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The last "episode" of Porridge was made in 1979 as a feature
film, shot entirely on location and without an audience. All the regular sitcom warders and inmates were involved, with the
exception of Lukewarm and Harris. There was also a new governor, played by Geoffrey Bayldon. Three one-off
characters made an impact in the film. Rudge, played by Daniel Peacock, was a young, timid prisoner in the Godber mould, seen
arriving for his three-year stretch for shoplifting at the beginning of the film. He came into his own when he showed his
outstanding football skills during the game which led to the breakout. Oakes, played by Barrie Rutter, was the violent armed
robber who arrived in the same van as Rudge and was sprung for the breakout, unwittingly taking Fletcher and Godber with him.
Beal, played by Christopher Goodwin, was a new prison officer who subscribed to the firm approach to the job, but proved easy
to manipulate into recommending a celebrity football match. This is the last film appearance by Richard Beckinsale.
The
film was shot at HMP Chelmsford before it was returned to service after a fire. The film company admin offices were located
in the prison hospital block.
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