The 40th anniversary of Dad’s Army is upon us, and this Sunday on BBC Two Jonathan Ross will host a special broadcast at 7pm.

Despite the series’ immense popularity over the years, it is true to say that latterly the advenures of Captain Mainwaring and company haven’t really received the level of regard that perhaps they should.

Dad’s Army is a template for any ensemble drama, nevermind comedy, with a good 90% of the laughs coming from the characters, their traits and motivations.

Nothing is forced with Dad’s Army, and nor should it be. With stars like Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, Bill Pertwee and Clive Dunn, and superb scripts from Jimmy Perry and David Croft, the series is a shining beacon of light, and should be the first port of call for any writer wanting to create a lasting, successful and popular comedy series.

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