Special Branch: A New Face (ITV 22 Oct 1969, with Nicola Pagett)

In A New Face it’s student demonstration time. The team are keeping tabs on a student activist group that is planning a major march. Morrissey spots a new member on the action committee – the problem is that he is Peter Harris, the son of Detective Chief Inspector Matt Harris.

It’s double trouble really, it won’t show the team in a good light if word gets out that Harris’s son is involved and it won’t be good for Peter if word gets out in the group that he is a coppers son. In reality Peter has only joined the group because he fancies ringleader Margot.

Again it’s an episode that doesn’t go Special Branch’s way – Peter doesn’t get involved in the demonstration in the end but Harris still has to pay the price of getting moved out of Special Branch and back into uniformed division.

There is a major role for a young Nicola Pagett and a minor tole for a young Frances Tomelty makes an appearance at a party held by Margot.

production details
UK / ITV – Thames / 1×50 minute episode / Broadcast Wednesday 22 October 1969 at 9.00pm

Writers: Tom Brennand, Roy Bottomley / Production Design: Neville Green / Director: Peter Duguid

Series: Special Branch Season 1 Episode 6

cast
Derren Nesbitt as Jordan
Wensley Pithey as Eden
Anthony Sagar as Det Chief Inspector Matt Harris
Jennifer Wilson as Det Sgt Helen Webb
Keith Washington as Det Con Morrissey
Nicola Pagett as Margot
Tom Chadbon as Sean
Alan Adams as Johnny
Peter Beton as Ian Martin
Morris Perry as Charles Moxon
Doreen Mantle as Mrs Harris
Frances Tomelty as Girl

Alastair James is the editor-in-chief of Memorable TV, leading the charge in covering today's must-see television. A lifelong television enthusiast, his passion began with a deep dive into the world of classic sci-fi, culminating in his role as editor of "Beyond the Static," a publication devoted to celebrating iconic sci-fi series. While his love for classic television remains, Alastair's focus at Memorable TV is firmly on the present, analyzing the latest trends in the television landscape, from gripping crime dramas to the ever-evolving strategies of Survivor. His insights have been featured in numerous publications. At Memorable TV, Alastair's goal is to provide readers with sharp commentary, engaging reviews, and in-depth analysis of the shows dominating the current conversation.