Victoria Wood's 2-part documentary traces the history of the sketch from its early days as part of the variety/music hall entertainment to the TV sketch shows of the 21st century.

Charting the growing sophistication of the style and its audience - from physical comedy and catchphrases to the multi-layered reference-laden sketches of today, this takes in all the classic British sketches you can think of and a few more besides.

It assesses how changes in attitudes within society concerning women, minority ethnic communities, and sexuality have been reflected (or more often not) by the genre.

The clips and commentary are linked by Victoria Wood in new, specially-written sketches.