"The Navy Lark" - Series 02 / Episodes 01-06 (Oct 16, 1959 - Nov 20, 1959)

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Episodes:
00:00:00 - S02E01 - 1959-10-16 - New at the Helm
00:27:17 - S02E02 - 1959-10-23 - Fatso's Box Brownie
00:55:15 - S02E03 - 1959-10-30 - Bring Back the Barge
01:23:56 - S02E04 - 1959-11-06 - The Mock Action
01:51:39 - S02E05 - 1959-11-13 - Going Dutch
02:19:55 - S02E06 - 1959-11-20 - The Figurehead

In this early stretch of Series 2, The Navy Lark continues its signature blend of nautical nonsense and razor-sharp British wit. Broadcast in 1959, Episodes 01–06 showcase the comedic misadventures aboard HMS Troutbridge, where the crew’s attempts at naval discipline are constantly undermined by their own eccentricities. Leslie Phillips charms as the ever-suave Sub-Lieutenant Phillips, while Jon Pertwee’s Chief Petty Officer Pertwee schemes his way through every situation with entrepreneurial flair. Stephen Murray anchors the chaos as the long-suffering Lieutenant Murray, trying to maintain order amid the absurdity.

These episodes capture the show's golden-era rhythm, with recurring gags, character chemistry, and satirical jabs at military bureaucracy. Whether it’s bungled inspections, misdirected orders, or Pertwee’s latest side hustle, the series delivers timeless humor that still resonates. With its rich sound design and ensemble cast, The Navy Lark remains a cornerstone of BBC radio comedy, offering listeners a voyage into laughter that’s as unpredictable as the sea itself.


S02E01 – New at the Helm (1959-10-16)
Mr. Murray takes command of HMS Troutbridge, replacing Lt. Commander Price, and immediately faces the crew’s chaotic antics. His attempts to instill discipline are met with comic resistance from Pertwee and Phillips.

S02E02 – Fatso's Box Brownie (1959-10-23)
Chief Petty Officer Pertwee acquires a camera and sets off a chain of photographic mischief. His entrepreneurial spirit leads to unexpected consequences when the photos reveal more than intended.

S02E03 – Bring Back the Barge (1959-10-30)
The crew is tasked with retrieving a missing barge, but their efforts are anything but straightforward. A series of blunders and miscommunications turn a simple job into a farcical adventure.

S02E04 – The Mock Action (1959-11-06)
A naval exercise meant to simulate combat spirals into confusion as the crew misinterprets orders. The mock battle becomes a real headache for Murray, who struggles to keep order amid the chaos.

S02E05 – Going Dutch (1959-11-13)
HMS Troutbridge hosts a Dutch naval delegation, but cultural misunderstandings and Pertwee’s schemes threaten diplomatic disaster. The crew’s antics nearly sink international goodwill.

S02E06 – The Figurehead (1959-11-20)
A new figurehead for the ship arrives, but its resemblance to a certain admiral causes uproar. The crew must navigate the fallout while trying to avoid offending naval brass.