Pick of the day

But sadly this is the last hurrah for the marvellous acting trio, with the final ever episode of the sitcom about the lives of newlyweds Freddie (McKellen) and Stuart ( Jacobi) and their best friend Violet (De la Tour). McKellen and Jacobi don’t even utter a word for the first few minutes of this hour-long special and yet the opening scene is completely engaging. Following their adventures through the seasons (it’s like four mini episodes), we begin in spring, with the pair sashaying around in silk dressing gowns and drinking tea from china cups. Stuart has received a windfall from his mother’s inheritance and the couple are determined to spend it. Bring on massages and lunch at The Savoy, caviar for breakfast and a delivery of lobsters. “Once you have money, you realise how revolting everyone who doesn’t have it is,” says Freddie. It’s just a shame Violet is broke (she lost it all in the latest divorce) and wants rescuing from financial ruin. In summer, it’s Freddie’s birthday and he’s delighted to get a card from the cast and crew of Downton Abbey. But will he like Stuart’s gift? And Violet has some big news – a rather sudden lifestyle change. As autumn arrives, Freddie is thinking of getting a face-lift. And by winter, a Christmas radio drama with Dame Eileen Atkins is the subject of huge stress. The biggest laughs come from the shock of hearing the occasional foul-mouthed outburst from this sophisticated bunch. And the whole things bows out ever so gracefully.