John Stride starred as David Main, a social-climbing, success-hungry young lawyer whose career is definitely on the way up despite a tendency to take on underdog cases for free, in this quality legal drama, which topped the audience ratings in October 1970.

David Main was brash, calculating and yet brilliant which was just as well because on numerous occasions his impulsiveness led him into all manner of precarious situations. He was a man of the times, though and liked to keep afoot of all the latest technology in order to stay one step ahead of the opposition. And his no-nonsense attitude and great attention to detail made him much sought after by prospective clients.

Kate Omara appeared in the first series as Main’s wife, Julia, but in later series she was replaced by his wealthy secretary Sarah Courtnay (actress Anna Palk) who later became Lady Radchester. The Main Chance, created by Edmund Ward, remained a firm audience favourite for 6 years.