So happy I opened my door to this witty sitcom

two doors down

I REMEMBER watching the pilot episode of the comedy a few Hogmanays ago and being completely underwhelmed.

I seemed to be in the minority because it was not only granted a full series but it was also to be shown across the network rather than just in Scotland.

I didn’t watch any of the first series but when I saw it was coming back for a second run, I thought it was time to give it another chance.

I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised.

The brand of humour in Two Doors Down is different from most Scottish sitcoms, where you can usually see the wellworn joke coming a mile off.

Here, there’s plenty of perfectly-observed, genuinely witty one-liners.

Set in a typical suburban street, the series features three couples who attempt to get along just because they happen to be neighbours.

We all know a couple like Cathy and Colin White (played with relish by Doon Mackichan and Jonathan Watson), self-centred snobs who most of us would happily move house just to get away from.

Their series of insults to Beth and Eric (Arabella Weir and Alex Norton) were cutting and cringeworthy at the same time – but also very funny.

Cathy just about stole the show from foul-mouthed Christine, played by Elaine C. Smith, who was celebrating a PPI pay-out.

I might be a late arrival to the goings-on in this Glasgow street, but I’ll be a frequent visitor from now on.

uk’s strongest man

Nothing says Christmas is coming like a bunch of hairy, incredibly powerful, men pulling and lifting seemingly immovable objects with their bare hands as they growl and snarl.

It’s strangely addictive – and as always will be a festive TV highlight in our house.