Christmas at the Riviera

A star-studded cast check in for this one-off comedy drama set in a hotel in Eastbourne. The League of Gentleman's Reece Shearsmith plays Ashley Dodds, the assistant manager of the Riviera, who can barely hide his excitement at finally being given the opportunity to take charge over the festive period. He is determined to make it the establishment's best Christmas ever, but does not count on the guests spoiling his plans. All the visitors unpacking their suitcases seem to have problems - man-eating divorcee Avril (Pam Ferris) is looking for love, while long-suffering Rita (Barbara Flynn) is lumbered with cantankerous husband Maurice (Warren Clarke). The Reverend Miles Roger (Alexander Armstrong) is a serial philanderer with an alcoholic wife (Anna Chancellor), while father and son Dennis (Sam Kelly) and Tim Dunn (Darren Boyd) have their own reasons for not wanting to be at home during this emotional time. It may be the season of goodwill, but it is clear Ashley is going to have his work cut out ensuring there is peace, love and silent nights in the Riviera