1 9 8 4 – 1 9 8 5 (UK)
15 x 30 minute episodes, 1 x special
1 9 8 6 (UK)
16 x 30 minute episodes
1 9 8 7 – 1 9 8 8 (UK)
12 x 30 minute episodes
This fast-moving comedy show from Granada Television featured the varied talents of Leeds-based band and comedy troupe The Grumbleweeds – Robin, Maurice, Carl, Graham and Albert – who had been successful on the radio since 1979.
Ironically retaining the same name when they transferred the show to television (following a successful pilot episode in March 1983), the lunatic five presented a manic mixture of music, sketches and impressions and introduced a host of new characters as well as firm favourites like Viv and Trix, Hymie and Rachel, The Milky Bar Kid and Wilf (Gasmask) Grimshaw – and, of course, the gorgeous Grumblegirls, Mandy, Sally and Tracey.
A series in 1986 had the title shortened to The Grumbleweeds Show, while from 1987 onwards several format changes were made with sketches being filmed on location as well as in the studio.
Carl and Albert Sutcliffe left the group in 1987, with their places taken by backing musicians for the final few television shows. The final programme was transmitted on 9 July 1988.
Graham Walker died in June 2013, aged 68, after a two-year battle with cancer.
Robin Colvill
Maurice Lee
Carl Sutcliffe
Graham Walker
Albert Sutcliffe
Mandy Montgomery
Sally Wilde
Tracey Dixon
