The Desperate Hours" is the second Christmas special of the BBC sitcom Porridge. It first aired on 24 December 1976. [1] In this episode, Fletcher and Godber are in trouble for brewing liquor in the lead-up to Christmas, but are caught up in a hostage situation in the Governor's office. It was the only episode of Porridge to air in 1976.

If you’re a quiz fan, then why not test your knowledge on all things Christmas movies hosted by comedian Alan Carr.The BBC was forced to look around for locations because the Home Office refused permission for any production filming inside or outside a real prison. Instead the main gatehouse of the disused St Albans prison (in the town's Victoria Street) was used in the opening credits. Exteriors were first filmed at a psychiatric hospital near Watford. However, after the completion of the second series, the hospital withdrew permission for more filming following complaints from patients' families. Another institution near Ealing was then used for the third series. [6] Scenes within cells and offices were filmed at the BBC's London studios, but for shots of the wider prison interior, series production designer Tim Gleeson converted an old water tank, used at Ealing Studios for underwater filming, into a multi-storey set. [7] One Foot in the Grave-perhaps the Algarve one but another show that developed into a must see Christmas tradition.

Christmas has come to Slade Prison. Godber, with his innocent nature, likes the idea of Christmas, but Fletcher tells him that Christmas in prison is little different to any other day. Godber points out that there are carol singers, but Fletcher remarks that they are there to drown out the sound of Tommy Slocombe's tunnelling. Other shows including Modern Family, Magnum P.I. and Moonbase 8 will be arriving later in December. Ever Decreasing Circles one of the best series finale in all of UK TV. The earlier one with Paul's party is great too, but this one is a lovely send off for Martin and Ann. Also because I'm such a fan of Aardman Animations and collect Wallace and Gromit memorabilia we will tend to watch Arthur Christmas and the Wallace and Gromits as well. The Vicar of Dibley is being re-shown on the BBC at the moment but why not indulge in this festive treat from the village as Geraldine Granger (Dawn French) and her parishioners put on a nativity play.Vicar of Dibley up to a point-the episode where she tries to eat 3 Christmas dinners probably my favourite. Norman Stanley Fletcher, you have pleaded guilty to the charges brought by this court, and it is now my duty to pass sentence. You are an habitual criminal, who accepts arrest as an occupational hazard, and presumably accepts imprisonment in the same casual manner. We therefore feel constrained to commit you to the maximum term allowed for these offences; you will go to prison for five years. Along with the festive offerings on the platform, there are some brilliant drama to be enjoyed on the platform. The League of Gentlemen with the three characters visiting Rev. Bernice on Christmas Eve. Funny, creepy, silly, gross. Perfect.