At the break of dawn, an astronaut and engineer is stranded on an asteroid too close to the sun.

It's a race against time for Colin Sherrard. After an accident, he wakes up on the asteroid, Icarus, which orbits close to the sun. Dawn is only moments away and it's set to get very hot.

With nowhere to hide and his communication is down, can Colin escape before the first rays of the sun find him..?

Read by Tim Pigott-Smith

Arthur C Clarke is one of the world's best-known and most celebrated Sci-Fi writers. His short story "The Sentinel" was the inspiration for Kubrick's seminal film, 2001: A Space Odyssey. Since he began publishing in the 1940s, Clarke displayed an uncanny ability to predict the future. Alongside his literary achievements, he's recognised as the inventor of the communication satellite, a theory he first expounded in a 1945 article, "Extraterrestrial Relays".

Arthur C Clarke: 1917 - 2008

Producer: Gemma Jenkins

Made for BBC 7 and first broadcast in 2005.

John Wilson continues with his new series in which he talks to leading performers and songwriters about the album that made them or changed them. Recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC's iconic Maida Vale Studios. Each edition includes two episodes, with John initially quizzing the artist about the album in question, and then, in the B-side, the audience puts the questions. Both editions feature exclusive live performances.

Programme 2, the B-side. Having discussed the making of "If I Could Only Remember My Name", his 1971 album (in the A-side of the programme, broadcast on Monday 18th November and available online), David Crosby responds to questions from the audience and performs live versions of some the tracks from that debut solo album and from his as yet unreleased solo album, "Croz"

Complete versions of the songs performed in the programme (and others) can be heard on the 'Mastertapes' pages on the Radio 4 website, where the programmes can also be downloaded and other musical goodies accessed.

Producer: Paul Kobrak.

Spring, 1900: The reappearance of a woman from his past persuades Victorian private investigator Charles Craddock to help find her kidnapped husband in France, but niece Lucy realises there are hidden perils.

Chris Thompson's mystery stars Martin Jarvis as Charles Craddock, Emma Tate as Lucy Greenwood, Struan Rodgers as Grout, Frances Jeater as Isabelle Vallance and Stephen Thorne as Leopold Kransky.

Directed by Chris Thompson.

Producer: John Taylor

First broadcast on BBC Radio 5 in 1993.

Fashion writer Colin McDowell recalls the rise of the miniskirt and Yves Saint Laurent's 1959 House of Dior collection, which introduced hemlines above the knee, and the shocked reactions of society.

The press were agog at these developments, and even some Dior staff thought that Saint Laurent's designs had gone too far. At the same time in Britain, short skirts became increasingly popular with young women.

McDowell talks to one of the most important designers of the period, Mary Quant, as well as representatives of today's fashion industry, and wonders if womenswear will ever be as shocking again.

An All Out production for BBC Radio 4.

Doctor Fitzpiers and Grace Melbury's paths cross on Midsummer's Eve in Little Hintock. Read by Juliet Stevenson.

In 1969 the post office ceased being a government industry to become a nationalised industry. It avoided being sold off in the 1980s, only to face even bigger challenges in the 2000s: sustaining the costs of a huge labour force, and rivalry from digital communications. As it sits on the brink of privatisation, what does the Royal Mail mean today?

As Royal Mail faces an uncertain future, Dominic Sandbrook charts the development of the post office and examines its impact on literacy, free speech, commerce and communication. The Post Office has become a cherished social institution, linking people together and extending their vision outward into the wider world.

It's called Royal Mail but it should be known as the People's Post

Writer and Presenter: Dominic Sandbrook

Musicians: Sam Lee, Bella Hardy, Mick Sands, Nick Hart

Historical Consultant: Iain Stevenson

Actors: Morgan George, John Sessions, Simon Tcherniak,
Malcolm Tierney, Jane Whittenshaw

Producer: Joby Waldman
A Somethin Else production for BBC Radio 4.

Deck-chair attendant and fisherman, Cox'n Hughes is victimised by the local fishing community.

Matthew decides to find out why.

Christopher Denys' ten-part series set in the booming 1950s seaside resort of Llantwit-on-Sea.

Starring Nerys Hughes as Eirlys Richards, Russell Boulter as Matthew Dolan, Andy Hockley as Cox'n Hughes, Owen Garmon as Round-the-Bay Baynon and Keith Drinkel as Griff Gadabout.

Director: Sue Wilson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2003.

Paul McCartney and John Lennon described him as the Beatles' "favorite group," and yet no figure in popular music is as much of a paradox as Harry Nilsson. A major celebrity at a time when stadium rock was in its infancy and huge concerts and festivals were becoming the norm, Nilsson's instrument was the studio, his stage the dubbing booth, his greatest technical triumphs were masterful examples of studio craft, and he studiously avoided live performance.

He was a gifted composer of songs for a wide variety of performers, having created vivid flights of imagination for the Ronettes, the Yardbirds and the Monkees, yet Nilsson's own biggest hits were almost all written, ironically, by other composers and lyricists. He won two Grammies, had two top ten singles, and numerous album successes. Once described by his producer Richard Perry as "the finest white male singer on the planet," near the end of his life, his career was marked by voice-damaging substance abuse.

Kerry Shale reads extracts from this first ever full-length biography of Nilsson, in which author Alyn Shipton traces Nilsson's life from his Brooklyn childhood to his Los Angeles adolescence, and charts his gradual move into the spotlight as a talented songwriter. With interviews from Nilsson's friends, family and associates, and material drawn from an unfinished draft autobiography Nilsson was writing prior to his death, Shipton probes beneath the enigma and the paradox to discover the real Harry Nilsson, and reveals one of the most creative talents in 20th century popular music.

Credits:

NILSSON: THE LIFE OF A SINGER-SONGWRITER
BY ALYN SHIPTON

ABRIDGED BY LIBBY SPURRIER

Reader: Kerry Shale

PRODUCER: JOANNA GREEN
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.

Martin Guerre's wife, Bertrande, has accepted him on his return after eight years' absence and borne him two further children.

But then she accuses him of being an impostor...

Conclusion of a two-part dramatisation by Guy Meredith from the trial notes of the 16th-century French judge, Jean de Coras.

Starring Sean Bean as Martin Guerre and Lesley Dunlop as Bertrande.

Jean de Coras..... Olivier Pierre
Bertrande's Mother... Jill Graham
Pierre Guerre.... Andrew Melville
Sanglas.... Steve Hodson
Mme Sanglas.... Geraldine Fitzgerald
Francoise.... Jo Kendall
Carbon Barrau.... Peter Gunn
Guillem.... Eric Allan
Shepherd / Dominique Pujol... John Fleming
Magistrate .... Peter Penry Jones

Other parts played by Federay Holmes, John Church, Keith Drinkel, Jonathan Adams, John Webb and Siriol Jenkins.

Director: Janet Whitaker

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1992.

Rhod Gilbert's comedy quiz from the Glee Club in Cardiff.

With Markus Birdman, Lloyd Langford, Chris Corcoran and Steve Williams.

Producers: Paul Forde and Gareth Gwynn.

First broadcast on BBC Radio Wales in 2006.

"I've never seen Clare so sure of herself. Or so sure of anything."

With Julian back on the scene, Clare is ecstatic. But her mother Sarah has concerns.

Simon Brett's comedy about three generations of women - struggling to cope after the death of Sarah's GP husband - who never quite manage to see eye to eye.

Stars Prunella Scales as Sarah, Joan Sanderson as Eleanor, Benjamin Whitrow as Russell, Gerry Cowper as Clare and Jasper Jacob as Julian.

Producer: Pete Atkin

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1989.

Bossy Rosie and William irk old rogue Winston whose thoughts turns to 'The Forsyte Saga'.

Peter Tinniswood's bawdy comedy serial stars Bill Wallis as Winston, Maurice Denham as Father, Shirley Dixon as Nancy, Liz Goulding as Rosie and Christian Rodska as William.

Director: Shaun MacLoughlin.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1994.

The fourth instalment in this acclaimed, occasional series in which acclaimed, occasional writer Henry Normal uses poetry, stories and comedy to tackle those subjects so big only radio can possibly contain them.

In this new episode Henry looks at imagination, perception and how we express ourselves through art and creativity.

From the first cave paintings through to Henry's own experiences of creating, writing and producing some of Britain's best loved comedies over the years, Henry explores the wonders of the human imagination.

Henry Normal is a multi-award winning writer, producer and poet. Co-writer of award winning television programmes such as The Royle Family, The Mrs Merton Show, Coogan's Run and Paul Calf, and producer of, amongst many others, Oscar-nominated Philomena, Gavin and Stacey and Alan Partridge.

He has published several volumes of poetry, including Travelling Second Class Through Hope, Staring Directly at the Eclipse and his new volume, Raining Upwards. And his memoir, A Normal Family: Everyday adventures with our autistic son.

Praise for previous episodes - 'A Normal Family', 'A Normal Life' and 'A Normal Love':

"It's a rare and lovely thing: half an hour of radio that stops you short, gently demands your attention and then wipes your tears away while you have to have a little sit down."

"It's a real treat to hear a seasoned professional like Henry taking command of this evening comedy spot to deliver a show that's idiosyncratic and effortlessly funny."

"Not heard anything that jumps from hilarious to moving in such an intelligent, subtle way as Henry Normal's show.".

Panic and disaster strike on a hot August Bank Holiday, when rabies breaks out in a small sea-side town. But how did it enter the country?

The outbreak must be controlled, people must be protected, and the culprit must be found...

James Follett's drama stars Patrick Barr as David Coleman, Pauline Letts as Muriel Coleman, Betty Baskcomb as Mrs Collins, John Ringham, as Margent, Clifford Norgate as Swann, Keith Smith as Willis, Valerie Murray as Dr Menon, Michael Tudor Barnes as Harding, Leslie Heritage as Blanchard, Garard Green as Major Latham, Jo Manning Wilson as Tess Coleman, Malcolm Reid as Mathis, Anne Rosenfeld as Norse, Diana Payan as Mrs Fairchild and Peter Woodthorpe as Kemp.

Animal effects by Percy Edwards.

With the assistance of the Animal Health Division of the Ministry of Agriculture.

Director: Kay Patrick.

First heard on BBC Radio 4 in 1976.

How Captain Cook's second voyage to the South Pacific amounted to a negative achievement in many ways - and demonstrated that there was indeed no great Southern Continent in temperate latitudes.

In the second of three programmes, Dr Nigel Rigby of the National Maritime Museum reassesses the life of this complex man.

Reader: Bill Wallis
Music composed and performed by John Metcalfe.

Producer: Mark Smalley

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2002.

"Such a woman might easily have been burned as a witch." Kenneth Tynan

When Sir Richard Eyre was head of the National Theatre he wrote to Joan Littlewood asking if he could put on a production of her masterpiece, Oh What a Lovely War. He got a postcard in reply. Something to this effect: Dear Richard...I don't know what you're doing in that building...you should blow it up.

To her core, Joan Littlewood was an anti-establishment figure. This programme illustrates her determination to create a theatre for everybody, touring villages and towns in Northern England for nearly a decade and then - when the company settled in East London - sending letters to the local trade unions to advertise the theatre to working people.

Did she succeed in attracting the audiences she wanted? Sir Richard Eyre gives his take on this question, along with Professor Nadine Holdsworth and critic Michael Billington.

The programme pieces together a selection of the best archive from Joan's career. The actors she trained - Victor Spinetti, Avis Bunnage, Brian Murphy - explain why working for Joan was different to working with other directors. Murray Melvin, still going strong and curating the archive at Stratford East, introduces us to the Theatre Royal where Joan directed her company for over 20 years.

Here at the Theatre Royal, Joan created the shows which made her name - Brendan Behan's The Hostage, Shalegh Delaney's A Taste of Honey, Frank Norman's Fings Ain't Wot They Used T'Be, and of course Oh What a Lovely War. The programme gives a taste of these shows and how they succeeded in being controversial, innovative, and entertaining at the same time.

Produced by Isabel Sutton
A Just Radio production for BBC Radio 4.

Arthur Bostrom fishes out his old bucket and spade and takes a sunny stroll through the radio archives celebrating the Summer holiday season. On his travels we hear new contributions from Su Pollard, Melvyn Hayes, Julie Hesmondhalgh and Zeb Soanes. His selection includes:

* "Fun and Laughter on a Summer Holiday"
Arthur Bostrom unpacks a suitcase of music, mirth and memories as he searches for the perfect summer holiday.

* Life With the Lyons: Back in the Autumn
The Lyons family is planning their summer holiday, but will it be plain sailing? Stars Bebe Daniels and Ben Lyon. From May 1954

* Steptoe and Son: Homes Fit for Heroes
Harold makes holiday plans to sail around the world with a group of young adventurers, but what does he do with Albert? Stars Wilfrid Brambell and Harry H. Corbett

* All Gas and Gaiters: The Bishop Takes a Holiday
A clerical outing to a dwindling community parish causes chaos. Adapted from TV with Derek Nimmo and William Mervyn. From July 1972

* Hancock's Half Hour: Back From Holiday
After a disastrous break, the lad discovers Sid's rented his house out. Stars Tony Hancock and Sid James. From October 1956.

Pam Ayres regales her Radio 4 audience with poems, stories and sketches, this week on a subject close to her heart: self-sufficiency. She is joined on stage by Felicity Montagu and Geoffrey Whitehead, with Geoffrey playing her long-suffering husband 'Gordon'.

This week Pam talks about her love of allotments, knitting and her more recent love of beekeeping.
Poems include: The Allotment Rustler, Over-Penguinisation, Behold My Bold Provider, Stuck on You and The Litter Moron.

Sketch writers: James Bugg, Grainne McGuire, Andy Wolton and Tom Neenan.
Producer: Claire Jones.

Consumer champion Esther Rantzen quizzes a panel about herself.

With Sue Perkins, Lucy Porter, Will Smith and Robin Ince.

Series with changing hosts who quiz the panel.

Script by Richard Turner and Simon LIttlefield

Devised and produced by Aled Evans.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2007.

Life and love in Scotland Street is full of surprises. Bruce has a new girlfriend with a chequered past; Bertie encourages his mother to travel, and his father, Stuart, has a poetic encounter in Big Lou's cafe.

Edinburgh's Georgian New Town is the setting for the quirky tales and 'goings on' of Alexander McCall Smith's much loved characters from his bestselling series of books, 44 Scotland Street. Dramatised by the author.

ANGUS LORDIE ............................................... CRAWFORD LOGAN
DOMENICA/Mrs MacGillvray.................CAROL ANN CRAWFORD
CLAIRE/Big Lou/Barmaid......................................ANITA VETTESSE
BRUCE.....................................................................JAMES ROTTGER
IRENE......................................................................EMMA CURRIE
STUART......................................................DAVID JACKSON YOUNG
BERTIE...........................................................................SIMON KERR
KATIE........................................................................HELEN MACKAY

Director: David Ian Neville.

A BBC Scotland production first broadcast in five parts on BBC Radio 4 in August 2018.

Chris Difford, founding member of Squeeze, chooses 'Happy Jack' by The Who and 'You've Got a Friend' by Carole King.

Ulster's sporting heroine Mary Peters visits her favourite stretch of coastline 'where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea' at Newcastle, County Down.

Dame Mary Peters won Olympic gold winner in the Women's Pentathlon in 1972.

Down Your Way was one of the BBC's longest-running radio series - starting on the BBC Home Service in 1946 and ending its run on BBC Radio 4 in 1992. Using a variety of hosts, including Richard Dimbleby and Brian Johnston, the programme toured villages, towns and cities across the UK. At the height of its success in the 1950s, the series was attracting 10 million listeners a week.

Producer: Jill Marshall

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1988.

Ben Tavassoli, Oliver Chris and Claudie Blakley star in Ed Harris's twisted romance.

What will happen when VR games can deliver real love?

Theo has been booked to give twenty-four hour care to a gamer who's in an elective coma. The new immersive game he's playing simulates your first love affair.

But is it a simulation? Not to Theo...

Ed Harris's writing for radio has included winning the Audio Drama Award for BILLIONS, Sony Gold for THE RESISTANCE OF MRS BROWN, the Writer's Guild Award for TROLL, and THE WALL nominated for the Prix Europa. He writes the Radio 4 comedy DOT.

The music for the game is by Abi Fry

Produced and directed by Jonquil Panting.

Gary gets an ancient two-shilling coin in his change, but he does not reckon on its looming deadly effect. Read by Malcolm Raeburn.

The Ultravox star joins the quick-fire comic for stand-up, sketches and music. With Angela McHale and Steve Brown. From March 2005.

Jo Caufield hosts a night of comedy, introducing some of the best stand-up from 2018's Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

From the largest arts festival in the world comes the finest selection of comedians. Some names you'll know, and there are others who'll be household names in the near future. If they don't become household names, well that's the Fringe for you, but they are all hilarious, unique and welcome at our party.

Featuring Justin Moorhouse, Lou Sanders, Donald Alexander, Larry Dean, Catherine Bohart, Susan Riddell, Rhys Nicholson and Andrew Maxwell.

Recorded live at BBC at the Edinburgh Festivals in the grounds of George Heriot's School, Edinburgh.

A Dabster production for BBC Radio 4 Extra.

In the final recording at the famous BBC Paris Studios, Nick Golson and Tim de Jongh welcome Spike Milligan. From March 1995.

Recently widowed, Eirlys Richards welcomes a new guest at her lively boarding house in Llantwit-on-Sea.

Omnibus of the first five of ten-parts by Christopher Denys set in the 1950s heyday of the Great British seaside holiday.

Starring Nerys Hughes as Eirlys Richards, Russell Boulter as Matthew Dolan, Iwan Thomas as Iorweth Jenkins, Christopher Scott as Arnold Pilton, Andy Hockley as Cox'n Hughes, Ian Brooker as the Newsreader and Tina Gray as Mother.

Director: Sue Wilson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2003.

Don't panic! Memories of Dad's Army star Clive Dunn, who played Lance-Corporal Jack Jones for nearly a decade on TV, radio and film between 1968 to 1977.

Recalling highlights from his first 50 years in entertainment, Clive recalls his first TV appearances and recording his chart-topping greatest hit.

Clive was aged 68 at the time of recording. He died in Portugal in 2012, aged 92.

Producer: Edward Taylor

First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in 1988.

John Finnemore, the writer and star of Cabin Pressure, regular guest on The Now Show and popper-upper in things like Miranda, records a fourth series of his hit sketch show.

6/6: This final episode of the fourth series contains a pure moment of happiness, a song for a season that doesn't usually get sung about, and a curious tale about an invention that is probably not evil.

The first series of John Finnemore's Souvenir Programme was described as "sparklingly clever" by The Daily Telegraph and "one of the most consistently funny sketch shows for quite some time" by The Guardian. The second series won Best Radio Comedy at both the Chortle and Comedy.co.uk awards, and was nominated for a Radio Academy award. The third series actually won a Radio Academy award.

In this fourth series, John has written more sketches, like the sketches from the other series. Not so much like them that they feel stale and repetitious; but on the other hand not so different that it feels like a misguided attempt to completely change the show. Quite like the old sketches, in other words, but about different things and with different jokes. (Although it's a pretty safe bet some of them will involve talking animals.)

Written by and starring ... John Finnemore
Also featuring ... Margaret Cabourn-Smith, Simon Kane, Lawry Lewin and Carrie Quinlan.
Original music by ... Susannah Pearse.
Producer ... Ed Morrish.

Village shopkeepers Gert and Daisy prepare for a Bonfire Night party.

Starring Elsie and Doris Waters as Gert and Daisy.

With Joan Sims, Hugh Paddick, Ronnie Barker, Doris Rogers and Ron Moody.

Originally popular regulars in 'Workers' Playtime' on the BBC Home Service during wartime, Gert and Daisy won their own series, Floggit's, where they've inherited a village general store in Russett Green with a ragbag of local characters to deal with. It ran for 2 series between 1956 and 1957.

Scripted by Terry Nation, John Junkin and Dave Freeman.

Producer: Bill Gates

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in November 1956.

Scary tales of "Javanese witchmen" - and Ron and Eth plan a romantic Belgian in 'The Glums'.

Starring Professor Jimmy Edwards, Dick Bentley and June Whitfield.

Music from Wallace Eaton and the Keynotes and the BBC Revue Orchestra conducted by Harry Rabinowitz.

Scripted by Frank Muir and Denis Norden.
Producer: Charles Maxwell
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in March 1958.

Six writers reflect on a modern definition of freedom.

It's a pivotal point in our modern history in terms of political uncertainty and challenges to social justice. This motivated Edinburgh's International Book Festival to commission 52 writers to explore ideas related to freedom.

This is a unique showcase of very different perspectives on freedom from some of the world's most exciting literary voices: Sandip Roy, Nicola Davies, Carmen Maria Machado, Rory Maclean and Karen Lord.

Presented by BBC Radio 4 in collaboration with the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

First broadcast in five-parts on BBC Radio 4 in August 2018.

Fi Glover introduces a conversation about guide dogs in the series that proves it's surprising what you hear when you listen. Gypsy is David's first dog; as he faces her retirement, Al, who has had four, reassures him that each one is special.

The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation with someone close to them about a subject they've never discussed intimately before. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation - they're not BBC interviews, and that's an important difference - lasts up to an hour, and is then edited to extract the key moment of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in the second decade of the millennium. You can upload your own conversations or just learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject

Producer: Marya Burgess.

From Johannes Brahms to Barry White, polar explorer Pen Hadow shares his castaway choices with Sue Lawley. From May 2004.

Radiolab asks what makes cities tick? Can you measure a city's personality? With Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich.

Radiolab is a Peabody-award winning show about curiosity. Where sound illuminates ideas, and the boundaries blur between science, philosophy, and the human experience.

Hosts Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich investigate a strange world.

First broadcast on public radio in the USA.

It's high summer on Cape Cod's Amity Island, and the tourists are arriving in their hundreds. But something is lurking just off the coast and one young holiday-maker is about to go skinny dipping...

Will it ever be safe to go back into the water?

Henry Goodman kicks off Peter Benchley's classic 1974 novel, which went on to become one of the greatest movies of all time.

Omnibus of the first five of ten parts.

Writer: Peter Benchley's 1974 novel shot straight on to the bestseller lists, and has since sold some 20 million copies. It was adapted into the iconic film by Steven Spielberg a year later. The film won three Academy Awards.

Abridger: Richard Hamilton.

Producer: Justine Willett

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2018.

A Sunderland man and his Fife-born mother-in-law struggle to communicate. Kim Normanton meets families with different accents.

Shakespearian academic, Brian Blake, receives a message that a large item awaits his collection at a remote northern station.

He little suspects that it could lead to his own literary immortality...

Don Taylor's drama stars Stephen Moore as Brian Blake, Peter Vaughan as the Station Master, Michelle Newell as Penelope, Steve Hodson as Ackroyd and Teresa Gallagher as Mary.

Director: Sue Wilson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1993.

Poet Daljit Nagra revisits the BBC's radio poetry archive with 'Poetry in Translation' looking at the global poetry scene.

Just how do you translate a poem? Daljit Nagra himself explores the different approaches that poets take, and there's more to it than just knowing another language.

The Magazine Modern Poetry in Translation was founded by Ted Hughes and Daniel Weissbort in 1965. It's hard to believe that before this, British poetry had no real access to work beyond its borders. We hear from former editor David Constantine and his replacement Sasha Dugdale about the magazine's history and future.

Daljit speaks to poets Jo Shapcott, Pascale Petit, WN Herbert and Yang Lian, who share the pleasures and pitfalls of their methods of translation.

Producer: Jessica Treen

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2013.

Dare and the crew of the Anastasia skip dimensions - and uncover a peril that could wipe out all life on Earth.

Adventures based on the Eagle comic strip 'Dan Dare' created in 1950 by the Reverend Marcus Morris and Frank Hampson.

Starring Ed Stoppard as Dan Dare, Geoff McGivern as Digby, Heida Reed as Professor Peabody, Michael Cochrane as Sir Hubert, Marcus Morris as the Creator, Dianne Weller as the On-board Computer. Hugh Fraser as Ivor Dare, Jake Maskall as Sgt Scott, Jalleh Alizadeh as Corp Dajani, Greg Keith as Dr Harlan Stoll, Diane Spencer as the Teacher and Ryan Sewell as Flamer Spry.

Dramatised by James Swallow.

Director: Andrew Mark Sewell.

Made by B7.

Frankenstein author, Mary Shelley's fantastical tale explores man's fascination with eternal life and elixirs. Read by Shaun Dooley.

A young man works for a powerful alchemist. Feeling jilted in love and consumed with jealousy towards a rival, he secretly drinks one of his Master's potions hoping to cure himself of these emotions. Instead, he's soon facing a living hell...

Romantic novelist, biographer and editor, Mary Shelley is best known as the author of Frankenstein (1818), published when she was just 21. The radical scientific ideas explored in her first novel attracted wide criticism during her lifetime. Writing nearly 100 years before HG Wells, Shelley is now recognised as one of sci-fi's founding figures.

Producer: Gemma Jenkins

Made for BBC Radio 7 and first broadcast in 2005.

Separated and homeless, Dave muses on life outside his temporary storage pod home. Stars Reece Shearsmith. From September 2007.

1836, and DJ Suzanne Canker joins Charlie Darwin aboard HMS Beagle. Recreation of the wireless archives with Hazel Grain. From September 2002.

Award-winning comic, Adam Riches' series of one-off comic adventures continues with the tale of Victor Legit, a supermarket store detective whose shop is being targeted by a mysterious shoplifter called the "Rat King." Aided by his wingman - and live saxophonist - Tony, can Victor solve the mystery and save the day?

Cast: Adam Riches, Cariad Lloyd, Jim Johnson, Katharine Bennett-Fox and special guest, Pete Grogan as Tony Saxatanski.

Written by Adam Riches
Produced by Simon Mayhew-Archer.

Loyalties are split for our hero, as a billionaire plans to demolish his home ground. Stars Christopher Douglas. From May 2004.

Comedian Rob Deering discovers babies and beaches don't always mix.

A bucket and spade adventure for the famous bear. Part of Radio 4 Extra's Great British Seaside Staycation.

An outing which involved Paddington was always a business, as he insisted on taking all his things with him. As time went by, he had acquired lots of things.

Sir Michael Horden narrates this story of Michael Bond's ever popular bear.

With Andrew Branch, Michael Deacon, Edward Kelsey, Jane Knowles, Elizabeth Lindsay, Peter McGowan, Jo Manning Wilson and Jill Shilling.

Adapted and produced by Colin Smith.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 5 in 1992.

Fi Glover introduces a longstanding and a more recent immigrant to Hastings , who celebrate the town that accepts them for who they are, even if that involves singing sea shanties. Another in the series that proves it's surprising what you hear when you listen.

The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation with someone close to them about a subject they've never discussed intimately before. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation - they're not BBC interviews, and that's an important difference - lasts up to an hour, and is then edited to extract the key moment of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in the second decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject

Producer: Marya Burgess.

Classicist and novelist Natalie Haynes on her first - disastrous - trip to the seaside.

A celebration of the British seaside of the 1950s and 1960s.

Memories galore - from wearing pac-a-macs to sharing toilets - and from shrimping to mods battling rockers...

Part of Radio 4 Extra's Great British Seaside Staycation.

Producer: Lindsay Leonard

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1993.

Comedian Sarah Campbell contemplates the hazards of sandcastle construction.

Poet Pam Ayres brings her Radio 4 audience half an hour packed with poems, stories and sketches, this week on the subject of beauty and, that newly-coined term, wellness.

She is joined on stage by Felicity Montagu and Geoffrey Whitehead, with Geoffrey playing her long-suffering husband 'Gordon'.

This week Pam talks about meeting Phyllis Diller and finding out about 'chin brown', she recalls buying a very unsuitable outfit having admired it on someone else and explains how you know when you've put on a little too much weight.

Poems include: Too Much of a Fag, Did I Turn Off My Tongs?, Had a Little Work Done, Pilates, Once I Was a Looker and So Was My Spouse, and the legendary I Wish I'd Looked After Me Teeth.

Sketch writers: James Bugg, Grainne McGuire, Claire Jones, Andy Wolton and Tom Neenan.
Producer: Claire Jones.

The first of two special episodes recorded at this year's Edinburgh Festival featuring guests Paul Merton, Zoe Lyons, Gyles Brandreth and Janey Godley.

Hayley Sterling blows the whistle.
Producer: Richard Morris
A BBC Studios Production.

Comedian Jon Holmes has a painful encounter with a prickly seaside creature.

The lad gets triskaidekaphobic over the recording an episode of his show numbered between 12 and 14.

Starring Tony Hancock, Sidney James, Bill Kerr, Kenneth Williams and Hattie Jacques.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.

Theme and incidental music composed by Wally Stott. Recorded by the BBC Revue Orchestra conducted by Harry Rabinowitz.

Producer: Dennis Main Wilson

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in January 1957.

Comedian Jake Yapp finds himself in a delicate predicament at the seaside.

Pike and Hodges campaign to save the pier, while Uncle Arthur upsets Mavis

A seaside saga of pier perpetuation starring John Le Mesurier as Arthur Wilson, Ian Lavender as Frank Pike, Bill Pertwee as Bert Hodges, Vivienne Martin as Miss Perkins and Glynn Edwards as Fred Guthrie.

After a pilot episode was made in 1981, Arthur Lowe sadly died. So this 13-part series was revamped to feature the Dad's Army characters played by Pertwee and Lavender instead. The series was later adapted for ITV by Yorkshire TV.

Written by Harold Snoad and Michael Knowles, based on the characters originally created by Jimmy Perry and David Croft.

Producer: Martin Fisher

First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in January 1984.

Part of Radio 4 Extra's Great British Seaside Staycation.

Gyles Brandreth chairs the word-obsessed comedy panel. Lloyd Langford & Susie Dent, compete against Dave Gorman & Natalie Haynes to find out who has the most word know-how.

This week Dave Gorman guesses the meaning of the phrase 'living on Queen Street' from the late 1800s; Natalie Haynes unravels the word 'autodysomophobia'; Lloyd Langford guesses the meaning of the Yiddish word 'farpotshket'; and Susie Dent shares her love of the current Liverpool word 'twirlies' and explains the meaning of the word 'quockerwodger'.

Both teams also have a go at coming up with modern phrases to replace the old cliches 'When life give you lemons, make lemonade' and 'Beauty is only skin deep'.

Writers: Jon Hunter and James Kettle.

Producer: Claire Jones.

Great excitement when the Dublin Theatrical costumiers provide the uniforms for an American film company.

Christopher Fitz-Simon's five-part comedy.

Stars David Kelly as Dessie Doyle, Pauline McLynn as Violet Doyle, Eugene O'Brien as Antony Gogan, Frank Kelly as Mr McNamara, Dan Gordon as Mike, Kevin Flood as Mouser Dolan, Ron Berglas as Buddy Kowalski and Gwynne McElveen as Starlet.

Music played by John Trotter.

Directed at BBC Belfast by Roland Jaquarello.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1998.

Comedian Jessica Fostekew embraces waves of love and rejection on a stormy coast.

Captain Ahab's obsessive sea chase for the great white whale, as witnessed by sole survivor of the voyage, Ishmael.

Ishmael, now in middle age, looks back on his younger self and remembers how this voyage of a lifetime began.

Herman Melville's 1851 novel dramatised in two-parts by Stef Penney.

Ishmael ..... Trevor White
Young Ishmael ..... PJ Brennan
Captain Ahab ..... Garrick Hagon
Peter Coffin ..... Howell Evans
Queequeg ..... Sani Muliaumaseali'i
Peleg ..... Mark Meadows
Elijahh/Captain Mayhew ..... Dorian Thomas
Starbuck ..... Richard Laing
Stubb ..... Simon Lee Phillips
Archy ..... Adam Redmayne
Daggoo ..... Kobna Holdbrook-Smith

Specially composed music by Stuart Gordon.

Directed at BBC/Cymru Wales by Kate McAll

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2010.

Stand-up comedian Arthur Smith stumbles across a startling sight at the seaside.

Carter and his uncle enjoy sea air and some miserable memories. Peter Tinniswood's saga with Peter Skellern and Stephen Thorne. Part of Radio 4 Extra's Great British Seaside Staycation.

Three couples have their own reasons for returning to the scene of their happiest holidays in the resort of Skegness.

Part of Radio 4 Extra's Great British Seaside Staycation.

Chris Thompson's seaside drama stars Sean Connolly as Dave, Susan Brooke as Marie, Laura Chambers as Lauren, Joyce Gibbs as Sheila, Norman Bird as Charlie, Veda Warwick as Mrs Adams, Alison Carney as Jane and Tom Knight as Martin.

Producer: Peter Wild

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1999.

Newly-wed Grace returns to Little Hintock with Doctor Fitzpiers - but not to wedded bliss.

First published in 1887, Thomas Hardy's classic tale of thwarted love and ambition set amongst the woodsmen and women of Little Hintock.

Read by Juliet Stevenson.

Producer: Di Speirs

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2000.

Writer and film-maker Roger Deakin spends a summer day at Jaywick Sands, near Clacton on the Essex coast.

The first of five programmes exploring how the British, as an island race, have a special relationship with beaches - as five people reveal why they do like to be beside the seaside.

Part of Radio 4 Extra's Great British Seaside Staycation 2018.

Producer: Hilary Dunn

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2003.

Fresh out of "finishing school", Joyce Pilton auditions for Professor Broadbent's Punch and Judy show, with disastrous results...

A ten-part series by Christopher Denys set in the 1950s heyday of the Great British seaside holiday.

Part of Radio 4 Extra's Great British Seaside Staycation 2018.

Starring Nerys Hughes as Eirlys Richards, Russell Boulter as Matthew Dolan, Tina Gray as Theda Pilton, Chris Emmett as Professor Bernie Broadbent, Tracy Wiles as Joyce Pilton and Guy Higgins as the Voice of Punch and Judy.

Director: Sue Wilson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2003.

Nearly 200 years ago, Britain attacked the heartland of the United States. The President and his wife had just enough time to pack their belongings and flee the White House before the British army entered and set fire to the building. From here, the British army turned its sights to Baltimore.

Peter Snow tells the story of this extraordinary confrontation between Britain and the United States, the outcome of which inspired America's national anthem. Using eyewitness accounts, Peter describes the colourful personalities on both sides of this astonishing battle - from Britain's fiery Admiral Cockburn, to the cautious but widely popular army commander Robert Ross and the beleaguered President James Madison whose nation was besieged by a greater military force.

In the first episode, the American watchman at Chesapeake Bay wakes one August morning to find fifty ships of the Royal Navy at anchor. The British have arrived to end, decisively, the war of 1812. In Washington, President Madison waits nervously to see where they will attack first.

Read by Jamie Parker

Producer: David Roper
A Heavy Entertainment production for BBC Radio 4.

Out for revenge on the recipients of his estate, a conniving old man causes havoc from beyond the grave...

Based on 'The Tractate Middoth' - a short story by MR James.

Stars Peter Howell as William Garrett, Edgar Norfolk as John Eldred, Charles Simon as Hodgson, Derek Martinus as George Earle, Sheila Keith as Mrs Simpson, Armine Sandford as Mary Simpson, Norman Claridge as Dr Rant, John Saunders as the Coroner, Audrey Craig-Brown as the Maid and Norman Bird as the Railway Porter.

Dramatised by Brian Batchelor.

Producer: Robin Midgley

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in April 1959.

The British seaside resort is a strange and unique institution.

At the height of the summer season, Tony Lidington combs the coastline for the characters who help to make the seaside an enduring delight...

Part of Radio 4 Extra's Great British Staycation.

Producer: Angela Hind

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2001.

Hit comedy about three marriages in various states of disrepair. Starring Jack Docherty, Kerry Godliman, John Thomson, Fiona Allen, Charlie Higson and Sally Bretton.

This week the three couples are invited to David's villa in Italy. Barney and Evan go out early to help David with some renovations. Meanwhile Fiona tries to help Cathy to get bikini-ready. Alice, of course, is already bikini-ready...which Barney is looking forward to confirming.

From 10.00pm till midnight, 7 days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Paul Garner chats to Unforgotten creator Chris Lang about his comedy roots. Episode 1 of 3.

A marvellous collision of mirth and piano from the award-winning singer-songwriter in a BBC concert.

With Justin Edwards.

Producer: Will Saunders

First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in January 2007.

A man mysteriously disappears en route from London to start a new secret new job in Leeds.

But when detectives Trueman and Riley start to probe, they uncover a deeper mystery...

Brian B Thompson's detective series about the ill-matched duo is set in Leeds.

Starring Robert Daws as D.I. Trueman, Duncan Preston as D.S. Riley, Amy Robbins as Janie Tully, John Dougal as Nick Tully and Rachel Bavidge as the Barmaid.

The duo began life on BBC Radio 4 in 2002, with Detective Inspector Trueman called back to work after a nervous breakdown in order to solve a high profile murder case, backed up by Detective Superintendent Riley. This was followed by three new plays in 2005.

Director: Toby Swift

Made for BBC 7 and first broadcast in 2007.

This year marks the centenary of Leonard Bernstein's birth and to celebrate the occasion Front Row explores his life and music.

John Wilson is joined by his son, Alexander Bernstein, who remembers his father composing at home, and who attended many of his Young People's Concerts; by his friend and biographer, Humphrey Burton, who discusses Bernstein's multiple talents as a conductor, composer and educator; and by his pupil, the conductor Marin Alsop, who was inspired by Bernstein to take up the baton.

Presenter: John Wilson
Producer: Rebecca Armstrong.

Episode 5. A Paler Shade of White

In episode 5, the penultimate part of Hilary Lyon's comedy narrative series ' Secrets and Lattes', normally laid-back Trisha, (Julie Graham) is wrong-footed when she comes face to face with a very unexpected visitor whilst Clare (played by Hilary Lyon) drives herself (and everybody else for that matter) mad with her obsessive decorating, induced by her increasing anxiety about her husband's uncharacteristic behaviour. It would appear that even though their new Edinburgh cafe business is growing, one sister's life is definitely unravelling while the other's may be starting to knit together again, so long as she can keep her head.............

Meanwhile temperamental opera-loving Polish chef, Krzysztof ( Simon Goodall) doesn't know whether he is coming or going with Trisha and is being driven to distraction (and drink) whilst whacky teenage waitress, Lizzie ( Pearl Appleby) is unusually subdued and secretive after a rubbish night out. Is the 'Cafe Culture' makeover really going to make a difference or are they all just, in their own ways, painting over the literal and metaphorical cracks?

Director..................................Marilyn Imrie
Producers....Moray Hunter and Gordon Kennedy
An Absolute production for BBC Radio 4.

Recorded at the famous Pavilion Theatre on Cromer Pier, Tim Vine brings his own brand of sunshine to Radio 4 with the "SummerTim Special" of his acclaimed Chat Show. Seaside one-liners and songs abound as Tim rolls up his trousers, has a paddle and talks at crossed porpoises with the people of Norfolk.

Broadcast includes a man with an interesting collecting hobby and a song about a metronome.

Producer: Richard Morris
A BBC Studios Production.

Gerald is alarmed to discover a large four-legged friend sitting in his car.

The convoluted chronicle of an optimistic crime writer written by Basil Boothroyd.

Starring Ian Carmichael as Gerald C Potter and Charlotte Mitchell as his wife and more successful writer, Diana.

With Margaret Robertson, James Thomason and Peter Craze.

The Small, Intricate Life of Gerald C Potter ran from 1976 to 1981.

Producer: Bobby Jaye

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1976.

A mission to an oil rig leaves the bungling bureaucrats all at sea.

Stars Richard Murdoch and Deryck Guyler.

With Norma Ronald, Ronald Baddiley and John Graham.

Written by Edward Taylor and John Graham.

'The Men from the Ministry' ran for 14 series between 1962 and 1977. Deryck Guyler replaced Wilfrid Hyde-White from 1966. Sadly many episodes didn't survive in the archive, however the BBC's Transcription Service re-recorded 14 shows in 1980 - never broadcast in the UK, until the arrival of BBC Radio 4 Extra.

Producer: Edward Taylor

First broadcast on the BBC Radio 4 in July 1977.

Clive Anderson hosts the panel show that pokes fun at events of the past.

Gyles Brandreth and Jimmy Carr battle it out against John O'Farrell and David Quantick.

Producer: Adam Bromley

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2003.

Feisty Hilda's senior citizen holiday sees man-mad Mildred after a nostalgic destination.

A surviving episode from Terry Gregson's sitcom series about a group of highly active pensioners.

Starring Thora Hird as Hilda Spriggett, Kenneth Connor as Albert Pickles, Joe Gladwyn as Tommy Preston, Megs Jenkins as Emily Holroyd and Avis Bunnage as Mildred Emmett.

Producer: Edward Taylor

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1981.

Fedullah's enigmatic prophecy is revealed, as Captain Ahab's obsessive pursuit for the great white whale reaches a boiling, wrenching climax...

Now in middle age, sole survivor Ishmael looks back on his younger self and remembers more of this voyage of a lifetime.

Conclusion of Herman Melville's 1851 novel dramatised in two-parts by Stef Penney.

Ishmael ..... Trevor White
Young Ishmael ..... PJ Brennan
Captain Ahab ..... Garrick Hagon
Peter Coffin ..... Howell Evans
Queequeg ..... Sani Muliaumaseali'i
Captain Boomer ..... Mark Meadows
Captain Mayhew ..... Dorian Thomas
Starbuck/Gabriel ..... Richard Laing
Stubb ..... Simon Lee Phillips
Archy ..... Adam Redmayne
Daggoo ..... Kobna Holdbrook-Smith

Specially composed music by Stuart Gordon.

Directed at BBC/Cymru Wales by Kate McAll.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2010.

A father and daughter take a poignant woodland walk.

Ruth Gemmell reads a selection of stories from Alison Moore's atmospheric, and sometimes dark, debut collection.

Alison Moore was born in Manchester in 1971. Her stories have been published in various magazines and anthologies including Best British Short Stories 2011. She has been shortlisted for the Bridport Prize and the Manchester Fiction Prize, and won first prize in the novella category of The New Writer Prose and Poetry Prizes. Her first novel, The Lighthouse, was shortlisted for The Man Booker Prize 2012.

Abridged and produced by Jeremy Osborne
A Sweet Talk Production for BBC Radio 4 Extra.

By Christopher Douglas, based on the real events surrounding the selection of Basil D'Oliveira for the England cricket team in the 1960s.

Having emigrated to England and been called up to the national team, D'Oliveira's one unfulfilled ambition is to be selected to tour against his native South Africa. But the administrators of both South African and English cricket have other ideas.

Directed by Roland Jaquarello.

Grace turns to her former lover Giles, while her husband is devoted elsewhere. Read by Juliet Stevenson.

Theatre director Paulette Randall remembers her childhood outings from London to the village of Dymchurch on the Kent Coast. From November 2013.

Will the bullying and lascivious town clerk of Llantwit-on-Sea, Owain Owen, get away with his financial scam?

Christopher Denys' ten-part series set in the booming 1950s seaside resort of Llantwit-on-Sea.

Starring Nerys Hughes as Eirlys Richards, Russell Boulter as Matthew Dolan, Iwan Thomas as Iorweth Jenkins, Terry Molloy as Owain Owen and Ian Brooker as Alderman Lloyd-Meredith.

Director: Sue Wilson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2003.

Nearly 200 years ago, Britain attacked the heartland of the United States. The President and his wife had just enough time to pack their belongings and flee the White House before the British army entered and set fire to the building. From here, the British army turned its sights to Baltimore.

Peter Snow tells the story of this extraordinary confrontation between Britain and the United States, the outcome of which inspired America's national anthem. Using eyewitness accounts, Peter describes the colourful personalities on both sides of this astonishing battle - from Britain's fiery Admiral Cockburn, to the cautious but widely popular army commander Robert Ross and the beleaguered President James Madison whose nation was besieged by a greater military force.

In episode two, the British invaders confront the American militia at Bladensburg, eight miles from the Capitol. The Americans are defeated and scattered. The road to Washington lies undefended.

Read by Jamie Parker

Producer: David Roper
A Heavy Entertainment production for BBC Radio 4.

Harry Enfield is a comedian and sketch character actor whose creations have made a permanent mark on the nation's psyche and whose catchphrases have echoed around playgrounds and building sites for decades. His monstrous creations include the iconic 80s character Loadsamoney, Stavros the Kebab Shop Owner and Tory Boy. Harry had a bit of a punkish image as a youth, but in fact he's quite posh. So posh that Virginia Woolf once famously referred to his grandparents in a notorious letter to Lytton Strachey. To find out what it was she said about them, either listen in or you could always Google it yourself.

Lucie Green is a solar researcher based at the Mullard Space Science Laboratory, University College London's Department of Space and Climate Physics, a Bletchley-like stately pile tucked away in the Surrey countryside that houses 150 of Britain's top space scientists. She studies activity in the atmosphere of the Sun. She takes a strong interest in science education, and in 2009 was awarded the Royal Society's Kohn award for Excellence in Engaging the Public with Science.

Admiral Alan William John West, Baron West of Spithead GCB DSC PC once ran the entire Royal Navy. From June 2007 to May 2010, he was a Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the British Home Office with responsibility for Security and a Security Advisor to Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Prior to his ministerial appointment, he was First Sea Lord, the professional head of the Royal Navy, from 2002 to 2006. He has served aboard 14 ships, and in his first post as a captain, was the last to abandon ship as his vessel had been attacked by the Argentine Air Force during the Falklands war. As Head of Military Intelligence, he once had the honour of using a desk that played a unique role in history.

Timid commuter, Arthur Vezin becomes too enchanted with a sleepy and strange French town and its people to leave.

He's slowly drawn more and more into their realm of secrets and talk of ancient memories...and is struck by how the people there resemble cats, both in looks and behaviour...

Algernon Blackwood's dark tale read in 4-parts by Philip Madoc.

Born in Shooter's Hill and educated at Wellington College, Algernon Blackwood had a varied career, farming in Canada, operating a hotel, and working as a newspaper reporter in New York City before moving to England and starting to write horror stories. He was very successful, writing 10 books of short stories and appearing on both radio and TV to tell them. He also wrote 14 novels and a number of plays, most of which were produced but not published. He was an avid nature lover and many of his stories reflect this.

Producer: Lawrence Jackson

Made for BBC 7 by BBC Northern Ireland and first broadcast in 2005.

Journalist, critic and acerbic interviewer, Bernard Levin answers questions from John Bowen and Brian Groombridge.

Launched in 1952, Frankly Speaking was a completely novel and ground breaking BBC series. Initially there were three interviewers and the series was both unrehearsed and unscripted.

Bernard Levin died aged 75 in 2004. Famous for his Times column from 1971 to 1997, he also wrote for the Spectator, Daily Mail and the Daily Express.

In the 1960s, Levin was a regular on the satirical BBC TV show That Was the Week That Was, where his prickly style often drew criticism.

First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in 1964.

Everyone craves a place where their mind and body are not applied to a particular task. The nearest faraway place. Somewhere for drifting and lighting upon strange thoughts which don't have to be shooed into context, but which can be followed like balloons escaping onto the air. Late at night, in the dark and in a bunk bed, your tired mind can wander.

This is the nearest faraway place for Patrick Marber and Peter Curran. Here they endeavour to get the heart of things in an entertainingly vague and indirect way. This is not the place for typical male banter. From under the bed clothes they play each other music from The Residents and Gerry Rafferty, archive of JG Ballard and Virginia Woolf. Life, death, work and family are their slightly warped conversational currency.

Writers/Performers:

PETER CURRAN is a publisher, writer and documentary maker. A former carpenter, his work ranges from directing films about culture in Africa, America and Brazil to writing and presenting numerous Arts and culture programmes for both radio and television.

PATRICK MARBER co-wrote and performed in On The Hour and Knowing Me, Knowing You..with Alan Partridge. His plays include Dealer's Choice, After Miss Julie, Closer and Don Juan in Soho. Marber also wrote the Oscar-nominated screenplay for the film Notes on a Scandal.

Producer: Peter Curran.

The writer enumerates the many and varied methods of engendering facial contact, and where it might lead. From August 2004.

Cora learns she is pregnant, but her marriage isn't consummated. 1770 America sitcom stars Andy Hamilton. From February 2000.

Comedy series in which comedian Alan Francis explores the workings of his own mind in relation to his life, friends and long-suffering girlfriend Jane.

Alan and Jane are due to meet at the solicitors.

With Julian Dutton, Barnaby Power, Kali Peacock.

A journalist has fallen from a building while working on a story, but was she pushed?

Trueman and Riley get a crash course in internet radio, 'citizen journalism' and fat dogs as they seek to find an answer.

Brian B Thompson's detective series about the ill-matched duo is set in Leeds.

Starring Robert Daws as D.I. Trueman, Duncan Preston as D.S. Riley, Anthony Glennon ad David, Jasmine Callan as Harriet and Paul Richard Biggin as Aaron.

The duo began life on BBC Radio 4 in 2002, with Detective Inspector Trueman called back to work after a nervous breakdown in order to solve a high profile murder case, backed up by Detective Superintendent Riley. This was followed by three new plays in 2005.

Director: Toby Swift

Made for BBC 7 and first broadcast in 2007.

Dominic Dromgoole, artistic director of Shakespeare's Globe, goes in search of Shakespeare's indoor playhouse, the immensely influential but now little-known Blackfriars Theatre.

He uncovers the history of the playhouse, which opened in 1609 in the teeth of opposition from local residents who feared that it would damage the reputation of the area. Dominic meets experts, directors, designers and actors to recreate what it would have been like to perform or to be in the audience at the Blackfriars, and examines the influence that the theatre has had on all subsequent drama in this country.

It's not all plain sailing as duo Tommy and Sheila prepare for a cruise.

30 years after sweethearts Tommy Franklin and Sheila Parr won the 1962 Eurovision Song Contest, the musical double-act are back in the big time.

Series 2 of Mike Coleman's six-part sitcom stars June Whitfield and Roy Hudd.

With Pat Coombs, Julian Eardley and Edward Halstead

Music by Frido Ruth.

Producer: Steve Doherty

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1999.

Part 1: Seventy-Three Seconds

"Good luck, bad luck, who can tell..."

Multi-award winning storyteller Sarah Kendall returns with more hilarious, gripping and moving stories.

This second volume of Sarah Kendall's Australian Trilogy, is one show in three parts. A collection of seemingly unconnected stories and memories, which, together, combine to form a meditation on luck, survival and hindsight.

Scrolling backwards and forwards in time to different moments in her life, over the three parts, Sarah creates an intricate montage, demonstrating the interconnectedness of life.

In this first part Sarah tells us her childhood memories of her brother's 6th birthday party, of their first pet and of her family gathering on the lawn to catch a glimpse of Halley's Comet in 1986. And we get an insight into the process of how this show came together, as Sarah watches a video of the Challenger Space Shuttle disaster.

Written by Sarah Kendall & Carl Cooper
Performed by Sarah Kendall
Producer - Carl Cooper
Production Co-ordinator - Beverly Tagg
This is a BBC Studios production

Photo Credit - Rosalind Furlong

Series One of Sarah Kendall's Australian Trilogy-

Winner - Writers' Guild Award - Best Radio Comedy
Winner - BBC Audio Drama Award - Best Scripted Comedy (Longform)
Winner -Silver ARIA Award - Best Fictional Storytelling
Nominee - Chortle Comedy Awards - Best Radio Show
Nominee - Music and Radio Awards - Best Storytelling.

Could HMS Troutbridge really be the next Marie Celeste?

Stars Leslie Phillips as the Sub-Lieutenant, Jon Pertwee as the Chief Petty Officer, Stephen Murray as the Number One, Ronnie Barker as Able Seaman Johnson, Richard Caldicote as Captain Povey and Tenniel Evans as Taffy Goldstein.

Laughs afloat aboard British Royal Navy frigate HMS Troutbridge. The Navy Lark ran for an impressive thirteen series between 1959 and 1976.

Scripted by Lawrie Wyman

Producer: Alastair Scott Johnston.

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in May 1963.

Kenneth Horne hitches a lift in a helicopter - and 'Hornerama' investigates sport.

Starring Kenneth Horne, Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden and Ron Moody.

Written by Eric Merriman and Barry Took

Music from Pat Lancaster, the Malcolm Mitchell Trio and the BBC Review Orchestra conducted by Paul Fenoulhet.

Announcer: Douglas Smith

A madcap mix of sketches and songs, Beyond Our Ken hit the airwaves in 1958 and ran to 1964 - featuring regulars like Arthur Fallowfield, Cecil Snaith and Rodney and Charles.

The precursor to 'Round The Horne' - sadly only 13 shows survive from the original run of 21 episodes in Series 1. Audio restored using both home and overseas (BBC Transcription Service) recordings.

Producer: Jacques Brown

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in August 1958.

Martin Young chairs the quiz looking at lives of the noteworthy and notorious from the history books.

Tackling the biographical teasers are team captains Francis Wheen and Fred Housego with guests Claire Rayner and Roy Hattersley.

Producer: Aled Evans

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1998.

Star Trek shock, love cheats - and digging deep.

The sketch comedy for people growing older disgracefully.

Stars Eleanor Bron, Graeme Garden, Neil Innes, Clive Swift, Roger Blake and Paula Wilcox.

Written by Graeme Garden, Mark Brisenden, Mike Barfield, Mike Coleman, Bob Sinfield, Chris Thompson & Pete Reynolds, Colin Bostock-Smith and Simon Roberts.

Script Editor: Ged Parsons.

Music by Ronnie & The Rex and Neil Innes.

Producer: Claire Jones

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2003.

by Anthony Trollope, dramatised by Nick Warburton

For young Mark Robarts, life as the Vicar of Framley can sometimes feel a little too quiet. So, risking the wrath of Lady Lufton and leaving his wife and children, he heads off for the allure of country house parties, little knowing the repercussions which are in store.

Music composed by David Robin, Jeff Meegan and Julian Gallant

Produced & directed by Marion Nancarrow

Framley Parsonage is the fourth book in the Barchester Chronicles and the focus moves to Framley and its young vicar, Mark Robarts. Friend of the local landowner's son, the dashing Lord Lufton, Mark cannot resist the lure of celebrity beyond his own village. But he's to risk everything in his ambitious pursuits, including his devoted wife and children and his sister's happiness.

The Barchester Chronicles is Anthony Trollope's much-loved series of witty, gently satirical stories of provincial life set within the fictional cathedral town of Barchester and the surrounding county of Barsetshire. With a focus on the lives, loves and tribulations of the local clergy and rural gentry, the canvas is broad and colourful, with a wonderful set of iconic characters whose lives we become intimately involved in as they grow up, grow old and fall in or out of love and friendship across the years.

A lonely man takes his father's old diving equipment out to sea.

Ruth Gemmell reads a selection of stories from Alison Moore's atmospheric, and sometimes dark, debut collection.

Alison Moore was born in Manchester in 1971. Her stories have been published in various magazines and anthologies including Best British Short Stories 2011. She has been shortlisted for the Bridport Prize and the Manchester Fiction Prize, and won first prize in the novella category of The New Writer Prose and Poetry Prizes. Her first novel, The Lighthouse, was shortlisted for The Man Booker Prize 2012.

Abridged and produced by Jeremy Osborne
A Sweet Talk Production for BBC Radio 4 Extra.

An Interlude of Men by Lesley Bruce

Bren and Hilly have been lifelong friends so when Hilly breaks her wrist Bren comes to help her out. They both anticipate the pleasure of long days together comfortably trashing the years they were apart, that interlude of men, but their friendship is not that simple.

Bren Deborah Findlay
Hilly Barbara Flynn

Directed by Steven Canny
Producer Claire Grove.

The injured Doctor Fitzpiers writes to Grace, and hopes are raised and dashed. Read by Juliet Stevenson.

Artist and filmmaker Andrew Kötting contemplates the differences between French and British beach culture. From November 2013.

Joyce Pilton is sweet 16 and still star-struck, but will she fall into the clutches of seedy talent show host Larry Parry?

Christopher Denys' ten-part series set in the booming 1950s seaside resort of Llantwit-on-Sea.

Starring Nerys Hughes as Eirlys Richards, Russell Boulter as Matthew Dolan, Andy Hockley as Cox'n Hughes, Ian Brooker as the Dad, Tina Gray as Mother and Tracy Wiles as Joyce Pilton.

Director: Sue Wilson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2003.

Nearly 200 years ago, Britain attacked the heartland of the United States. The President and his wife had just enough time to pack their belongings and flee the White House before the British army entered and set fire to the building. From here, the British army turned its sights to Baltimore.

Peter Snow tells the story of this extraordinary confrontation between Britain and the United States, the outcome of which inspired America's national anthem. Using eyewitness accounts, Peter describes the colourful personalities on both sides of this astonishing battle - from Britain's fiery Admiral Cockburn, to the cautious but widely popular army commander Robert Ross and the beleaguered President James Madison whose nation was besieged by a greater military force.

When the British enter the White House they find it deserted. They feast on President Madison's food and wine before setting they building ablaze. They then turn their attention to other important symbols of American government - and the city is saved only by a timely thunderstorm.

Read by Jamie Parker

Producer: David Roper
A Heavy Entertainment production for BBC Radio 4.

Vezin realises that the cat-like villagers are watching him closely. Philip Madoc reads Algernon Henry Blackwood's dark tale.

He was 'a gargoyle, a grotesque - and the funniest man alive'.

Mark Radcliffe tells the story of 'the bad lad of showbiz'. Frank Randle - the rebel from Wigan who hiked his way to stardom.

A six-part series exploring the tradition of the northern comedian.

Producer: Bernadette McConnell

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1999.

Comedy by Sarah Millican, who plays Sarah, life counsellor and modern-day agony aunt.

Together with her team of 'experts', Sarah tackles the nation's problems head on, dishing out real advice for real people.

Sarah tackles the problems, 'I love a plumber but I'm no boiler; dating outside of your class: would you, should you, could you?' and 'Help! I love two women at the same time - my mam not included'.

Sarah ...... Sarah Millican
Marion ...... Ruth Bratt
Terry ...... Simon Daye
Chris ...... Steve Edge
Jamie ...... Nick Mohammed
Carol ...... Helen Atkinson Wood.

From 10.00pm till midnight, 7 days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Paul Garner chats again to Unforgotten creator Chris Lang about his comedy roots. Episode 2 of 3.

The improvised historical family saga's two-part romp about a Victorian travelling circus. With Josie Lawrence. From July 1995.

Roguish Martin enters the Lords, as Charles takes on a Big Brother 'star'. Stars Stephen Fry and John Bird. From January 2002.

Suspicion erupts at a James Bond convention as Trueman and Riley go in search of a stolen ring.

Tracy's ring, as worn by Diana Rigg, in 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service' is the 'holy grail' for collectors, but exactly what are they prepared to do to get it?

Brian B Thompson's detective series about the ill-matched duo is set in Leeds.

Starring Robert Daws as D.I. Trueman, Duncan Preston as D.S. Riley, Rachel Bavidge as Karen, Paul Rider as Bill, Mark Straker as Gerard, Christine Kavanagh as Jane and Anthony Glennon as the Receptionist.

The duo began life on BBC Radio 4 in 2002, with Detective Inspector Trueman called back to work after a nervous breakdown in order to solve a high profile murder case, backed up by Detective Superintendent Riley. This was followed by three new plays in 2005.

Director: Toby Swift

Made for BBC 7 and first broadcast in 2007.

Guy Burgess betrayed the British establishment and ended his days in lonely isolation in Moscow.

However to the end he remained a lover of England. He said, "I didn't spy for Russia. I was just working for peace."

Hugh Sykes considers the price he paid for this act of rebellion.

Guy Burgess died aged 52 in 1963.

Featuring interviews with Guy's brother, Nigel Burgess, and with university friends and BBC colleagues.

Producer: Gaynor Shutte

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1984.

by Katherine Jakeways

Sheila Hancock narrates the bittersweet adventures of the residents of a small market town in Northamptonshire. This week, a funeral focuses everyone's mind.

Producer: Steven Canny

As is well-known: Yorkshiremen wear flat caps and Essex girls wear short skirts; Liverpudlians are scallies and Cockneys are wideboys. Northamptonians gaze wistfully at these stereotypes and wish for an identity of any kind and a label less ridiculous than Northamptonians. Northamptonshire, let us be clear, is neither north, nor south nor in the Midlands. It floats somewhere between the three eyeing up the distinctiveness of each enviously. Now Katherine Jakeways is giving Northamptonshire an identity. And she waits, eagerly, for her home-county to thank her. And possibly make her some kind of Mayor.
Joined by nearly all of the incredible cast which graced Series One and Two - including Sheila Hancock as the Narrator, Penelope Wilton, Felicity Montagu, Geoffrey Palmer and Kevin Eldon - and with the exciting addition of Tim Key and Nathaniel Parker - North by Northamptonshire hopes (and promises) to once again delight audience and critics.
'The laughs are cruel, but the monsters of suburbia are curiously sympathetic, and the characters so well drawn and well played that this could run and run.' Time Out.

Comedy about the inept staff at an historic house. Starring Simon Callow and Jane Horrocks.

Every year, thousands of tourists flock to the Lake District. But one place they never go to is Plum House - the former country home of terrible poet George Pudding (1779-1848). Now a crumbling museum, losing money hand over fist, it struggles to stay open under its eccentric curator Peter Knight (Simon Callow).

Can anyone save Plum House from irreversible decline?

Tom Collyer, sent from the Trust to do just that, seems to be the most likely candidate but the challenge is huge as he confronts the reality of winning round Peter Knight's handpicked team - the hopelessly out of touch deputy Julian (Miles Jupp), the corner-cutting gift shop manager Maureen (Jane Horrocks) intent on making profit from extremely cheap plum-themed merchandise, and maintenance man Alan (Pearce Quigley) who has heard the words "health" and "safety" but never in the same sentence.

In this opening episode, the museum's preparations for the annual WI visit include hiding away valuable artefacts as, according to Peter, some members are prone to stealing them. And Julian gives a disastrous lecture on the life and work of George Pudding.

Written by Ben Cottam and Paul McKenna
Directed and Produced by Paul Schlesinger
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4.

Sir Humphrey warns on Public-Private Partnership. MP Jim Hacker learns it takes two to Quango.

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby and Derek Fowldes as Bernard.

With Bill Nighy as Frank Weisel, Richard Vernon as Sir Desmond, Richard Davies as Morgan and Arthur Cox as George.

Antony Jay and Jonathan Lynn satirical sitcom ran on BBC TV between 1980 and 1984. Yes Minister is centred around the hapless Jim Hacker and a collection of civil service underlings headed by the Machiavellian Sir Humphrey Appleby and obsequious Bernard.

Adapted for radio by producer Pete Atkin.

First broadcast on Radio 4 in 1983.

Can anyone guess the unusual professions in a special edition of the 1950s TV quiz? Stars Spike Milligan. From December 1956.

James Walton quizzes the panel in the literary quiz show.

Team captains Sebastian Faulks and John Walsh with guests Michèle Roberts and Harry Ritchie.

The Author of the Week and subject for pastiche is Alan Bennett.

Reader: Beth Chalmers.

Producer Katie Marsden

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2006.

Daddy battles with hallucinogenic fungus and chips.

Second of two series of Sue Limb's Bed and Breakfast sitcom about sisters Alison and Maud and their guests at the Abbeyfield Guest House in Norwich.

Starring Denise Coffey as Alison, Miriam Margolyes as Maud, Joss Ackland as Father and Geoffrey Whitehead as Bernard.

Producer: Jonathan James-Moore.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2004.

by Anthony Trollope, dramatised by Nick Warburton

Mark Robarts, Vicar of Framley, worries that Lady Lufton may find out about the Bill he has put his name to, but she's more interested in plotting with Susan Grantly to marry their respective children. Which would scupper Mark's sister's potential happiness forever.

Music composed by David Robin, Jeff Meegan and Julian Gallant

Produced & directed by Marion Nancarrow.

Why has Kath been avoiding people, shut away in her remotely situated house? Her friends Marilyn and Hannah investigate.

Ruth Gemmell reads a selection of stories from Alison Moore's atmospheric, and sometimes dark, debut collection.

Alison Moore was born in Manchester in 1971. Her stories have been published in various magazines and anthologies including Best British Short Stories 2011. She has been shortlisted for the Bridport Prize and the Manchester Fiction Prize, and won first prize in the novella category of The New Writer Prose and Poetry Prizes. Her first novel, The Lighthouse, was shortlisted for The Man Booker Prize 2012.

Abridged and produced by Jeremy Osborne
A Sweet Talk Production for BBC Radio 4 Extra.

A jazz-loving barrister risks her career and marriage over defending an asylum seeker on a charge of robbery.

Neil d'Souza's contemporary love story framed by jazz.

Stars Claire Skinner as Kate, Daniel Ben-Zenou as Said, Paul Bazeley as Martin, Siddiqua Akhtar as Mrs Lalvani, Sandra Clark as Liz and Gerard McDermott as Charles.

Music played by Dave Priseman and Julian Siegel.

Director: Claire Grove

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2002.

With Giles lying desperately ill, Grace believes that only one person can save him. Read by Juliet Stevenson.

How do sailors view beaches from the sea? Poet Gwyneth Lewis is just outside Cardiff. Exploring the British and their beaches. From November 2013.

A mysterious guest is staying at Theda Pilton's guesthouse and Matthew is sent to solve the mystery.

Christopher Denys' ten-part series set in the booming 1950s seaside resort of Llantwit-on-Sea.

Starring Nerys Hughes as Eirlys Richards, Russell Boulter as Matthew Dolan, Tina Gray as Mother and Badria Timimi as Kalama Attercliffe.

Director: Sue Wilson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2003.

Nearly 200 years ago, Britain attacked the heartland of the United States. The President and his wife had just enough time to pack their belongings and flee the White House before the British army entered and set fire to the building. From here, the British army turned its sights to Baltimore.

Peter Snow tells the story of this extraordinary confrontation between Britain and the United States, the outcome of which inspired America's national anthem. Using eyewitness accounts, Peter describes the colourful personalities on both sides of this astonishing battle - from Britain's fiery Admiral Cockburn, to the cautious but widely popular army commander Robert Ross and the beleaguered President James Madison whose nation was besieged by a greater military force.

In episode four, two weeks after their successful invasion of Washington, the British turn on Baltimore. But this time the Americans are prepared and more resolute.

Read by Jamie Parker

Producer: David Roper
A Heavy Entertainment production for BBC Radio 4.

When Vezin declares his love for Ilse, he fears for his actions. Philip Madoc reads Algernon Henry Blackwood's dark tale.

If Edwin Lutyens, the architect behind New Delhi, the Cenotaph, and the British embassy in Washington, sounds an austere, imperial figure then think again. He was fun and almost child-like - he loved to dance and doodle, and he told terrible jokes. But his great grand daughter, Jane Ridley, believes it was Lutyens' shockingly miserable marriage that inspired his greatest work. Simon Jenkins, former editor of The Times and current head of the National Trust, chooses Lutyens primarily for the quality of his work. But he also recognises that the grimness of the marriage - Emily Lutyens fell in love with Krishnamurti - spurred the architect onto greater heights. Presenter Matthew Parris initially questions whether the quality of Lutyens' sex life really needs to play a part in this tale, then declares himself underwhelmed by much of the work. Expert Jane Ridley is the author of the Architect and his Wife, and the producer is Miles Warde.

Sketch show from Manchester's Comedy Store with Robin Ince, Helen Moon, Smug Roberts and Kate Ward. From September 2001.