Kids shows I remember from my Childhood
This is a list of children's programmes that I remember in my youth, from my childhood up until my teenage years. They range from kids shows, sitcoms, dramas, detective series or anything that I recall seeing. Some, like The Double Deckers, I saw when repeated in the early 90's. All that I recall are here, the good - and sometimes the bad.
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- StarsJon PertweeJeremy AustinCharlotte ColemanChildren's series about the adventures of Worzel Gummidge (Jon Pertwee), a scarecrow who comes to life.Adored Jon Pertwee as a kid, but it's surprising to notice now how awful Aunt Sally actually was in this! Had one of the earliest roles for a young Charlotte Coleman, who later went on to Educating Marmalade, but sadly I don't remember that.
- CreatorWillis HallKeith WaterhouseStarsJon PertweeBruce PhillipsJonathan MarksThe continuing adventures of the magic scarecrow, only this time he's in New Zealand.The Aussie version wasn't bad, but no Crowman was a disappointment for me.
- StarsHeather-Jay JonesVictoria ShaletPaula WilcoxChildren's series about a magic coin that can grant wishes.The series that introduced me to Victoria Shalet. The first was the best, but I wasn't complaining while she was in the show
- CreatorJean BuchananStarsEllie BeavenCatherine BaileyHoneysuckle WeeksThe chaotic, comic daily adventures of the Wild family, a household that in which, no matter how strange or weird, an event will usually come to pass. However, everybody seems to think that this is entirely normal!Just so funny, with Ellie Beaven giving her summaries to the camera, plus Honeysuckle Weeks as her older sister - one of many strings to her bow.
- StarsDevin StanfieldRobert StephensGeoffrey LarderBased on the classic children's novel by John Masefield, the story follows the exploits of a young boy, Kay Harker, who finds himself drawn into a world of magic and danger when he encounters an old Punch and Judy man.Some shows just stay in your memory, no matter how long ago. My abiding memory is Kay Harker shrinking into that mousehole.
- StarsRichard DempseySophie CookJonathan R. ScottFour kids travel to the magical land of Narnia where they must battle an evil queen with the direction of the lion, Aslan.Reminds me so much of Christmas. The best of the Narnia TV series and one that has stayed with me ever since.
- StarsWarwick DavisJonathan R. ScottSophie WilcoxYoung Prince Caspian of Narnia wonders and dreams of the old days of Narnia when animals talked, and there were mythical creatures and four rulers in Caer Paravel.One story too short, the other an intriguing amble across the waters - though I was disappointed to lose Peter and Susan as characters.
- StarsDavid ThwaitesCamilla PowerTom BakerEustace, along with a new companion named Jill Pole, is brought back to Narnia. The pair are told by Aslan they must search for King Caspian's missing son, Prince Rilian.Remember having to watch this upstairs on a old B&W TV as it clashed with The Clothes Show. Was in the run up to Xmas and was bitterly cold
- StarsSiri NealTony SandsValerie LushA teenage girl discovers a portal through time, and tries to help two children of the past.Eerie, with memorable theme tune and great herione in Minty (aka Siri Neal). Plot didn't spare too much scrutiny, but the hooded child stayed in the memory
- StarsTim WhitnallShelley ThompsonMichael BenzA series about an alien living with an American boy in Britain.I do remember this from the start, but the 1990's cast is what stays in my mind the clearest - and another thing that Alexandra Milman was in during the 1990's.
- StarsJeremy RamplingShaughan SeymourIsabelle AmyesTom Long is staying with his Uncle and Aunt. When their grandfather clock strikes thirteen, Tom makes a strange discovery - a portal to the past where only a friendly girl called Hatty can see him. Adapted from a novel by Philippa Pearce.Hazy in my memory, but still recall the clock and the switch between times. Gentle but lovely tale
- CreatorRoy SimpsonStarsPeter FirthBrinsley FordeGillian BaileyThe adventures of a gang of seven kids whose clubhouse is an abandoned double decker bus in a London junkyard. Usually involves a bit of singing, a bit of dancing and general fun times.Saw this when it was repeated on ITV about 1991, complete with old adverts they used to put on inbetween. Conjures up such happy memories
- CreatorRoger Damon PriceStarsKristian SchmidChristian TessierNaomie HarrisThe Tomorrow People are the next stage of human evolution. They can teleport, communicate by telepathy, heal with the power of thought and they are unable to kill or harm any living creature. Aided by a mysterious and ancient spacecraft buried in the sand of a Pacific island, the Tomorrow People use their powers to protect the world, while trying to keep their own existence a secret for fear of exploitation.Had Kristian Schmidt from Neighbours in it, and Alexandra Milman, who seemed to be in everything back then
- StarsSiân PhillipsOsian RobertsSharon MorganIn rural Wales in the late 1980s, Gwyn's family is still haunted by his sister's disappearance in a snowstorm. On his ninth birthday, his grandmother gives him five mysterious gifts, setting off an adventure to discover if he's a magician.Haunting but rarely repeated. Encouraged me to read the books of this and it's sequels
- StarsSiân PhillipsGareth ThomasLucy DonovanGwyn and Nia are intrigued by Emlyn Llewelyn, who believes his mother lives on the moon. Despite warnings, they are drawn to him by a mysterious magic. With the help of Arianwen, the Snow Spider, they aim to unravel the mystery.
- StarsSiân PhillipsCal MacAninchOsian RobertsGwyn senses danger from a toy horse with an evil prince's spirit seeking revenge. With friends Emlyn and Nia, they aim to save a mysterious soldier. Can the Snow Spider help recapture the prince's soul without harm?
- StarsIan HolmPenelope WiltonRebecca CallardThe Borrowers, a family of tiny people, are forced to find a new home after being displaced. They get help from a human boy as they try to survive by borrowing what they need.Captured my imagination - as did Rebecca Callard. Would of loved a pocket sized version of her to carry around as a kid.
- StarsDuncan BartonAndrew McKayReggie YatesCan't remember much about it other than it was mad and hugely enjoyable
- CreatorBrian CosgroveMark HallStarsDavid JasonTerry ScottEdward KelseyDanger Mouse, the greatest secret agent in the world, must follow Colonel K's orders (and try not to break Professor Squawkencluck's inventions) to foil Baron Greenback's and his henchman Stiletto's plans.Remember watching this during teatime with a KitKat to eat. Such a great theme tune too.
- StarsTerrence HardimanFrances AmeyGunnar CautheryDinah Glass moves in with a new foster family and begins to attend the same school as her new foster brothers. But there is something very strange going on at the school. BBC adaptation of the children's novels by Gillian Cross.Surprisingly enjoyed this, and few could do deadpan sinister than Terrence Hardiman, who made the show his own.
- StarsStuart OrganGwyneth PowellLee CornesThe long running television series of the Grange Hill Comprehensive School, and the children's everyday lives.My era was the 1980's, but strangely enough it's the teachers that stay in my mind the most. Remember the dead kid in Mr Bronson's car, but I seemed to of stopped watching after Mrs McClusky left.
- CreatorAdele RoseAndrea WonforStarsDaymon BrittonBrett AdamsKerry Ann ChristiansenByker Grove follows the lives and relationships of a group of young people who are members of a youth club.Remember this from the start, and not just PJ & Duncan. Angel, the Dobson sisters, Gary & Noddy just a few of many. It's probably the show that ended Grange Hill's monopoly due to the fact it wasn't limited to the school. Last storyline I recall was Flora's death in 1998.
- StarsSimon GodwinNicole MowatCharles RichardsA group of children discovers a mysterious creature in the local sand pit who agrees to grant them one wish each day.Charming, slow and basic in plot, it was one of Mum's favourites as she liked the Psammead, which is easily the star of the show
- StarsToby Ufindell-PhillipsLaura ClarkeLeonard KirbyFour children encounter the magic powers of Psammead, the sand fairy.A better plot and one of the few to be better than the original. The Psammead is still the star, but it's enjoyable fare
- StarsMiriam MargolyesIvan BerryLesley DunlopFour young children hope for anything to happen and, when they become owners of the Phoenix, their adventure begins.Can't recall much about this, other than the Psammead was sidelined by a cartoon phoenix voiced by David Suchet (I think). One of the child cast is a young Jessica Fox of HollyOaks fame.
- StarsSarah Hollis AndrewsHope JohnstoneWilliam MarshIn 19th-century India, Mary Lennox is suddenly orphaned by cholera. Her only living relative is her uncle, Archibald Craven, so Mary is sent to live at his estate on the Yorkshire moors. Where she discovers a secret garden and a cousin.Remember seeing this on a old video tape at school and still conjures up memories of that and the countryside.
- StarsMark MitchellEsben StormRian McLeanTony Twist and his three children--14-year-old twins Pete and Linda and 7-year-old Bronson--move to an old lighthouse on the rugged Australian coast.Great theme tune and wacky series - even if some of their more gross out moments made this a controversial watch in our household as a kid. So many memorable episodes, but the possessed scarecrow in Know All was probably my favourite of them all.
- StarsTimothy WestJoan SimsKate HardieSally Walsh stuck in my mind as a girl hiding out as a boy who ended up with a old film company from the 1920's run (I think) by Timothy West. Can't recall much else about it.
- CreatorTim ChildStarsHugo MyattPaul ValentineClifford NorgateDungeons and Dragons-style show that lets contestants explore a computer-generated fantasy world, with wicked special effects and cunning puzzles.Loved this as a kid. Waiting to see if anyone actually got through to the end each episode was agony at times (they did), but still captures the imagination like few other game shows
- StarsIain LauchlanJane HardyFeatures Fingermouse learning about different musical instruments from The Music Man, as well as having adventures with other paper finger-puppets.Still remember the origami figures they used to make on this show.
- StarsRobin ParkinsonIan AllenJohn ThirtleMr Spoon and his family live on Junk Planet. He travels in his baked bean tin spaceship across blanket sky to Button Moon. There he meets many strange characters and watches stories unfold on other planets using his telescope.Saw this when it first came out and still recall the theme tune.
- StarsRobin StevensTony ArmatradingBrian BlessedGuests follow a trail of pink and yellow wool around a garden until they find Pob, a "goblin baby" who wears a pink and yellow stripy jumper. The guests tell stories, etc. The show was a magazine programme for children, with items linked by Pob. The programme (in)famously featured Pob "misting" the screen while making raspberry-blowing noise, then writing his name "Puh, o', buh. Pob." in the "mist".Always remember them following the string of wool at the beginning. Programme more than anything that encouraged me to make stuff
- StarsSimon SheltonDavid WalliamsGary ParkerChildren's game show set in a tower block with a talking lift. 'Crystal Maze' style games earned levels to get to the penthouse and try for the main prize.This was a great kids gameshow, where kids had to travel up an escalator to compete in games on each floor. They nicked the Knight game from The Adventure Game, which along with the breakfast bowl dive in at the end stick in the mind. David Walliams as the lift host in Series 1 didn't, thankfully!
- CreatorElisabeth BeresfordStarsBernard CribbinsDieter HallervordenThe misadventures of a fantasy folk community dedicated to cleaning up litter and putting it to their own use.Happy summer days watching repeats of this. Bernard Cribbins amusing voiceover just added to the charm.
- CreatorMichael BondStarsGordon RollingsAnimated adventures of characters in a herb garden, such as Sir Basil and Lady Rosemary, Bayleaf the gardener, Sage the owl, Dill the dog and Parsley the lion.Watched it when it was repeated in the 1990's on Channel 4. Although there were many characters, you always remembered the very friendly lion called Parsley.
- CreatorSerge DanotStarsEric ThompsonPatricia DanotMicheline DaxCult classic children's animated series about a group of human and animal characters that gather at the roundabout / carousel in the park. Although the original series is French there are multiple dubbed versions from other countries.Saw it when repeated in the early 1990's. Still mad and loved Dougal's sarcastic comments and pessimistic attitude.
- CreatorOliver PostgatePeter FirminStarsOliver PostgateSandra KerrJohn FaulknerBagpuss and his friends are toys in a turn of the century shop for 'found things'. When young Emily brings them a new object, the toys come to life to work out what the strange new thing could possibly be.Watched this when it was repeated in 1986. Gentle days watching Bagpuss and friends.
- CreatorTerry BrainCharlie MillsStarsWilliam RushtonNick Shipley3D plasticine animation, featuring Berk, a blue creature who lives as servant to the unseen 'Thing Upstairs' in an ancient castle. Every time the trap door opens a new adventure begins for Berk and his pals; Boni (a talking skull) and Drutt (a mischievous spider)!Great theme tune, with typical narration by Willie Rushton - I loved it.
- StarsRichard HefferGareth HuntColin BruceBased on the children's adventure novel by Enid Blyton, five young children come to learn the secrets of a ruined castle.Loved Enid Blyton as a kid and remember fancying Rosie Marcel in this - not aged so well in places, but still decent fare, and a great theme tune.
- StarsKate LonerganAdam MorrisDanny John-JulesRobin was a cowardly tailor from Kensington, and Marian was the brains behind the Merry Men. With her ruthless band of freedom fighters, Marian seeks to save the villagers of Worksop from the tyrany of King John and his cunning henchman.This was fun and inventive, with Maid Marian the true leader of the hapless Merry Men in the days when you could do something original like this without the makers blowing their own trumpet about it. Happy carefree days
- CreatorJean ChalopinAndy HeywardBruno BianchiStarsDon AdamsHolly BergerFrank WelkerA bumbling cyborg inspector outfitted with an array of bizarre gadgets pursues the criminal organization M.A.D., all while his precocious niece and dog do the real investigative work.Another show with a cracking theme tune, this was a great series with a slightly inept detective as the hero and his niece the intelligent one often having to get him out of another tricky situation
- StarsBarry ClaytonJack MayBrian TruemanThe misadventures of a vegetarian vampire duck and his servants.Why don't they make memorable theme tunes anymore? David Jason voiced Count Duckula, but for me the real star was the ghoulish and often despairing butler Igor, voiced by Jack May (Adam Adamant Lives!). His caustic comments were always a joy to hear.
- CreatorKevin GillisStarsMichael MageeLen CarlsonMarvin GoldharThe adventures of a family of Raccoons and their friends.Just about remember this series, watched I think during summer holidays.
- StarsEduardo JoverGloria CámaraManuel PeiróIn 17th century France, young Dogtanian travels to Paris to fulfill his ambition to become one of the King's Musketeers. He befriends Athos, Porthos and Aramis and falls in love with Juliette. A doggy version of the tale.Another great theme tune, this long running (well, it seemed so for me as a kid) adventure series gripped me during my young years.
- StarsJanice ChaikelsonAdrian KnightMichael RudderA trio of kids must search throughout 16th Century South America for personal answers linked to the legendary El Dorado.The brilliant theme tune brings back such evocative memories, of Zia, Esteban and Tao travelling across the world looking for the elusive Cities of Gold. I was quite fond of Zia, I recall.
- StarsTom WynerGregory SnegoffKen'ichi OgataA furry version of Jules Verne's classic adventure story of a British gentleman's challenge to circumnavigate the world in 80 days.Quite enjoyed this cartoon series as Willy Fog, Rigodon and his pet mouse Tico travelled round the world to win a bet. Was most disappointed soon after to see the David Niven film and discover there was no talking mouse in it!
- CreatorMonica DickensStarsGillian BlakeSteve HodsonArthur EnglishYoung Dora stays with her uncle on his farm while parents travel. Uncle suggests she visit Follyfoot Farm, part of estate caring for unwanted horses. Dora finds happiness there but faces uncertainty when parents return.This must of been repeated during the 1980's, as I vividly recall the theme tune. Loved animals and liked horses, so this was always going to attract my attention. And Arthur English in it is usually good value for money.
- CreatorTed WillisStarsWilliam LucasCharlotte MitchellRoderick ShawA thoroughbred horse in 19th century England is adopted by a widowed doctor and befriended by his children. The horse helps the children as they have weekly adventures and encounters with various characters.Like the above, I liked animals and horses. The theme tune is memorable, though not as good as Follyfoot. However, it also had the beautiful Judi Bowker in the lead, which is good enough a reason for watching - though when this was repeated I was more interested in the animals than the leading lady!
- StarsAmanda ElwesJulie T. WallaceMark ChapmanIt's a period tale of a circus girl (Tilda) who helps an orphan boy escape the clutches of the evil Rev Glasson, leading to an incredible canal boat adventure.Kids period drama about a circus girl and a boy fleeing across the country from someone. I don't think it has ever been repeated, so memory is not strong, but I recall thoroughly enjoying it at the time.
- StarsAnnette BadlandCelia ImriePhilip JacksonChildren's period drama serial. In early nineteenth century London the rightful Duke finds himself cheated out of his inheritance.Dark (often the lighting), sinister kids' series that featured Inspector Japp from Poirot as a villian after children (no, not like that). I seem to recall a hot air balloon to escape, but maybe I'm getting confused with The Borrowers.
- StarsRachel GurneyBernice StegersJonathan NorrisBased on the novel by CA Jones, 'Little Sir Nicholas' is a story set in the Victorian era about heritage, identity and family rivalries. It was always the destiny for the sons of the wealthy and proud Tremaine family of Cornwall to join the Royal Navy but this legacy seems doomed to end when Sir Walter Tremaine, his wife and his four-year-old son Nicholas drown when their ship capsizes in stormy weather. Five years later, Lady Tremaine-- still yet to come to terms with the loss of her son and grandson-- advertises across the country for a new heir thus bringing the promise of wealth to impoverished Londoner Joanna Tremaine, who hopes her ten-year-old son Gerald will be the child chosen to inherit the Tremaine title and fortune. However, just as Joanna settles her family into a luxurious life, a new discovery threatens to destroy her newfound happiness: Little Sir Nicholas has been found alive and well in a small coastal French village. As Nicholas struggles to adjust to life back in England, feelings of rivalry, bitterness, resentment and anger quickly emerge on the return of the little boy. And just how far will Joanna go to ensure Gerald retains his new title...?It's funny what sticks in the mind, but this I recall, even if it hasn't been repeated since the early 90's. Vague memories of a child who was the rightful heir to a family estate, and of him hiding in Cornish caves - or possibly held captive there by a unscrupulous woman. A period kids drama that wasn't bad, if I recall.
- CreatorGlenda HamblyJohn RapseyStarsClinton VossKimberley StarkGreg CarrollThe comic adventures of the kids who live on Circe Island, a fishing community off the coast of Western Australia. Some kids call it Paradise, the others call it a prison and long for the mainland.Aussie kids show that I only remember running for 1 series in the UK. Quite fancied Jodi Herbert in this, and was in similar sort of vein as Round the Twist for some gross out moments. I suspect one scene of them being sick over the side of a boat is what curtailed me watching any more series of this for my parents.
- CreatorJohn SayleStarsJotham AnnanJohn LabanowskiJane DansonRather amusing kids comedy series about an appalling kids choir. Had a hatful of "Before They Were Famous" stars, such as Jane Danson (who I do remember), Charlie Brooks and James Cordon (not so much), but the one that sticks most in my mind is Nick Maloney's despairing vicar who had to train the choir. He was superb.
- StarsHans ClarinStanislaw KwasniakStanislaw WyszynskiA stop-motion animated children's television series, often referred to as the Fuzzy Felt Moomins, based on the stories and illustrations by the Finnish author Tove Jansson.One of my earliest memories when it was shown on CITV in the mid 80's. Haunting music and somewhat eerie, it fascinated me.
- StarsRalf LittleJeremy BullochJane DansonThe adventures of a junior cricket team in Slogthwaite, Lancashire.I wasn't a fan of cricket, so watched this under duress, but remember it not being bad at that. It was another kids show that had Jane Danson in it, while also recall a young Ralf Little in it. Funny what sticks in your mind, but this does.
- StarsRichard HolianJane LoweSue DevaneyJonny Briggs centers on the exploits of a young boy, the eponymous hero (played by Richard Holian), his pet dog, Razzle, and his eccentric family members.This used to be repeated regularly years after it's run had finished. Can't remember much, but I recall it was about a schoolboy with an active imagination, and had Leslie Scofield and Sue Devaney (aka Kevin Webster's sister in Coronation Street).
- StarsElizabeth SpriggsHugh PollardDavid CraneThe story focuses on the magical adventures of a little boy Simon who befriends a very mischievous witch.Recall the cheery theme tune. It involved Elizabeth Spriggs (Harvey Moon's mother) as the eponymous witch and her friendship with a schoolboy called Simon.
- StarsShaun TaylorDebbie BreenTony SaintA British town endures WWII bombings. A child takes a machine gun from a crashed German plane and fires at an aircraft, missing but forcing it to crash. Unaware they caused the crash, the children befriend the German pilot.Saw this when it was repeated for (I think) the VE Day celebrations. Set in wartime, it involved a group of boys finding a wounded German pilot who had crashed nearby and their efforts to hide him. Quite enjoyed Robert Westall's books as a teenager, and I'm surprised they never made more adaptations of his works.
- StarsOliver PostgateThe series chronicled the melancholically funny lives of the Clangers, a flutey-voiced family of woolen, knitted aliens living below the surface of a knobbly little planet far out in space. Their misadventures brought them into contact with such unlikely creatures as the Soup Dragon, the Froglets, the Iron Chicken and the Glow Buzzers.Another I saw when it was repeated on TV, with knitted pink mice and a Soup Dragon. No, really! It really wasn't one of those alcohol fuelled trips like Disney's Dumbo, I assure you.
- StarsPeggy MillerJohnny MorrisReal live animals such as Hammy the Hamster and Roderick the Rat are cleverly moved around off-camera in order to tell stories for children.Had this on a old video tape, while Colour episodes were repeated on TV in the 1990's. Reminds me of the countryside and gentler times.
- StarsNeil BuchananSteve JohnsonGaby RoslinI do recall this, one of the kids Saturday Shows they used to put on. Had Neil Buchanan of Art Attack and giant inflatable games, if I remember rightly.
- StarsTrevor NealSimon HicksonZoë BallThe BBC's much loved weekly 3 and a quarter hour live Saturday Morning programme, aimed at children.Another Saturday Show, I recall the original hosts Andi Peters and Emma Forbes, but was an intermittent watch for me in later years.
- StarsTimmy MallettArabella WarnerDowntown Julie BrownTimmy Mallett hitting kids over the head with a rubber hammer. It was a early morning Saturday game show, believe me, and one I still think of fondly. His hit single Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini, however, is another matter...
- StarsCharles CollingwoodDerek GriffithsSean BarrettChildren anthology series that mixed stories of adventure, sci-fi and even horror with educational segments aimed at improving children's literacy skills.Used to watch this at school as a kid. My favourite was Badger Girl, but some still hold up well. Also recall Wordy the flying orange object (just what WAS he?)
- StarsSean BarrettSimon FentonMarlaine GordonThree children enter a strange land through a mural they painted.Strange sort of story for Look & Read, but certainly memorable. Involved different coloured people that could be melted (don't try that at home, folks!) and a memorably scary crow like villian. Was that REALLY Bob Crachitt (aka David Collings) from Scrooge The Musical?
- 1967–200420m8.2 (13)TV EpisodeStarsCharles CollingwoodMichael MaynardIsobil NisbetThree children uncover a crime ring involved in the illegal bird trade.Saw this when it was reissued in 1992. A beautiful kids mystery, with the added bonus of Geoffrey Bayldon (the Crow Man from Worzel Gummidge) as the Bird Man. Still superb now.
- 1967–20047.8 (9)TV EpisodeStarsCharles CollingwoodLeon ArmstrongBungoIt may of needed subtitles for non Geordies, but this predates Byker Grove and was memorable for the appearance of Kevin Whately as a suspect and Geordie's father - something he did about the same time as Morse.
- StarsDamian ZukSuzanne ShawAlexander TrippierFour children discover a ruined church is the gateway to the fantastic and dangerous world of Elidor.Can't remember much about this, to be honest, other than the outcry that they kill the horse at the end. At least, I think they do, but as it's a magical horse let's hope it's alright really. Please?
- StarsNoah HuntleyCamilla PowerThomas SzekeresIt's strange how I can remember the Narnia series and The Box of Delights more vividly than later stuff like this. All I can recall of this is that it featured both Noah Huntley and Camilla Power, who would both appear in Emmerdale as brother and sister.
- StarsBob McFaddenLarry KenneyEarl HammondA team of humanoid cats fight evil in their adopted home world.Remember the theme tune and had the comics of this at the time. Was it a He-Man rip off? Who cares! I enjoyed it at the time and loved the cat in it.
- CreatorMike YoungStarsDerek GriffithsPeter HawkinsJon PertweeAn ordinary teddy bear comes to life and becomes a superhero.A toy teddy bear that could come to life and become a superhero, fighting villains called Texas Pete (Victor Spinetti) and Skeleton (Melvyn Hayes). Plus the voice of Jon Pertwee - Worzel Gummidge himself - as Spotty. What's not to love as a kid?
- CreatorJim EldridgeStarsPaul JonesHelen LambertGiuseppe PelusoUncle Jack gets hold of a secret formula, and has to stop it from falling into the hands of the notorious criminal known as the Vixen.It's funny what sticks in the memory, but I think this series involved a former secret agent and his previously unaware daughter solving mysteries that always seemed to involve villainess Fenella Fielding and Dev from Coronation Street. It wasn't bad by any means from what I can remember, but can't recall much of this one.
- CreatorJim EldridgeStarsPaul JonesHelen LambertGiuseppe PelusoUncle Jack's cousin disappears near Loch Ness. A marine base is hiding something and the Vixen has a new evil scheme.I'd be lying if I said I remembered much of this, but I do know I fancied Uncle Jack's niece in the series. What I could say is that I'm sure it involved the Loch Ness Monster, without looking at the title, and someone disappearing.
- CreatorJim EldridgeStarsPaul JonesElaine TanRoger HammondThe evil Vixen has concocted a plan to control the world's weather. Will Uncle Jack and friends be able to stop her before it's too late?I do wish they would repeat these, as I know this sticks in the mind as the best of the bunch and involved something about a weather centre near a school Uncle Jack's niece went to.
- CreatorJim EldridgeStarsPaul JonesCatherine BaileyRoger HammondUncle Jack and Helen travels to Egypt on a quest to find Cleopatra's treasure.The niece changed to being Catherine Bailey (which wasn't so bad). But this stayed in my memory for being pretty naff and involved ancient Egypt and Cath Bailey having to say "Must have a pee pee" which was similar to the Egyptian God's name Must-Have-A-Leek, when she was tied up and needing the loo. Yep, sounds pretty cringy.
- CreatorJim DavisStarsLorenzo MusicThom HugeGregg BergerStories about Garfield the cat, Odie the dog, their owner Jon and the trouble they get into, and Orson the Pig and his adventures on a farm with fellow farm animals.Used to race home from school to catch this on the TV. Wasn't so keen on Orson's Farm as a kid (though looking back it wasn't so bad), but Garfield's sarcastic outlook and adventures made my day. Had the books, toys and comics, such a fan was I.
- StarsKate DuchêneGeorgina SherringtonEmma BrownThe adventures of Mildred Hubble, a witch attending Cackles Academy. She's called the "Worst Witch" because she's always caught getting into trouble.This was broadcast during my teenage years and despite it being a unusual series to watch, it had girls aplenty in Georgina Sherrington, Holly Rivers, plus pre-famers Felicity Jones and Jessica Fox. Viewed now it's a rather sweet show, nostalgic escapism - and there's nothing wrong with that in this day and age.
- StarsSasha PitimsonNicola BryantCraig SteinLife in an English Drama School - advertised as "Fame" in the 90's.Set in a fame academy for wannabe child stars, it featured a pre-EastEnders Paul Nicholls and looked set for a promising run to match long running hits Byker Grove and Grange Hill. It never matched it's promise and ended after 2 series.
- CreatorMitchell KriegmanStarsMelissa Joan HartJason ZimblerElizabeth HessAs events unfold in her life, Clarissa explains to the viewer the motivations behind people's actions.Melissa Joan Hart before she became a Witch (so to speak), this was a fun American show where Clarissa gave asides to the screen about the various happenings in her life. In one sense I almost prefer this to her later Sabrina series. Maybe it's the nostalgia again for the older show?
- CreatorJonathan SchmockNell ScovellStarsMelissa Joan HartCaroline RheaBeth BroderickSabrina is a normal teenager, except for one thing - she's a witch. Guided by her aunts, who come from a long line of witches, and Salem, a mischievous warlock doing penance as a cat, Sabrina continually struggles to harness her powers.Melissa Joan Hart struck gold again with the story of Sabrina, a teenage witch who lived with her two aunts while navigating her teenage years of boyfriends, bullies and everyday teenage life. Nearly as enjoyable as Clarissa Explains It All, and in this you also got a talking cat, who became the star of the show.
- CreatorHenry OrensteinStarsFrank WelkerPeter CullenCorey BurtonTwo opposing factions of transforming alien robots engage in a battle that has the fate of Earth in the balance.Had the comics and had the toys. Can't recall much of the cartoon series, but I know I was a big transformers fan in the day.
- CreatorD.J. MacHaleNed KandelStarsRoss HullDaniel DeSantoRaine Pare-CoullA group of teenagers meet in the woods, and tell scary stories.This, along with Goosebumps, was a kids version of the Ghost Story. This was on ITV and if I've got the right programme, the one that sticks chillingly in the mind is the kid who played hide and seek with friends in the cemetery. Can't recall the name of the episode, but the twist ending has never left me.
- CreatorR.L. StineStarsR.L. StineKathryn ShortCody Jones"Goosebumps" was a series of scary anthology stories based on the children's books by R.L. Stine. Series one was hosted by R.L. Stine for twelve episodes.This featured on the BBC (or CBBC, to be exact), though I always felt this was a lesser series to the ITV "Dark" series. The story that sticks in my mind from this is the kid whose camera told the fate of every person whose photo they took - and it wasn't always good, either!
- CreatorJohn GeeringStarsGraeme GardenBill OddieTim Brooke-TaylorBananaman, a young boy named Eric, transforms into a super-strong hero by eating bananas. His crow friend provides bananas. As Bananaman, he battles villains while keeping his alter-ego secret from others.Classic theme tune that gives a nostalgic feel, even if it has a rather dubious opening narrative, if I recall. Where schoolboy Kevin was just like any other ordinary boy until he went into his bedroom, where he turned into something completely different - he became Bananaman! In my neck of the district that's a medical complaint! How did they get away with it?
- StarsGudrun UreIain CuthbertsonBill ShineThe adventures of a super-powered granny who fights crime in her community.Another classic theme tune, another slice of nostalgia from the mid 1980's that seemed to sum up an era. Such as where ageing geriatrics could gain superpowers and take on scheming crooks called Scunner Campbell with their grandkids. Female empowerment never got any stranger and more delightful as this!
- DirectorJimmy T. MurakamiDianne JacksonStarsDavid BowieRaymond BriggsMel SmithOn Christmas Eve, a young boy builds a snowman that comes to life and takes him to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas.This must be imprinted in every child's mind from the 1980's onwards, such is it's classic status now. Such a beautiful Xmas cartoon, with memorable scenes and haunting music, with an ending that is unforgettable.
- CreatorJoe RubyKen SpearsJoseph BarberaStarsDon MessickCasey KasemNicole JaffeA group of teenage friends and their Great Dane (Scooby-Doo) travel in a bright green van solving strange and hilarious mysteries, while returning from or going to a regular teenage function.The music summed up the hippy 1960's and evoked memories of trying to get home in time from school to watch this. This was the best of the many Scooby series, involving four friends and a cowardly (or sensible) Great Dane dog solving mysteries. Memorable offerings included dognappers, witches, clowns, snow ghosts and a memorable deep sea diver that ranks as one of the best. And yes, I quite fancied Daphne - who wouldn't?
- CreatorJoseph BarberaWilliam HannaStarsAlan ReedMel BlancJean Vander PylThe misadventures of two modern-day Stone Age families, the Flintstones and the Rubbles.Remember watching this Saturday mornings during the school holidays. For this reason, the Flintstones always summon up holidays for me in my memories.
- CreatorJoseph BarberaWilliam HannaStarsArnold StangMaurice GosfieldMarvin KaplanTop Cat is the leader of a group of alley cats, always trying to cheat someone.Something I haven't seen for many years, but it still remains fondly in my memory of a wisecracking cat living in dustbins and outwitting Officer Dibble. I seemed to have a thing for wisecracking cats as a kid.
- StarsDon MessickGreg BursonArlene GolonkaThe further misadventures of Yogi Bear and his friends.The adventures of Yogi and Boo Boo are a distant memory now, but I do recall watching them on a Saturday morning.
- CreatorJames DriscollStarsPhilip WhitchurchJo WyattThis series follows the magical adventures of The Shoe People who live in their own magical land called Shoe Town.Another series I vaguely recall, but a fond memory regardless.
- StarsSu PollardPeter HawkinsTabitha St. GermainThe adventures of a mischievous schoolgirl who loves to draw.So many cartoons in the 1980's, but this one sticks out for Su Polland's manic voicing of the title heroine.
- StarsFrank BuxtonLen MaxwellAn animated series about a superhero bat. Well known for having wings made of solid steel and his supersonic sonar radar.A cartoon series that was a throw back to the early days of cinema, where a hero bat often faced a paused moment of real peril from which escape looked impossible - but obviously he always found a way out, as he was back same time the next week! Great fun.
- CreatorRoger HargreavesStarsArthur LoweCharlayne WoodardStuart K. RobinsonThe Mr Men are a whole host of brightly colored characters that live in Misterland. All of them have names like Mr Happy, Mr Clumsy and Mr Greedy and their appearance and personality match their name. Narrated by Arthur Lowe.Happy whimsical memories of carefree summer days with Arthur Lowe's narration of the oddly shaped characters in their own little world. A perfect cartoon series to wallow in away from the world of today.
- CreatorGrange CalveleyStarsRichard BriersRoobarb the green dog's enthusiasm for inventions and harebrained schemes to liven up life in the garden know no bounds. It's up to Custard the indolent, grinning purple cat, and the rest of the garden animals to make sure nothing comes of them so that their idle tranquility can be preserved, and score points off Roobarb's inflated ego at the same time.Roobarb was a dog and Custard was the cat in a badly drawn but energetic cartoon series narrated by Richard Briers.
- DirectorMark HallStarsRichard PearsonIan CarmichaelDavid JasonToad, Rat, Mole, and Badger follow animal etiquette in this version of Kenneth Grahame's classic, in stop-motion model animation.Charming old fashioned stop motion series which still has the power to charm despite it's slowness, and benefits from voice casts David Jason, Peter Sallis, Richard Pearson, plus my own personal favourite Michael Hordern - possibly because he also did the voice to Paddington Bear!
- DirectorJohn Michael PhillipsStarsIan HolmGary DavisThora HirdAn ill tailor is trying to finish a coat for a wealthy man. He is hindered by his cat and helped by some grateful mice.Somewhat gloomy for a kids show at times, but stayed in my memory I think due to it being shown on Xmas. Has a young Jude Law in it who might want to burn all copies for his performance in this.
- StarsRobert LindsayNeil MorrisseyCharlotte ColemanThe enchanting tales of a community of field mice living in secret in a brambly hedgerow.Stop start animation for a charming series that I remember being voiced by Charlotte Coleman (of Worzel Gummidge & later Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit fame).
- CreatorPamela LonsdaleStarsGeoffrey HayesRoy SkeltonStanley BatesChildren's puppet programme featuring music and stories.Didn't mind this as a kid, but a somewhat strange series to look back on now. A bloke living on his own with a giant bear, a camp hippo and what the heck was Zippy? Come to think of it, if George was "camp", how dubious was Zippy with that zip up mouth of his? The things they got away with back then.
- StarsRod HullCarol Lee ScottSusan MaughanA British children's comedy series featuring Emu, a puppet and Rod Hull.I know Emu and Rod Hull were supposed to be the heroes, but I found Grotbags much more fun. Can't remember much else of this, ironically.