"The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Walker" is a missing episode in the British comedy series Dad's Army. It was originally transmitted on 15 March 1969. One of the three missing Dad's Army episodes, only a few short clips and screenshots survive in the archives.

Synopsis

Private Frank Pike receives a notice that he's been selected for conscription into the regular army. This causes distress for both him and his fellow Home Guard platoon members, who value Pike's presence in the unit. Mainwaring and the others quickly rally to keep him in the Home Guard, despite the fact that his mother, Mrs. Pike, is adamantly opposed to him leaving. The platoon tries various tactics to prevent Pike from going, even attempting to secure a medical exemption by faking an illness. In the end, a surprising twist reveals that Pike doesn’t need to join the regular army after all, restoring harmony and securing his place in the platoon once more. This episode humorously explores themes of camaraderie, loyalty, and the lengths the team will go to stay together during wartime.

Plot

When Walker is called up, he applies to the Military Service Hardship Committee, which rejects him on the grounds that he does not keep books for his business. After Jones's attempts to sabotage his medical test fail, Walker is invalided out because he is allergic to corned beef.

Cast

Remake