About this season
Nearest and Dearest is a British television sitcom that ran from 1968 to 1973. A total of 46 episodes were made, 18 in monochrome and 28 in colour. The series, produced by Granada Television for ITV, was set in Colne, Lancashire, in the North West of England. Nellie and Eli Pledge may be siblings, but their personalities are polar opposites. If not for inheritance, they would never even think of becoming business partners for five years.
Episodes (8)
1. Make Yourself at Home
Aired 17 December 1970 • 30 min
When Walter and Lily's house suffers damage, Nellie and Eli must put them up.
2. Compliments of the Season
Aired 24 December 1970 • 30 min
Mother Nature scuppers Nellie's plans for a surprise Christmas lunch at a nice hotel for Eli and herself.
3. Barefaced in the Park
Aired 14 January 1971 • 30 min
A prowler has been tormenting ladies in a local park. When Walter is arrested and questioned, Nellie wants to prove his innocence.
4. A Man and a Woman
Aired 21 January 1971 • 30 min
Nellie isn't happy when the new coal man, Snatcher Snelling, becomes rather taken with a newly-styled Lily.
5. Bottoms Up
Aired 28 January 1971 • 30 min
Despite having no bartending experience, Nellie takes over running the Spread Eagle Pub for a friend.
6. X Marks the Spot
Aired 11 February 1971 • 30 min
Eli is struggling to cope with his role at the pickling factory, so he sends for a manager. The Labour Exchange sends Major Lovelace.
7. Something in the Night
Aired 18 February 1971 • 30 min
A burglar has been operating in the local area; his latest victims are Lily and Walter. Keen to protect her valuables, Nellie hides her treasured possessions.
8. Lucky for Some
Aired 25 February 1971 • 30 min
Desperate for funds, Nellie and Eli install Stan as a company director; their motive: to share in his recent windfall.