The Mighty How?: Remembering the Most Chaotic and Clever Children's Show

This image, showing the four exuberant faces of the classic cast of 'How!'—the long-running children's television programme dedicated to explaining how things work—is a joyful flash of nostalgia. It captures the essential energy of the show: a mix of chaotic fun, genuine scientific curiosity, and the infectious enthusiasm of its presenters.

For many who grew up watching it, How! (which ran originally from 1966 to 1981) was a crucial part of the Saturday morning schedule. It didn't just tell you facts; it showed you the mechanics behind the mystery, tackling questions that ranged from the sublime to the ridiculous.

The Question and the Clap

The core of the show was always centered around the simple, yet profound, question: "How?" The opening sequence, with the presenters rhythmically clapping out the syllables of the show's name—H-O-W!—was instantly iconic and became a shared signal for a generation of viewers.

The show was structured around tackling these 'how' questions using a vibrant mix of studio demonstrations, short films, and model work. Nothing was too big or too small for investigation:

• How does a zip work?
• How is electricity generated?
• How does a submarine dive?

The studio set, with its bright primary colours and large, welcoming "HOW" sign visible in the background, was the ideal laboratory for controlled explosions, wobbly experiments, and complex engineering demonstrations simplified for a young audience.

The Brilliant Cast of Curious Minds

The success of How! rested heavily on the infectious chemistry of its presenters. The image here features the classic lineup (though the cast changed over the years):

• Jack Hargreaves (Top Left): The wise, pipe-smoking elder statesman, he brought a gentle, rustic charm to the team, often explaining country matters and traditional crafts.
• Fred Dinenage (Top Right): Known for his straight delivery and clear explanations, Fred anchored the more complex technical segments with engaging professionalism.
• Bunty James (Bottom Left): A key female presence, Bunty often balanced the science with practical demonstrations and a wonderfully expressive sense of excitement.
• Jon Miller (Bottom Right): Known for his glasses and keen, often bewildered, reactions, Jon was frequently involved in the more hands-on (and messier) experiments.

Together, they created a team that was both authoritative and approachable. They proved that learning about science and engineering didn't have to be dry; it could be loud, occasionally messy, and utterly fascinating.

The Legacy of Scientific Curiosity

How! was a quiet revolutionary in children's television. It was one of the first shows to dedicate itself entirely to making scientific and mechanical principles accessible. It didn't rely on cartoon characters or loud gimmicks (beyond the spectacular results of their experiments). It relied on genuine curiosity, clear presentation, and the fundamental joy of discovery.

The show inspired countless children to look deeper into the world around them, to understand that everything, from a spinning top to a combustion engine, operated on knowable principles. It taught an entire generation to ask the most important question of all: How?