1 9 7 2 (UK)
5 x 30 minute episodes
This short-lived comedy series from the pen of Johnny Speight starred Cyril Cusack and James Booth as two tramps.
James Booth was supposed to be an aggressive Cockney tramp but sported an appallingly “theatrical” suit, all careful holes and tears courtesy of the wardrobe department, and had beautifully cut, sleek hair. Cyril Cusack was his cunning little Irish sidekick, Coatsleeves.
The pair gave us their views on Pakistan, Vietnam, Ireland, the Royal Family and so on. Their philosophies were broad, sweeping and quite definite.
They found stolen money, bought ritzy outfits and went to live it up at the Royal Gardens Hotel where they asked the wine waiter for meths and put out some flambeau cooking with a fire extinguisher.
Guest stars included Tim Brooke-Taylor, Rita Webb, Arthur Mullard, Derek Griffiths and Madeline Smith.
The series aired on BBC1 between 27 July and 24 August 1972
Coat Sleeves
Cyril Cusack
Cockney
James Booth