Synopsis
James Shelley, an educated, sardonic, permanently unemployed "professional freelance layabout," has many battles with authority, the tax-man, his landlady, and his girlfriend Fran.
Episodes
1E1Moving InShelley and his girlfriend Fran are looking for accomadation.
After viewing unsuitable properties, they find a room at Mrs Hawkins' house.30m2E2The Nelson TouchShelley isn't impressed when his local pub is destined for a kitsch makeover. He gets yet more grief at the Labour Exchange, who seem determined to put an end to his cushy lifestyle and endless payouts.
Meanwhile, Fran has some news that may make him finally want to change his layabout ways.30m3E3Gainfully EmployedFollowing a drunken evening stint as Nelson at the Victory pub, Shelley wakes up in the morning next to a strange woman.
He has some serious explaining to do, not to mention waking up to the reality of finding some permanent gainful employment.30m4E4The Distaff SideShelley has finally completed his week doing a 'proper' job at an advertising agency, but is a bit shocked when he sees how much tax is deducted from his first pay packet.
Could it be that proposing marriage to Fran will lessen his financial burdens and provide much-needed tax relief?30m5E5Elders and BettersVisiting a health shop, Shelley is appalled at the high prices of some of the items.
The moment he and Fran have long dreaded has arrived. Travelling by train, they arrive at the country home/farm of Gordon Smith, Fran's rich Dad.6E6May the Best Man WinShelley is reunited with his oldest friend, Ned, whom he asks to be best man at his forthcoming wedding.
Ned, unfortunately, is a 'Jack The Lad' type who loves to drink, smoke, and make love.7E7Nowt So QueerShelley's attempts to prepare a dinner party meet with continual interruptions.
A Jehovah's Witness is at the door and won't go away, plus the neighbour thinks Mrs H is on the game.
Cast
