Each time one of the characters mentions the name of the university, St. Bodes, their voices are dubbed. In the case of Grindley the archivist (John Glyn-Jones), his entire voice changes. When Pettit drops some of the theses in the archive, the one on top reveals the original name to be 'St. Bedes College'. It was most likely changed to avoid confusion with the actual St. Bedes College in Manchester, England.
Emma sees Steed's costume and asks if he is the Sheriff of Bashful Bend. The 1949 movie 'The Beautiful Blonde of Bashful Bend' was a romantic comedy western starring Betty Grable. Although written and directed by the great Preston Sturgess, it was not a success.
The members of BuBoys' group have name related to Robin Hood characters: John Pettir = Little John, Marianne = Marian, Allen = Alan A Dale, Millerson = Much the Miller's Son.