Two sitcom gems from the early 2000s featuring the achingly hip poet Sir Ralph Stanza, written by and starring James Quinn

Sir Ralph Stanza, a hip London poet, is determined to communicate the people's hopes and fears through his verse. Whether they like it or not…
Sir Ralph Stanza’s Letter from Salford follows the exploits of the distinguished-but-hip London poet Sir Ralph Stanza as he settles into his new role as the poet-in-residence for Salford. This is all thanks to a specially-funded scheme displaying great cultural magnanimity towards the good people of the north of England. As he straddles the streets of Orsdall and Weaste, in his panama hat, blazer and silk scarf, Sir Ralph's goal is to blend in with the locals and express their anger through his verse. He seeks his muse in a chip shop, has run-ins with ‘the man’ and what says ‘artistic climax’ more than bringing quiche to the Quays…?
In The Jail Diaries of Sir Ralph Stanza our hero poet navigates his new role and incarcerated reality as poet-in-residence at a maximum security prison. Albie Sachs, Nelson Mandela, Jeffrey Archer... The literary penal tradition is an honourable one. It finally reaches its pinnacle with Sir Ralph Stanza, the poet dedicated to bringing culture to the masses, and gently explaining it to them. Sir Ralph shocks the prison authorities by doing a rap double act with inmate Jermaine leading to some far reaching and unexpected consequences…
These comedy series about a poet with a passion feature a special guest appearance from none other than (actual) poet laureate, Carol Ann Duffy. A perfect listen for anyone looking for the lighter side of life, culture and laughter.
Cast and credits
Written by James Quinn
Produced by Graham Frost
Sir Ralph Stanza’s Letters from Salford
Starring James Quinn
With Alison Darling, Jack Deam, Mark Chatterton, Stephen Hoyle, Jemma Thompson, Tony Melody, Judy Flynn and Bob Chadwick
And featuring Carol Ann Duffy
First Broadcast BBC Radio 4, 15 May - 5 Jun 2002 (series 1), 30 Apr 2003 - 4 Jun 2003 (series 2)
The Jail Diaries of Sir Ralph Stanza
Starring James Quinn
With Chris Jack, James Scales, Lorraine Cheshire, Joan Kempson, Neil Bell, Theo Ant Smith
First Broadcast BBC Radio 4, 18 Aug – 22 Sep 2004