To The Manor Born - Definition

To the Manor Born was a popular and high-rating British sitcom which ran for a total of twenty one episodes over three seasons between 1979 and 1981. Written by Peter Spence, and produced by the BBC the series examines via humour not only the class snobbery and xenophobia of the British but the role of the nobility in conserving the rural environment and tradition.

Synopsis

Audrey fforbes-Hamilton (Penelope Keith) inherits Grantleigh Manor from her late husband Martin only to find that he was bankrupt and that she must sell up. She is horrified when the purchaser is Richard de Vere (Peter Bowles), who turns out not only to be 'a nouveau riche grocer' - he owns a supermarket chain - but foreign - his real name is Bedrich, and his mother, Mrs. Polouvicka (Daphne Heard) from Bratislava, Czechoslovakia has also taken up residence. Audrey, able to retain only the services of her butler, Brabinger (John Rudling) and her vintage Rolls Royce, rents the Manor's gatekeeper's lodge from where she can keep an eye on developments at the manor. Her best friend Marjory Frobisher (Angela Thorne) has eyes for Richard. Audrey soon sets about teaching Richard the concept of noblesse oblige and working her way back into the life of the manor, whilst dealing with the awkwardness of maintaining the social graces - and simply keeping body and soul together - without any money. Eventually, Richard develops romantic designs, but Audrey will not consider marriage unless she is mistress of her own fortunes. Fortunately, the demise of a wealthy Uncle leaves her in exactly that position.

In 2003, A BBC Programme "Britains Best Sitcom" gave viewers the chance to vote for their favourite/best British sitcom. To the Manor Born reached number 21 out of 100.

Other regular cast include Gerald Sim as the Rector and Michael Bilton as Old Ned.