When did "afternoon telly" start

A.� The Government lifted restrictions on broadcasting hours in 1972 which meant the BBC and ITV could start proucing "housewives drama" after lunch.

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Q.� What were the first programmes shown

A.� Emmerdale Farm lead the way in day-time soap opera. Yorkshire Television had asked playwright kevin Laffan to write a 26-part television serial to be shown to housewives twice a week at 1.30pm. The enduring story of the Sugden family and the villagers of Beckindale proved so successful that critics said it made Coronation Street seem 'flashy' and Crossroads 'wooden'. it was moved to mid-afternoon and then a high-tea slot by public demand, so that workers could catch it. Late-night repeats drew larger audiences in country regions that Match of the Day.