which disrupts the proceedings. Jim Brittas (Series 2) Jim Brittas (Robin Parkinson) is the father of Gordon and Horatio, and appears to have a good relationship with Gordon. His only appearance in the series comes when he delivers a piano to the centre in preparation for a concert. Unable to realise his own dream of becoming an astronomer, Jim was employed as a night watchman but was keen that his children should achieve their ambitions, and it is implied that he readily praised his sons' achievements, explaining why Gordon has developed absolute confidence in his own questionable abilities. Jim is shown to be very fond of his daughter-in-law Helen, complimenting the care she has taken over her appearance when Gordon completely fails to notice. Michael T. Farrell III (Series 3-5) David Crean portrays Laura's handsome, billionaire but deceptive husband Michael. Hailing from America, Michael first shows up at the centre in an attempt to win Laura back, which fails. However, his second attempt in the next series succeeds, but he continues to be deceitful. Nevertheless, it seems he genuinely loves Laura in series five, willing to start work at the sports centre to try and please her. But when Laura falls pregnant, he instead decides he wants the baby to be brought up in America, to which Laura agrees. An episode set in the future reveals that they name their son Barney. Brittas hates Farrell, seeing him nothing more than a liar and a cheat. In series four, Farrell turns up for the staff ball, thus preventing Brittas from taking Laura as his dancing partner, making Brittas particularly bitter. Penny Bidmead (Series 6) Penny is portrayed by actress Anouschka Menzies. She is introduced in Series 6 and operates the centre's 'newly privatised' sauna beauty department. Penny's role was to replace Laura. She is an attractive blonde, with an air of arrogance about her, which leads to her frequently clashing with other members of staff, including Brittas. However, she does get on well with Helen, and seems to take over Laura's role of Helen's supportive friend. All of the staff treat her with hostility. However, Penny was removed for the final series, apparently due to the actress having other filming commitments. References BBC-related lists Lists of British sitcom television characters