Brendon Chase

Brendon Chase is a classic example of the high-calibre children's drama that characterized British commercial television for decades. The 13-part series originally aired between December 1980 and March 1981, captivating young audiences with its sense of adventure, period charm, and thoughtful storytelling. The show was filmed largely on location in the picturesque New Forest and around the historic Hampshire town of Porchester, with great care taken to authentically recreate the 1920s setting.

Set in the year 1925, the story follows the adventures of the three Hensman brothers—Robin (Craig McFarlane), John (Howard Taylor), and Harold (Paul Erangey)—who are spending their summer holiday away from boarding school at the country estate of their Aunt Ellen (Rosalie Crutchley). Restless and inspired by romantic tales of outlaws and woodland freedom, the boys decide to run away and live wild in the nearby Brendon Chase forest.

As they settle into their new life in the woods, the boys must learn to fend for themselves, relying on their wits and each other to survive the many challenges of outdoor living. They face natural hazards, harsh weather, and the constant threat of being discovered. Occasionally, they sneak into nearby villages to scavenge or trade for food, all while evading the growing number of townsfolk searching for them.

Aunt Ellen, increasingly concerned for their safety, enlists the help of local figures to track the boys down. Among those aiding the search are the kindly village vicar (Christopher Biggins), the earnest local policeman Sergeant Bunting (Michael Robbins), and an ambitious newspaper reporter, Monica Hurling (Liza Goddard), who is eager to get a scoop on the story.

Despite their isolation, the boys are not entirely alone in the forest. They encounter several colourful characters, most notably Smokoe Joe (Paul Curran), a mysterious woodsman who becomes something of a mentor. With his guidance, the boys learn to navigate the challenges of forest life and find a deeper connection to nature. Their time in Brendon Chase extends through the summer and into the autumn, culminating in a bittersweet reunion with Aunt Ellen in the final episode.

To bring the 1920s era to life, the production team undertook an impressive transformation of Porchester. Modern elements such as road markings, television aerials, and front door colours were meticulously altered or concealed to ensure historical accuracy, underscoring the production’s dedication to authenticity.

The series was adapted for television by James Andrew Hall from the 1944 novel by 'BB'—the pen name of Denys Watkins-Pitchford, an author and illustrator who chose to abbreviate his name for simplicity. A special paperback edition of the novel was released to coincide with the series' broadcast, helping to introduce a new generation of readers to the beloved story.

Despite its critical acclaim and enduring nostalgic appeal, Brendon Chase has never been officially released on video or DVD, making it a lost gem of British children's television history.