Orchid help needed for Miss Marple (UK TV show)

[Dorothy]

1 - If you are talking about how to pollinate a Phalaenopsis orchid ..
This link will lead you to an explanation give by Matthew Gore of Gore Orchids - it's quite detailed ..
How to pollinate a Phalaenopsis - Slippertalk Orchid Forum- The best slipper orchid forum for paph, phrag and other lady slipper orchid discussion!
I am not sure how they pollinated orchids in 1955
but for starters, this should give you an idea of how it's done today.
Be patient for others to add their responses ..

On a side note, I thank you for searching out accurate details pertaining to orchids .. many times I have seen on TV people sniffing large hybrid Phalaenopsis which are known not to be scented .. or commericals showing something being 'orchid scented', again with orchids that produce no fragrance .. I know these are minor details but spreading inaccuracy and ignorance especially to the masses just rubs me the wrong way ...
I'll get back to you on the snake orchid