Thundercloud (ITV 1979, Derek Waring, Sarah Douglas)

Written by Ian Mackintosh (who was normally at home with more action led fare such as Warship or The Sandbaggers) Thundercloud followed the exploits of a group of Naval men stationed in Yorkshire during World War II

Although HMS Thundercloud is a small naval base on the Yorkshire coast, staff at the Admiralty are under the mistaken impression that “Thundercloud” is a minesweeper on active duty in the North Sea. As a result, they keep sending essential suppiles and spares.

In best Will Hay meets Sgt Bilko style Dr Smith (Frank Gatliff) and Chief Petty Officer Hawkins (James Cosmo) make a fair bit on the side selling the supplies on the black market.

Meanwhile, Commander Flint (Derek Waring) prefers to ignore the goings on at the base and concentrate on his garden.

production details
ITV – Yorkshire TV / 13×25 minute episodes / Broadcast 22 May – 31 July 1979 Tuesdays at 7.30pm

Creator/Executive Producer: Ian Mackintosh / Producer: Keith Richardson

cast
John Fraser as Lt Cmdr Monty Morgan
James Cosmo as CPO Hawkins
Sarah Douglas as Bella Harrington
Derek Waring as Cmdr Flint
Frank Gatliff as Dr Smith
Paul Aston as Ordinary Seaman Collins