CRANFORD - SUCH ABSOLUTE FUN!

I vaguely remember trying to read Cranford, by Mrs. Gaskell, in my youth and not succeeding. Now I'm having a wonderful time wallowing in the weekly episodes on BBC1.

It is a superb production with some great actresses such as Judi Dench



Imelda Staunton,


and the amazing Julia McKenzie who I've adored for years, particularly reinforced by learning that she is a very close friend of another favourite lady, Maureen Lipman. I do hope they are still thriving together - we women can fail to uphold earlier friendships sometimes.





Three amazing women in a fascinating period piece (can't call it drama as nothing dramatic seems to happen!) Thank goodness we have the BBC doing this stuff - I know quality TV is under threat and even the BBC costume department has gone but surely they'll continue to do their best to churn out such absolute gems?