Les begins his series with an expose into the world of housing - how we're trapped by estate agents, solicitors and circumstance into a cycle that's impossible to break.
Les looks at the new trend of credit cards and the plight of the pound. There's also a bank robber who isn't taken seriously, and the high cost of living makes Ada have regrets about ever getting married to Bert.
Les rues the state of the leisure industry, a big business designed to take everyone's money so they can no longer enjoy themselves. His one remaining hope is with those who still remember the art of conversation - such as Cissie and Ada.
Les looks at the pressures of the law, a system that allows people to do whatever they like as long as they do as they're told. Reports include the rising crime of Lower Grindlemold, while Ada's husband has been jailed for three months.
Les ends the first series with a look at the institution of the family. Topics explored include the changing nature of marriage and the misery of family outings, while helping Les illustrate some points are Ada and Cosmo Smallpiece.