Root Into Europe

Enjoyable, light-hearted mini-series in which George Cole basically reprises his famous "Arthur Daley" role under another character name, appointing himself as a "roving ambassador without portfolio for the British PM" and touring Europe with his "lady wife" to study European culture in the run-up to the launch of the European single market in 1992.

Constant statements like "after 1992, everything will be ..." date it somewhat, but it's nonetheless a fine piece of "archetypal Englishman abroad" comedy filmed on location around Europe and featuring cameos by the likes of Italian porn actress La Ciccolina and German sex shop magnate Beate Uhse playing themselves.

If Henry Root was alive today he'd be a keen Brexiteer. Perhaps it's time to repeat this series, in which the fictional character Henry Root (his hobby is writing to politicians, donating a pound, and telling them to keep up the good work of returning the UK to the late 19th century) travels round Europe meeting various real movers and shakers. That great actor George Cole has a script, but frequently improvises in character. I remember it being very funny, and a great send-up of the Farage tendency.

I watched this series years ago, and I'm back again. All the pomposity you can stand. Tongue in cheek, perfect Brit humor, just the best. Wish I could join Henry and his wife... I would carry their luggage!