Because of Bean’s delectable wit, every situation has been mined for the snappy one liners; even the opening scene has the visual joke of Florence riding up and down on the stair lift with conflicting calls from someone at the front door bell and Jack upstairs, who needs a bucket.  Don’t ask why! After changing directions several times Florence brings down the stairlift and the house as she surprisingly nimbly answers the door. 

There is great characterisation; Jack and Flo are the stars as their conversation is non stop bickering and argument, with lashings of comedy and rejected offers to make tea.  Jack also has three monologues, anecdotes recalling his days in the police force and has taped these.  His son Rob is a novelist and screenwriter, living part of the time in America.  These tapes are important family history. 

The arrival of Robert and Tina, is criticised by Pam who can be unpleasant, but will bring about change with Tina organising medical appointments for Jack, and Robert and Tina looking into their parents’ banking.  The arrangements are being made for them but not what they want. 

Tina is a business manager for a firm of franchised doctors, the elevated version of the people who safeguard doctors by telling you that you can’t see them this week.  She is efficient and well organised and her entrance is followed by a large electric lead and plug thrown in through the window from outside.  Tina wants her parents to move closer to her in Somerset.  She has plans to sell their house and Jack’s car after he drove it into a hedge.