Tonight BBC Two gives over much of its programming to Dad's Army, the classic wartime sitcom which is celebrating its 40th birthday. The evening kicks off with the 1971 feature-length film version of the comedy about the Home Guard unit of a small seaside town. Not as funny as the original 30-minute sitcoms, the film still has its moments, and works well as an introduction to the series.
In 1940, with a German invasion threatened, the defence of Walmington-on-Sea is in the hands of local bank manager Captain Mainwaring (Arthur Lowe) and a motley collection of volunteers. After a series of blunders, the Home Guard finally get the glory they deserve.
Other programmes on tonight include a Dad's Army episode or two, Don't Panic! The Dad's Army Story (a repeat of a documentary, irritatingly presented by Victoria Wood), and an episode from the Reputations series, which focuses on Arthur Lowe.
Not only that, but tomorrow night old Wossy gets his hand in when he presents Jonathan Ross Salutes Dad's Army, a one-off special to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the show, complete with a studio recreation of the platoon's HQ - the Walmington-on-Sea church hall.
A good weekend in prospect then. Carry on, Mainwaring!
Dad's Army is a Film programme that first aired in 1971 and has been classified a PG certificate.
