Simon Brett produced the pilot episode of The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy but it was Geoffrey Perkins, Adams’ contemporary, who really “got” what the show was about. Perkin’s excellent relationship with Adams undoubtedly contributed to the success of the show. Perkins, like Adams, died young, in a road accident yesterday at the age of 55.

When I became aware of the role he’d played in HHGG I was already a fan of Mike Flex on KYTV and Radio Active, which he co-wrote. He went on the produce Father Ted before becoming head of comedy at the BBC.