In this episode, Tim, James, Jon and Martin discuss the radio episode The Rail Strike from the second series of Hancock’s Half Hour.

As this is the earliest surviving episode featuring Kenneth Williams’ Snide character, the four fans discuss the origin and the development of this character through to his final appearance at the end of the fourth series.  They also consider how nimble Galton & Simpson were in writing scripts that featured actual events of the day and are delighted to welcome Robin Sebastian as guest to discuss his love of this episode.  The team are also pleased to be able to include extracts from a brilliant interview with Bill Kerr undertaken by Tony Hancock Appreciation Society Member Mick Dawson.

The team also briefly consider the films The Titfield Thunderbolt and Night Mail, discuss the answers to some queries from listeners and delve into the history of Puffing Billy.

 Don’t forget to rate us and subscribe to the podcast. And, if you haven’t done so already, why not join the Tony Hancock Appreciation Society - full details of how to join are at Tonyhancock.org.uk. We’ll be back in two weeks’ time with another edition of Very Nearly an Armful. Hope to see you then!