Ep 1. Why Does Norman Clegg Buy Ladies Elastic Stockings?

In this episode of Last of the Summer Wine, entitled "Why Does Norman Clegg Buy Ladies Elastic Stockings?", the gents of the town are up to their usual hijinks and adventures. The episode introduces us to the character of Marina, a new love interest for Howard who becomes the latest object of desire for the bumbling trio of Compo, Clegg, and Foggy.

As the episode begins, we see Norman Clegg returning from a trip to the local chemist with a suspicious-looking package. His friends are immediately intrigued and begin speculating about what could be inside. Is Clegg buying cigarettes? Picking up some medicine for a secret illness? The truth is much stranger: Clegg has purchased a pair of ladies' elastic stockings.

Unsurprisingly, this odd purchase sets off a series of misadventures for the group. They start by trying to guess the identity of the mystery woman in Clegg's life, but their imagination runs wild and they end up suspecting every woman in town. This leads to several awkward and embarrassing encounters, including a hilarious run-in with Nora Batty.

Meanwhile, Howard is smitten with the new arrival, Marina, and becomes determined to impress her. The gents hatch a plan to give Howard a makeover and turn him into a sophisticated gentleman. This includes buying him a new suit (which turns out to be too small), teaching him etiquette (which results in a disastrous dinner party), and even trying to get him a makeover from a salon (which ends up with Howard being mistaken for a woman).

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Clegg's purchase of the stockings was not for a woman at all. In a hilarious twist, we discover that he was actually buying them for himself, as a way to keep his legs warm during winter walks. This revelation leads to even more absurdity, with the group trying to help Clegg keep his secret and avoid being seen in public with his stockings on.

In the end, the episode wraps up with the usual slapstick antics and hilariously botched plans that have made Last of the Summer Wine a beloved classic. Despite their many misadventures, the gang remains as lovable and endearing as ever, and we can't help but laugh along with their antics.

Overall, "Why Does Norman Clegg Buy Ladies Elastic Stockings?" is a standout episode of Last of the Summer Wine, full of the witty writing, sharp humor, and charming characters that have made the show a cherished favorite for generations of viewers.