The Brothers: The Distaff Side (BBC1 17 Oct 1976, Philip Jackson)

In The Distaff Side Paul’s mother is having to stay with the Riley’s with Paul abroad and April at her parents and Merroney is more than a little put out when he returns home.

Meanwhile he has a major new plan to put to the board about expansion into the middle east, something which could change the whole direction the company is headed in.

Mary has recovered from her bout of flu and goes to stay with an old friend for a week giving Brian the opportunity to invite Jane to stay over.

A good strong mid season episode, the real highlight is the performance by Norah Fulton as Paul’s mum, she understands him completely and isn’t at all put out that he didn’t attend his father’s funeral.

production design
UK / BBC One / 1×60 minute episode / Broadcast 17 October 1976

Writer: Elaine Morgan / Production Design: Lynda Kettle / Director: Christopher Baker

The Brothers Season 7 Episode 7

main cast
JEAN ANDERSON as Mary Hammond
RICHARD EASTON as Brian Hammond
ROBIN CHADWICK as David Hammond
JENNIFER WILSON as Jennifer Hammond
DEREK BENFIELD as Bill Riley
KATE O’MARA as Jane Maxwell
COLIN BAKER as Paul Merroney
MARGARET ASHCROFT as Gwen Riley
LIZA GODDARD as April Merroney

guest cast
NORAH FULTON as Mrs Merroney
CHRISTINE ABSALOM as Judy Vickery
ROBERT BLYTHE as Marsh
PHILIP JACKSON as Garageman