Dr Finlay's Casebook

Image: Bill Simpson as Dr Finlay, Barbara Mullen as Janet and Andrew Cruickshank as Dr Cameron in Dr Finlay's Casebook circa 1971.

Dr Finlay's Casebook was opened for the first time on 16 August 1962. It was written by A J Cronin, based on his stories The Adventures of a Black Bag. In contrast to other medical dramas of the period, it was set in a time before the foundation of the National Health Service, in the fictional Scottish settlement of Tannochbrae. The sense of time and place was reinforced by exterior scenes shot in Callander, Stirling, and by the distinctive accents of the actors.

Dr Finlay was played by Bill Simpson - previously known in Scotland as a newsreader. Dr Cameron, the senior partner in the practice, was played by established actor Andrew Cruickshank. Barbara Mullen was Janet MacPherson, the indomitable housekeeper. The different styles of the young and old doctors, combined with Janet's no-nonsense approach, ensured the programme's success for eight series. Its influence was reflected in the many affectionate parodies of the programme in popular culture.

Doctor Finlay's Casebook ran on television until 1971, and then transferred to the radio, where it continued for another seven years. Medical dramas continue to be very popular on the BBC, both contemporary series like Holby City, and historical ones such as Call the Midwife.