HE is best known to TV viewers as McLaren, the aggressive Scots inmate banged up with Fletch and his chums in the ever-popular sitcom Porridge.

But actor Tony Osoba has a CV that takes in everything from Coronation Street to Macbeth, from Dr Who to The Comedy of Errors.

So it's hardly surprising that the veteran actor is currently appearing on stage in Bournemouth as the Prime Minister of ancient Siam in the musical The King and I.

The move, which on the face of it would seem like a curious leap from the cells of HMP Slade is, he stresses, more than just another job.

He admits that musicals are not really his forte but the Prime Minister is one of only two non-singing roles in the show and he says: "I'm loving every minute of it, it's an absolutely fantastic production.

"It's sumptuous, the costumes are glorious and it's the kind of show that has the audience singing along."

Not only is it directed by his old friend Stephen Rayne but, Tony says, the star - Broadway actor Kevin Gray - is a joy to work alongside.

"I think Kevin's performance as the King is remarkable. We've been on the road for a long time now but I'll often still just stand there watching from the wings."

The audience reaction too, he says, is hugely rewarding.

"This isn't the kind of show where you just get warm applause. We get a fantastic ovation night after night."

Despite decades of TV and theatre work since the days of Porridge, Tony is used to being remembered as the surly McLaren and has happy memories of filming the show.

"Working with great comedy actors like Ronnie Barker and Richard Beckinsale was a privilege.

"I am sure the reason the show is so popular even now is partly because it was seriously good television and partly because Clement and La Frenaise (the writers) were careful not to put too many contemporary references into it.

"You watch it on the cable today and it really hasn't dated that much."

The King and I plays Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre until Saturday, August 12. Telephone 0870 111 3000.