Synopsis
Audrey fforbes-Hamilton (Penelope Keith) inherits Grantleigh Manor from her husband only to find that he was bankrupt and that she must sell up. She is horrified when the purchaser is Richard de Vere (Peter Bowles), who turns out not only to be 'a nouveau riche grocer' - he owns a supermarket chain - but foreign - his real name is Bedrich, and his Mother, Mrs. Polouvicka (Daphne Heard) from Bratislava, Czechoslovakia has also taken up residence.
Audrey, able to retain only the services of her butler, Brabinger (John Rudling) and her vintage Rolls Royce, rents the Manor's gatekeeper's lodge from where she can keep an eye on developments at the manor. Her best friend Marjory Frobisher (Angela Thorne) has eyes for Richard.
Audrey soon sets about teaching Richard the concept of Noblesse Oblige and working her way back into the life of the manor, whilst dealing with the awkwardness of maintaining the social graces - and simply keeping body and soul together - without any money. Eventually, Richard develops romantic designs, but Audrey will not consider marriage unless she is mistress of her own fortunes. Fortunately, the demise of a wealthy relative leaves her in exactly that position.
Other regular cast include Gerald Sim as the Rector and Michael Bilton as Ned.