1: The Arrival

Two Lancastrian soldiers of fortune land in 1970s Rome from the UK. They're met by a devastating kaleidoscope of cultural, fashion and culinary contrasts. Ian is a young failed dental student and Dick (also known as 'JRH') is an ageing rugby star. Their first tentative exploratory steps take them to the jet set world of Argentario by the sea. The worldly, cultured Peppe Pagni takes them under his wing. “We are barbarians” exclaims Dick. The adventure is only just beginning. 

Written & Presented by Ian McAlister

Read by Richard Greenwood

Edited by Stu Smith & Nigel Heath with Jamie Allen

Original Music by Stu Smith

Production Music from Epidemic Sound

Recorded and Produced by Tom Allom & Nigel Heath at La Cucina Studios for Xacutti Productions

Special Thanks to Jamie Allen and Mike Hanson