"Dad's Army" was a long running British comedy series created and written by Jimmy Perry and David Croft. The idea of a series came to Jimmy Perry when he realised that many people had forgotten about the contribution the Home Guard had made to the British Home Front during the years of the Second World War.

Commencing in 1968, "Dad's Army" ran on BBC Television for 9 years with over eighty episodes spread within 10 series. The series is set in a small fictional seaside town called Walmington-on-Sea somewhere on the South Coast of England. "Dad's Army" is also remembered for its first class actors which starred amongst its credits, Arthur Lowe as Captain Mainwaring, John Le Mesurier as Sergeant Arthur Wilson and Clive Dunn as Lance Corporal Jack Jones.

Although a comedy series, "Dad's Army" probably depicted more of an accurate version of the Home Guard than anyone could actually realise. Initially it was felt the series was maybe mocking England's finest hour and its first episodes were reviewed with great criticism. However, Jimmy Perry , David Croft and the cast felt that the show had many strengths and so did the steady flow of the British public which began following the Walmington-On-Sea platoon's exploits on Television each week.

In 1969, "Dad's Army" embarked on its first Colour TV series, and with that success followed. A feature length film based on the series was made by Columbia Pictures in 1971, and a stage show based on the series toured the UK between 1975 - 76. The programme was also adapted for BBC Radio.

Most of the cast are now no longer with us, but their memory lives on through regular repeats on BBC Television and UK Gold as well as many video and DVD releases.

Episode Guide

Series 1

The Man and The Hour

It's May 1940; Sir Anthony Eden makes his announcement to the nation that a new home Defence is to be formed for which to defend Britain's homes - the Local Defence Volunteers.

Museum Piece

The LDV attempt to requisition some antiquated war weapons from the Peabody museum but are continually thwarted by Corporal Jones father!

Command Decision

Captain Mainwaring has to make an important decision,should he stand down and let Captain Square join the LDV in order that they maybe armed with Square's own rifles?

Enemy Within the Gates

German parachutists are captured by Jones, Pike and Walker. Captain Mainwaring has a run in with a Polish commander.

The Showing Up of Corporal Jones

Corporal Jones has to prove he is fit enough to stay with the Home Guard by completing an assault course in 12 minutes.

Shooting Pains

The platoon have to prove their worth by correctly using their firearms, as none of them are very capable, they enlist the help of a showgirl! (features a guest appearance from Barbara Windsor).

Actors

Merchandise