Wilde Alliance: Time and Again (ITV 21 Mar 1978 with Diana Coupland)

In Time and Again Rupert pays a visit to a prison to give a talk. Back at home he realises that one of the prisoners has hidden a manuscript (written in pencil) in his briefcase.

A pair of excellent actors in the shape of Diana Coupland and Anthony Bate take the lead guest roles. When Rupert’s agent Christopher gets his hands on the manuscript he is convinced it has all the makings of a best seller. It details a spectacular heist from start to finish.

Meanwhile someone else is out to get their hands on the manuscript, with break ins at both the Wilde’s flat and Christopher’s office. As Rupert and Amy discover that the story in the book is very much true. The tough Golombek, the man behind the original bank robbery, manages to get the manuscript back but Rupert puts a cat amongst the pigeons by claiming to have a copy of it (he doesn’t). In order to get his hands on the “copy” Golombek kidnaps Amy (albeit wining and dining her in the process).

Another episode that’s mostly played for laughs. Although Rupert does show off a rare bit of fisticuff skill when he mounts his rescue attempt of Amy.

production details
UK / ITV – Yorkshire / 1×50 minute episode / Broadcast Tuesday 21st March 1978 at 9.00pm

Writer: Anthony Skene / Production Design: Mary Rea / Director: Marc Miller

Series: Wilde Alliance Episode 10 (of 13)

cast
John Stride as Rupert Wilde
Julia Foster as Amy Wilde
John Lee as Christopher Bridgewater
Anthony Bate as Golombek
Diana Coupland as Cora
Victor Brooks as Prison Officer
Richard Shaw as Harry
Freddie Earlle as Nobby
Alan Bennion as Charlie
Adam Bareham as Terry
Hugh Walter as Police Sergeant
Roy Hanlon as Fred