This was the BBC's annual celebration of all of the best of its' output, screened at peak viewing time on Christmas Night. This edition, screen in 1964, is hosted by Jack Warner, otherwise known as Dixon of Dock Green. Each edition had a 5-10 minute segment from each star or series, and these specials were on most years from 1958-72. It was based on the specials called 'Television's Christmas Party', which ran from 1951-54.
Billy Cotton Band Show
Band leader Billy Cotton had his own show on the BBC in the fifties, and produced more than 100 editions of his show. Full of guests and cheerful music, with the emphasis on comedy, this was a staple part of the station's output for many years. The series was produced by his son, Bill Cotton Jnr, who would rise to the BBC executive board in the 80's.