Porridge

In the programme “A Storm in a Teacup,” Harris unintentionally spills stolen pills into Fletcher’s midday cup of tea. The mishap provokes the irritation of prison racketeer Harry Grout, delivering classic comedy with Ronnie Barker on screen in the lead.

A Storm in a Teacup is a self‑contained episode presented as a programme. It falls squarely within the comedy genre, offering a brief, humour‑driven narrative that unfolds within a single storyline. The format is typical of a televised comedy sketch, delivering a concise plot in a light‑hearted tone and is designed to entertain. The central mishap occurs when Harris, who is in possession of a packet of stolen tablets, accidentally lets the pills fall into Fletcher's midday cuppa. The unintended contamination of the tea provokes immediate irritation from the prison racketeer, Harry Grout, whose displeasure underscores the chaotic nature of the incident for all involved and adds to the comedic tension. The humour springs from the absurdity of contraband ending up in an innocent cup of tea, creating a clash between Harris's careless handling and Fletcher's unsuspecting routine. This juxtaposition highlights the farcical elements of the scenario, as the characters' reactions amplify the comedic effect inherent in the sudden, unintended drug exposure for the audience and the plot. Harry Grout's annoyance serves as a focal point, emphasizing the tension that arises when his authority is subtly challenged by the accidental contamination of his associate's drink. The episode delivers its comedy through this single, chaotic incident, reinforcing its status as a classic comedy piece that relies on a simple yet effective premise for viewers.