The Archers

Sunday last, in the "Ideas Section" of The Boston Globe was an article on how soap operas could save the world.  The title was "Guiding Lights:  How Soap Operas Could Save the World".

Very believable thesis, but what about "The Archers"?  This vehicle has been around for ever—since the "Guiding Light" died, the longest running extant soap opera—with over 16,000 episodes.  The show takes place in the village of Ambridge, in the Midlands, south of the city of Birmingham.  But, Staff Writer Drake Bennett never mentioned it.  The closest he came was to use the word "researcher".

From my time in the UK (1974) I remember Dan and Doris Archer (farmers), Sid and Polly Perks (operated the local, The Bull), and Mr Grundy, village crank.  The show just moved right along.  And, it was entertaining for being a show about improving agriculture.  After I found the show on radio it took me to the National Live Stock Show and informed me about Swine Flu Vesicular Disease and educated me about life in a small village in the West Midlands.

Thursday's episode was "The Hammer."  You will note that the episode is timely, including reference to Thursday's national election.

Fallon jokingly chastises Kenton for stealing her staff, then tells him to get going while she serves a gorgeous customer – who turns out to be Harry the milkman.  Fallon tells Harry about the single wicket competition.  Harry’s keen to play but resentful Jazzer points out that the rules state he has to live in the village. Fallon asks Jazzer what his problem is.  Harry’s nothing like he described.

Joe’s at the village hall, but not to vote. He wants more bids for his lucky dip auction.  Everyone seems to have heard that he’s raising money for a new bench for the churchyard.

Kenton hopes to win some old car parts to use as wall art for Jaxx.  Jim is horrified but gets his revenge by successfully bidding on a garden gnome, to display as a mascot. Jazzer sneakily bids on behalf of Harry.

Oliver’s disappointed not to win the mangle. Joe explains he couldn’t bear to part with it.  To Jazzer’s dismay, Harry’s delighted to win a set of dumbbells and thanks Jazzer for entering on his behalf.

Oliver suggests Joe can put a plaque on the bench, to say it was donated by the Grundys – a fitting tribute to the oldest family in Ambridge…

Yes, the Brits have been using soap operas for some time to pass farm news and to help people think about issues.

Regards  —  Cliff