edward Canfor-Dumas.) Kavanagh fights for justice on behalf of a young man brutally killed, in a rare private prosecution for murder. The odds, however, are against him, since there are powerful reasons for the truth to be kept hidden.

I thought the actress who played Hazel was very good, and there were some very apprehensive scenes in the court that came over very well.

On a comical note Jeremy awaiting to join ‘the club’ at breakfast time when the ‘letter’ arrived and he’s trying to not seem interested making himself a cup of tea, but his enthusiasm takes over him and he can’t wait to tear the letter open. But sadly he finds he’s not been accepted, this is a lovely little scene, and Nicholas is exceptional in this role, you really feel for him.

This is what made Kavanagh work so well that there were three accomplished actors who kept the stories going equally on their own when they were on screen, the things poor Jeremy often does have my in stitches laughing at him.

Then there is Oliver Ford Davies who plays Peter Foxcott, he spends most of the time in the background, but when he’s needed he’s right there and he also keeps the peace when needed, I like the character of peter a lot.

My Top Ten Kavanagh QC Stories: No 10 Bearing Witness

Hello Everyone

Hope you all enjoyed seeing my top ten Morse stories last month and enjoyed watching them yourselves, so I decided to carry on and this month after the voting is my top ten Kavanagh QC stories. Like last month they will be counted down over the next ten days, feel free to join in watching them, and also let me know what you think of my choices or views on the episodes.

Bearing Witness… (First screened in the UK television on 7th April 1998, writer Edward Canfor-Dumas.) Kavanagh represents a Jehovah's Witness mother when a hospital wants her 13-year-old son to have a blood transfusion that will save his life.

When the mother refuses, Luke is made a ward of court and the hospital seeks judicial permission to go ahead with the transfusion. The hospital wins its action, and Luke is given a transfusion. Escaping from hospital with the help of his mother, Luke dies shortly afterward.

Then his father, prompted by a national newspaper, brings an action for manslaughter against his estranged wife, Kavanagh is called as a reluctant witness.

This is a very difficult story to pull off, and show you aren't with or against what Jehovah's people believe in, but in the hands of the cast and crew of Kavanagh there is no need to worry, this was done with both tenderness and compassion, a very good story.

The young actor who plays Luke (Joe Roberts) was very good, as was the entire cast, John sure had talent around him when he performed and that made whatever he did worth watching, as you knew you were watching the best.

One of my favourite scenes was where Jeremy was being chased by dogs, and when he headed back to the house and is sitting around the table telling them how he convinced them who he was by showing them his socks, i was in stitches laughing, brilliant scene!!

YIPPY... I've got it!

Got a knock at the door this morning and the postie handed me a parcel from Amazon, it was Sheila's book "Just Me", that I'd ordered for me and my friend Theresa, as a Christmas present. Had a quick flick through to check the pages are OK etc, will settle down tonight and start reading it, really looking forward to getting lost in the places that Sheila travels too, as she as a wonderful way of describing them to the reader.

I'll do a review of the book when I've finished it, though that could take some time, as I'm rather slow at reading due to having dyslexia, but i don't let that get the better of me, because i love reading, and usually have several books on the go at once.

The Wait Is Over... "Just Me" is out TODAY!!

Sheila's new book ("Just Me") is out today, though i'm waiting for mine from Amazon, which i don't mind, but looking forward to it arriving, just hope postie doesn't wake me up at the crack of dawn with it, ha-ha!!

Sweeney Meeting in London

Hi Everyone

Not been on this unofficial Sweeney website for a long time, as i'd lost the link, but now i've found it again, i've put it below and will add it to the links list.

They are having a meeting on 12th October, with some vague details of where they are travelling around London, to keep up-to-date or even join in if for instance you are in London for the signing of Sheila's new book then here is the link:

http://www.thetvlounge.co.uk/sweeney/viewtopic.php?t=3319&start=0

I'd go myself if i wasn't so far away and unable to get around on my own, due to being disabled!

Anyway here is a link to the Sweeney home page, where you can join the forum and respond to the fan meeting, if you want too:

http://www.thetvlounge.co.uk/sweeney/index.php?sid=03b5d85e169d809724f38dce2177ed9b

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 1 Dead on Time

Well anyone who knows me knows i rate this the best episode that John did out of Morse, and for me its also an episode that could stand on its own.

Did the good doctor do it - Morse thinks so? We know different though don't we?

DEAD ON TIME… (First screened on UK TV 26th February 1992, writer Daniel Boyle.) This is the saddest story of all the Morse's that John ever did, but the acting is first class. It is the story of two people who meet up after many years apart. John and Joanna (David) sparkle when working together and make the story even more special by the chemistry they share.

The story has many scenes that are good and for me two of the best are… First when John as Morse finds Susan dead on the sofa and he can barely control his anger, this is so beautifully and tenderly done.

Second is where John is questioning the good doctor (played brilliantly by Adrian Dunbar) near the end as Morse he loses his temper first class acting. John was shaking after doing this scene, and I can see why. If you ever needed evidence of John's outstanding acting ability then watching this one piece of drama will give it to you…pure genius.

This was why he was the best actor this country has ever had, no one else could have done this story only him.

First class piece of acting by all concerned!

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 2 The Remorseful Day

This is the hardest post for me to make, yet it's one of John's best performances, and therefore it's my No2, the only problem is i can't watch it anymore, so if any of you can then savour it.

A dying Morse! A very sad episode.

THE REMORSEFUL DAY… (First screened on UK TV 15th November 2000, writer Stephen Churchett.) The only time i have watched this was when it was first screened, i'm sure i woujld have watched it a lot more, but since John's death this story is one I can’t watch because of John’s excellent acting, and i just can't bare to see him die on screen knowing what has happened.

Here John acts a man having heart problems and finally a heart attack; which for me is the best attack scene I’ve ever seen on TV. No one but John could have given Morse the grace and dignity of ending the series the way he did and for that this is also a brilliant piece of drama, but still i can't watch it.

I hope one day in the future to be able to watch this wonderful performance from John, until that day i'll be happy with all his other work that i have.

Sheila in the Daily Mail part 3

Here you go everyone part 3 of the Daily Mail abridged extract from "Just Me" by Sheila Hancock, published by Bloomsbury on 18th September, if anyone would like to read the online version then here is the link:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1053586/Sink-swim-Sheila-Hancock-peace-John-Thaws-death.html

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 3 Service of All the Dead

Another one bites the dust - Plus another and another would it ever stop?

SERVICE OF ALL THE DEAD… (First screened on UK TV 20th January 1987, writer Julian Mitchell.) This is a very funny story and again John pulls it off.

Here Morse the poor thing is suffering from vertigo (I know the feeling) and yet still has to go up that 'bloody' church tower much more than he (or I) would like him too.

The dialogue between Peter (Woodthorpe) and John is timeless, as Morse and Max talking about more grave space needed is so funny. John's fainting spell is a classic.

Sheila in the Daily Mail Part 2

Can't sleep so thought i'd check my emails and the following link was in my inbox, and rather than wait until later i'd post it now for everyone to see. Again it's from the Daily Mail abridged extract from "Just Me" by Sheila Hancock, published by Bloomsbury on 18th September, if anyone would like to read the online version then here is the link:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1053307/Sheila-Hancock-Regrets-Plenty--late-Just-Me-Time-fresh-start.html

Now i'm off back to bed, night everyone, or should that be morning!

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 4 Death of the Self

Doesn't he look cool?

DEATH OF THE SELF… (First screened on UK TV 25th March 1992, writer Alma Cullen.) Pure bliss! Morse is in paradise and loving every minute of it. And John looks so gorgeous in this and very happy.

The music is beautiful especially when they arrive at the train station (Concerto for 2 Mandolin in G by Vivaldi.) Also Nicole's final the beautiful Signora Ascolta from Turandot by Puccini, sung by Janis Kelly.

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 5 Masonic Mysteries

Oh dear! What have you done? Naughty boy!

MASONIC MYSTERIES… (First screened on UK TV 24th January 1990, writer Julian Mitchell.) This is the story that made me a fan of the great Mozart and I have the lovely John to thank for that.

Because all the way through this story is Mozart, I love the introduction (called: Tamino, The Three Ladies) that is played as Morse and (Kevin's wife) arrive for the play beautiful piece of music.

Also the opera sung by the large lady is terrific; also don't you think John looks so sexy in his Magic Flute suit? I also love the scene of John in a cell, and so lonely looking playing Morse so brilliantly worried about what is happening to him, for once he has no control over his own life, someone else does.

Sheila in Daily Mail Part 1

Got the following link below sent me yesterday, (but didn't get a chance to add it to my blog), from the Daily Mail abridged extract from "Just Me" by Sheila Hancock, published by Bloomsbury on 18th September, if anyone would like to read the online version then here is the link:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1052860/Just-Me-Sheila-Hancock-coping-life-beloved-John.html

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 6 The Wench Is Dead

A new mystery - just a read away!

THE WENCH IS DEAD… (First screened on UK TV 11th November 1998, writer Malcolm Bradbury.) This is brilliantly acted story when you consider that John spent nearly all the time lay in a hospital bed.

So he was only able to use his eyes and face to express what he was thinking. When Morse had to have that tube put down his throat he looks so terrified and helpless I truly felt for him.

I think Judy (Loe) was a fantastic co-star second only to Joanna in my book. I love the bit where Morse and Adele are sitting on the sofa and she asks him a crossword clue and it makes him jump up out of his seat because he's got an idea…cool!

See you all tomorrow!

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 7 Twilight of the Gods

That beautiful grin!

Well onto tonight's choice, and at No 7 we have TWILIGHT OF THE GODS… (First screened on UK TV 20th January 1993, writer Julian Mitchell.) In this story John/Morse is very cheerful after seeing Gladys in concert the previous evening.

And because he is so ‘high’ he claims to be the 'cheeriest chief inspector in the division' though Lewis doesn't seem to think so. So it's not until the attempted murder of the said diva that Morse loses his joyfulness and becomes more his old self.

When ever John is wearing blue he makes me go all weak at the knees as i love this colour, and think it suited him too, so this photo is a very special one to me, as he's grinning and wearing blue what more could a girl ask for...

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 8 Deceived by Flight

Lewis had just been hit on the head! Silly twit.

No 8 - DECEIVED BY FLIGHT… (First screened on UK TV 18th January 1989, writer Anthony Minghella.) The only sport story thank heavens! This is Kevin (Whately's) favourite episode.

I'm with Morse on this I hate sport especially cricket! It's nice to see Daniel Massey in this episode even if he's not in it for long.

A couple of my favourite scenes are Morse and Donn eating chips (it was always nice in anything John did to see him doing the things that we all do like eat chips, (Hoover - in Kavanagh etc.) John thinking near the end as Morse and then running after the cricket team and getting the drugs. John's face as Kate Donn collapses in the café - a classic!

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 9 Driven To Distraction

Don't take driving lessons if this is how you end up looking afterwards!

Onto No9 and working down to the best episode as far as i'm concerned, hope you all enjoy my choice, and watching them along with me.

No 9 - DRIVEN TO DISTRACTION… (First screened on UK TV 17th January 1990, writer Anthony Minghella.) In this, Morse is convinced that poor Jeremy Boynton has done it (whatever it happens to be), and won't let him rest even when he goes into hospital he searches his office.

Morse and Sgt. Maitland working through the night on computers are cool and her saying if this music plays again I'll scream (I liked it because it was Mozart.) Also seeing John on the driving course was good as well.

My Top Ten Inspector Morse Stories - No 10 Second Time Around

What is their connedtion with the child's death?

I thought I'd do something a little different this month, first it will be my top ten Inspector Morse stories that I think John was at his best, and also the stories themselves were the best, that I’m going to share with you over the next ten days, feel free to join in watching them, and also let me know what yours are and what you think of my choice if you like.

No 10 - SECOND TIME AROUND … (First screened on UK TV 20th February 1991, writer Daniel Boyle.) This is a sad case about a child's death, something which Morse didn't do very often (the only other case was Paul Morris's death in Service of All the Dead.)

Sam Kelly is excellent in this story and by far steals the show. In this John would meet his future character boss in the shape of Oliver Ford Davis who later would appear with John in Kavanagh QC.

ATTENTION ALL FANS OF JOHN THAW!

Would you like to see a John Thaw Film and Television Retrospective organised and screened in Australia and UK? If so, please leave a message for Theresa (An Australian Fan who is organising one) and me (who is also organising one here in Manchester UK), via my email address on this blog, and I will pass messages for Theresa on to her, and also get back to you.

I have been writing to Film Festival and Events organisers here in Manchester with ideas and information, asking them if they would like to support and host such an event.

We both would like to hear from anyone who would like to help us in contacting these companies or who have other helpful ideas. Even if you just let us both know that you would like to attend such a Retrospective that will help us demonstrate support to Events companies etc, for our idea.

In Australia John Thaw’s late brother, Ray who lived in Australia, had kindly agreed to support the project there, and had also contacted film festival organisers to register his support.

Here in the UK I have Sheila Hancock’s backing and she is happy for a Festival on her late husband to take place, I have also been in touch with Dick Fiddy of the BFI (British Film Institute) who has indicated to me that he is happy to help in any way he can.

He has contacted in this regard his colleague Veronica Taylor (who handles all UK TV clearances for the cinema) who, in turn, has passed it onto the programmes at Manchester's Chapterhouse.

Hopefully the more interest is shown, the more likely that we can find an organisation willing and able to host a John Thaw Retrospective. Please join in showing your support!
Thank you
Janet and Theresa

Buried Treasure

Today is the final day of my month long 35th anniversary tribute to me being a fan for 35 years on 7th August 2008, i still can't believe I've been a fan that long, but I'm so pleased that it was John that i found all those years ago.

The first thing i should have seen John in would have been The Adventures of Black Beauty in 1971, because i loved this series; but because i was in hospital i didn't get to see the performance at that time that John give, but i now have it on DVD, which now is what counts.

Well onto my final choice for tonight's watching and it's "Buried Treasure", and I'm looking forward to watching it, to see John singing unaccompanied doing my favourite Beatle song is just bliss.

Monsignor Renard

Hello Everyone

Hope you are all having a nice weekend, i really enjoyed watching The Waiting Time last night, not seen it for a while, and had forgotten how good it was, i thought Zara was very good, and would love to see her in a Lewis story.

Anyway on to tonight's choice and it is "Monsignor Renard", sadly for everyone the powers that be at ITV decided because this was too expensive to make, they decided not to make any more after this first series. Which John wasn't very happy about, and i have to say i can't blame him, this was a terrific first series, and would have gone on to be something rather special i think.

The Waiting Time

Hello Everyone

Really enjoyed watching Into the Blue last night, Abigail and Matthew are really great actors in it, and John just shines, he's so cute and dressed mostly in blue my favourite colour, makes me rather happy, ha-ha!!

Anyway onto tonight's choice and it's "The Waiting Time", looking forward to this drama as it's another of my favourites.

Hope you all have a nice weekend... See you all tomorrow!

Into The Blue

Hello Everyone

Well really enjoyed watching the first three episodes of A Year In Provence last night, will finish it off over the next few days, i really love seeing John singing as he really cheers me up, when i'm feeling low.

Anyway onto tonight's choice, and it's "Into The Blue", one of my favourites, though mind you everything i watch of John's is a favourite.

This photo comes from the presspack, that i have for this drama, and one of my favourite photos of John.

A Year In Provence

Hello Everyone

I really enjoyed watching Bomber Harris last night, not seen it for a while, but back to tonight's choice and it is "A Year In Provence", really looking forward to this as John is very funny and i need cheering up, as my leg is rather sore with all the rain we are having in Manchester.

Bomber Harris

Tonight's choice is "Bomber Harris", for anyone who wants to know this is available in the UK on dvd, and i'm looking forward to watching John's performance tonight.

See you all tomorrow...

Stanley and the Women

Tonight's choice will be "Stanley and the Women", a mini series, but i'll only be watching the first episode, as i want to watch "New Tricks" later, and it's the last episode, then there is the drama with Sheila after it, but i'll finish this series next month.

Just as a matter of interest for me, if any of you have any suggestions as to what you would like to see on this blog in the future then please email me, which you will find on the right hand side of this blog, and i'll see what i can do. So anything connected to John, the new series of Lewis, Sheila Hancock, etc, just let me know!

See you all tomorrow!

Who Cares Wins

Hello Everyone

On to tonight's choice, and something slightly different, back in 1980 John hosted a series of training videos for a car company called Austin Rover, these were called "Who Cares Wins"!

See you all tomorrow...

The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes

Hello Everyone

Hope you are enjoying my list of what i'm watching this month to mark my 35 years as a fan of this wonderful actor, tonight's choice is "The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes: The Sensible Action of Lieutenant Hoist" boy what a long title that is!!

See you all tomorrow...

Budgie

Hello Everyone

Sorry for delay in adding tonight's choice, been rather chaos here as my sister's car is having trouble, still is but never mind that for the time being, onto more important things in the world of John.

Tonight's choice is "Budgie: Sunset Mansions or Whatever Happened To Janey Barb", for anyone who has it and wants to join me in watching.

Budgie is available in the UK, series 1 (Which John's episode is part off)

See you all tomorrow...

Strange Report

Hello everyone

Onto tonight's selection for my 35th anniversary year, and tonight it will be "Strange Report: Revenge-When A Man Hates", i've really enjoyed watching all these different performances from John this month, and if any of you are joining me i hope you are enjoying watching him as much as i am.

See you all tomorrow...

The John Thaw Foundation

Please can i ask if you use the internet for searching, instead of using Google please use the following link, where it will raise money for the John Thaw Foundation - web address is: http://www.everyclick.com/janetsteele it doesn't cost you anything but everytime you use it they will add money to the charity, many thanks everyone.

Edgar Wallace Mysteries - Dead Man's Chest

Onto tonight's choice and again it's another Edgar Wallace Mystery this time called "Dead Man's Chest", and my favourite of the two, and again sadly unavailable anywhere, i was lucky to obtain a copy of it on dvd from someone.

See you all tomorrow!

The Last Word - Before I Call You In

The Last Word a new series of monologues about dying begins on Monday, 25 August on BBC1 at 10.35pm. The first one is called "Before I Call You In", in which Sheila Hancock plays an invalid with a terminal illness recording a final message for her husband before she takes her own life in a Swiss assisted-suicide clinic.

Think this is going to be rather emotional, knowing what Sheila has gone through with the loss of John, but she's such a terrific actress that i'm looking forward to watching it, even if it does upset me.

Edgar Wallace Mysteries - Five To One

Tonight's choice is "Edgar Wallace Mystery: Five To One", from 1964, sadly so far it's never been released, i was lucky to get a copy, copied to dvd for me.

See you all tomorrow!

Z-Cars

Tonight's choice is "Z-Cars: Hide and Go Seek", the only episode that i have on video tape, there was four episodes made by John, sadly one of them no longer exists, but the three remaining including this one are in the archives somewhere, just wish they would put them on dvd for everyone to enjoy.

Hope you all had a nice weekend! See you all tomorrow...