Armada here!

Armada here - I'm outta here - geddit? I'll get my coat...

On 5 May 1953, the Goons told ‘The Story of the Plymouth Hoe Armada’ in the 25th and final episode of the third series. The listing is available on page 24 of the Radio Times.

While no recording exists, it can be safely assumed that the title is a reference to Sir Francis Drake’s victory over the Spanish Armada in 1588.

This series had presented the Goons with challenge after challenge. First the departure of Michael Bentine, then changes to structure and personnel with a new producer and new musicians. Spike’s illness had forced producer Peter Eton to bring in new actors.

But by the end of the series, the Goon Show was still going strong, and its best years were ahead.

Image of the Armada sourced from Royal Museums Greenwich.