For the small but pivotal role of Wilkin the college porter, I thought it would be a good idea to cast an experienced character actor with a history of comic roles, as had been the case with the late Gerald Campion, who played Wilkin in the 1979 production.

Pondering the fact that Gerald Campion had been famous for playing the incorrigible schoolboy Billy Bunter in the long-running TV comedy series, I suddenly recalled that Melvyn Hayes, whom I'd known for a couple of years, had appeared alongside Campion in the same series, and so the idea seemed irresistible.

Melvyn devoured the role with relish, and was a wonderful fellow to have around. He's been in showbusiness nearly all his life, and has worked with any number of the 'greats'. He enjoyed reminiscing with James Fox about their antics at the premiere of one of Cliff Richard's movies back in the 1960s!