Steptoe and Son

Harold readies himself for a fortnight's skiing holiday, this time travelling without Albert, and he is hopeful that the trip will be uneventful. He wishes, for once, that nothing will go terribly wrong for him during the entire two‑week escape.

A Winter's Tale is presented as a programme, classified under the episode genre. It forms part of a series that delivers self‑contained stories within a broader framework, each designed to be consumed in a single sitting. The title hints at a seasonal setting, and the format suggests a concise narrative intended for broadcast, giving viewers a snapshot of events that unfold over the course of the episode. In this instalment, the central character Harold is busy preparing for a two‑week skiing break. Notably, he will be travelling without his companion Albert, which marks a departure from his usual arrangements. As he packs his gear and makes the necessary bookings, Harold is keen that this time his holiday proceeds without any of the mishaps that have plagued his previous outings, hoping for a smoother experience. Harold's mindset is one of cautious optimism. He hopes that, for once, the trip will unfold without any major setbacks. The absence of Albert, who has previously been part of his adventures, adds a new dynamic that Harold believes might reduce the likelihood of things going terribly wrong. The narrative therefore centres on Harold's anticipation of a smoother experience during his fortnight‑long ski escape. By setting the story against a winter sports backdrop and removing a familiar companion, the episode builds a simple premise: a man hoping for a trouble‑free holiday in the snowy hills.