Film Classic

Black-and-white film. Freda and Barry in belted raincoats are under a viaduct in the rain. They are snogging. She breaks away.

Freda

Barry, no!

Barry

By ‘eck, I’ve never thought of myself as romantic Freda, but you’ve got a cracking bust.

Freda

I’ve got to go, Barry, I’m on first shift down pit.

Barry

Snog a bit longer and then catch last bus.

Freda

I can’t.

Barry

I’ll give you t’threepence.

Freda

It’s not the money. My mam’s being buried tomorrow, and I’ve got to mek t’sandwiches.

Barry

Just a bit longer – I haven’t finished unbuttoning your cardigan yet.

Freda

I’m not in the mood.

Barry

What’s up, love?

Pause.

Freda

What do you think?

Pause.

Barry

Oh no. How did it happen?

Freda

You know flicking well how it happened.

Barry

But we were dead careful.

Freda

Not careful enough, Barry.

Barry

Did you try gin?

Freda

Yes.

Barry

And hot baths?

Freda

Yes! Shut up – it’s not good.

Barry

What am I going to tell me mam?

Freda

You’ll just have to tell her t’truth. The whippet got wet, caught cold and died.

Cast

Barry

Peter Postlethwaite

Freda

Kay Adshead

First shown on Victoria Wood—As Seen on TV on BBC2 in January 1985.