Favourite story of millions

Press, 3 May 1984, Page 19

Favourite story of millions

The classic story of the adventures of Mole, Rat, Badger and Toad of Toad Hall, set in the Edwardian England of 1908 (when Kenneth Grahame published the original book), will be screened as the Movie for After School tomorrow on One at 4.35 p.m. “The Wind in the Willows” is the story of Mole, who sets out from his underground home to discover the world and is befriended by the river-loving Water Rat — who introduces him to the madcap aristocrat, Mr Toad.

Together with grandfatherly Badger they encounter the rascally Weasels, face the terrors of the Wild Wood, and see Toad through a series of headlong escapades until they return once again to the peace of the English countryside. A best-seller throughout the world since its publication, “The Wind in the Willows” has become required reading in Royal nurseries

and ordinary households alike. These improbable adventures of four animals who are also Edwardian gentlemen have remained into adult life the favourite book of millions. Its descriptions of an idyllic English countryside and of a graceful way of life that was disappearing even as Kenneth Grahame wrote about it, give it a timeless and universal appeal. An all-star cast has provided the characters with voices for this production, adapted for the screen by Rosemary Ann Sisson. Richard Pearson is Mole, a gentle, inquisitive fellow who finds life above ground rather awe-inspiring compared with the peace and seclusion of his little underground home. lan Carmichael is Rat, the eternal optimist. Ratty is happy simply messing about in his boat on his beloved river. Kindly and generous to a fault, he hates disappointing anybody.

Michael Hordern is Badger. Stem-faced, gruffvoiced Badger hates company, but everyone respects his level-headed advice and admirees his no-nonsense approach to life. Although Badger lives right in the middle of the Wild Wood, none of its wilder inhabitants will interfere with him if they know what is good for them.

David Jason is Toad. Simple, good-natured, very rich and not very clever, Toad is always at the centre of events. His sudden crazes land him and his friends in constant trouble.

Other voices are provided by Beryl Reid as the magistrate, Una Stubbs as the jailer’s daughter, and Edward Kelsey as the arch villain, Baron Greenback.

“The Wind in the Willows” won the 1983 B.A.F.T.A. Award for best children’s television programme.