Poldark

Image: Robin Ellis as Ross Poldark and Angharad Rees as Demelza Carne Poldark.

Poldark was first seen on 5 October 1975. The romantic drama was set in 18th Century Cornwall, based on the novels of Winston Graham. Episode one saw Ross Poldark returning from the American War of Independence, where he was thought to have died. In his absence his father had died, leaving his estate in ruins, and his sweetheart Elizabeth had become engaged to his cousin.

The stirring tale was aided by spectacular shots of Cornish coastlines and a theme tune by Kenyon Emrys Roberts and was soon attracting 15 million viewers every Sunday night. Filming on location inspired a surge in Cornish tourism.

Robin Ellis was Ross and Angharad Rees played Demelza, the impetuous servant he eventually marries. These two characters in particular captured the public imagination, but there was a strong supporting cast including Jill Townsend, Frank Middlemass, Nicholas Selby and Mary Wimbush. 

Poldark ran for two series, with a second in 1977. However, it ensured its longevity with sales of video that made it the second most popular costume drama, only beaten by Pride and Prejudice.

In 2015 Poldark returned to the BBC in a new adaptation, starring Aiden Turner and Eleanor Tomlinson as Ross and Demelza. To the delight of fans of the original series, there was also a part for Robin Ellis as Judge Hayter.