Clarence is a 1988 BBC situation comedy starring Ronnie Barker and Josephine Tewson, written by Ronnie Barker under the pseudonym "Bob Ferris". It was Barker's final sitcom appearance before his retirement. Barker had previously faced some criticism over his employment of a stammer for comedic effect in Open All Hours. However, the slapstick potential of a short-sighted furniture shifter must have seemed irresistible. The series was inspired by The Removals Person by Hugh Leonard, an earlier programme in the 1971 LWT comedy series, Six Dates With Barker. The house of Jane Travers, which inspired the opening titles, is located on Malvern Road in Cheltenham.
DirectorMike Stephens
WriterRonnie Barker
Episode 1
Jan 4, 1988
Coronation Day: 12 May 1937. While the rest of the nation celebrates, Clarence Sale continues his removals business. He enlists the help of ladies' maid, Jane Travers, a move which changes his life
Episode 2
Jan 11, 1988
After a marriage proposal from Clarence, Travers decides it may be advisable to have a trial period living together first. They leave London for the Oxfordshire countryside.
Episode 3
Jan 18, 1988
Clarence and Travers continue their trial period living together in the Oxfordshire countryside. A chance meeting with the vicar's wife opens up new opportunities for Clarence to test his removal skills.
Episode 4
Jan 25, 1988
Travers is determined not to rush into marriage with Clarence. As they settle into their cottage in the Oxfordshire countryside she decides that keeping chickens might be a good idea. Clarence sets about rebuilding the run.
Episode 5
Mar 1, 1988
Clarence and Travers continue their trial period living together before deciding on marriage. Money is getting short and Clarence is forced to the labour exchange to find work.
Episode 6
Feb 8, 1988
Clarence is beginning to get frustrated, not only by the bolster which separates him and Travers in bed, but by her lack of decision about marriage. They both find work at a big house in the village and Clarence decides on a walk in the country.
