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The Web The Unmutual Website

Well Come to The Unmutual Website - dedicated to the 1960s TV series "The Prisoner", starring Patrick McGoohan, and the village of Portmeirion in North Wales where the series was filmed.

STOP PRESS: 8/8/24 - 8th August sees another repeat run of The Prisoner on 'LegendXtrra' as well as continuing its runs on RewindTV and LondonLive... 29/7/24 - Edna O'Brien, Irish writer who played Patrick McGoohan's wife in 'The Hard Way' has passed away... 25/7/24 - Prisoner Official Action Figures back in stock HERE... Claims Star Trek 'Schizoid Man' episode would have included McGoohan HERE... o4/7/24 - "Films of the golden age" magazine issue #116 spring 2024 has an interview with Jane Merrow regarding the film 'The System'...

LATEST NEWS.....

FREE FOUR ALL

TUW is delighted to share the news that the 'Free For All' podcast, hosted by Chris and Cai, are embarking on a fourth series.

New episodes include a celebration of Portmeirion, a study of George Markstein's book 'The Cooler' (which has a 50th anniversary reprint, see below), a look at the various aborted movie scripts for Prisoner-remakes, and much more, including some very special guests!

Click HERE to hear previous episodes in this highly recommended podcast. A review of 'Prisoner' podcasts can be read HERE.

PAUL WELSH 1953-2024

More sad news has reached TUW. Friend of the website and the man who famously saved Elstree Studios from demolition, Paul Welsh MBE, passed away earlier in September at the age of 71.

Paul devoted his life to Elstree and Boreham Wood, spear-heading the 'Save Our Studios' campain which ultimately saved Elstree Studios, and alongside his friend Bob Redman spent decades celebrating and ensuring Elstree's Screen Heritage.

Always a supporter of The Unmutual and its associated events, Paul was special guest at several.

A selfless, witty, kind, knowledgable, and opinionated individual, Paul was a great friend to many and he will be greatly missed. A further tribute can be read HERE. R.I.P.

BETTE BOURNE R.I.P.

Sad news has reached TUW that Peter Bourne, later to become Bette Bourne, who played the Projection Operator in the episode 'The General' has passed away. He was 84.

A fine actor, Bourne also appeared in 'The Avengers' and toured the country in various Shakespeare plays.

Later changing his name to Bette, Bourne became a leading member of the Gay Liberation Front in the 1980s and later founded the very successful gay cabaret troupe Bloolips.

Bourne continued his very successful career well into the 2000s, winning an Edinburgh Fringe award for his portrayal of Quentin Crisp in the play 'Resident Alien', and also appeared in 'Theatre of Blood' and other well-received stage productions.

Bette Bourne, a true trailblazer of performing and of gay rights, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his friends and family, and it is to them that TUW extends its sincerest sympathies.

With thanks to Simon Mckay for this news item.

TELEGRAPHED

The Prisoner gets a mention in the Sunday supplement of The Daily Telegraph (25/08/2024 edition) in a piece about Inverlair Lodge, the retirement home for spies upon which The Village was loosely based (more details on Inverlair can be found HERE).

Written by Christian Kriticos, the piece includes interviews with Christopher Murphy, who runs the MA programme in Intelligence and Security Studies at the University of Salford, and Rick Davy of The Unmutual Website.

The piece ties in with a 50th anniversary reprint of 'The Cooler', George Markstein's novel, based on Inverlair (see news item below).

Online versions of the article can be read HERE (with a subscription) and HERE (with adverts).

TAKE AN INTERMISSION

One of the success stories of modern times has been the birth and growth of 'Talking Pictures TV', a UK TV channel which specialises in archive TV and film.

Run by father and daughter team Noel and Sarah Cronin, the channel regularly shows items of interest to 'Prisoner' fans, including many of Patrick McGoohan's early film roles.

Exciting news for 2024 is that the channel now produces an excellent monthly magazine called 'Intermission' packed with articles and celebrity interviews.

Issue 5 includes a look at the Lotus 7, with several references and photograps related to 'The Prisoner'.

The magazine is great value, and proceeds go to supporting the channel. Click HERE for more info and to subscribe.

With thanks to Phil Howard for this news item.

HISTORIC PIANO FOR SALE

One of the most iconic elements of 'The Prisoner' TV series is the incidental music, much of which was composed by Albert Elms, who worked on a number of other ITC series.

In an exciting development, the piano upon which he composed some of his pieces is currently up for sale!

Purchased by a Midlands-based film and TV collector in the UK from Elms' family a decade or so ago, the item is now open for offers.

If you're interested in owing Albert Elms' piano, a unique piece of 'Prisoner' history, please contact TUW via HERE for more details and/or to make an offer. Please note that you will need to collect the item from the seller.

NUMMER 6 OUT NOW

'The Prisoner' TV series over the decades has been screened all over the world, with several countries building significant fanbases for the series.

None more so than in Germany, so it is with much excitement that "Nummer 6" (this was the title of the series in Germany), a new 520-page book - the first ever on the series to be written in German - is now available!

Written by Arno Baumgartel and Michael Brune, with contributions from Catherine McGoohan, Rick Davy, and David Barrie, the book is an in-depth German-language guide to the 17 episodes.

German readers of this website should obtain a copy direct from the authors by sending an email to TUW HERE. UK readers can obtain a copy from The Village Shop HERE.

COOLER REPUBLISHED

Exciting news has reached TUW that George Markstein's best-selling Prisoneresque novel 'The Cooler', about spies held at the mysterious Inverloch Cooler - based on the real-life Inverlair Lodge location which The Village was based on - is about to get a 21st century reprint!

Plumeria Pictures have announced a gorgeous new paperback edition (left) for 2024 which will be limited to only 1000 copies.

With a cover by Time Tomorrow, and featuring an introduction by TUW's Rick Davy, the book is a highly recommended piece of 'Prisoner' history, priced at only £9.99 and now available to pre-order for an August release on what would have been George's 95th birthday.

Click HERE to read the full Press Release and pre-order!

WHICH VILLAGE?

Portmeirion features heavily in this month's (as of July 4th 2024) copy of 'Travel Which?' magazine, rated in second place in the magazine's 'Best coastal towns and villages' listing.

Porthmadog was also inlcuded in the listing in 86th place, with the winner being Bamburgh in Northumberland. However, only Portmeirion was given a 5-page spread in the magazine.

With thanks to Bill Lonnen for this news item.

LET ITC ENTERTAIN YOU

'ITC Entertained The World' is the title of a gorgeous new book by Jaz Wiseman, which will be of much interest to fans of 'The Prisoner', 'Danger Man', and the ITC stable of programmes.

The book is a pictorial feast of the promotional brochures and press packs produced for ITC series over the years, and the above series are of course included.

Painstakingly compiled by ITC historian Jaz Wiseman, the book was produced in paperback by Network before their sad recent liquidation, and only now are these paperback copies available. Click HERE to order.

WALK THE WALK

2024 has already seen a successful weekend of location tours relating to both 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man', and to quote from 'The Girl Who Was Death': There's more fun to come!

Saturday 20th July is the date for the London Prisoner Group's annual picnic, which this year will take place at beachy Head (seen in the above episode and also 'Many Happy Returns'.

Then, the weekend of 14th and 15th September will see a weekend of activities, culminating on the 15th with the second of this year's London location tour 'walkabouts'.

For more details regarding these FREE TO ATTEND events, click the events page HERE.

CAN I GET A REWIND?

'The Prisoner' is back on TV!

RewindTV is a new channel on the SKY platform in the UK (channel 190), specialising in classic film and TV from the 1960s to the 1980s, and fans will be pleased to hear that the series is being shown on Mondays Wednesdays, and Fridays on the channel, complete and uncut!

London Live channel in the UK is also showing the series on a daily basis!

With thanks to Simon Coward for the LL info.

JANE IN THE OUTHOUSE LOUNGE

Fans of 'The Prisoner' will be interested to listen to the latest edition of popular podcast 'The Outhouse Lounge', as it is a dedicated 'Prisoner' special!

Joining host Chris Cordani is 'Schizoid Man' actress Jane Merrow, real-life spy Tony Shaffer, and legendary pop-culture supervillain Doomcock to discuss all manner of subjects related to the series.

Jane, as always, talks with both fondness and expertise regarding her experiences working alongside Patrick McGoohan and also discusses her new film, 'Andy', which elicits a fascinating discussion on the pros and cons of Artficial Intelligence.

The genial host and special guests make this podcast a highly enjoyable 75 minutes. Click HERE to listen and watch and listen on YouTube.

In other podcast news, more editions of the 'Free for All' podcast, hosted by Chris and Cai, are now online, including a two-part special on 'Danger Man' and a two-part special on 'Prisoner' merchandise. Click HERE to listen, and click HERE to buy Chris and Cai's book based on the podcast!

For a full guide to 'Prisoner' podcasts, click HERE.

WAVE 2 FIGURES ARE GO!

TUW readers will recall from the news item below, that Wandering Planet Toys are releasing a second wave of their official 'The Prisoner' figures - and exciting news has come that the kickstarter backer campaign for the second release is now live!

Figures this time include new Number Six variants (including from 'The General'), three new Number Two actors (including Leo McKern, pictured left with new Butler figure) and lots more!

Click HERE to see more details, images, and to back the campaign and order your figures and sets!

 

R.I.P. GLENIES

TUW is very sad to learn that long-time fan of 'The Prisoner' Glenies McCairns, AKA Glenys Siefers, passed away today after a long battle with cancer. Glenies will be known and fondly remembered by 'Prisoner' fans from all corners of 'Prisoner' fandom. 

A familiar face since the birth of Prisoner fandom in 1977, Glenies was a constant presence at conventions in Portmeirion over the decades - at which she was often found performing in re-enactments, including the last to act with Alexis Kanner - and more recently at the ITC celebration events at Elstree.

With a cheeky smile and rebellious nature, and a thorough knowledge of the series and its star Patrick McGoohan, she will be greatly missed by all who knew her, including those who she befriended online on various Facebook groups for the series (click HERE to leave your comments/memories on TUW's facebook post for her). May she RIP.
Rick Davy, TUW.

Photo (c) Simon Morley. With thanks to Glenies's best friend, Jan Davis.

IMPRINT RELEASE NEW MEGA SET

Exciting News! Imprint Films in Australia are releasing what can only be described as 'the megaset to end all set's for The Prisoner series.

The new six-disc BluRay HD release not only contains all 17 episodes, complete with text commentaries on every episode, but will also contain most of the elements from BOTH Network anniversary releases, plus all new content including FIVE Danger Man episodes in HD!

The special features content will therefore be unrivalled, with TWO feature-length documentaries, new and archive interviews, audio and text commentaries, behind the scenes footage, image gallery, plus 5 'Danger Man' episodes (two on BluRay for the first time).

For more details, visit HERE and read the full list of amazing features!

Limited to only 1500 copies, the set can be pre-ordered from HERE.

FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING

Readers will recall (and hopefully own) the wonderful and official 'The Prisoner' action figures produced by Wandering Planet Toys in recent years (see archived news story HERE).

Exciting news is that in April 2024, wave 2 of the figures will launch via kickstarter!

Wave 2 figures will include Leo McKern's Number 2, the Taxi Driver (pictured left), and several others to be announced, to add to the existing Number 6 and Number 2 figures from the first wave.

Click HERE to visit the pre-launch page where you can sign up for alerts regarding these astonishing items.

With thanks to Wandering Planet Toys.

HORST & SANDS R.I.P.

TUW is sad to report that two more members of the 'Prisoner family' have sadly passed away recently.

Firstly, Horst Naumann (left), who provided the voice for Patrick McGoohan in the German dubbing of 13 episodes of the series back in 1969 has died at the age of 98. Horst was a world-renowned voiceover artist and was still active at the time of his passing. For more information on his involvement in the series, click HERE (scroll down for English).

Secondly, Sands Lewis, manager of the 'Prisoner Shop' in Portmeirion, has also sadly passed away. Sands was always a friendly and welcoming face for all visitors to Portmeirion and was a great asset to the village and managed the shop superbly over recent years.

TUW's thoughts and sympathies go to the families and friends of Horst and Sands.

With thanks to Arno Baumgärtel and Tegwen Parry for this news item. Photo (c) Arno Baumgärtel .

 

COME WHAT MAY

The latest dates for Dave Lally's always-popular London location walking tours for 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' have been announced!

The weekend of May 18th/19th 2024 will see a series of location tours, all free to attend, culminating in Sunday 19th's 'The Prisoner' walkabout tour.

More details can be found at TUW's events page HERE. Be Seeing You there?

SIX ON FIVE

'1968: Most Shocking Moments' is a TV clips / talking heads compilation programme aired by the UK channel Channel 5 on Saturday 18th February 2024.

The programme featured a segment of approximately 6 minutes duration concerning 'The Prisoner' final episode 'Fall Out' and the controversy which surrounded its original airing in 1968.

HD-quality clips were shown of both 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man', along with Patrick McGoohan being interviewed by Mike Smith for the 1983 programme 'Greatest Hits 1968', interspersed with positive and interesting comment from John Robb and others.

The programme is available on the channel's catch-up service 5Player.

With thanks to Geoff Dodd for this news item.

RE-PLAY

Those who missed out on recent chances to see a play all about the genesis of 'The Prisoner' series, will be pleased to hear that some bonus performances are coming our way!

'Who Is No. 1?', which is nominated for OffWestEnd.com's OffFEST Award for Theatre, comes to London's The Courtyard Theatre for five nights in January 2024.

Produced by the highly-respected Foundry Group, the play is the latest comedy from the award-winning writing duo Brian Mitchell (co-writer of 'The Ministry of Biscuits') and Joseph Nixon (co-writer of West-End hit 'The Shark Is Broken') which explores the genesis and making of 'The Prisoner' and further explores the McGoohan/Grade relationship.

For more information, visit The Foundry Group's website HERE or you can buy tickets directly from HERE. Further news stories are below on this page concerning the play!

A review, from Sam from Slough, can be read HERE.

UPDATE: There are to be three warm-up shows in Brighton prior to this London run, on 18/19/21  Jan.  There are still tickets left. Details HERE.

PARADIGM PARADISE

"Did you know that, since 1968 , there have been hundeds of creative endeavors (books, documentaries, graphic novels, games, stage plays and "adult" entertainment) --produced by Artists who were intrigued and/or inspired by The Prisoner.

Many of those creative productions are shown within, "The Prisoner's Paradigm", a superb resource set up by 'The Eternal Village' organisation in Seattle.

This resource is available HERE, and after you've navigated through those twenty levels of creativity . . . please let The Eternal Village know about any items you think should be included .  Just like Number 2 said: " One likes to know everything ".

With thanks to Karl Frunz for this news item.

FREE FOR ALL BOOKED

One of the most popular podcasts inspired by 'The Prisoner' has been Chris Bainbridge and Cai Ross's 'Free For All' podcast, which ran very successfully over a period of several months.

The Unmutual Website is therefore delighted to learn that their podcast has been turned into a 240-page paperback book by publishers Quoit Media Limited.

Say Quoit; "Join Chris and Cai – and some of the Prisoner experts they met along the road – as they go through The Prisoner's seventeen episodes, and find out what they gleaned from what turned out to be the ultimate binge-watch. Inside you'll discover historical information about the making of the series and about the cast, eye-opening trivia, original illustrations, theories, counter-theories, a reading guide and much, much more. "

You can pre-order the book at a discounted price direct from the Quoit website HERE.

WALK REMINDER

As previously announced, Sunday 29th October 2023 sees the next day of 'Danger Man' and 'The Prisoner' location tour events in London, FREE FOR ALL to attend!

Dozens of locations are visited, with 'Danger Man' the focus of the morning tour, and 'The Prisoner' the subject of the afternoon tour.

For more details visit the events page HERE.

THE PRISONER, MY AR*E!

Portmeirion has played host to countless TV travel series over the years, and 2023 and 2024 will be no exception.

August 2023 saw television royalty in the village, when 'Brookside' and 'The Royle Family' actors Ricky Tomlinson and Sue Johnston were seen filming for a forthcoming travel series.

Also taking in other local locations during their stay in Wales, inlcuidng visiting Llandudno and taking a trip on the Ffestiniog Railway, the pair were seen filming in various spots in the Village, culminating in Tomlinson exclaiming to camera Patrick McGoohan's iconic cry of 'I am Not a Number!'

Photo (c) Wendy Macdonald-Sykes

FANZINE FUNNIES ON SALE

Lew Stringer has been a professional comic artist for nearly 40 years and is best known for his regular contributions to comics such as 'The Beano', 'Viz', 'Oink', Marvel's 'Transformers' and many more!

In the 1990s, Lew contributed several strips to various fanzines and magazines, such as 'Camera Obscura', based on 'The Prisoner' and TUW is delighted to announce that Lew is publishing a compilation of some of these hilarious Prisoner-inspired strips!

Entitled 'Fanzine Funnies' and available exclusively from Lew, the comic book includes strips such as 'Rogue Rover' and 'Alistair Sadgitt' and comes highly recommended.

Click HERE to visit Lew's online blog to see some example pages from the new book and to order your copy!

WHAT KAR

Readers of TUW will be aware of the incredible model-making skills of Ian Price. He has excelled himself once again by creating (left) an exact replica of KAR120C from 'Arrival', including the interior and engine, with second-to-none attention to detail.

Click HERE to visit a special page dedicated to the model wortk of Ian Price and Paul Weston for more details on Ian's incredible work.

With thanks to Ian Price for this news item and photos.

ACTION FIGURES IN STOCK

The Unmutual Website, which runs the online store The Village Shop in conjunction with Quoit media Limited, are delighted to announce its acceptance as official stockists of the official range of The Prisoner action figures (left)!

There are several variants of the figures, produced by Wandering Planet Toys in the USA (in conjunction with ITV Studios), and box sets, available.

Click HERE to visit The Village Shop (you will find the action figures in the 'models and figures' category). The shop ships worldwide.

Also available again in The Village Shop is the beautiful 3-disc soundtrack set (pictured below) of all the Chappell Library Music featured in the series. Produced by Derek Lawton several years ago, the set is long out of print but the shop has secured a limited number of overstocks from other suppliers.



HEADING OUT

The latest 'The Prisoner' locations event announced by Dave Lally of the London Prisoner Group is set for Sunday 30th July 2023 (NB: New Date, original 29/7 date moved due to rail strikes).

Beachy Head Lighthouse (left) features in two episodes of the series ('The Girl Who Was Death' and 'Many Happy Returns') and Dave is organising a group visit to the location on the above date, travelling by train and then bus from London to Eastbourne for the annual summer Prisoner picnic.

Click the events page HERE for more from Dave regarding the arrangements.

Also confirmed are the dates for the next London Location Tours - Sunday 29th October 2023 (details at events page HERE).

THE MERRY MONTH OF MAY

Quoit Media Limited have published many books, DVDs, and Audio CDs related to 'The Prisoner' series in recent years.

These include 'The Prisoner Compared', 'The Prisoner The Essential Guide', 'The Prisoner The Essential Interviews', 'Fifty Years of The Prisoner' and 'Not a Number' event DVDs, memoirs of Prisoner alumni (including the memoirs of crew members Tony Sloman and Eric Mival), and ITC shows in general (such as 'The ITC Quiz Book' and 'Playboys Spies and Private Eyes' (left)).

The company have announced a 'May Madness Sale', with all items from their catalogue included in the sale, with some titles listed at up to 75% off the cover prices!

Click HERE for more info.

RAKOFF'S WRITINGS

Ian Rakoff will be a familiar name to TUW readers, having been assistant editor on several episodes of 'The Prisoner' and devising the episode 'Living in Harmony'.

It will be with much interest, therefore, that it has been announced that Ian has written a new book (following up on his previous success 'Inside The Prisoner', which was published by Boxtree in the late 1990s).

'Shadowboxing - Comics in a climate of fear' is the title of his memoir of his time growing up during South Africa's apartheid era. More information about the book, which should be available from June 2023 onwards, can be found on its official website from Powys Media HERE and the book can be published from LULU HERE.

With thanks to Mateo Latosa for this news item.

YOU'RE A VISION

Eagle-eyed viewers of the recent first semi-final of the annual Eurovision Song Contest will have been surprised - and delighted in equal measure - to have seen Portmeirion pop up during the proceedings.

Each country/entry in the contest is introduced by a 'video postcard', and Portmeirion was used (left) - alongside Ukraine's Comfort Town in Kyiv - to illustrate colourful places for the Netherlands' entry.

Sadly, the Netherlands did not gain enough votes to make it to the final.

The Village also appeared on "Gordon Ramsey's Future Food Stars" TV show on BBC1 on 6/4/23, where cookery competitors made pizza in the village to sell to visitors.

With thanks to SR and David Mackenzie for this news item.

PLAY IT AGAIN

Readers may recall that a couple of years ago, a new play explaring the genesis of 'The Prisoner' was due to be performed in Brighton, but was cancelled at the last moment due to unforseen circumstances. Well, it appears the play is now 'all systems go' again!

'The Prisoner' series has been the subject of several stage plays over the years, from a re-imagining of 'Once Upon a Time' in the 1990s, to Brian Gorman's 'Everman' in 2010, to the more recent Paul Gosling's 'Magic Number Six', which explored the relationship between Lew Grade and Patrick McGoohan.

This offering is called 'Who is No. 1?' and is coming to the Brighton Fringe on 8th and 9th May 2023.

Produced by the highly-respected Foundry Group, the play is the latest comedy from the award-winning writing duo Brian Mitchell (co-writer of 'The Ministry of Biscuits') and Joseph Nixon (co-writer of West-End hit 'The Shark Is Broken') which explores the genesis and making of 'The Prisoner' and further explores the McGoohan/Grade relationship.

For more information, visit The Foundry Group's website HERE

.

QUESTIONS AREN'T A BURDEN

The Prisoner: It's Your Funeral. Watch along event.

Join host Philip Hawkins, along with special guest stars Derren Nesbitt and Annette Andre for a live watch along. Via Zoom on Saturday 29th April at 7:00pm (GMT). Philips watch-a-long events are always very enjoyable and come highly recommended by TUW.

Writes Philip; "To register, simply email: livesinthepictures@gmail.com, along with your full name. Derren and Annette will answer your questions throughout the event. Please submit your questions any time prior to the event. Questions can also be asked during the event via the chat function. For the best experience you will need to have your own copy of the episode to watch during the event. We hope you can join us. Philip Hawkins, Lives In The Pictures."

MAY TOURS CONFIRMED

The first of 2023's two London Locations Walking Tour Days for 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man', hosted by Dave Lally, has been confirmed for Sunday May 14th 2023.

The morning tour will focus on locations from several 'Danger Man' episodes and, as ever, the afternoon tour, which starts underneath Marble Arch at 2pm, will focus on over 20 locations from 'The Prisoner', culminating in Number Six's London home (left).

For more details on these FREE to attend events, click HERE.

PLUS BONUS SUMMER EVENT:

Dave Lally is also organising a summer picnic visit to Beachy Head Lighthouse (seen in 'Many Happy Returns' and 'The Girl Who Was Death'), details to follow but do save the date - Saturday 29th July 2023.

THE FICTION MAKERS

'The Prisoner' has always had a proud history of 'fan fiction', with professional and amateur writers alike putting their own spin on Number Six's incarceration.

TUW is therefore excited to announce some news regarding some new 'Prisoner' fiction!

Firstly, 'Unity', a Prisoner-inspired novel by Mike Bodnar, has been announced. Subtitled 'Peace for all, Freedom for none', it's a thriller novel produced not-for-profit as fan fiction.

You can read more about 'Unity' and Mike's 'Prisoner' journey at his online blog HERE, which has been updated now that the the book has become available from Amazon.

In other fiction-related news, fan Raymond Flood has written a 'Prisoner' story entitled 'Many Happy Returns Number Six' which he would like fans to read and feedback about! Please contact TUW HERE and your email address will be passed to Raymond who will then send you his story.

Chris Johnson's kindle book, 'The Eternal Prisoner', about a 'Prisoner' fan who finds himself a target, also continues to be available on Amazon HERE and comes highly recommended and, as the subtitle A Rebel without a Choice implies, it's also a story about life's natural misfits.

Last, but by no means least, David Stimpson's highly-regarded 'Prisoner' fiction is still available online via his blog HERE.

BE STREAMING YOU

TUW's friends at Network Distributing are holding a very special online evening for 'The Prisoner' on Friday 27th January 2023.

Introduced by a very special guest, there will be a stream of the popular episode 'Hammer into Anvil' scanned from an actual 35mm print used for screening the episdoe on ATV Midlands in 1976. The presentation will include original continuity, plus commercials from the period.

The presentation was compiled by the late Tim Beddows, founder of Network (see tribute / news item below), utilising prints and content from his own personal collection.

Click HERE to register to watch the event, which will be available fot the whole weekend (UK only).

Update: The presentation has been, rightly, very well received. The introduction by Catherine McGoohan was touching and heartfelt and a fitting tribute to Tim on what would have been his 60th birthday.

ETERNALLY YOURS

TUW's friends in Seattle, 'The Eternal Village', since 2017 have hosted TWO major 'Prisoner' events, produced TWO series of audio programmes, produced a documentary, AND 'The Prisoner's Paradigm' website.

Plans are afoot for another event (this time in Los Angeles) and documentary for 2023, but they cannot do this alone.

Would YOU like to collaborate? To exhibit or extend your talents? Help make something happen? If so, TEV want to hear from you! Please click HERE for more details and to contact them.

TEV's events, websites, and audio programmes are of the very highest quality and TUW hopes many 'Prisoner' fans will come together to help make 2023 a special year for the series and its fans.

FABULOUS FENELLA

Although not credited at the time, one of the most important aspects of the 'The Prisoner' series is surely the 'Village Voice', providing cheery yet sinister announcements through the Village's public address system.

The voice was provided by actress Fenella Fielding, and TUW is delighted to see that an exhibition of artwork of Fenella (including the wonderful piece, left, by Sal Jones), plus a number of her costumes, wigs, and other items, is now running in London until 18th December 2022.

Organised by the Fenella Fielding Foundation, the exhibition at Gallery 286 (2 minutes from Earls Court tube station) and runs from 9 November to 18 December. More details: HERE.

TUW has also built a special page looking at Fenella's career, and 'Prisoner'-related work HERE.

With thanks to Simon Mckay and Julian Bridger.

ANNETTE AT XMAS

Quoit Media Limited are offering some very special gift offers for Unmutual Website readers.

For £16.99 (plus shipping if you're not in the UK) you can buy 'Where Have I Been All My Life? A Memoir' by 'It's Your Funeral' actress Annette Andre PLUS get a FREE hand-signed photo of Annette in the episode!

The book includes details of her time working on 'The Prisoner', as well as many other iconic ITC shows and films of the period, and is a must-read for TV and Film fans. It also includes a foreword by Roger Moore and afterword by her 'Randall and Hopkirk' co-star Kenneth Cope.

There are a variety of signed photos to choose from (see below), and more details of how to order can be found at Quoit's website HERE.




TIM BEDDOWS DIES

The Unmutual Website is devastated to learn that Tim Beddows, managing director of Network Distributing, has passed away.

Writes Rick Davy of TUW: "To say that I am shocked is an understatement. Tim was an extraordinary and unique man, and a dear friend. He has been described today as "a force of nature", and I would agree with that statement. Network have released over 5000 titles, thanks to Tim's own personal interest in cult TV and film, and he leaves behind a fantastic legacy - which will live on, thanks to the plans he had made for the company's future output. His dedication to 'The Prisoner' is particularly worthy of mention, and he was a great friend to everyone involved in appreciating this wonderful series. The anniversary sets, documentaries, and events related to the serieswhich he personally organised were, and will always be, unrivaled. Beyond that which he created, he was a beautiful and generous soul who I will miss greatly. I hope everyone reading this will raise a glass to him."

SHENTON REBOOKED

Several years ago, Andrew Shenton's superb essays comparing 'The Prisoner' to episodes of other classic TV shows (some of which were showcased at TUW's article archive HERE) were published in book form under the title of 'Unique But Similar'.

TUW is delighted to confirm that Andrew has revised and expanded his work, and this new extended and updated edition is being published by Quoit Media Limited in January 2023 under the title 'The Prisoner Compared', with a beautifully designed cover from Alan Hayes.

You can pre-order the 304-page book now, receiving a discount on your purchase for pre-ordering, for only £11.99 (plus postage if you are overseas) via the QML website HERE, where more information can be found.

BE SEEING YULE

Ever fancied having Patrick McGoohan (as Number Six in 'The Prisoner') or Portmeirion hanging from your Christmas tree?

Well now you can, with these beautiful hand-made natural pine wood decorations (left, and below).

These items are available from The Village Shop HERE.



OCTOBER BOOK UPDATE

October 2022 has seen a number of developments regarding both new and existing books within the world of 'The Prisoner'.

Firstly, 'The ITC Quiz Book' (left), over 1000 puzzles and questions on our favourite ITC shows, which was launched in paperback earlier this year (see news item below) is now also available on Kindle, exclusively from the Amazon Kindle Store HERE. The paperback version is also still available HERE.

In other book news, Tim Palgut's excellent "Project: The Prisoner - The Village Technical Manual" is 20 years old this year, so a special 20th anniversary reprint (below) has now been produced, available HERE.

Finally, the third volume of Ed Fordham's 'The Prisoner' essay/article books is still looking for contributors - see news item below.



BLU FOR RUTH

'Life for Ruth' is a classic and heart-wrenching 1962 film directed by Basil Dearden about a girl, Ruth, desperately ill following a car crash. She requires an urgent blood transfusion, but the father (played by Michael Craig) is objecting on religious grounds. Playing the hospital consultant is Patrick McGoohan, with Janet Munro Craig's wife.

Following their earlier DVD release of the film, Network have released a wonderful HD version of the movie on BluRay, which is available HERE as part of their 'The British Film' range.

A review of the film can be found HERE.

With thanks to Kevin Ryerson for this news item.

DO YOU HAVE THE WRITE STUFF?

Readers of TUW may recall Ed Fordham's two excellent compilation books of 'Prisoner' artciles published five years ago (the first of which is pictured, left).

Sadly, Ed passed away before the third volume - which was to include pieces about the final five episodes of The Prisoner and the impact the finale had on viewers - could be produced.

With the blessing of Ed's partner, TUW's Rick Davy will be completing the editing of the third volume and it will be published in Ed's memory, in aid of Ty Gobaith Hospice and Mind (The Mental Health Charity).

Rick is therefore wanting to know if YOU would like to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and write about one of those final five episodes, what you feel it/they mean, symbolise, and how they or the series as a whole has affected you! Articles are already in place from several alumni, but more are welcomed!

Get in touch HERE before the end of october 2022 and you may see your piece included in the finished volume, which will be available via Amazon and Amazon Kindle. (NB: No contributors will be paid as this is a charity volume in Ed's memory).

RETURN OF THE MASH

After several years off due to Covid-19, Leslie Glen's Mind Mash is back!

On Saturday 22nd October 2022, Leslie will host his lively mix of 'Prisoner' discussion, presentations, screenings, quiz, raffle, and even possibly a special guest, at The Reliance pub, 336 Old Street, Shoreditch, LONDON, EC1V 9DR from 2.30pm until the evening.

Attendance is £10 (pay on the door), and more details from Leslie can be found by clicking HERE or on the poster below for a larger version.

This completes an entire weekend line-up of 'Prisoner' activities, with Dave Lally's free to attend 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' location tours the following day, and another chance to visit the 'Colony Three' episode of 'Danger Man' locations on Monday 24th. Click HERE for full details.



OCTOBER 22 WALKS CONFIRMED

For over 40 years David Lally of The London Prisoner Group has been conducting walking tours of 'Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' locations in London.

TUW is delighted to confirm that David will be conducting the second of 2022's tour days on Sunday October 23rd!

The morning tour includes locations from several 'Danger Man' episodes, with the afternoon tour (commencing from Marble Arch at 2.00pm) visiting over 20 London locations from 'The Prisoner' opening sequence, 'Many Happy Returns', 'Do Not Forsake Me' and 'Fall Out', culminating in Number Six's home (left).

Click HERE for TUW's events page for more details, and watch this space, as more events for this October weekend may well be announced very shortly.

MAKING A KILLING

For several years, Amazon best-selling author Simon McCleave has been writing murder/thriller novels set in Snowdonia, North Wales.

His latest offering will be of interest to readers, as it is enthrallingly titled 'The Portmeirion Killings', and is set in the village and its environs.

'The Portmeirion Killings' is the thirteenth book in the DI Ruth Hunter Crime Thriller Snowdonia series, and as the blurb states; " If you like chilling police procedurals, true-to-life characters, and psychological twists, then you'll love Simon McCleave's page-turning thrill ride."

Click HERE to buy the book from Amazon (by going via this link TUW's fund for Ty Gobaith Children's Hospice will receive a percentage of the sale at no cost to you).

With thanks to Peter Preston and Dave Jones for this news item.

JOHN HAMBLIN R.I.P.

The Unmutual Website is sad to learn of the passing of actor and presenter John Hamblin.

John was a much-respected actor and presenter, active for several decades, especially in Australia as presenter of the long-running and popular children's series 'Play School', which he presented for over 30 years.

He is best-remembered by readers of this website as the '2nd Woodland Man' in the episode 'A Change of Mind' who, along with Michael Billington, has a series of altercations with Number Six in the episode.

TUW's thoughts are with John's friends and family at this sad time.

ETERNAL VILLAGE EVENT CANCELLED

The Eternal Village organisation based in Seattle has sadly now confirmed its London 2022 event (mentioned below) has been cancelled.

Sadly, ticket sales did not match the large volume of questionnaires which the organisation received, prior to booking the event and announcing it, from Prisoner fans who stated they would attend.

It is hoped that the organisation may try and host other events in the future. Of course, without the support of fans being willing to purcahse tickets and attend, this is increasingly unlikely.

With thanks to Karl Frunz at The Eternal Village for this news item.

ETERNAL VILLAGE EVENT CONFIRMED

The Eternal Village organisation based in Seattle has now confirmed its London 2022 event (mentioned below).

On September 29th 2022, the 55th anniversary of 'The Prisoner', the Network Theatre at Waterloo will play host to the event, which will be celebrating the creativity which the series has inspired.

Special guests include Andrew Cartmel ('Miss Freedom', 'Doctor Who'), Fiona Moore ('Fall Out - The Unauthorised Guide'), Paul Gosling ('Magic Number Six') and (via video link) David Stimpson ('The Prisoner Dusted Down'), and ticket prices start at only £10.

Click HERE for more details on the event, and to buy tickets (which go on sale on 22/8/22 and are limited to 72 in number).

UPDATE: THIS EVENT HAS NOW BEEN CANCELLED**.

With thanks to Karl Frunz at The Eternal Village for this news item.

NEW PRISONER PLAY FOR OCTOBER

'The Prisoner' series has been the subject of several stage plays over the years, from a re-imagining of 'Once Upon a Time' in the 1990s, to Brian Gorman's 'Everman' in 2010, to the more recent Paul Gosling's 'Magic Number Six', which explored the relationship between Lew Grade and Patrick McGoohan.

The latest offering is called 'Who is No. 1?' and is coming to the Rialto Theatre in Brighton in October 2022 (with the hope of further performances elsewhere in the future).

Produced by the highly-respected Foundry Group, the play is the latest comedy from the award-winning writing duo Brian Mitchell (co-writer of 'The Ministry of Biscuits') and Joseph Nixon (co-writer of West-End hit 'The Shark Is Broken') which explores the genesis and making of 'The Prisoner' and further explores the McGoohan/Grade relationship.

For more information, visit The Foundry Group's website HERE, or The Rialto HERE.

ETERNAL VILLAGE COMING TO LONDON

The Eternal Village organisation, based in Seattle who over recent years have held conventions for 'The Prisoner', set up online resources for the series, and created two series of entertaining and informative podcasts, is coming to the UK!

On 29th September 2022, the date of the series' 55th anniversary, a live podcast recording will be taking place at a to-be-announced venue in London.

Special guest at the event will be none other than Andrew Cartmel (left), 'Prisoner' devotee and author of the official 'Prisoner' novel 'Miss Freedom', probably best known for his work as script editor on BBC's flagship sci-fi show 'Doctor Who' in the late 1980s.

To register your interest in this event, and for more details, visit The Eternal Village website HERE.

UPDATE: THIS EVENT HAS NOW BEEN CANCELLED.

NETWORK AT 25

There have been several companies over the years which have released both 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' on VHS and DVD, but today on TUW it is time to celebrate the 25th anniversary of a true cornerstone of the world of 'The Prisoner'. Network.

Never before has a company devoted so much time and resources to 'The Prisoner'. Their 2007 40th anniversary release (left), unveiled in Portmeirion at the PM2007 event, was a stunning restoration from the original negatives and, like the 50th anniversary set 10 years later, was a release packed with special features - what other company could have produced not one, but two feature-length documentaries ('Don't Knock Yourself Out' and 'In My Mind') about the series, recorded audio commentaries, produced text commentaries and books detailing the complete production history of the series, and gathered together so much behind-the-scenes footage and photographs?

Their 50th anniversary event in 2017 at Portmeirion was unrivaled in terms of content and guests, and still to this day they are uncovering new never-before-seen content and continue their gradual restoration of 'Danger Man' in HD (with two iconic episodes included in their 2017 'Prisoner' set, and others since streamed via their online service).

Having now released almost all of the content that ITC ever produced in the UK, Network have truly provided something for everyone. Friend of TUW, Network MD Tim Beddows, writes; "it is gratifying to know that we can still offer a little break from it all in form of something from the past as stirring, emotive and pioneering as anything made today"

From their very earliest release, a compilation of 'Charley Says' safety information films, right up to 2022 with the deluxe releases of ITC titles such as 'Stingray' and 'The Persuaders', the company has brought so much joy with several thousand releases of both TV shows and films, many thought lost forever, and certainly (other than a few flagship titles) most of which no other company would have taken the time and care to remaster and release.

Thank you so very much, Network. Here's to the next 25 years!

[The complete 25th anniversary piece by Tim Beddows can be read on the Network website HERE, Network's 'The Prisoner' and Patrick McGoohan titles can be purchased from HERE.]

LAST CHANCE FOR HAMDEN

Hamden New Town was the fictional village in the Danger Man episode 'Colony Three', which has long been regarded as being Prisoneresque, being that Drake finds himself trapped in a strange village for spies!

The real-life location for the village was a small area of South Hatfield in Hertfordshire, and for many years Dave Lally has been organising location tours of the locations seen in the episode.

The location has a varied TV history. As well as Danger Man it also featured in the 1973 Z Cars episode 'Pieces' and the movie Jack Ryan - Shadow Recruit.

It has sadly been announced, after many years of rumours, that most of the locations from the episode, including the parade of shops seen as the village square in the episode, are being demolished in 2022/2023 (and one location, seen as the Citizens Advice Bureau in the episode has already been demolished - see June 2022 photo from Geoff Dodd HERE). The only location which will remain in place after the summer of 2023 will be the church (left).

As such, Dave is organising one final tour, which will take the form of a Summer Picnic on Saturday 23rd July 2022. Click HERE for more details!

BE QUIZZING YOU

'The ITC Quiz Book' is a new book, authored by The Unmutual Website's Rick Davy.

Containing over 1000 questions and puzzles, split into 100 quiz rounds, the book runs to 144 pages and features questions, puzzles, anagrams, and wordsearches about the many and wonderful ITC shows, and their stars, which graced our screens from the 50s to the 80s.

Both 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' are of course represented, with two rounds of questions dedicated to each series, plus there is also a further round of questions concerning the career of Patrick McGoohan.

Published by Quoit Media Limited, the book can be ordered from their website HERE. RRP is £8.99, those ordering pre-publishing will receive a £1 discount.

VILLAGE FILMING

During the week of 16th May 2022 a film crew descended upon Portmeirion. With cast in 'Prisoner' garb, what could it be for? Watch this space for more details as soon as they are announced.

In other Portmeirion news, the location appeared on an episode of 'Blue Peter', which is still running on the CBBC channel in the UK, as part of the presenters' ongoing Welsh road trip. The episode can be viewed on BBC iPlayer HERE.

With thanks to Geoff Dodd and Peter Horgan for this news item. Photo (c) Rick Davy.

BATTERY INCLUDED

Readers of The Unmutual Website may be familiar with the model-making expertise of Paul Weston, who has been reproducing Portmeirion (as well as some Prisoner-related vehicles!) with stunning accuracy over the years.

His latest work is an astonishing recreation of Portmeirion's Battery and Prior's Lodging cottages (left) and Paul has kindly provided some photos and more details about his ongoing 'Portmeirion Condensed' project on his dedicated page of this website HERE.

RETURN OF THE PODS

TUW is delighted to confirm that two of the best and most popular podcasts of interest to readers are back for a second series!

Firstly, the excellent ITC Entertained The World podcast, which features fascinating in-depth looks at various ITC shows, starts its second series with a look at the first 22 hour-long episodes of 'Danger Man'. Hosted by Jaz Wiseman, Rodney Marshall, and Al Samujh the podcast can be found HERE.

In addition to the above, Chris and Cai's always enjoyable Free for All podcast about 'The Prisoner' series will also be returning for a second series, from 18th April 2022, with the first episode back featuring an interview with none other than Derren Nesbitt (left)! Click HERE for the Free For All podcast.

PRISONER TOUR WEEKEND ANNOUNCED

TUW is delighted to confirm that Dave Lally, organiser of the twice-yearly 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' locations tours, has confirmed that the next weekend of such events will be 29th April 2022 - May 2nd 2022.

Friday 29th in the evening will see a social pub meet-up for those in town, Saturday 30th a tour of some Elstree locations, with Sunday May 1st the first of this year's main 'Danger Man' (morning) tours, and 'The Prisoner' (afternoon) tours, packed with locations from the series, culminating in Number Six's London home (left).

Monday May 2nd will then see a further location visit, this time to the Hatfield-based locations of the 'Danger Man' episode 'Colony Three'.

For more details on these FREE events, visit the events page HERE.

VETERAN COVERS REEL LIFE

Several months ago, TUW reported that Tony Sloman, who worked on no less than 13 episodes of 'The Prisoner' as film librarian, had published his memoirs (available HERE), entitled 'Reel Life', a large chunk of which is a behind the scenes memoir of life working on the series.

The book has been very well received within the industry, and issue 172 (Spring 2022, left) of 'The Veteran', the magazine of British cinema and television veterans, has covered Tony's book over several pages (two shown below) and includes several edited excerpts from the 'Prisoner' dedicated sections of the memoir, with the magazine recommending the book to is readers. Photos from the series are also included.

Click HERE to find out more about 'The Veteran' magazine and the organisation behind it.

With thanks to Allen Eyles.

PETER BOWLES R.I.P.

TUW is sad to report that Peter Bowles has passed away after a battle with cancer.

Peter will be best remembered by TUW readers as 'A' in the episode 'A. B. and C.', and his earlier appearance in 'Danger Man'.

A legend of stage and screen, Peter transitioned beautifully from dramatic roles - including several ITC and Cult TV shows - into comedy (with series such as 'To The Manor Born' and 'Only When I Laugh' fondly remembered today), and back again (including a memorable stint on BBC's 'Holby City' in recent years).

TUW's thoughts are with Peter's family and friends at this sad time. May he R.I.P.

HORROR CHANNEL TO SCREEN SERIES

Exciting news for fans of the series is that The Horror Channel in the UK, which airs on SKY and Freeview platforms, is to screen all 17 episodes!

Starting March 10th, the channel will screen the series in its entirety. Whilst it is called The Horror Channel, the channel has a long history of airing cult and sci-fi shows such as 'Star Trek', 'Sliders', and 'Airwolf'.

This will mark the first series' airing on TV in the UK since True Entertainment screened the series in 2017 and Great!TV in 2019 (although, of course, streaming platforms have been carrying the series for several years).

The channel will be showing a mini-marathon of several episodes on March 19th 2022, to mark what would have been Patrick McGoohan's 94th birthday.

NOT A NUMBER DVD

On 23rd June 2018, the iconic Elstree Studios played host to 'Not a Number', a star-studded celebration of actor, writer, and director Patrick McGoohan.

Organised by The Unmutual Website and Quoit Media Limited, the event was filmed and TUW is delighted to announce that readers can pre-order the DVD with a 20% discount from 28th January 2022!

Directors Alex Cox, John Hough, and Alvin Rakoff, actors Jane Merrow and Vera Day, crew members Ian Rakoff and Tony Sloman, and journalist Howard Foy, joined host Rick Davy for a series of on-stage interviews regarding working with Patrick, and his legacy. This DVD features highlights from all Q&A sessions, plus pre-recorded contributions from Susan Hampshire, Peter Sallis, Fenella Fielding, and Patrick's daughter Catherine.

Profits from the event and this DVD are donated to Ty Gobaith Children's Hospice.

Click HERE to pre-order and for more details. Click HERE to read a review of the event!

BOREHAMWOOD LOCATIONS UPDATE

In addition to the news that Barnardos in Borehamwood (AKA The Magnum Record Shop in 'The Girl Who Was Death') looking for new owners (see news item, below), more news has emerged regarding locations from the episode in the area.

Firstly, the shop commonly known as Velda's, in which Sonia watches Mr X from the window in the episode, is having another refit and will soon become a Turkish barbers (left).

The White Hart pub (below) also briefly features in the episode during the car chase sequence, and its future is now uncertain according to this news item HERE.

With thanks to SR for this news item and photos.

THE FUTURE'S BRIGHT FOR SECOND LIFE

In the early-mid 2000s, the online simulation platform 'Second Life' boasted not one, but two versions of The Village for players of the game to explore and enjoy. Whilst these are now defunct, The Unmutual was pleased in 2020 to provide news of a replacement, and now in 2022, thanks to Shan Bright of The Bright Corporation, a handy guide to the platform is now online at TUW HERE.

There is also more great news for fans and users of to kick off 2022, with the news that Ashlee Caddell's wonderful 'The Village' creation on the platform continues to go from strength to strength, with the hotel exterior and interior (left) the current work in progress and you can check it out now on Second Life at this link HERE. In addition, Ashlee has a facebook page for the site HERE.

With thanks to Shan Bright and Ashlee Caddell for this news item.

DAVID J WATSON DIES

TUW is sad to report that David J Watson, who many will recognise from events related to 'The Prisoner', of which David was a massive fan, has passed away.

David will also be well-recognised as a regular contestant on the ITV show 'Britain's Got Talent', who popped up each series doing impressions, magic acts, comedy, stunts, and more.

David was a big supporter of TUW's charity fundraising events, an unmistakeable figure, often dressed in 'Prisoner' garb, or as Marty Hopkirk from 'Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased)', and a gentleman.

TUW sends its sincerest condolences to David's family, and many friends.

BYE TO BARNARDOS

In the 'Prisoner' episode 'The Girl Who Was Death', Mister X is sent to the 'Magnum Record Shop' to receive a message from his superior. In reality, the shop was located in Borehamwood High Street, near to the site of MGM Studios where the series was being filmed.

For over 40 years, the building has been home to a Barnardos charity shop but news just in is that the shop is now closed and the building is looking for a new tenant!

TUW will keep everyone updated on developments - one wonders if, with vinyl making a comeback, if a record store might be a possibility? If so, avoid Booth 7.

With thanks to SR for this news item and image.

KICKSTARTING FOR CARDS

'Free Man' is the title of an exciting new Prisoner-based card game, produced by 'Village Games', the brainchild of designer and illustrator Andrew Topping.

Using his own original art work, Andrew has created a 78-card set, described as a 'game of skill and cunning' and is using the famous Kickstarter platform to raise funds to produce the cards.

Writes Andrew; "It's a series that I have kept coming back to many times since, finding that it is multi-layered and also contains hidden meanings. As a designer, I love the style and aesthetic of the series and believe that it still resonates today. I hope you enjoy this tabletop card game that I created with my brother David, as much as we have both enjoyed working on it... The objective of the game is to escape from The Village and become a 'Free Man'."

Click HERE for the Kickstarter page and pledge, with exciting rewards (including the cards themselves, as well as t-shirts and other memorabilia) on offer.

With thanks to Andrew Topping for this news item.

SIMON WELLS R.I.P.

The Unmutual Website is sad to report that author, songwriter, and much-loved 'Prisoner' fan and expert Simon Wells has passed away.

A familar face at 'Prisoner' events dating back to the 1980s, Simon was a great friend to many and a supremely talented man (check out his songs and poems on youtube, and book stores for his amazing books on films, TV, The Beatles, and 'Quadrophenia').

A regular contributor to Network DVD and BluRay releases, Simon wrote the 2007 'The Prisoner' documentary 'Don't Knock Yourself Out', as well as sleeve notes and booklets on various series, such as 'Catweazle'.

Rick Davy of TUW writes; "Simon will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A true gentleman, with bundles of talent, he was a gentle kind soul, generous to the core (every charity event I ever organised he offered up valuable raffle prizes for free) and he was loved by all who met him. He was one of the first 'Prisoner' people I met back in the mid-1980s, and we have been great friends ever since. He was a one-off, and I am stunned at the news of his passing."

BE RPG-ING YOU

Tanya Floaker is a tabletop roleplay game designer who is also a lifelong fan of The Prisoner, and on 17th November is launching a kickstarter fundraising campaign for a new role-playing game called 'Be Seeing You'.

Writes Tanya: "BE SEEING YOU is an RPG about Independence, Control, Freedom and Compliance. Ideal for games of dystopian science fiction, social allegory and psychological drama. Influenced by fiction in the vein of The Prisoner, Stalker, and Utopia, and real struggles against mass surveillance, the Hostile Environment, and the alienating effects of capitalism."

Click HERE for the kickstarter campaign page, and HERE for a free text only preview version of the game.

With thanks to Tanya Floaker for this news item. Please note this project/kickstarter has no connection whatsoever to The Unmutual Website.

ITC MAG LAUNCHED

'ITC Entertained the World' is the title of a new magazine dedicated to Lew Grade's ITC (the company which oversaw not only 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' but also countless other classic series such as 'The Persuaders!', 'The Saint', 'Department S', and many more).

Edited by ITC historian Jaz Wiseman, issue 1 includes an in-depth look at 'Danger Man', 'The Saint', 'Gideon's Way', as well as a look at Network's restoration work, an interview with producer Sidney Cole, and a huge article by Andrew Pixley regarding ITC's move from black and white series to colour series.

Click HERE for more and to order your copy of issue 1. There will be no reprints, so grab your copy today!

I SPY

Fans of Patrick McGoohan's 'Ice Station Zebra' movie role, and fans of the 60s spy movie genre generally, will be excited to read about a forthcoming book on the subject.

'Guns, Girls, and Gadgets - Sixties Spy Films Uncovered' by renowned film and TV historian Michael Richardson comes highly recommended by The Unmutual Website and includes an entire chapter on the making of the classic McGoohan and Rock Hudson submarine epic.

With over 314,000 words across over 700 pages, the book is the ultimate account of the making of FIFTY spy movies from the 60s. In addition to 'Ice Station Zebra', all the James Bond, Matt Helm, Man from UNCLE, Harry Palmer, Bulldog Drummond, and many more, films are covered.

To pre-order at a discounted £17.99, visit publisher's Quoit's website HERE.

THE REEL DEAL

'Reel Life - An Autobiocine Memoir' is the long-awaited autobiography of Tony Sloman, who TUW readers will know was Film Librarian on the first 13 episodes of the series back in 1966/67.

The book tells the story of Tony's life and career, including of course the many months he spent working on 'The Prisoner' (and latterly ITC's 'Strange Report') alongside Patrick McGoohan, as well as countless films which Tony either worked on, edited, produced, or directed over the years including greats such as 'Wonderwall', 'Where the Spies Are', 'One Milion Years BC' and many more.

Containing many previously unpublished photograps, the 300+ page paperback book is now available from The Village Shop HERE, and all good book vendors for only £12.99, or direct from the publisher by clicking HERE.

Rave reviews are already online concerning this long-awaited book, which comes highly recommended by The Unmutual Website.

TOUR SUCCESS

Dozens of fans of 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' descended upon London and the South-East last weekend for the return of the ever-popular location tours weekend!

Friday saw tours of Borehamwood and the former site of MGM Studios, Saturday a visit to Hatfield for the locations for the 'Danger Man' episode 'Colony Three', and Sunday the ever-popular 'Danger Man' (morning) and 'The Prisoner' (afternoon, left) location tours guided expertly by Dave Lally for nearly 40 years!

Keep an eye on the events page HERE for details of the next tours in April. Photos from the recent weekend can be seen on TUW's Facebook page HERE, or the ITC Entertainment Facebook group HERE.

MOKE UP FOR GRABS

Fancy owning a unique piece of 'Prisoner' history?

Well, you might be in with a chance of doing so if you take part in the Silverstone Auctions on 13th and 14th November 2021, as an original Mini Moke from the series, fully restored. goes under the hammer!

HLT 709C (pictured) was found dilapidated in a barn in Holland some years ago, auctioned, and then purchased and fully and beautifully restored by Phil Caunt. The vehicle is seen in several episodes (including famously 'Living in Harmony' with its actual number plate rather than the more familiar 'taxi' sign), and it is with a heavy heart that Phil has decided to make the classic vehicle available to purchase. Click HERE for more details on the auction and the vehicle.

With thanks to Phil Caunt for this news item and photo.

NEXT OF KINDLE

One of the highlights of Prisoner publications of recent years has been the release of David Stimpson's 496-page analysis of the series, 'The Prisoner Dusted Down'.

Selling out both its initial print runs, the book has now been re-released as a kindle publication, exclusively on Amazon. Click HERE to purchase, for only £5.99.

A decade in the making, the book was published by Quoit Media Limited and has been well-received.

Chris Riley of the Tally Ho newsletter had this to say about the book; " "DUSTED DOWN has no padding. It is all meat. It is a fast flowing river from first to last page. You never rest...The depth of analysis is incredible."

 

ANDREW FRITH R.I.P.

More sad news has hit the 'Prisoner' fan community with the shocking news that much-loved fan Andrew Frith (left) has passed away.

Andrew was a familiar face at conventions for the series throughout the late 80s and 90s, and at the more recent Unmutual Website events, held both at Portmeirion and at Elstree, of which he was a very active supporter.

Thoughts are of course with Andrew's family at this very sad time. It's impossible to find a bad word to say about him, in both the 'Prisoner' and 'Dr Who' circles in which he mixed he was very much loved.

This was posted on TUW's Rick Davy's personal facebook page (edited); "Probably the nicest guy I have ever had the honour of calling a friend. I first shared a Portmeirion self-catering cottage with him as a teenager in the late 80s, and we've been pals ever since. It was only 5 weeks ago that we were again sat in Portmeirion putting the world to rights until the early hours, both totally oblivious to the illness which brought about his passing. Totally unjust and unfair. It's customary to just use the term 'after a short illness' but I'm breaking rank to say it was yet another life taken by a brain tumour. It was while fundraising for Brain Tumour UK (now called 'The Brain Tumour Charity') that I met my beautiful wife, and made so many good friends among survivors and their families. But so many, like Andy, are not so lucky. Next time you consider donating to charity, please make it a Brain Tumour one, in memory of dear Andy, so that more can be done to find treatments and cures. I will miss his company so much."

Photo (c) Giles Kendrick

TOUR WEEKEND CONFIRMED

October 15th-17th 2021 will see an exciting weekend of locations tours related to 'The Prisoner', 'Danger Man' and Britain's Film and TV heritage!

Friday 15th will see a morning tour of Borehamwood's 'The Prisoner' and Film heritage locations, with an afternoon tour visiting the former MGM Studios site, packed with info and locations.

Saturday 16th will contain a tour of locations from the popular and Prisoneresque 'Danger Man' episode 'Colony Three'.

And last but not least, postponed for the last two years due to Covid-19, the return of Dave Lally's popular Sunday 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man' location tours (AM tour is 'Danger Man', PM tour 'The Prisoner') on Sunday 17th, which includes vists to John Drake's home and office, and Number Six's house, resignation corridor, underground car park, and many other series landmarks.

ALL events are free to attend (other than travel costs and your own refreshments), but please note some tours have Covid guidance. For full details, including the chance on Thursday 14th to meet-up with like-minded fans, visit the events page HERE.



PLEA FOR HISTORY

As part of Karl Frunz's (organiser of The Eternal Village events and podcast, and 'Prisoner's Paradigm' website) efforts to build a comprehensive history of 'Prisoner' artefacts and history post-1967, the latest venture "The Circle of Creativity" (a history of major magazine articles dedicated to 'The Prisoner') has hit a small hurdle.

Writes Karl; "I am looking for vintage and/or recent magazines with feature articles about The Prisoner.  Of special interest would be anyone who can help with acquiring non-English publications (such as the Dutch magazine VPRO Gids, left).  The Eternal Village would be interested in purchasing your well cared for mags from near or years ago."

Click HERE to visit The Eternal Village Website's project and contact Karl.

 

FAREWELL LINDA

The Unmutual Website is sad to report that Linda Kunkle Schley , uber fan of Patrick McGoohan and The Prisoner, known to many social media users for her deep love and knowledge of the subject, has passed away after a long and brave battle with illness.

Rick Davy of TUW writes: "I am saddened beyond words by this news. Linda was a wonderful, respectful, kind, hilariously funny, and bashful lady. I will miss our e-chats about all things Prisoner and Patrick McGoohan very much - she was an irreplaceable member of the 'Prisoner Fan Family'. I was so pleased when she accepted my invitation to write for the book 'Playboys, Spies, and Private Eyes' and her chapter was, of course, heartfelt and one of the very best in the book. She will be greatly missed and my thoughts are with her family and many friends. "Be Seeing You, dear Lady". Rick. x" Tributes can be left at: https://www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com/obituary/...

MORE DANGER

Following on from his excellent and well-received book 'Lone Wolf - A Fan's Guide to the half-hour Danger Man series' (see news item below), Rodney Marshall (son of ITC script writer Roger Marshall) has followed up on this siccess with a guide to the hour episodes of John Drake's adventures.

Entitled 'Secret Agent', the guide is again a well written and thorough fan's guide to the episodes, this time focussing on the second and last batches of episodes.

Also now available is 'Danger Man', a compilation of the above two volumes with cover art by Brian Gorman (below) as well as hardback versions of all three volumes.

All three volumes come highly recommended by TUW and are available from The Village Shop HERE, where more details can also be found.

REEL LIFE AWAITS

TUW readers will be delighted to hear that 'Reel Life' (left), the memoirs of Tony Sloman, who worked on the first 13 episdoes of 'The Prisoner' as Film Librarian, will soon be published!

Tony is a much-loved and respected figure not only in 'Prisoner' circles, but worldwide as a movie aficionado.

At over 300 pages, the book is a must-read insight into life behind-the-scenes on the series, and also the Film and TV industry generally, with tales of life working for George Harrison, Gerry Anderson, Lindsay Anderson, Michael Winner, and many others.

The book is currently available to pre-order at a discounted price of £9.99 (full price upon release will be £12.99) from the publisher Quoit Media Limited's website HERE.

ETIENNE TO PORTMEIRION

Saint Etienne are widely regarded as one of the greatest British bands of the last 30 years, with a string of hit singles and albums to their name, many conceptual, with the most recent releases having a wonderful soundtrack feel (and in some cases, soundtracks themselves to shorts and features).

Their forthcoming album "I've Been Trying To Tell You" (left) will be of interest to readers as it has an accompanying film, directed by Alasdair McLellan, which features Portmeirion amongst other locations.

The film will be available to watch at selected cinemas, with the premiere at BFI's NFT1 (along with a seaon of Saint Etienne related films), with the album released in September 2021 and a tour following later in the year.

Click HERE for the band's Facebook page for more info, trailers, dates, and more.

A TALLY OF TALLY HO

In 2017 Network hosted ‘Fall In', an unforgettable 50th anniversary event for ‘The Prisoner' in Portmeirion. Ticket holders were presented with a special edition version of the DVD/BluRay 50th Anniversary set, and a ‘Tally Ho' brochure book, and TUW is delighted to say that there are a number of excess copies now available from 'The Village Shop'.

48 pages long, ‘Tally Ho' features pieces written by series cast and crew Norma West, Eric Mival, and Seamus Byrne, fans of the series Dave Barrie, Roger Goodman, Rick Davy, Phil Caunt, and Dick Fiddy, along with Tim Beddows of Network, Nick Briggs of Big Finish, Peter Tomlinson of ATV, and others. It also includes the event schedule.

Copies, priced at only £7.99, are available HERE.

COLLECTIBLES BOOK ANNOUNCED

Both 'Danger Man' and 'The Prisoner' saw a number of collectibles released at the time the series were made, including tie-in paperback novels, board games, toys, vinyl music releases and more.

It is therefore with much excitement that TUW can report that a new book detailing these items will soon be available.

John Buss is a well-known name in the world of TV and Film collectibles, with several titles for various series already available (and more in the pipeline, including for 'The Saint' TV series starring Roger Moore).

In full colour throughout, 'The Prisoner and Danger Man Collectibles' by John Buss is available to pre-order from Amazon at a price of £15.99 HERE.

With thanks to John Buss for this news item.

EVERYMAN FOR EVERYONE

Available for a limited time: Pages of original artwork from the acclaimed graphic novel 'Everyman: A Celebration Of Patrick McGoohan & The Prisoner'!!

Artist Brian Gorman is making available to 'Prisoner' fans some of the original art from his wonderful graphical novel (which also became an audio drama available HERE).

Each page is A4 size on high quality cartridge paper, in black ink and pencil. Signed on the reverse side by the artist. Special sale price of £75 per page, which is temporarily reduced from the original price of £120 per page!

To view all the available pages, click HERE and send TUW an email which we will pass on to Brian and he will get in touch with details of what's on offer!

ITC EVENT ON DVD

The Unmutual Website and Quoit Media Limited are delighted to announce that the DVD of 'A Celebration of ITC', the event at Elstree Studios held in 2018, is now available to pre-order at a discount price of £7.99 (plus P&P).

The DVD features highlights from all the on-stage Q&A sessions, and more. Hosted by Rick Davy, with an introduction from Elstree Studios chairman Morris Bright, the special guests were: Ian Ogilvy, Jenny Hanley, Madeline Smith, Shane Rimmer, Annette Andre, John Hough, Paul Weston, Prentis Hancock, Georgina Moon, Jamie Anderson, Derek Wells, and Tony Sloman.

Profits from the DVD will be donated to Ty Gobaith Children's Hospice. For more information and to pre-order at the discounted price, visit: http://www.quoitmedia.co.uk/itcdvd.htm

 

DM GUIDE AVAILABLE

Fans of the Patrick McGoohan secret agent series 'Danger Man' will be interested to hear that a superb guide book to the first series of 39 episodes, commonly known as 'the half hours' due to the episode duration, has been written!

'Lone Wolf - A Fan's Guide to the Danger Man half hour series' is a 180-page episode guide, with overviews and countless facts and items of interest about all 39 half-hour episodes.

Written by Rodney Marshall, whose father Roger wrote for several ITC series, the book is available from Amazon and also from 'The Village Shop' HERE. The book comes highly recommended by The Unmutual Website.

 

COMPRESSING THE PRISONER

In 1984, Patrick McGoohan, in an interview conducted with his daughter, made a remark that he had completed a four hour edit of the original 'The Prisoner' series.

Did he simply merge several episodes together (similar to how Precision Video did their releases, pictured left, in 1982), or do a re-cut of all the essential scenes from all the episodes?

David Fakrikian has been on a quest to find out, and re-edit the entire series. Click HERE to find out more!

 

THE JOY OF SIX

One of the most common questions which comes up when one thinks about 'The Prisoner' series is 'why the Number Six?'

Patrick McGoohan always maintained that he chose the number as it was the only digit which becomes another number when turned upside down. George Markstein always maintained he chose the number as it was 'high enough to be important but not the man in charge'.

Another theory, although not supported by any evidence from the series' personnel, is that 6 is a 'neglected' number (see HERE for a segment from "From About Many Things" by Grace Little Rhys, 1920).

Perhaps we will never know the full background, but perhaps part of the inspiration may have come from an episode of 'Edgar Wallace Mystery Theatre' from 1962. The episode, entitled 'Number Six', concerns a code name for an undercover agent working for Scotland Yard to catch a killer, and the identity is not revealed until the last few seconds of the hour-long drama.

The episode was recently shown on Talking Pictures TV in the UK.

With thanks to Des Gorra, Craig Conley, and 'Bukks Fizz Tony' for this news item.

SPACED OUT PRISONER

'The Prisoner' has been the subject of countless spoofs and references in popular comics over the years, and in April 2021 another hit the shelves!

The series gets good coverage in the latest 'Spaced Out' comic from Source Point Press in a spoof of the series entitled 'Prisonerd', alongside other spoofs and strips such as 'Sgt Crock' and 'Enemy Ass'!.

Excellently drawn by artists Brian Dunphy and James Couts, with writing by Lou Mougin, the price of the comic is £3.99 but beware that it is only available in specialist comic shops, such as Forbidden Planet (which do charge a postage cost on top, of course) or direct from the publisher HERE.

More information is available at www.sourcepointpress.com.

With thanks to Lew Stringer for this news item.

MAY THE FORCES BE WITH YOU

Forces TV is the name of a fantastic TV channel available to UK viewers ( Sky 181, Freeview 96, Freesat 165, Virgin 274) which shows a great mix of programmes.

To celebrate the first ever 'Gerry Anderson Day' on April 14th, the channel ran a poll to discover the public's favourite episode of the classic ITC series 'UFO', which the channel has been showing in recent years.

The winning episode chosen was 'The Cat with Ten Lives', which was directed by David Tomblin and guest-starred Alexis Kanner. To accompany the announcement and airing of the episode, Anderson Entertainment provided a special archive interview of Gerry Anderson talking about the talents of David Tomblin, in which Patrick McGoohan also gets a brief mention.

The interview/clip is available on Forces TV's Facebook page and Twitter page HERE.

PRISONER FIGURES COMING SOON

TUW is very excited to confirm that for the first time EVER, a series of officially licensed action figures based on 'The Prisoner' has been created!

Produced by Wandering Planet Toys, the figures are fully licensed by copyright holders ITV and mark the first time since the series was filmed 55 years ago that an official range of figures have been made available.

A number of Number Six figure variants have been announced (including an incredible 'Rover Clamshell' design) as well as two sets based on particular episodes ('Free for All' and 'Schizoid Man').

As tooling, production, and licensing costs are high, the figures are subject to a campaign on Kickstarter with the simple message that only with a good amount of pledges can the project come to fruition.

Writes Gavin Hignight of Wandering Planet; "I'm a huge fan of classic TV fan, but somehow The Prisoner had escaped me until recent years.  Upon watching it, and as I started to get into it… I just couldn't believe toys didn't exist."

For full details (and more images and quotes) regarding these wonderful figures, click HERE. Click HERE for the Kickstarter page, which goes live for pledges on April 19th 2021 (and closes on May 26th).

With thanks to Gavin Hignight and David Hyde for this news item.

MODEL BEHAVIOUR

Whilst the Covid-19 Pandemic has been a truly awful worldwide experience, one positive which has come from the pandemic is the array of incredible creations which people have put together during periods of lockdown.

One such creation is an extraordinary scale model of Portmeirion, created by Connor Henryk Fogel (left and below). Originally posted on the 'The Prisoner and Portmeirion' facebook group (click HERE to join), more photos of this astonishing home-made effort, produced largely from card and modeling foliage, can be seen HERE, along with comments from Connor and a few photos of it under construction.

With thanks to Connor for his kind permission to post this info and photos.

PORTMEIRION TO RE-OPEN

Following the announcement that certain Covid-19 restrictions in Wales have been eased by the Welsh Government, TUW is delighted to confirm that Portmeiroion will re-open to day visitors from 9.30am on Monday 12th April 2021.

Visitor tickets will need to be purchased in advance of your visit online, so visit the Portmeirion website HEREfor more details and to book your tickets.


PORTMEIRION HIT BY SWNAMI

Swnami (left) are one of the most-loved and highly-regarded Welsh-language bands of the 21st century, so it is with much excitement that the band have filmed a video in Portmeirion!

'Theatr' is the name of the track, and it can be viewed on YouTube HERE.

With thanks to Rob Brown for this news item.

SERIES THREE FOR T.E.V.

Exciting news for all Prisoner Podcast listeners has reached TUW.

The Eternal Village, the podcast organised by Karl Frunz in Seattle, is releasing a third series of episodes! Series 3 will be, like series 2, a not-to-be-missed mix of discussions and celebrity interviews.

Click HERE for series 3 of the podcasts, the first episode released March 6th 2021 features an interview with Santi Pages about the first ever Spanish 'The Prisoner' book, and a discussion with Rick Davy about 'Number Six's Victories'.

For TUW's full guide to podcasts click HERE.

COVID-19 MARCH UPDATE

Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, it has been decided that the planned May 2021 weekend of Prisoner-related events has been postponed until October 2021. Click HERE for the events page for details.

With regards to Portmeirion, which remains closed to both guests and day visitors, TUW is awaiting the next announcement of Welsh Government guidance before passing on any confirmed opening dates.

PICTURE PERFECT

TUW readers will recall the sad passing in 2020 of Cynthia Jones (see news items, below), who along with her husband Glyn was a local extra involved in the filming of 'The Prisoner' in Portmeirion back in 1966.

Along with a short 8mm film showing life behind the scenes on the series , TUW is indebted to Diana (Cynthia's daughter) and Martin Brooks for also locating a selection of behind-the-scenes photographs from filming (left).

It is hoped that both the photographs and film will be made available for all to see at some point in the near future!

STUDIO GATE SAVED

Thanks to Prisoner fan Kieran McAleer, a relic from MGM Studios where the series was filmed(long since demolished) has been saved from the scrapheap.

For several years, a Sainsbury's depot has stood on the former studio site, which has now been demolished. Also due to disappear forever was the original gate to the studios (left), but thanks to Keiran and a fundraising campaign on the MGM Studios Facebook group, the gate has now been saved and is now located at a secure location in Sussex.

RETURN OF THE KING

As well as providing a highly-regarded re-imagining of The Prisoner as an audio drama (more details HERE), Big Finish have also produced ranges for other much loved classic series, including Doctor Who, and The Avengers.

Fans of the Tara King era of the show will therefore be especially pleased to hear that due for release in April 2021, The Avengers: The Comic Strip Adaptations Volume 05: Steed & Tara King  starring Julian Wadham and Emily Woodward as Steed and Tara, will feature Linda returning to the series in the episode Mother's Day playing Tatiana (a Russian villainess), plus in a Prisoneresque manner maybe another character in disguise...

Discussing her time on The Avengers with Rick Davy of The Unmutual, Linda said; "It's the most fantastical thing, based on the two of them going out to solve something and there's a feeling that they have a wonderful time doing it."

Click HERE for the Big Finish website for more details. (Photo: Linda Thorson with Emily Woodward, photo (c) Tony Whitmore).

PARADIGM RESOURCE GOES LIVE

'The Eternal Village', based in Seattle USA, has long been a superb resource for fans of 'The Prisoner'. Conventions events, Podcasts, and online information have now led to 'The Prisoner's Paradigm' being launched.

The Paradigm/website acts as a library/archive to creations which have been produced since the series was first broadcast; books, events, publications, interviews, analysis, and much MUCH more can be found at the website, which comes highly recommended by The Unmutual Website.

Click HERE to visit and contribute.

MARK EDEN R.I.P.

The Unmutual Website is sad to learn that actor Mark Eden, who so memorably portrayed Number 100 in the episode 'It's Your Funeral', has died at the age of 92.

Eden had a career spanning many decades and many genres, and will probably be best remembered for his long-running portrayal of super-villain Alan Bradley in the British soap-opera 'Coronation Street', as well as appearances in series such as 'Doctor Who'.

The actor, who had been suffering from Alzheimer's Disease, attended several 'Prisoner' events during the 1990s, alongside his wife (actress Sue Nicholls), and was always positive about the series, and famously recalled that he nearly passed out during his fight scene with Patrick McGoohan towards the end of the episode.

His character was originally to be have been killed by Rover at the end of the episode, but the sequence was cut (although a short trim of the sequence appears in the episode 'Arrival').

A fine actor and a true gentleman, TUW extends its sincerest sympathies to Sue, his daughter Polly, his stepson Saul and grand-daughter Emma. A more detailed obituary from The Guardian is HERE.

ALEX & CATHERINE ONLINE

As previously announced in a stop-press and on TUW's social media platforms, Saturday 23rd January is a date for Prisoner fans' diaries.

Film-maker and author of 'Not a Number' Alex Cox will be joined by Patrick McGoohan's daughter Catherine for an online event organised by UCI Illuminations.

The online event commences at 20:00 (UK time) and will be a two-hour discussion regarding the series and promises to be a fascinating exchange.

Click HERE for more details regarding the event and to sign up.

With thanks to Mark Fisher and Hleen Percicoe for this news item.

A FEEL FOR THE SURREAL

"Surrealism in Wales" is a new book by Jean Bonnin, which will be of interest to fans of 'The Prisoner'.

The book, which is published by Black Egg Publishing has an extensive chapter about 'The Prisoner', with the author being a big fan of the series. Jean describes the chapter as "a detailed description and analysis" of the series.

Wales is of course a true "land of mystery and surrealism" so is a great choice of subject for any book, with 'The Prisoner' content a welcome and apt inclusion.

The book is available from the author's website at http://www.jeanbonnin.com

With thanks to Jean Bonnin for this news item.

ROAR OF THE LION

For several years, it has been heavily rumoured that Portmeirion are considering building the 'Lion Tower', designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis but never built, as part of its forthcoming centenary celebrations in 2026.

The tower was originally designed to sit between Telford's Tower and Unicorn cottages in the village, but in the end Sir Clough decided against it.

After the rumours quietened in recent years, and with no plans submitted for such a structure, according to the BBC show 'Antiques Road Trip' (screened 7th December 2020) the idea may be going ahead after all! The show is available to view on BBC's iPlayer.

NEW FROM LEW

Comic artist Lew Stringer (The Beano, Dandy, Viz, Doctor Who Magazine, etc) will be a familiar name to fans of 'The Prisoner', having included references to the series in many of his strips over the years (including publications such as Transformers Comic, Toxic, and many others).

On sale on Wednesday 4th December is the current issue (No. 4064) of The Beano, in which a familiar figure can be seen in the background of Lew's latest strip, "Ellis's Great Escape".

Writes Lew; "It occured to me that a strip about an elephant trying to escape from the zoo every week ought to have a nod to The Prisoner in some way. The show would be unfamiliar to most of The Beano's young readers so I just went with having Number Six wander by in the background. It's a tiny detail but hopefully eagle-eyed Priz fans will spot it!"

BRAND NEW

Portmeirion and 'The Prisoner' are set to be seen on the BBC yet again in 2020, with news that the forthcoming BBC4 series 'The Sounds of TV' will feature both!

The series will be exploring classic TV theme tunes and the magic that surrounds them, and in one episode the presenter Neil Brand (left) will be seen playing Ron Grainer's classic 'Prisoner' theme on an upright piano in Portmeirion itself!

The series is due to air from Friday 4th December on BBC4. For more details, please read a great article about the series by Radio Times HERE.

Photo (c) BBC.

GEARING UP

UK-based viewers may wish to tune in to BBC1 on Sunday 25th October 2020 at 8.00pm, as Portmeiron features on the long-running popular motoring magazine show 'Top Gear'.

Filmed earlier this year, the presenters Paddy McGuinness and Freddie Flintoff are seen with an Aston Martin and other vehicles in a 'Wales special'.

With thanks to Dave Jones and Lee Arnall for this news item. Photo (c) BBC and Paddy McGuinness.

COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENT

As of 6pm Friday 23rd October 2020 until Monday 9th November, Wales will be in a Firebreak Lockdown, and from 6th November to 2nd December, England will be in a national lockdown.

Because of this, Portmeirion will be completely closed during this period. Please see the Portmeirion website HERE for more details, including details of what to do if you have a booking.

Update 2/12/20: The hotel and Castell will remain closed until early March 2021, but self-catering and day visits are still welcome.

COOK BOOK

David John Cook is a USA-based fan of 'The Prisoner', Portmeirion, ITC series, and other cult series such as 'The Avengers' and 'Quatermass'.

David has written a novel inspired by his love of these series, which is a not-for-profit tome in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

'A Few Happy Returns' runs to 288 pages, with a front cover expertly realised by designer Alan hayes, and is now available for pre-order at a discount of £3 on the eventual cover price of £12.99 (with the book's release scheduled for Christmas time).

Click HERE for more details and to pre-order.

ONCE UPON A CUSHION

TUW readers will of course be very familiar with the Tally Ho Podcast from Becks and Eeson of 'Time for Cakes and Ale'. It seems that podcastery is not the only talent, and they have created these wonderful cushions (left) based on imagery from 'The Prisoner'!

There's a full 'how to guide' for these incredible creations on their blog, click HERE to visit and read more and perhaps even create your own?

With thanks to Peter Preston and Becks and Eeson for this news item.

PREMIERE PATRICK

The October-November issue of the French cinema and TV magazine 'Premiere' will be of interest to fans of the Patrick McGoohan series 'Danger Man', as well as French-speaking fans of the secret agent genre generally.

As well as being a James Bond special, several pages are dedicated to an excellent feature by David Fakrikian on the McGoohan series, entitled 'Destination Danger' (which was the title which 'Danger Man' went under in France).

The piece includes several photographs as well, of course, discussion regarding McGoohan having famously turned down the role of Bond, and the evolution of the 'Danger Man' character John Drake following the decision to not base the character on the 007 character created by Ian Fleming (which was the original intention).

With thanks to David Fakrikian for this news item.

SPANISH BOOK PUBLISHED

TUW is delighted to share the news that the first ever Spanish language book about 'The Prisoner' is now available for pre-order!

'No soy un numero' ('I am not a number'), is a 500 page long in-depth analysis of the series with special emphasis on the cultural milieu of the 60s in which The Prisoner was born.

Writer Santi Pages told TUW: "I felt deeply fascinated when I first saw The Prisoner. It was a window to the Sixties, with its arresting visuals and concepts, but at the same time it felt radically modern. I wanted to know everyting about it, who made it and why. I thought the best way would be to write about it. I also wanted to bring The Prisoner to Spanish speaking audiences who up to now could access only very limited material on the series written in our language."

The book comes highly recommended by TUW and is available from publishers Applehead HERE.

CALLAN VOLUME 2 RELEASED

Few series are regarded to be an equal to 'The Prisoner', but one such series is the classic TV serial 'Callan', which follows the adventures of 'The Section''s David Callan (originally played by Edward Woodward), a world-weary and cynical character very much in the Number Six mould.

Big Finish adapted, in 2018, four of Callan's creator James Mitchell's short stories for the audio format, with Ben Miles as Callan and Frank Skinner as Lonely (click HERE for a review of that set).

It's with much excitement and interest that the second volume of stories, after a wait of over two years, has now been released!

Click HERE for a review of this second volume of episodes, which comes highly-recommended by The Unmutual Website.

DON'T VIRTUALLY FORGET...

Further to TUW's recent announcements, just a reminder that THIS WEEKEND (September 25th-27th) is 'Virtual Con 2.0', an online convention organised by an independent group of fans of #ThePrisoner !

The Unmutual is proud to again be supporting this event and has submitted some video materials for inclusion including special interviews, fan films, behind-the-scenes Prisoner footage, and an iconic appearance by Alexis Kanner! More details, visit the site/s in the image below.



PORTILLO IN PORTMEIRION

Portmeirion had a visit from MP-turned-presenter Michael Portillo on Sunday 13th September, as filming was taking place for the next series of BBC2's 'Great Railway Journeys', which Portillo presents.

Portmeirion's Meurig Rees Jones was interviewed, and even Rover and some 'Prisoner' fans made an appearance!

The episode is due to air some time in February 2021.

BBC's flagship motoring show 'Top Gear' was also filming in Portmeirion recently, with an Aston Martin taking pride of place in the village.

With thanks to Graeme Boyd for the photo and news and Meurig Jones.

OCTOBER EVENTS CANCELLED

TUW is sad to announce that word has come through from organiser Dave Lally that the October 2020 weekend of Prisoner-related events, including the Sunday 'Danger Man' and 'The Prisoner' location tours have been cancelled.

England's new 'Rule of 6', brought in to curb the spread of COVID-19, means that it will be illegal to have gatherings of more than six people and, as such, the events are now cancelled as they will essentially, as they are always very popular, be breaking the law if they go ahead.

Ina ddition, the monthly London Prisoner Group meetings at The Crown pub, are also now postponed until 2021.

The events will now take place in 2021 in the Spring and Autumn - more updates coming soon.

Stay safe, everyone!

BFI TO RELEASE TWENTY NINE

Fans of both cult movies, and the work of actors from 'The Prisoner' Alexis Kanner and Justine Lord, will be very interested to read that the BFI are, on their own DVD and BluRay label, releasing the 1969 short film 'Twenty Nine'.

The film, which starred both Kanner and Lord, forms part of the 'Short Sharp Shocks' release which also includes films such as Nigel Finch's 'The Errand'.

The film was produced by Peter Shillingford, brother of 'Prisoner' crew member (clapper boy) David Shillingford, and an interview with Peter is included as an extra on the release.

The BluRay release can be pre-ordered HERE.

With thanks to Simon Coward for this news item.

ALL BOXED UP

As well as being available on DVD and BluRay, and also via streaming services such as TubiTV and Amazon Prime, 'The Prisoner', along with several other cult TV classics such as 'Randall and Hopkirk Deceased' and ' Sapphire and Steel' is now available on the BritBox platform.

TUW of course recommends that, due to the enhanced picture quality compared to compressed streaming services, and the wealth of extras, that fans of the series purchase a DVD or BluRay set. Get 10% off either at 'The Village Shop' by using the code TALLYHO10 at checkout HERE.

Meanwhile, the German-dubbed version of the series, 'Nummer Sechs' is also now streaming on Amazon.De HERE.

EDWARD THE THIRD

TUW's readers will doubtless remember Ed Fordham who sadly passed away in 2018 (details HERE), after editing two of his planned trilogy of essay collections devoted to 'The Prisoner'.

The first book, 'It Means What it Says' (left), is still available on Amazon, whilst his second book, 'One Likes to Know Everything' sadly was removed from sale due to legal reasons.

Ed was very keen for his third volume to be completed, but sadly it was not to be, so it is with pleasure that TUW can inform readers that Rick Davy, following discussions with those closest to Ed, will be completing the third book, 'Half a Dozen of the Other', on Ed's bahalf.

Ed's name will appear as editor, alongside Rick, who will be utilising the forewords from Volume 2, along with a new introduction and tribute to Ed, in the third and final volume. The book will be available via Amazon Publishing in both Kindle and Paperback versions. As with Ed's previous books, the book is not-for-profit and a donation will be made to both Mind (the mental health charity) and Ty Gobaith Children's Hospice following each sale.

Would YOU like to contribute your thoughts on The Prisoner, and 'what it all means' and what you take from the series, for the book? Or perhaps have some photographs you'd like to include? If so, get in touch HERE.

CYNTHIA JONES R.I.P.

It is with much sadness that TUW can report that Cynthia Jones (left), local extra in 'The Prisoner' who appeared in several episodes (including as the Taxi Driver in 'Arrival' and White Queen in 'Checkmate') passed away on Tuesday 11th August 2020, at the age of 92.

A lovely lady with a great sense of humour, Cynthia lived in Borth-y-Gest and as such was a familiar face at 'Prisoner' conventions in the 80s and 90s, alongside her husband Glyn, and had wonderful tales to tell about filming (click HERE for an interview conducted with Cynthia and other extras in 1988).

A very popular local couple, they famously ran Borth-y-Gest's garage, and Porthmadog's travel agency, for several years until their retirement. TUW's thoughts are with Cynthia's daughter and son-in-law Diana and Martin, and her other family and friends, at this sad time.

IT'S A KINDLE MAGIC

In recent years, two 'celebrity' memoirs/autobiographies have been released, both by publishing company Quoit Media Limited, which included extensive 'Prisoner' content.

Eric Mival was music editor on 13 episodes of the series, and assistant editor on the other four, and became a lifelong friend of Patrick McGoohan. His book 'Cutting Edge' includes an extensive look at life behind the scenes on the series.

'Where Have I Been All My Life?' is the memoir of ITC actress Annette Andre, who appeared in the episode 'It's Your Funeral'.

Both books have long been available from HERE, but as from August 2020 are now also available exclusively from Amazon as Kindle books!



70K FOR HLT

Several years ago, TUW reported that an original Mini Moke (seen on screen in several episodes in Portmeirion, and also (with its regular number plate) in 'Living in Harmony' on the MGM backlot set, had been found in a barn in Holland (see news item HERE).

After being bought at auction by fan Phil Caunt (info HERE), and after tens of thousands of pounds of restoration work, the vehicle now looks as good as new (left) and has been present at several events, including A Celebration of ITC and Fall In.

Sadly, owner Phil Caunt has decided to now put the Moke up for sale, for a price of £70k. He told TUW: "It is with a heavy heart that, that I have now, after 5 years of ownership decided to sell 'The Prisoner' Mini Moke HLT 709C. I would very much prefer the car stays in the UK, and that the new owner is a Prisoner fan, however this is ultimately out of my control.... as a non-Prisoner version recently sold for over £50k, someone is in for a bargain."

Click HERE for the ad and for details of how to buy or make an offer.

SECOND LIFE FOR SECOND LIFE

In the early-mid 2000s, the online simulation platform 'Second Life' boasted not one, but two versions of The Village for players of the game to explore and enjoy.

Sadly, these versions of the location were short-lived, so it is with much excitement that Ashlee Caddell, a designer of much talent, has designed an all-new version of The Village on the Second Life platform, and as these images illustrate, it's a superb addition to the platform.

The sim is, aptly, called 'The Village' and you can check it out now on Second Life at this link HERE.

With thanks fo Ashlee Caddell for the images and Tom Luthman for the link.

FAREWELL EARL

The Unmutual Website is sad to confirm that Earl Cameron, one of the first successful black actors in British cinema, who appeared in both 'The Prisoner' and 'Danger Man', has passed away at the incredible age of 102.

Coming to recognition in the iconic and incredibly influential film 'Pool of London', Earl would enjoy a long and successful career in the industry, with roles in the James Bond movie 'Thunderball', the Dr Who serial 'The Tenth Planet', and the BBC fantasy series 'Neverwhere' particularly fondly remembered.

He appeared in no less than 5 episodes of 'Danger Man', before being asked to play the part of the Haitian Supervisor in 'The Schizoid Man' Working right up until, and throughout, his ninth decade, in the 2000s he appeared in films such as 'The Interpreter' with Nicole Kidman, and 'The Queen' with Helen Mirren.

Earl, alongside series librarian Tony Sloman, was guest of honour at TUW's PM2007 event in Portmeirion (left), and subsequently invited orgainser Rick Davy to his 90th birthday celebrations.

The epitome of the word gentleman, Earl was a true trailblazer and will be missed and respected by all who knew him and all who were touched by his work.

Further obits can be found from The Guardian HERE, SyFy HERE, and the BBC HERE.

INFINITY FURORE

Controversy has again struck the Cult TV and Sci-fi magazine ‘Infinity' (which has covered both ‘The Prisoner' (left) and ‘Danger Man') this week. On June 18th editor Allan Bryce posted on the magazine's Facebook page what could be described as a 1970s-inspired rant, described by one reader on Twitter as ‘a tone-deaf response to #BlackLivesMatter'. Dozens of polite comments from concerned readers and contributors were posted in response, but most were deleted, with the individuals blocked from the page for daring to give their view. The editor then posted that these people, many of whom rightly stated they would not be buying any future issues, ‘would not be missed'. The post was eventually deleted (you can see a screenshot of the original post HERE, along with additional information on the magazine's years of controversy) and replaced with others which gave a misleading view of what happened (ironic that a plea to ‘not erase history' from an editor purporting to defend free speech then saw him delete the entire thread when the conversation did not go his way).

This is not the first time the magazine has been steeped in controversy. Previous editorials and responses to readers' letters have raised eyebrows, including attacks on the use of female and BAME actors on TV, reference to COVID19 as 'The Chinese Lurgi' and jokes about prostitution, and the words “Pussy Patrol” to describe an all-female cast series can at best be described as ‘ill-advised'.

This comes hot on the heels of the news that 'Infinity' have been reproducing people's photographs, and written work, without permission, with a recent article on ‘Worzel Gummidge' copied almost wholesale from a book without even acknowledgement to the true author. Indeed, when one article writer wrote to Bryce requesting for permission to be sought before using photos to accompany his articles, the astonishing reply received from the editor was: “we don't worry about such trivialities.”

As a result of ALL of the above issues, TUW would like to assure its rightly-concerned readers that the key tenets of ‘The Prisoner' series - that all individuals within society have equal value, and that freedom of speech and right to reply to objectionable diktats are basic rights - are respected by this website and that TUW and its owner will not be purchasing, promoting or contributing to the magazine in future.

MGM BOOK ON SALE

'MGM British Studios - Hollywood in Hertfordshire' is a new hardback book exploring the history of the former MGM Studios in Boreham Wood, where 'The Prisoner' was filmed back in 1966-68.

The book, written by historian Paul Welsh MBE and produced by TUW's good friends at Elstree Screen Heritage, is a lavishly produced hardback book, initially limited to only 300 copies, packed with photographs, information, and rare documents.

At over 300 pages it is great value for its £20 price tag and is a beautifully presented book, written by the foremost expert on the studios history.

Click HERE to order your copy and for more information.

 

SMOKELESS MOKE

One of the iconic images from 'The Prisoner' is the Mini Moke Taxi vehicles, ferrying inmates around the Village.

Now in 2020 these amazing vehicles have had a re-launched as electric vehicles for carrying tourists around hotels and resorts, as well as being a stylish road car. The electric Moke has a range of 90 miles and a potential top speed of 75mph.

With thanks to Phil Coomes for this news item.

ITC 2 SUCCESS

On Saturday 19th October 2019 a sell out crowd of 240 people attended 'A Celebration of ITC 2' at Elstree Studios, organised by Quoit Media Limited and The Unmutual Website, and the event was a great success!

14 guests from ITC series, including 'Danger Man' and 'The Prisoner', of course, took part in on-stage Q&As with event host Rick Davy (left, with Jamie Anderson, Matt Zimmerman, and Laraine Humphrys), all in aid of Ty Gobaith Children's Hospice.

A full photo report of the event will be online soon. A number of event programmes remain from the event, on sale for only £2.99 from The Village Shop HERE!



ANNIVERSARY EVENT COMES TO DVD

In January 2018, TUW and Quoit Media Limited held 'Fifty Years of The Prisoner - A Special Celebration' at Elstree Studios, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the series (photo report HERE).

The event was filmed by a professional three-camera film crew, and the DVD of the event is now available to order.

Highlights from all the Q&A sessions with the special guests (series crew members Ian Rakoff, John S Smith, Tony Sloman, directors Alex Cox, John Hough, Chris Rodley, Big Finish's Nick Briggs, studio savious Paul Welsh, actor Brian Gorman, and others) are included on the DVD, which runs to 120 minutes.

Click HERE to buy from The Unmutual Website.

ABOUT 'THE UNMUTUAL'

THE UNMUTUAL WEBSITE serves as the world's largest online source of information about the iconic 60’s T.V. series ‘The Prisoner’ and ‘Danger Man’ providing information about both series, Patrick McGoohan, the cast and crews, the village of Portmeirion in which filming took place, and all official and independent ‘Prisoner’ related activities, books, events, and news. It supports Ty Gobaith, a children's hospice in North Wales, by donating profits raised by the Unmutual Website's online sales or events to them. http://www.hopehouse.org.uk/care/
The Unmutual Website is not a fan club, Society, or group. It is a FREE online resource FOR ALL Prisoner fans.

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THE UNMUTUAL. An online non-profit cyber-magazine, intended to serve as a free news service for fans of The Prisoner TV series, its star Patrick McGoohan, and Portmeirion in aid of Ty Gobaith Hospice. Promotion of Prisoner merchandise provided entirely free of charge for the benefit of Prisoner fans. Neither this website nor events run under its banner are connected with any society, group, or fan club whatsoever, or any other website using the name "Unmutual". No responsibility can be taken for individuals unconnected with this website claiming to act on its behalf.

Compiled, written, and hosted by Rick Davy. Words and Images may not be reproducedwithout prior permission, and are © Rick Davy and The Unmutual Website unless otherwise stated. "The Unmutual" logo design, "Unmutual News Archive" logo design, and the character "Alistair Sadgitt" are all Copyright © Lew Stringer 2004. Not to be used without written or emailed permission.

Thanks to the various sources for supplying the news items and everyone for their continued help and support (you know who you are) and to Lew Stringer, who devised and originally ran The Unmutual Website.

The Prisoner is Copyright © ITV Studios.

Site last updated: 13/3/2024.

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