The Salvage Gang

A likable early effort from the Children's Film Foundation production company. This 50-dd minute black and white outing has recently seen air time thanks to the efforts of the UK Talking Pictures TV channel, which has been showing a whole back catalogue of selected produce.

This one's a typical effort that sees a likable group of kids going out of their way to correct a wrong (in this case, to replace a damaged saw blade). To this end, they take on a series of odd jobs in the seemingly deserted streets of London, only to hit upon the idea of becoming a salvage gang, i.e. collecting scrap iron for cash. Hijinks and hilarity ensue in equal measure.

I find that there's very little to dislike about CFF films and THE SALVAGE GANG is no exception. Most importantly, the main cast members are likable, particularly Ali Allen. Watch out for future DR WHO companion Frazer Hines in an early appearance. Much of the humour comes from what turns out to be a comedy of errors, with plenty of slapstick humour and amusingly over the top turns from the supporting adult players. Eagle-eyed viewers may spot Wilfrid Brambell, typecast even at this stage of his career as a tramp.