Scarborough

I loved this show, it has a similar vibe to Benidorm as you'd expect, but it has a bit more going on, and it has a heart. There's a story arc which spans the six episodes, it's all well thought out, and neatly developed. Darren Litten knows how to write comedy, but also wove in a serious side to it.

Terrific acting, I must give mentions to Maggie Ollerenshaw and Stephanie Cole, both mature performers were outstanding, and showed why they've been in the game for so long Tyldesley and Manford were both terrific also.

It was a bit of a slow burner, I wasn't hooked after the first few, but by the end I was. I truly hope they continue with it, there is so much more they can do.

More please. 8/10

Loved the first episode tonight. If you were expecting it to be just like Benidorm then you are mistaken. Darren Litten shows us that he is not a one trick pony with Scarborough. A down to earth great British comedy. In many ways just like still open all hours, and not just because Stephanie Cole and Maggie Ollerenshaw star in it. A light hearted comedy drama we can all relate to in one way or another.

This is a wonderful series full of well-drawn and fresh characters set in a small-size situation. It's calmness to not be grand or go for set-piece gags sets it apart from many similar-looking sitcoms. Expect an easy-paced show with an easy mood as the characters push through some tough problems. The cast are great and give it backbone without any trying to grab the limelight.

As it happens, I watched this series during the Covid-19 lock-down. I'd have loved it anyway but here it was a much-needed dose of glorious outdoor shots and open space.

I really didn't expect this show to be different to Benidorm, but it really is. And in a good way. I think - with all due respect - that the bad reviews here are from people generally expecting another bunch of Garveys.

Instead, we have a small but very well conceived set of folks in a dead end town, wrapped up in each others lives in a sometimes hilarious, but mostly fascinating way.

I think the acid test here is imagination and appreciation of fine writing and acting. If you lack either, you probably won't be affected too much by this. But if you do, I think you might enjoy what I've found to be a thoroughly enjoyable and fun comedy drama with excellent character development.

Just watched this on catch-up, it took a couple of episodes to get into it, but by the end I loved it. Terrific ensemble cast. Deserved another series IMO.