We might have done it!

Hello everyone, Well! It can now be stated the mimicking of stammering in the latest "Still Open All Hours" series was only used, and very slightly indeed at that, in the first two episodes. As I stated previously, it is possible it is coincidence. However, the BBC explained the mimicking when David Jason as 'Granville' spoke to the photo of the late Ronnie Barker, as 'Arkwright,' was important as a tribute to the late actor. I therefore suspect normally everything possible would have been done to include it in every episode and more prominently. Admittedly the fact it was used at all arguably suggests it was coincidence but there could be a number of reasons it was. It could depend on when the scripts were written and the filming done in relation to any decisions. It might be they wanted, as a point of principle, to make a final tribute to Ronnie Barker before dropping it. There might have been a personal element for David Jason. One of the BBC's 'defence' arguments was that he worked closely with Ronnie Barker for many years so had affection for him. Particularly feeling indebted because Ronnie Barker in effect helped his career. As I explained, despite the BBC telling me it had made its final decision I kept badgering them and my interpretation of the replies was that some had taken my point. Also, I am pretty sure they looked at the petition and were struck by your comments. As it was used slightly we can't yet definitively claim victory. Assuming another series runs from Boxing Day this year, we will ironically have to wait exactly one year. However, if it is not used at all in the next series I think we will be able to claim it is down to us. I will keep the petition open. It will presumably again be automatically closed in December after 366 days but I will re-launch it. I understand two of you helped promote it so I thank you very much for that. Obviously there is still everything to be said for encouraging people to sign. It would be nice to hear from some of you, either via Facebook' or to johntommo6@btinternet.com. I hope 2017 is a good year for you all and hopefully this time in 2018 we will be claiming victory! Best regards. John