Sometimes I wonder how decisions are made about which television shows should be released on dvd. I remember this series from its original airing, but it hadn't really stuck in my mind. The pilot episode brought back memories, not of this show specifically, but of a type of programme that seems to have to disappeared from our screens: simple, unpretentious adventure shows for young people, without sci-fi, wizardry or merchandise tie-ins. By having the stories situated in England itself, existing historic locations could be used. The actors come from that gigantic repertory company the British acting community has, faces that you know but that are not going to distract you from the characters. The one exception would be Richard O'Sullivan, at that time mostly known for his comedic roles. He succeeds in making you forget Dr Bingham and Robin Tripp at once. The trick of his initial disguise gives him a wonderful entrance as well. The story moves forward fluently, and at the end of the half hour you've enjoyed a nice mini-movie.

Only two things slightly annoyed me. The mixing up of the Turpin legend with the Robin Hood story reminded me of a Hollywood interpretation of history. And at the end of the episode Turpin and Nick ride off into the distance. But what happens to Nick's mother? Is she just left to her own devices? Does she lose the inn? How will Sir John treat her?