SATURDAY 02 NOVEMBER 2024

SAT 00:00 Soul Music (m000y6n2)
The Parting Glass

"But since it falls unto my lot
That I should rise
And you should not
I'll gently rise and softly call
Goodnight and joy be to you all"

The Parting Glass was written in Scotland and has criss-crossed the Irish Sea, becoming a popular song among Celtic peoples around the world.

Folk singer Karine Polwart, talks of its fragile beauty as a song that can be a rousing drinking song at the end of the night but equally a poignant farewell at a funeral.

For Alaskan Fire Chief Benjamin Fleagle, there was no more fitting song to honour his mentor and colleague at his Fire Department when he passed away over a decade ago.

Alissa McCulloch 'clung' to the song when she heard the Irish singer Hozier sing a version of it at the start of the pandemic in March 2020. At the time, Alissa was mentally unwell at home in Australia and was admitted to hospital where she listened to the song over and over finding comfort in its timeless beauty.

After Canada's worst mass shooting in its history, Pete MacDonald and his sisters recorded an acapella version of the song as a musical tribute to those who lost their lives. It's a tradition in Nova Scotia to sing in the kitchen at parties, wakes and celebrations and they wanted to pay their respects to the dead.

Irish singer Finbar Furey has performed the song with his band the Fureys and talks about its appeal not only in Scotland and Ireland but throughout the Scots-Irish diaspora.

Series about pieces of music with a powerful emotional impact

Producer for BBC Audio in Bristol: Maggie Ayre

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2021.


SAT 00:30 A Fine Defence Of Enid Blyton (b00fm031)
Despite enjoying the stories in her childhood, as an adult, writer Anne Fine ignored the work of Enid Blyton.

This was partly because of the drip-drip of disapproval that's accompanied her books for many decades. But, going back to her battered old Blytons, she realised exactly why she had found the books so captivating - they are remarkably good reads - real page turners.

Anne Fine does not deny that Blyton is the creator of creaking plots, cardboard characters who often used non pc language.

An author of jolly adventures, in which the most enormous amounts of food and drink are consumed by children who never put on weight. And yet her books have outsold all other children's authors.

In 2008, Blyton was voted the UK's best-loved writer. Her work has been translated into 40 different languages and she's sold over 500 million books worldwide.

Featuring extracts from a rare interview with Blyton's only surviving daughter, Imogen Smallwood

With contributions from:

* Enid Blyton's biographer, Barbara Stoney
* Leading Blyton scholar, Dr David Rudd [Professor of Children's literature at Bolton University]

Plus archive recordings of Enid herself, her elder daughter Gillian Baverstock and her brother Hanley who explains how the siblings comforted each other during parental rows.

Reader Miriam Margolyes

Producer: Helen Lee

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2008.


SAT 01:00 Whodunnits (m000w6lw)
Dalziel & Pascoe - Exit Lines

5. The Comedy is Over

Three old men dead.

Two unsolved problems.

Has Detective Inspector Pascoe got one answer?

Donald Gee and Philip Jackson star as detective duo, Andy Dalziel and Peter Pascoe.

Donald Gee and Philip Jackson star as detective duo, Andy Dalziel and Peter Pascoe.

Conclusion of Reginald Hill's detective thriller.

Dramatised by Betty Davies.

Detective Inspector Pascoe .... Donald Gee
Superintendent Dalziel .... Philip Jackson
Charley .... Charles Simpson
Mrs Escott .... Barbara Atkinson
Detective Constable Seymour .... Paul Downing
Sergeantt Wield .... Michael Graham Cox
Police Constable Hector .... Stephen Garlick
Abbiss .... John Bull
Corporal Gillott .... Joe Dunlop
Major Kassell .... Vincent Brimble
Sir William .... Brian Miller
Charlesworth .... David King
Elite .... Tara Dominick
Ruddlesdin ....Danny Schiller
Moody .... Dale Rapley

Director: Matthew Walters

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1990.


SAT 01:30 Limelight (p0bytt4r)
Dead Hand

5: Ceasefire Babies

A contemporary thriller set in Northern Ireland written by Stuart Drennan.

Greg is the host of a true crime podcast dedicated to uncovering the identity of a serial killer, last active over 20 years ago, known only as Dead Hand.

A killer named after a mysterious radio transmission which has been broadcasting an indecipherable code in the years since Dead Hand vanished. A code told in the voices of Dead Hand’s victims; including Greg’s missing father. However, when a new voice is added to the code, Greg realises that Dead Hand is active again.

With time already running out, can he finally crack the code and catch the killer?

Cast:
Greg … Paul Mallon
DS Murray … Michelle Fairley
Kate … Roísín Gallagher
Lucy … Hannah Eggleton
Stacey … Eimear Fearon
May … Julia Dearden
Control … Louise Parker
Police Officer … Andrew McCracken
TSG lead … Patrick Buchanan
Marc Sheene … Conleth Hill
All other roles played by members of the cast.

Writer … Stuart Drennan
Script Editor … Philip Palmer
Producer … Michael Shannon
Executive Editor … Andy Martin

A BBC Northern Ireland production for Radio 4.


SAT 02:00 Trapped (b0076mpz)
Series 1

Sow Cottage

The new residents of the village of Little Latchmere are having a bit of trouble fitting in...

Starring Robert Webb.

Six black comedies by Mark Maier and Daniel Maier.

Edward .... Andrew Burt
Rev Fraction .... Duncan Wisbey
Adam .... Robert Webb
Paul .... Daniel Maier

Producer: Alex Walsh-Taylor

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2003.


SAT 02:30 Doctor in the House (b007jsw0)
St Swithin's

Simon Sparrow dithers over registering to train as a doctor as St. Swithin's hospital in London.

The misadventures of a student doctor.

Starring Richard Briers

Adapted by Ray Cooney from Richard Gordon's 'Doctor in the House', first published in 1952.

Simon Sparrow …. Richard Briers
Sir Lancelot Spratt …. Geoffrey Sumner
Tony Benskin …. Ray Cooney
Secretary …. Erik Chitty
Sister …. Beth Boyd
Padre …. Michael Deacon
The Dean …. John Le Mesurier

Producer: David Hatch

Recorded at the BBC Paris studio in London.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1968.


SAT 03:00 Michael Spicer: Before Next Door (m000k32m)
Pilot

What happens when a socially awkward and neurotic part-time comedian becomes a global internet sensation?

Series charting Michael Spicer's real-life progress - sort of - as his Room Next Door videos amass tens of millions of views online and win him acclaim for his comedy, at last.

But how will Michael cope?

Will this married father of two ever be able to quit his day job as a copywriter for a kitchen worktop company? Why is the broadcaster Peter Curran in his house? And could hang-gliding with BBC Radio 5Live presenter Emma Barnett be a way to advance his career?

After 20 years of making comedy under the radar, Michael is now on the cusp of leaving the office behind and - with the help of his wife Roberta - making a living out of being funny.

But will an ordinary person like Michael be able to successfully navigate the unpredictable road to fame?

Well, probably not, no.

Starring Michael Spicer.

With:

Ellie Taylor
Joanna Neary
Peter Curran
Emma Barnett

Written by Michael Spicer.

Producer: Matt Tiller

* TalkRadio interview with Boris Johnson from TalkRadio / News Licensing.

A Starstruck production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in June 2020.


SAT 03:30 The Haunting of Alma Fielding (m000nw9k)
5. An Encounter with Sigmund Freud

Explanations for Alma's supernatural experiences prove controversial.

With questions still to be answered - is the real reason for her haunting knowable?

This is the story of a young and vivacious housewife whose London home and family are assailed by a lively and frightening poltergeist in 1938.

Reports in the papers pique Nandor Fodor's interest, and the chief ghost hunter of the International Institute for Psychical Research embarks on a quest to establish the authenticity of Alma's experiences.

Against these events, war looms large over Great Britain, with popular culture and a deepening interest in spiritualism reflecting the anxieties of the day.

Kate Summerscale's acclaimed book, abridged by Julian Wilkinson.

Concluded by Emma Fielding.

Producer: Elizabeth Allard.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2020.


SAT 03:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jn05)
25. Finale

Thenardier attempts to blackmail Marius. Meanwhile, Jean Valjean is dying. How he longs to be reunited with Cosette.

Victor Hugo's epic story of social injustice.

Dramatised by Sebastian Baczkiewicz.

Victor Hugo ...... Joss Ackland
Jean Valjean ...... Roger Allam
Cosette ...... Lucy Whybrow
Marius ...... Jonathan Forbes
Thenardier ...... Henry Goodman
Toussaint ...... Annette Badland
Basque ...... Ewan Bailey
Azelma ...... Helen Longworth

Directed by Jeremy Mortimer.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2002.


SAT 04:00 All the Way from Memphis (b00mdyl9)
Series 2

Episode 4

James Walton and the music quiz for all the young, and not so young, dudes.

Regulars Tracey MacLeod and Andrew Collins are joined by:

* Comedian, Dave Gorman
* Broadcaster, Mary Anne Hobbs

Reader: Beth Chalmers

Written and researched by James Walton

Producer: Dawn Ellis

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2006.


SAT 04:30 Lucky Heather (b0075smn)
6. High Noon

16 years ago, Heather's best friend Dawn ran off with Heather's man Joe.

Now Dawn has the cheek to ask Heather to check if Joe is having an affair!

Just this side of nosey, Heather is western movie-mad. She's also the Sherlock Holmes of the rundown Sutter Estate.

Starring Lindsey Coulson.

Conclusion of Sue Teddern's sitcom.

Heather ...... Lindsey Coulson
Dawn ...... Tessa Peake-Jones
Maev ...... Dearbhla Molloy
Natalie ...... Abigail Hart
Ryan ...... Ben Crowe
Joe ...... Gavin Muir
Lou ...... Gerard McDermott
Waiter ...... David Holt

Director: David Hunter

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2000.


SAT 05:00 Fyodor Dostoevsky - The Idiot (b00srvkn)
4. Feelings and Fear

Nastasya and Aglaya meet to talk over their feelings for the Prince.

Although still emotionally involved with Rogozhin, Nastasya is determined to marry the Prince.

This is heartbreaking news for Aglaya who really loves him.

The Prince's health is on a knife-edge, and he begins to fear for his life...

Conclusion of one of Fyodor Dostoyevsky's most famous and personal novels

The vivid inner life of Prince Myshkin, who has returned from years abroad spent trying to treat his epilepsy.

It takes courage to reintroduce himself into Russian society...

Starring Paul Rhys

Dramatised by Melissa Murray

Paul Rhys …. Prince Myshkin
Roger Allam …. Rogazhin
Alex Jennings …. Ganya
Lia Williams …. Nastasya
David Swift …. General Yepanchin
Gerard McDermott …. Lebedev
Paula Jacobs …. Mrs Yepanchin
Tracy-Ann Oberman …. Aglaya
Carl Prekopp …. Kolya
Jemma Churchill …. Varya
Martin Hyder …. Footman

Producer: Cherry Cookson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2002.


SAT 06:00 The Sheffield Picasso (b06707l6)
On a dark, cold November day in 1950, influential artist Pablo Picasso came to Sheffield for a World Peace Conference.

What was the effect of his visit?

Starring Olivier Pierre.

Dave Sheasby's play is based on a true event.

Picasso .... Olivier Pierre
Tomas .... Sandor Eles
Barbara .... Kathryn Pogson
John .... Paul Copley
Irene .... Julia Ford
Mr Lockridge .... Ronald Herdman
Jackie .... Danny Cunningham
Ken .... Steve Hodson
Arthur .... James Tomlinson
Father .... George A Cooper
Mrs Bruce .... Natasha Pyne
Mr Bruce .... Derek Waring

With :

Ian Masters
Becky Hindley
Jonathan Keeble

Director Janet Whitaker

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1995.


SAT 07:30 The Boundless Sea: A Human History of the Oceans (Omnibus) (m0024kzn)
David Abulafia’s epic history of our relationship with the oceans, for which he won the prestigious Wolfson History Prize in 2020.

Charting maritime networks from the earliest seafaring societies, Abulafia explores how mankind has used the oceans to travel, trade and survive – for ends both noble and wicked.

The story begins with the Polynesians of the Pacific.

It concludes with an examination of the effect on global power of access to shorter routes around the world.

Omnibus of five episodes abridged by Laurence Wareing.

Read by Colin McFarlane.

Producer: Eilidh McCreadie

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2020.


SAT 08:45 Alan Coren - Core Coren (b007jrnm)
1. Cricklewood - A Scene Setter

Home to potato crisps and the machine gun - humourist, writer and broadcaster Alan Coren muses on his beloved part of London.

Alan Coren's book 'A Bit on the Side' was first published in 1996.

Abridged and read by the author in five-parts.

The son of a builder, Coren won a scholarship to Oxford, and also studied at Yale and the University of California.

He planned to become a professor, but his experiences in the USA prompted him to take up comic writing.

He was editor of 'Punch' magazine from 1978-1987.

Alan was also a regular panellist on BBC Radio 4's The News Quiz and a team captain on BBC TV's Call My Bluff.

Producer: Aled Evans

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1997.


SAT 09:00 The Men from the Ministry (b0175m69)
This VAT and the Other

The bungling bureaucrats are helping to collect VAT - how taxing can that be?

A weekly tribute to all those who work in government departments.

Written by Edward Taylor and John Graham.

Lennox-Brown …. Deryck Guyler
Lamb …. Richard Murdoch
Mildred Murfin …. Norma Ronald
Sir Gregory Pitkin …. Ronald Baddiley

With John Graham.

'The Men from the Ministry' ran for 14 series between 1962 and 1977. Deryck Guyler replaced Wilfrid Hyde-White from 1966

Producer: Edward Taylor

First broadcast on the BBC Radio 4 in June 1975.


SAT 09:30 The Morecambe and Wise Show (m0024kzq)
Episode 3

Eric and Ern explore Swinging 1960s London, before recreating a classic monster.

Starring Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise

A radio romp written by Eric Merriman.

With:

Elaine Taylor
Peter Hawkins.

Music from:

Anita Harris
The Mike Sammes Singers
Burt Rhodes and his Orchestra

Producer: John Browell

First broadcast on BBC Light Programme in August 1966.


SAT 10:00 Billy Bragg's Changing Times (m000lg63)
2. A Beautiful Day

These are fractious times.

But there have been fractious times before.

And of all the ways of looking at history, the instinctive reactions of artists, specifically musicians, to changing times, is one of the most fascinating.

From Hamish Henderson to Stormzy, protest music has come a long way.

In the second of two programmes, Billy Bragg takes time to savour and share the stories of great moments where musicians were inspired by unfolding events to protest, to perform and to preach of an alternative way.

Featuring:

'A BEAUTIFUL DAY' - first broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster in 2008

Producer: Dan Quick

Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in July 2019.


SAT 11:00 The Sheffield Picasso (b06707l6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


SAT 12:30 The Boundless Sea: A Human History of the Oceans (Omnibus) (m0024kzn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


SAT 13:45 Alan Coren - Core Coren (b007jrnm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


SAT 14:00 The Men from the Ministry (b0175m69)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


SAT 14:30 The Morecambe and Wise Show (m0024kzq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


SAT 15:00 Billy Bragg's Changing Times (m000lg63)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


SAT 16:00 Frederick Pohl - The Midas Plague (m0024kzs)
In the future, the poorest citizens have the most things.

People have to spend most of their waking hours consuming and wearing out what the robots have produced.

Only the most successful are allowed to live a simple life of moderate consumption.

Morey Fry discovers a way out, but it means breaking the law...

Frederick Pohl’s futuristic novel, first published in 1954 in US magazine ‘Galaxy Science Fiction’.

Starring Michael Drew and Dyanne White.

Dramatised by Mark Power.

Morey Fry .... Michael Drew
Cherry Fry .... Dyanne White
Howland .... Alan Covenay
Henry/Porfirio .... Geoffrey Collins
Judge Elon .... Eric Allen
Grace Elon .... Caroline Hunt
Semmelweiss/Newman .... Nick Chivers
Fairless/Sam .... Clarence Smith
Blaine/Wally .... Richard Pearce
Wainwright .... Fraser Kerr
Tanaquil .... Catherine Neal

Directed at BBC Bristol by Alec Reid.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1991.


SAT 16:45 The Slumber King by Kevin Crossley-Holland (b0185b1b)
Owen's walking stick unlocks the door to a journey beneath the Welsh mountains.

Plus an astounding discovery...

Kevin Crossley-Holland' short story read by Andy Hockley.

Producer: Nigel Bryant

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 1990.


SAT 17:00 The Sheffield Picasso (b06707l6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


SAT 18:30 The Boundless Sea: A Human History of the Oceans (Omnibus) (m0024kzn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


SAT 19:45 Alan Coren - Core Coren (b007jrnm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


SAT 20:00 The Men from the Ministry (b0175m69)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


SAT 20:30 The Morecambe and Wise Show (m0024kzq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


SAT 21:00 Billy Bragg's Changing Times (m000lg63)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


SAT 22:00 Angstrom (b09l0ds8)
Series 1

The Man Who Wasn't Dead

Matthew Holness stars as Knut Ångström, a brooding, alcoholic, maverick Swedish detective from the tough streets of Oslo.

Scandinavian detective yarn adapted from the bestselling Ångström trilogy by Martin English (writing as Bjorgen Swedenssonsson).

Following the death of his wife, Ångström is posted to the Njalsland peninsula where he becomes embroiled in a labyrinthine murder (or possibly not-murder) case which bears an eerie similarity to the Askeladden killings - a case from his distant past.

A body goes missing from a crime scene, but was it ever even there in the first place?

Written by Joel Morris and Jason Hazeley.

Knut Ångström ...... Matthew Holness
Nina Oblong ...... Nadia Kamil
Narrator ...... Simon Kane

Also starring:

Morgana Robinson
David Reed
Freya Parker

The writers have also written the Ladybird Books for Grown Ups, Charlie Brooker's Wipe, That Mitchell and Webb Look and A Touch of Cloth.

Producer: Lyndsay Fenner

A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in January 2018.


SAT 22:30 The Secret World (b03ls15z)
Series 4

Episode 4

The Queen hatches a plot to get Pippa Middleton out of the way.

Ed Miliband is so keen to pally-up with some builders that he ends up helping them do their work.

And Russell Crowe has a bizarre fixation with sprouts.

The Secret World is the impression show with a difference.

With:

Margaret Cabourn-Smith
Jon Culshaw
Julian Dutton
Lewis MacLeod
Jess Robinson
Debra Stephenson
Duncan Wisbey

Written by Bill Dare, Julian Dutton and Duncan Wisbey.

Produced and created by: Bill Dare.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2013.


SAT 23:00 Two Episodes of Mash (b01mx27s)
Series 2

Episode 4

Diane, Joe and David have to do 30 minutes of community service as punishment for their crimes against radio.

Look out for an animation of their Fishing Sketch by Tom Rourke on the BBC Radio 4 Extra website.

A mix of silly, surreal sketches and banter starring Diane Morgan and Joe Wilkinson.

With:

David O'Doherty
Paul Harry Allen
Bobbie Pryor
Gary Newman
Aled Jones.

Producer: Clair Wordsworth.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2012.


SAT 23:30 Rigor Mortis (b007k419)
Series 1

Episode 1

Dr Webster realises that he recognises the man he’s just performed a routine autopsy on, but where from?

His colleague, Professor Donaldson is aghast at the medical ethics of the situation whilst Dr Anderson is convinced that there's some kind of conspiracy going on.

Dr Webster can't understand what all the fuss is about...

Laurence Howarth’s sitcom set in the fascinating, but misunderstood world of the pathology lab.

Dr Anthony Webster ...... Peter Davison
Dr Ruth Anderson ...... Tracy-Ann Oberman
Professor Donaldson ...... Geoffrey Whitehead
Gordon ...... Tom Price
Chloe ...... Marianne Levy
Simon ...... Gus Brown
David/Patient ...... Stephen Critchlow
Elaine ...... Beth Chalmers

Music by Paul Mottram and Stephanie Benavente.

Producer: Dawn Ellis

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2003.

SUNDAY 03 NOVEMBER 2024

SUN 00:00 Frederick Pohl - The Midas Plague (m0024kzs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Saturday]


SUN 00:45 The Slumber King by Kevin Crossley-Holland (b0185b1b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:45 on Saturday]


SUN 01:00 The Sheffield Picasso (b06707l6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Saturday]


SUN 02:30 The Boundless Sea: A Human History of the Oceans (Omnibus) (m0024kzn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Saturday]


SUN 03:45 Alan Coren - Core Coren (b007jrnm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Saturday]


SUN 04:00 The Men from the Ministry (b0175m69)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Saturday]


SUN 04:30 The Morecambe and Wise Show (m0024kzq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Saturday]


SUN 05:00 Billy Bragg's Changing Times (m000lg63)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]


SUN 06:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m0024ld2)
Booker Prize Castaways

Bernardine Evaristo

Writer Bernardine Evaristo is castaway by Lauren Laverne.

Bernardine won the Booker Prize in 2019 for her novel, Girl, Woman, Other. She is Professor of Creative Writing at Brunel University London.

She was born in May 1959, the fourth of eight children, to an English mother and a Nigerian father. She grew up in Woolwich in south London, and was educated at Eltham Hill Girls’ Grammar School.

She spent her teenage years at the Greenwich Young People’s Theatre and, after deciding that she wanted to be a professional actor at the age of 14, did a Community Theatre Arts course at the Rose Bruford College of Speech and Drama.

After graduation she founded the Theatre of Black Women with two fellow students in the early 1980s and they began to write roles for themselves.

By the late 1980s, she had decided that it was the writing she enjoyed most.

Her first poetry collection was published in 1994, followed by a semi-autobiographical verse novel called Lara three years later. More books followed, experimenting with form and narrative perspective, often merging the past with the present, prose with poetry, the factual with the speculative, and reality with alternate realities. Girl, Woman, Other is her eighth book.

A longstanding activist and advocate, Bernardine has initiated several successful schemes to ensure increased representation of artists and writers of colour in the creative industries.

She is married to David, who she met in 2006, and lives in London.

DISC ONE: Malaika by Angélique Kidjo
DISC TWO: Zombie by Fela Kuti
DISC THREE: Breaths by Sweet Honey in the Rock
DISC FOUR: I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free by Nina Simone
DISC FIVE: Woyaya by Osibisa
DISC SIX: Köln, January 24, 1975, part I by Keith Jarrett
DISC SEVEN: Things Have Changed by Bob Dylan
DISC EIGHT: Fight The Power by Public Enemy

BOOK CHOICE: The Norton Anthology of Poetry by Margaret Ferguson), Tim Kendall and Mary Jo Salter
LUXURY ITEM: A hologram of Bernardine's husband
CASTAWAY'S FAVOURITE: Köln, January 24, 1975, part I by Keith Jarrett

Producer: Cathy Drysdale

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2020.


SUN 06:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00zf648)
Series 2

Cicada

One of the great wild sounds of North America is the purring of insects in the evening, especially that of Cicadas, one of the great stridulating sounds in the wild.

This is the tale of one Cicada; the 17-year periodic Cicada that stunned the community in New England 13 years after the Pilgrim Fathers had landed. There was a plague of insects, all with red eyes on stalks - and all emerging continuously out of the soil.

When the plague subsided a few weeks later the people of Plymouth Rock were braced for another onslaught, but nothing happened until 17 years later.

Sir David Attenborough recalls a filming trip to New England to film this species of Cicada with both fascinating natural history and a hilarious twist.

Written and presented by David Attenborough

Producer: Julian Hector

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2011.


SUN 07:00 Poetry Extra (m0024ld5)
A Portrait Of... Andrew Motion

Poet Daljit Nagra revisits the BBC's poetry archive and selects A Portrait Of....Andrew Motion.

This takes us into the artist's studio to follow portrait painter Fiona Graham-Mackay as she paints the former poet laureate.

A personal, immersive journey exploring art unfolding, this is an insight into the private encounter of two acclaimed artists, and we listen in to what this process is like for both the painter and the painted.

It's a unique relationship, a little like being in the therapist's chair – the painter stripping away the layers to reveal the true likeness of her subject, the sitter under the microscope, exposed and studied.

Fiona Graham-Mackay shares the secrets of the portrait painter as she captures the sitter on canvas; the sitter reflects on what being painted reveals and contemplates the prospect of being immortalised in oil.

Fiona has painted hundreds of portraits, including Prince Michael of Kent, Seamus Heaney and Lord Carrington. In all her sittings she has always been fascinated by her conversations with her subjects and continues to be amazed by how people open up in ways that surprise even themselves as she paints them.

What is revealed goes beyond anything you might expect in an ordinary interview.

Producer: Eve Streeter

A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in 2014.

* Plus Daljit selects his Poetry Extra Book of the Month:

The recently published Battery Rocks by Katrina Naomi - exploring the life of a swimmer on the Cornish coast.


SUN 07:30 The Haunting of Alma Fielding by Kate Summerscale (Omnibus) (m0024ld7)
The compelling story of London housewife Alma Fielding whose home and family are assailed by a lively and frightening poltergeist in 1938.

Reports in the papers pique Nandor Fodor's interest, and the chief ghost hunter of the International Institute for Psychical Research embarks on a quest to establish the authenticity of Alma's experiences.

Alma undergoes investigations at the Institute involving sitting and seances before its members.

But when the proceedings take an unsettling turn, Fodor turns to the methodologies pioneered by Sigmund Freud.

Against these events, war looms large over Great Britain, with popular culture and a deepening interest in spiritualism reflecting the anxieties of the day.

Kate Summerscale's acclaimed book

Omnibus of five episodes abridged by Julian Wilkinson.

Read by Emma Fielding.

Producer: Elizabeth Allard

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2010.


SUN 08:40 Inheritance Tracks (m0024ld9)
Candice Brathwaite

Author Candice Brathwaite chooses Never, Never, Never by John Holt and Vivaldi's Four Seasons re-composed by Max Richter.


SUN 08:50 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (Omnibus) (b007jtwl)
Episode 5

Once more Jean Valjean puts his life into Inspector Javert's hands.

Conclusion of Victor Hugo's epic story of social injustice.

Starring Joss Ackland, Roger Allam and David Schofield.

Omnibus of episodes 21 to 25 of 25.

Dramatised by Sebastian Baczkiewicz and Lin Coghlan.

Jean Valjean .... Roger Allam
Victor Hugo... Joss Ackland
Cosette ... Lucy Whybrow
Marius ... Jonathan Forbes
Javert ... David Schofield
Gillenormand ... Leslie Phillips
Toussaint ... Annette Badland
Mme Gillenormand ... Shuna Snow
Basque ... Ewan Bailey.

Producer: Sally Avens

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2002.


SUN 10:00 Beyond Our Ken (b008yrvn)
From 15/07/1958

Kenneth Horne finally has his request played on Housewives' Choice, and Hornerama looks at 1908.

A madcap mix of sketches and songs written by Eric Merriman and Barry Took

Starring:

Kenneth Horne
Kenneth Williams
Hugh Paddick
Betty Marsden
Ron Moody

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

Announcer: Douglas Smith

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 July 1958.


SUN 10:30 The Enchanting World of Hinge and Bracket (m0024ldc)
Series 2

Evadne's Pantomime

The dear ladies have a Vicar's meeting.

Starring Dame Hilda Bracket and her lifelong companion Dr Evadne Hinge.

Brought to you from the genteel setting of the Suffolk village of Stackton Tressel, where the musical duo reside.

Written by Mike Craig, Lawrie Kinsley and Ron McDonnell.

Dame Hilda Brackett …. Patrick Fyffe
Dr Evadne Hinge …. George Logan
Maud …. Daphne Heard
Jean Pierre …. Andre Maranne
The Vicar …. David Mahlowe

Three series ran on BBC Radio 4 between 1977 and 1979, with further spin-off seasons on BBC Radio 2 until 1990.

In the early 1980s, they expanded over to BBC TV with the series Dear Ladies

Produced at BBC Manchester by James Casey.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1978.


SUN 11:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m0024ld2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


SUN 11:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00zf648)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 today]


SUN 12:00 Poetry Extra (m0024ld5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


SUN 12:30 The Haunting of Alma Fielding by Kate Summerscale (Omnibus) (m0024ld7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


SUN 13:40 Inheritance Tracks (m0024ld9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 today]


SUN 13:50 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (Omnibus) (b007jtwl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


SUN 15:00 Beyond Our Ken (b008yrvn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


SUN 15:30 The Enchanting World of Hinge and Bracket (m0024ldc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]


SUN 16:00 Alan Garner - The Weirdstone of Brisingamen (b096p58m)
3. Fightback

Can Colin and Susan recover the Weirdstone and escape the clutches of Selina Place?

Alan Garner's fantasy novel.

Starring Robin Bailey.

Dramatised by David Wade.

Cadellin ...... Robin Bailey
Grinmer ...... Robin Bailey
Susan ...... Andrea Murphy
Colin ...... Mark Kingston
Selina ...... Rosalind Knight
Durathror ...... Ronald Herdman
Fenodyree ...... George Parsons
Stromkarl ...... Edward de Souza
Bess ...... Patsy Byrne

Directed at BBC Manchester by Caroline Smith.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1989.


SUN 16:30 Catch My Breath (b007k3bt)
5. The Truth

The truth about Isla is revealed.

Will Kate and Colleen finally manage to escape..?

Starring Claire Knight and Suzanne Donaldson.

Conclusion of Marty Ross's supernatural thriller.

Kate ...... Claire Knight
Colleen ...... Suzanne Donaldson
Strachan ...... Liam Brennan
Old Strachan ...... John Shedden
Donnie ...... Lewis Howden
Isla ...... Eileen McCallum
Octavia ...... Lucy Patterson
DC Carbeth ...... James Bryce
WPC Briggs ...... Jill Riddiford
Dennis ...... Finlay McLean

Producer: Bruce Young

Made for BBC 7 by BBC Radio Scotland.

First broadcast in December 2007.


SUN 17:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m0024ld2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


SUN 17:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00zf648)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 today]


SUN 18:00 Poetry Extra (m0024ld5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


SUN 18:30 The Haunting of Alma Fielding by Kate Summerscale (Omnibus) (m0024ld7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


SUN 19:40 Inheritance Tracks (m0024ld9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 today]


SUN 19:50 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (Omnibus) (b007jtwl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]


SUN 21:00 Beyond Our Ken (b008yrvn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


SUN 21:30 The Enchanting World of Hinge and Bracket (m0024ldc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]


SUN 22:00 On the Town with the League of Gentlemen (b0081tbs)
A Kind of Loving

Reg finds Barbara through the local Close Encounters dating agency.

The first incarnation of the award-winning black comedy, about the "local people" of the town of Spent - before it hit TV.

Starring:

Mark Gatiss
Reece Shearsmith
Steve Pemberton

Written by the cast and Jeremy Dyson.

The League of Gentlemen won a Perrier Edinburgh Fesvital award in 1997 and this radio series debuted in the same year. They also won a Sony Radio Award. The cult series switched to TV for three series on BBC 2 from 1999, plus stage shows and a feature film.

Producer: Sarah Smith

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 1997.


SUN 22:30 Electric Ink (b011vmd9)
Series 1

Episode 5

While Freddy introduces buzzwords to the paper, Maddox uncovers a top story about the Prime Minister, will the story be spiked?

Starring Robert Lindsay and Alex Jennings.

Old hacks meet new media in Alistair Beaton’s satire set in the changing world of the newspaper industry.

Maddox ...... Robert Lindsay
Oliver ...... Alex Jennings
Amelia ...... Elizabeth Berrington
Tasneem ...... Zita Sattar
Masha ...... Debbie Chazen
Freddy ...... Ben Willbond
Announcer ...... Matt Addis
PM’s Wife ...... Janice Acquah

With additional material by Tom Mitchelson.

Director: Sally Avens

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2009.


SUN 23:00 Old Harry's Game (b007k1fk)
Series 1

Rebellion

Gary leads a demon rebellion against the Prince of Darkness.

Meanwhile Satan ponders the meaning of happiness - and Elvis Presley gets locked in a crate...

Andy Hamilton's devilishly funny sitcom set in Hell.

Satan ...... Andy Hamilton
The Professor ...... James Grout
Thomas ...... Jimmy Mulville
Gary, The Demon ...... Steven O'Donnell

Other characters played by:

Philip Pope
Penelope Nice
Michael Fenton Stevens
Nigel Pegram

Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 1995.


SUN 23:30 The Absolutely Radio Show (b08wmyc7)
Series 2

Episode 2

More from Stoneybridge Town Council, Little Girl and the News News News team.

The cast of TV's hugely popular sketch show are back. revisiting some of their much-loved sketch characters, while also introducing some newcomers to the show.

Starring:

Peter Baikie
Morwenna Banks
Moray Hunter
Gordon Kennedy
John Sparkes
Gus Beattie

In 2013, the group that made their name on Channel Four in the 1980s and 90s got back together for BBC Radio 4's Sketchorama: Absolutely Special - which won the BBC Audio Drama Award for Best Live Scripted Comedy.

Producers: Gordon Kennedy & Gus Beattie

An Absolutely/Gusman production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in July 2017.

MONDAY 04 NOVEMBER 2024

MON 00:00 Alan Garner - The Weirdstone of Brisingamen (b096p58m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Sunday]


MON 00:30 Catch My Breath (b007k3bt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:30 on Sunday]


MON 01:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m0024ld2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Sunday]


MON 01:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00zf648)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 on Sunday]


MON 02:00 Poetry Extra (m0024ld5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Sunday]


MON 02:30 The Haunting of Alma Fielding by Kate Summerscale (Omnibus) (m0024ld7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Sunday]


MON 03:40 Inheritance Tracks (m0024ld9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 on Sunday]


MON 03:50 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (Omnibus) (b007jtwl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Sunday]


MON 05:00 Beyond Our Ken (b008yrvn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Sunday]


MON 05:30 The Enchanting World of Hinge and Bracket (m0024ldc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Sunday]


MON 06:00 Whodunnits (b007jpks)
Hercule Poirot - Death on the Nile

1. Threats

The Belgian sleuth embarks on an Egyptian cruise, but his voyage proves to be far from smooth sailing...

Agatha Christie's whodunnit stars John Moffatt as Hercule Poirot.

Classic thriller first published in 1937.

Dramatised in five parts by Michael Bakewell.

Hercule Poirot …. John Moffatt
Mrs Allerton …. Rosemary Leach
Pennington …. Stratford Johns
Joanna Southwood …. Joanna Monro
Linnet Ridgeway …. Elaine Pyke
Monsieur Blondin …. Sean Baker
Jacqueline de Bellefort …. Amanda Barton-Chapple
Simon Doyle …. Robert Daws
Tim Allerton …. Nicholas Boulton
Rockford …. Ed Bishop
Rosalie Otterbourne …. Emma Woodvine
Mrs Otterbourne …. Shirley Dixon
Thomas Cook Agent …. Timothy Alcock
Waiter …. Chris Pavlo

Director: Enyd Williams

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1997.


MON 06:30 Paul Temple (b007jp86)
Paul Temple and the Vandyke Affair

1. The Sitter-in

When a baby goes missing, debonair amateur detective Paul Temple and journalist wife Steve are on the case.

But can they identify a mystery man..?

Starring Peter Coke and Marjorie Westbury as BBC radio's smoothest investigator and his glamorous wife.

Another baffling case of dastardly crimes must be solved.

Written by Francis Durbridge.

Paul Temple …. Peter Coke
Steve …. Marjorie Westbury
Sir Graham Forbes …. Richard Williams
Inspector Eden …. Frederick Treves
Charlie …. James Beattie
Terry Palmer …. Peter Wilde
Mary Desmond …. June Tobin
Queenie Edwards …. Armine Sandford
Madame Flaubert …. Catherine Salkold
Cen Walters …. Haydn Jones

Between 1938 and 1968, Francis Durbridge's incomparably suave amateur detective and his journalist wife solved case after baffling case. They inhabited a sophisticated, well-heeled world of cocktails and fast cars in one of BBC radio's most popular series.

Producer: Martyn C Webster

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in January 1959.


MON 07:00 Like They've Never Been Gone (b009y19f)
Series 2

Trouble With the Credit Card

It's duo Tommy and Sheila's second stab at fame - and she's been spending.

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.

Starring June Whitfield and Roy Hudd.

The return of Mike Coleman's six-part sitcom.

Tommy Franklin ...... Roy Hudd
Sheila Parr ...... June Whitfield

With:

Pat Coombs
Julian Eardley
Edward Halstead.

Music by Frido Ruth.

Producer: Steve Doherty

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1999.


MON 07:30 The Navy Lark (m0024ls5)
Series 11

The Security Clampdown

When espionage is suspected in the dockyard, Commanding Officer Murray’s furtive behaviour makes him a suspect...

Stars Leslie Phillips, Jon Pertwee and Stephen Murray.

Laughs afloat aboard British Royal Navy frigate HMS Troutbridge.

Written by Lawrie Wyman.

The Sub-Lieutenant ...... Leslie Phillips
The Chief Petty Officer//Commander Weatherby ...... Jon Pertwee
The Commanding Officer ...... Stephen Murray
Captain Povey ...... Richard Caldicot
Rita Ffont-Bittocks/WREN Chasen …. Heather Chasen
LS Goldstein/The Admiral …. Tenniel Evans
Admiral Ironbridge …. Michael Bates

The Navy Lark ran for an impressive 13 series between 1959 and 1976.

Producer: Alastair Scott-Johnston

First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in February 1970.


MON 08:00 North by Northamptonshire (b0184vh8)
Series 2

Episode 3

A visiting choir sets hearts aflutter amongst the ladies of Wadenbrook, while Mary's dad, Norman, has an adventure of his own.

Sheila Hancock narrates the bittersweet adventures of the residents of a small town in Northamptonshire.

Written by Katherine Jakeways.

Keith ...... John Biggins
Rod ...... Mackenzie Crook
Jonathan/Ken ...... Kevin Eldon
Narrator ...... Shelia Hancock
Helen ...... Jessica Henwick
Esther/Jacqui ...... Katherine Jakeways
Jan ...... Felicity Montagu
Norman ...... Geoffrey Palmer
Angela ...... Lizzie Roper
Mary ...... Penelope Wilton
Frank ...... Rufus Wright

Producer: Victoria Lloyd

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2011.


MON 08:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024ls7)
1. New Beginnings

Struck by her good looks and her pale copper hair, the Pre-Raphaelite painters made Lizzie Siddal one of the best known faces of the Victorian era.

An artist's model from the London slums, she also made her mark as a poet and artist.

This is her extraordinary story - written in five parts by Lucinda Hawksley

Read by Susannah Harker.

Producer Elizabeth Allard

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2004.


MON 08:45 One Down (b007s0lf)
1. Mystery Crossword

Clue: Newspaperman in refusal to admit it's all over (3,4).

When a mystery crossword appears in The Rainswick Mercury the staff are flummoxed, but a local property developer thinks it's personal.

Five-part puzzling drama written by Alison Joseph.

Julian …... Nicholas Le Prevost
Mary …... Adjoa Andoh
Abbie …… Helen Lonqworth
Ian …… Anthony Glennon
Tara …… Jasmine Callan
Gavin …… John Douqall
Trent …… Simon Treves
Pete …… Harry Myers
Newsreader …… Simon Treves
Newsreader …… Rachel Bavidge
Newsreader …… Joanna Pinnock

See the crossword grid and clues online via BBC Radio 4 Extra's website.

Director: Paul Arnold

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2007.


MON 09:00 Yesterday in Parliament (m0024lsd)
Susan Hulme reports on how one of this week's Budget announcements will affect people hoping to return to work. And how did the Conservatives choose their leaders in the past?


MON 09:30 The Animals' VC (b0076m24)
1. Brave Beginnings

Since 1943, 60 animals have been awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal.

This is the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross.

Dylan Winter traces the history of the award and hears the extraordinary stories of its first recipients - some plucky pigeons during the Second World War.

Producer: Sheena Duncan

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2004.


MON 09:45 Daily Service (m0024lsj)
Hymn Writers: Timothy Dudley-Smith

Pam Rhodes reflects on the life and work of hymn writer Bishop Timothy Dudley-Smith, who died recently at the age of 97.

Reading: Colossians 3: 12-17

Music:
Tell out, my soul (All Souls Choir and Orchestra)
When the Lord in glory comes (All Souls Choir and Orchestra)
As water to the thirsty (International Staff Songsters of the Salvation Army)
Lord for the Years (BBC Songs of Praise recording)

Producer: Andrew Earis


MON 10:00 Sounds Natural (b07k0ts9)
Bernard Cribbins

From the Meadow Pipit to the Red-Backed Shrike.

Actor Bernard Cribbins talks to Derek Jones about his love of bird watching, fishing and the importance of conservation.

Aided by recordings from the BBC Sound Archive.

Producer: John Burton.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1972.


MON 10:30 The Actor's Gang on the Outside (b0736vty)
We followed actor Tim Robbins' work with prisoners on the inside of LA's tough prison system in THE ACTOR'S GANG .

Three of the actors who we heard in the first documentary have now been released.

Rajesh Mirchandani catches up with them to hear their stories.

Has taking part in the The Actor's Gang Prison Project helped them turn their lives around?

Has the acting course had any long term effects on helping with their rehabilitation and adapting to life outside prison?

This promises to be a compellingly gritty portrait of crime, second chances and the power of drama.

Produced in Edinburgh by Kate Bissell.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2016.


MON 11:00 Whodunnits (b007jpks)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


MON 11:30 Paul Temple (b007jp86)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


MON 12:00 Like They've Never Been Gone (b009y19f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


MON 12:30 The Navy Lark (m0024ls5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


MON 13:00 North by Northamptonshire (b0184vh8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


MON 13:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024ls7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


MON 13:45 One Down (b007s0lf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


MON 14:00 Just a Minute (b00mw196)
Series 55

Episode 10

Nicholas Parsons presides over the devious game where panellists are challenged to speak for one minute without hesitation, deviation or repetition.

With:

Paul Merton
Gyles Brandreth
Graham Norton
Pauline McLynn

Subjects include: How To Out-Do The Other Panellists, Tea, Pretentious Vocabulary, Waxing, Junk Mail, Groupies, A Right Hand Man and The Complaints Department

Created by Ian Messiter.

Producer: Claire Jones

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2009.


MON 14:30 Street and Lane (b00vls7z)
Series 2

Ringing the Changes

The white van men are back.

University drop-out and would-be writer Johnny Street and his worker-of-the-world mate Arthur Lane are Yorkshire builders for whom no job is too small.

Can they manage to fix some church bells with the help of slightly suspect 'bell expert' Stan French?

Starring Shaun Dooley and Fine Time Fontayne

The return of Ian McMillan and Dave Sheasby's comedy.

Johnny Street ...... Shaun Dooley
Arthur Lane ...... Fine Time Fontayne
Stanley ...... Stephen Hogan
Susan ...... Claire Rushbrook

Producer: David Hunter

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2007.


MON 15:00 Death of a Secret Wife (m0024lsp)
Harriet Austin lies on her deathbed, crippled with pain from strychnine poisoning.

Her husband, the dissolute Lord of The Manor Charles Austin, remembers back to their first meeting and their extraordinary and turbulent life together.

Starring Crispin Bonham-Carter and Suzanne Cave.

Written by Sue Rodwell. Based on a true story from 1910.

Charles Austin .... Crispin Bonham-Carter
Harriet Austin .... Suzanne Cave
Nellie Meadows .... Sunny Ormonde
John Learmonth .... Alan McMahon
Dr William Connor .... David Bowen
Mrs Austin .... Joyce Latham
PC Downing .... Jez Thomas
Walter Brooke .... David Acton

Director: Jenny Stephens

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2005.


MON 16:00 Sounds Natural (b07k0ts9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


MON 16:30 The Actor's Gang on the Outside (b0736vty)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]


MON 17:00 Whodunnits (b007jpks)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


MON 17:30 Paul Temple (b007jp86)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


MON 18:00 Like They've Never Been Gone (b009y19f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


MON 18:30 The Navy Lark (m0024ls5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


MON 19:00 North by Northamptonshire (b0184vh8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


MON 19:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024ls7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


MON 19:45 One Down (b007s0lf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


MON 20:00 Just a Minute (b00mw196)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]


MON 20:30 Street and Lane (b00vls7z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]


MON 21:00 Death of a Secret Wife (m0024lsp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]


MON 22:00 Paul Sinha's Perfect Pub Quiz (m0024dg9)
Series 3

Bradford - Why West Yorkshire Is the Best Yorkshire

Paul takes his Bradford audience on a quizzing tour of Yorkshire, from below the banks of the Aire to the top of the tallest tower.

What was the biggest sporting legacy of the Brontes? Who was the film industry's first ever nepo-baby? Why is West Yorkshire the Best Yorkshire? And how many Bradfordians have had number one singles - the correct answer may surprise you (as, indeed, it surprised Paul).

Written and performed by Paul Sinha
Additional material: Oliver Levy
Additional questions: The Audience

Original music: Tim Sutton

Recording engineer: Richard Biddulph
Mixed by: Rich Evans
Producer: Ed Morrish

A Lead Mojo production for BBC Radio 4


MON 22:30 Alexei Sayle's Strangers on a Train (m001b3vr)
Series 1

Hull to Liverpool

Alexei Sayle takes another train journey and breaks the golden rule of travelling by train in the UK - by actually talking to his fellow passengers.

In this episode, he travels from Hull to Liverpool.

Among his many fellow travellers, he meets:

* Oscar who hopes to become a barrister specialising in human rights cases.

* Nick and Rachel who've taken up a more simple life after Nick’s stressful career as a consulting engineer working on huge projects like the Shard in London

* Mother and daughter Jill and Isobel reveal how their lives have changed after they both lived through the Ariana Grande concert bombing in Manchester.

Producers: Peter Lowe & Nick Symons

A Ride production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2022.


MON 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m0024y9x)
Leigh Francis 1/3

From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Paul Garner speaks to the comedian Leigh Francis.


MON 23:00 Dead Ringers (m0024fnl)
Series 25

Dead Ringers: Ep1. Budget Politicians

What was Rachel Reeves’ real inspiration for her budget? What advice is Kamala Harris giving to Joe Biden, and what exactly is a ‘working person’? JD Vance and Tim Walz make their first appearances on the show and Rishi Sunak probably his last.

This week's impressionists are Jon Culshaw, Jan Ravens, Lewis Macleod, Jess Robinson and Jason Forbes.

The episode was written by: Tom Jamieson and Nev Fountain, Laurence Howarth, Ed Amsden and Tom Coles, Cody Dahler, Rob Darke, Edward Tew, Sophie Dickson with additional material by Jennifer Walker.

Sound design: Rich Evans
Executive Producer: Richard Morris
Produced and created by Bill Dare
Production Coordinator: Caroline Barlow


MON 23:30 Mark Watson Talks a Bit About Life (m000gmgh)
Series 3

Winter

Multi-award winning comedian and author Mark Watson continues his examination of the four seasons of the year and the seasons of a human life, as Mark.

Reaching the halfway point of his expected lifespan - he considers what might come next.

Mark and his guests take on Winter, of which the pros are Christmas. And the cons - the end of the year reminds us that all things must die.

With the sardonic musical brilliance of Flo and Joan and special guest Jess Fostekew.

As always, there's a huge number of jokes, some songs, and an awful lot of other stuff crammed into each show as the much-loved comic and his guests make their way through life at dizzying speed.

Producer: Lianne Coop

An Impatient production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in March 2020.

TUESDAY 05 NOVEMBER 2024

TUE 00:00 Sounds Natural (b07k0ts9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Monday]


TUE 00:30 The Actor's Gang on the Outside (b0736vty)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Monday]


TUE 01:00 Whodunnits (b007jpks)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Monday]


TUE 01:30 Paul Temple (b007jp86)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Monday]


TUE 02:00 Like They've Never Been Gone (b009y19f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Monday]


TUE 02:30 The Navy Lark (m0024ls5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Monday]


TUE 03:00 North by Northamptonshire (b0184vh8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Monday]


TUE 03:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024ls7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Monday]


TUE 03:45 One Down (b007s0lf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Monday]


TUE 04:00 Just a Minute (b00mw196)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Monday]


TUE 04:30 Street and Lane (b00vls7z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Monday]


TUE 05:00 Death of a Secret Wife (m0024lsp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Monday]


TUE 06:00 Whodunnits (b007jpl9)
Hercule Poirot - Death on the Nile

2. Vendetta

The Belgian sleuth senses the atmosphere of evil afloat, as Jackie's vendetta continues.

Agatha Christie's whodunnit stars John Moffatt as Hercule Poirot.

Dramatised by Michael Bakewell.

Hercule Poirot …. John Moffatt
Colonel Race …. Donald Sinden
Mrs Allerton …. Rosemary Leach
Pennington …. Stratford Johns
Linnet Ridgeway …. Elaine Pyke
Simon Doyle …. Robert Daws
Tim Allerton …. Nicholas Boulton
Jacqueline de Bellefort …. Amanda Barton-Chapple
Mrs Otterbourne …. Shirley Dixon
Rosalie Otterbourne …. Emma Woodvine
Miss Van Schuyler …. Irene Sutcliffe
Cornelia …. Teresa Gallagher
Fanthorp …. Robert May
Richetti …. Ioan Meredith
Ferguson …. Robert Portal
Guide …. Ben Thomas
Steward …. Christopher Scott

Director: Enyd Williams

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1997.


TUE 06:30 Paul Temple (b007jp92)
Paul Temple and the Vandyke Affair

2. The Marlow Incident

With Queenie dead - will her clue help the debonair detective and wife Steve find the missing baby?

Francis Durbridge's thriller stars Peter Coke and Marjorie Westbury as BBC radio's smoothest investigator and his glamorous wife.

Paul Temple …. Peter Coke
Steve …. Marjorie Westbury
Sir Graham Forbes …. Richard Williams
Inspector Eden …. Frederick Treves
Charlie …. James Beattie
Terry Palmer …. Peter Wilde
Mary Desmond …. June Tobin
Sergeant Digby …. David Spenser
Bill McCall …. John Stott
Roger Shelly …. Richard Hurndall
George …. Jeffrey Segal
Waiter …. James Thomason
Sergeant …. Hugh Manning
Telephone Girl …. Hilda Schroder

Producer: Martyn C Webster

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in January 1959.


TUE 07:00 Living with Betty (b09hzpfb)
Episode 4

Muriel fails to impress the neighbours with Bill's truck parked up outside.

The East End meets Cheshire in Arline Whittaker's six-part sitcom.

CAST:

Betty …. Barbara Windsor
Harold …. Peter Sallis
Bill …. Glynn Edwards
Muriel …. Rosalind Knight
Trevor …. Simon Molloy
Katherine …. Diana Mather
The Mechanic …. Chris Ellison
Mrs Brightwell …. Rosalie Williams

Producer: Mike Craig

First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in 1986.


TUE 07:30 The Goon Show (b007jn16)
Series 6

The Tales of Montmartre

Paris, passion and duplicity abound in the tangled lives of two talented painters.

Ground-breaking, surreal BBC radio comedy written by Spike Milligan and Eric Sykes.

Starring:

Peter Sellers
Harry Secombe
Spike Milligan

With Special Guest Charlotte Mitchell as Fifi.

First billed as Crazy People, ten series of The Goon Show were recorded between 1951 and 1960, but sadly many of the earliest shows weren’t kept in the archive.

With the Ray Ellington Quartet and Max Geldray.

Orchestra conducted by Wally Stott.

Announcer: Wallace Greenslade

Producer: Peter Eton

First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in January 1956.


TUE 08:00 Lemn Sissay's Social Enterprise (m000bxhx)
Episode 2

Every year since 2013, the poet, broadcaster and author Lemn Sissay has arranged a Christmas dinner for people aged 18-25 who have left the care system and have no one with whom to have Christmas dinner. No one to give presents or receive them. No-one on the other end of the cracker.

This is not a charity. It isn't even an organisation. It's a project Lemn undertook because he understands how it feels - at 18 he was released from a children's home and given an empty flat in Wigan, with no one in the world who had known him for longer than a year.

Lemn Sissay’s Social Enterprise is a four-part series for BBC Radio 4, considering what these dinners have taught him about charity, social enterprise, and people, through stand-up, interview and poetry.

In this episode, he explores the idea of food - with the help of Garry Lemon, the Policy Director of the charity The Trussell Trust, and comedians Alexander Bennett and Dan Cardwell.

Written and performed by Lemn Sissay.

Produced by Ed Morrish.

A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in December 2019.


TUE 08:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024nzf)
2. Fame as Millais' Ophelia

Lizzie falls in love but quickly finds herself in a vulnerable position. Her life as an artist's model reaches new heights when she poses for John Everett Millais' portrait of Ophelia. Read by Susannah Harker.

Written by Lucinda Hawksley

Producer Elizabeth Allard

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2024.


TUE 08:45 One Down (b007s1d7)
2. More Than a Prank

Runs drug boxed with explosive at the river (5).

Ian thinks the mystery crossword may be more than just a prank.

Julian ...... Nicholas Le Prevost
Mary ...... Adjoa Andoh
Abbie ...... Helen Longworth
Ian ...... Anthony Glennon
Tara ...... Jasmine Callan
Gavin ...... John Dougall
Trent ...... Simon Treves

Produced and directed by Paul Arnold.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2007.


TUE 09:00 Yesterday in Parliament (m0024nzj)
The latest news from Westminster - and beyond.


TUE 09:30 The Animals' VC (b0076m57)
2. The Cat Among the Pigeons

Alongside the 32 messenger pigeons awarded the PDSA’s Dickin Medal for devotion to duty during wartime, sits just one cat.

Simon was the captain's cat on-board HMS Amethyst and in 1949 he became caught up in what was to become known as the "Yangtze Incident" in China.

Dylan Winter finds out how, during the 100 days when the ship was held captive, Simon ensured himself a place in history and his medal.

Producer: Sheena Duncan

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2004.


TUE 09:45 Daily Service (m0024nzl)
Hymn Writers: Patrick Appleford

Rev Dr Sam Wells reflects on the life and work of hymn writer, and family friend, Patrick Appleford, including his most famous hymn, Living Lord.

Reading: John 20: 1, 11-18

Music (sung by St Martin's Voices):
- Jesus our Lord, our king and our God
- Living Lord
- O Lord all the world belongs to you
- Jesus is with us

Producer: Andrew Earis


TUE 10:00 A Good Read (b09fy5xd)
Alexei Sayle and Meg Rosoff

Meg Rosoff, Alexei Sayle and Harriett Gilbert choose books by Richard Hughes, Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson, and Donna Leon.

Why do we find it so hard to own up when we've got something wrong? The writer and comedian Alexei Sayle's choice for A Good Read - Mistakes Were Made (But Not By Me) by Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson, explores the psychology of self-justification and how politicians (and everyone else) sleep at night.

Novelist Meg Rosoff's book choice is A High Wind in Jamaica by Richard Hughes - her favourite book of all time. She argues that while it might seem like a tale for children of pirates and adventure on the high seas, there is so much more going on beneath the surface.

And Harriett Gilbert shares a favourite holiday read - Donna Leon's Friends in High Places.

A High Wind in Jamaica by Richard Hughes
Publisher: Vintage

Mistakes Were Made (But Not By Me) by Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson
Publisher: Pinter & Martin

Donna Leon's Friends in High Places
Publisher: Arrow

Producer: Mair Bosworth

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2017.


TUE 10:30 Evita's Odyssey (b01l05dq)
When Eva Peron, Argentina's most famous First Lady died in 1952, her body was embalmed. Three years later in 1955, her widower, Juan Peron, was deposed in a coup.

Evita was the most potent symbol of Peronism, and military officers feared her corpse could become a rallying point of protest against the new government.

So they stole it. It probably spent time in a van parked in Buenos Aires, the city's waterworks, behind a cinema screen, and in the offices of Military Intelligence. But wherever it stayed, it is said that candles and flowers appeared. Clearly a more long-term solution was required...

Linda Pressly tells the stranger-than-fiction tale of what happened to her body over the next two decades - in Argentina and Europe.

It's an extraordinary story - one that takes in more grave-robbing, kidnap, murder, a revolutionary guerrilla group, and the occult.

Through interviews with key players - like the man who repaired the damage to Evita's body when it finally returned to Argentina in 1974 - this is a fascinating glimpse of Argentina before it descended into its darkest and bloodiest days of military dictatorship in the 1970s.

It is a story that will stay with you.

Producer: Linda Pressly

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2012.


TUE 11:00 Whodunnits (b007jpl9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


TUE 11:30 Paul Temple (b007jp92)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


TUE 12:00 Living with Betty (b09hzpfb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


TUE 12:30 The Goon Show (b007jn16)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


TUE 13:00 Lemn Sissay's Social Enterprise (m000bxhx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


TUE 13:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024nzf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


TUE 13:45 One Down (b007s1d7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


TUE 14:00 Act Your Age (b00ftb87)
Series 1

Episode 3

Simon Mayo hosts a three-way play-off to establish which generation of comedians is the funniest.

Captains Jon Richardson, Lucy Porter and Roy Walker are joined by guests Josie Long, Justin Edwards and Mick Miller and Ed Byrne.

Producers: Ashley Blaker and Bill Matthews

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2008.


TUE 14:30 Getting Nowhere Fast (b00mqgrr)
Series 3

Episode 2

Burglars have struck at the CyberPass bistro. So Merv sits up alone to confront them.

Who is it? What do they want? And what will he actually do when they come?

Someone has got Merv by the Delias.

Sitcom set in the Cyber Pass’ internet café.

Written by and starring Mervyn Stutter.

Merv …. Mervyn Stutter
Pam …. Lill Roughley
Dibden …. John Challis
Nev …. Gyuri Sarossy
Chantal …. Tracy-Ann Oberman
Dilkes …. Chris Ettridge
Various …. Geoffrey McGivern

Songs by Mervyn Stutter. Performed by Swamp Things.

Producer: Simon Nicholls

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2004.


TUE 15:00 Kevin Wong - Green Fingers (m0024nzq)
When Lucy inherits her grandfather's allotment, her knowledge of all things horticultural fits on the bottom of a flower pot.

But before long she is treating chrysanthemums and marrows with tender loving care and she can tell a hydrangea from a hosta.

Starring Jane Hazlegrove and Roy Hudd.

Written by Kevin Wong.

Lucy .... Jane Hazelgrove
Roy .... Roy Hudd
Gordon .... Jason Done
Malcolm/Ernest .... David Holt
Albert Donkin .... Stephen Thorne
Robert Penrose .... Christopher Scott
Quentin Alcock .... Gavin Muir
Announcer/Customer .... Alex Trinder

Director: Tracey Neale

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2000.


TUE 16:00 A Good Read (b09fy5xd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


TUE 16:30 Evita's Odyssey (b01l05dq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]


TUE 17:00 Whodunnits (b007jpl9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


TUE 17:30 Paul Temple (b007jp92)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


TUE 18:00 Living with Betty (b09hzpfb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


TUE 18:30 The Goon Show (b007jn16)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


TUE 19:00 Lemn Sissay's Social Enterprise (m000bxhx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


TUE 19:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024nzf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


TUE 19:45 One Down (b007s1d7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


TUE 20:00 Act Your Age (b00ftb87)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]


TUE 20:30 Getting Nowhere Fast (b00mqgrr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]


TUE 21:00 Kevin Wong - Green Fingers (m0024nzq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]


TUE 22:00 Sarah Kendall: Talking Story (m000x6w9)
Sharon Horgan

Sarah Kendall talks to three different storytellers about what ‘story’ means to them.

How have they developed their own style of storytelling in their respective mediums?

In this episode, Sarah talks to writer and director Sharon Horgan about finding the perfect writing partner, how her writing reflects her life and a disastrous audition with Ricky Gervais.

Sarah started out as a stand-up comic in late 1990s Australia. After performing for 15 years around the world, she transitioned into storytelling.

Sarah wanted to create something on stage that felt like the sort of films she loved to watch, so she wrote an hour-long show with a single personal story. She reimagined her teenage years as though they had been directed by John Hughes, giving her memories a full, cinematic makeover.

This connected Sarah to her audience in a more meaningful way compared to her original joke-based routines.

Producer: Carl Cooper

A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in June 2021.


TUE 22:30 The Penny Dreadfuls (b00gpbcl)
The Brothers Faversham

Theseus Faversham

The story of Victorian Britain's most respected detective - Theseus Faversham.

The comedy sketch trio present swashbuckling tales of four brothers born into the same privileged aristocratic family - Horatius, Theseus, Leonidas and Augustus,

Written by and starring The Penny Dreadfuls:

Humphrey Ker
David Reed
Thom Tuck

Alexandra Faversham ... Ingrid Oliver
Narrator... Miles Jupp

Producer: Julia McKenzie

Made for BBC Radio 7 and first broadcast in January 2008.


TUE 23:00 Clare in the Community (b061tppy)
Series 10

Family Values

A family funeral reveals some uncomfortable home truths for the Barker family.

Brian meanwhile has enthusiastically embraced a new fitness regime.

Sally Phillips is Clare Barker the social worker who has all the right jargon but never a practical solution.

A control freak, Clare likes nothing better than interfering in other people's lives on both a professional and personal basis. Clare is in her thirties, white, middle class and heterosexual, all of which are occasional causes of discomfort to her.

Clare continually struggles to control both her professional and private life In today's Big Society there are plenty of challenges out there for an involved, caring social worker. Or even Clare.

Written by Harry Venning and David Ramsden.

Clare ...... Sally Phillips
Brian ...... Alex Lowe
Nali ...... Nina Conti
The Celebrant ...... Richard Lumsden
Bernard ...... Andrew Wincott
Sarah Barker ...... Sarah Thom
Mrs Barker ...... Brigit Forsyth
Roxy ...... Alex Tregear

Producer: Alexandra Smith

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2015.


TUE 23:30 Jason Cook's School of Hard Knocks (b03w32c0)
Asking Out and First Dates

Comedian Jason Cook uses his life experiences to help us better navigate the choppy waters of life.

In this episode, he examines how to successfully ask someone out.

Discover the traps to be avoided when going on a first date - using Jason's trademarked "Place, Face, Case" methodology,

Stories from the audience help to throw more light on the matter in hand.

With:

Zoe Harrison
Neil Grainger

Producer: Sam Michell

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2014.

WEDNESDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2024

WED 00:00 A Good Read (b09fy5xd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Tuesday]


WED 00:30 Evita's Odyssey (b01l05dq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Tuesday]


WED 01:00 Whodunnits (b007jpl9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Tuesday]


WED 01:30 Paul Temple (b007jp92)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Tuesday]


WED 02:00 Living with Betty (b09hzpfb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Tuesday]


WED 02:30 The Goon Show (b007jn16)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Tuesday]


WED 03:00 Lemn Sissay's Social Enterprise (m000bxhx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Tuesday]


WED 03:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024nzf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Tuesday]


WED 03:45 One Down (b007s1d7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Tuesday]


WED 04:00 Act Your Age (b00ftb87)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Tuesday]


WED 04:30 Getting Nowhere Fast (b00mqgrr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Tuesday]


WED 05:00 Kevin Wong - Green Fingers (m0024nzq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Tuesday]


WED 06:00 Whodunnits (b007jplt)
Hercule Poirot - Death on the Nile

3. Murder

Feeling a great sense of impending doom, the Belgian sleuth's holiday cruise is turning into a nightmare afloat.

Agatha Christie's whodunnit stars John Moffatt as Hercule Poirot.

Dramatised by Michael Bakewell.

Hercule Poirot ...... John Moffatt
Colonel Race ...... Donald Sinden
Mrs Allerton ...... Rosemary Leach
Pennington ...... Stratford Johns
Linnet Ridgeway ...... Elaine Pyke
Simon Doyle ...... Robert Daws
Tim Allerton ...... Nicholas Boulton
Jacqueline de Bellefort ...... Amanda Barton-Chapple
Mrs Otterbourne ...... Shirley Dixon
Rosalie Otterbourne ...... Emma Woodvine
Miss Van Schuyler ...... Irene Sutcliffe
Cornelia ...... Teresa Gallagher
Fanthorp ...... Robert May
Richetti ...... Ioan Meredith
Joanna Southwood ...... Joanna Monro
Monsieur Blondin ...... Sean Baker
Louise ...... Colleen Prendergast
Simon Doyle ...... Robert Daws
Dr Bessner ...... Keith Drinkel
Rockford ...... Ed Bishop
Steward ...... Christopher Scott
Thomas Cook Agent ...... Timothy Alcock
Waiter ...... Chris Pavlo

Director: Enyd Williams

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1997.


WED 06:30 Paul Temple (b007jp9h)
Paul Temple and the Vandyke Affair

3. Introducing Mr Droste

More mystery, as the debonair detective sets out to unravel the secret behind Mrs Desmond's gloves.

Francis Durbridge's thriller stars Peter Coke and Marjorie Westbury as BBC radio's smoothest investigator and his glamorous wife.

Paul Temple …. Peter Coke
Steve …. Marjorie Westbury
Sir Graham Forbes …. Richard Williams
Terry Palmer …. Peter Wilde
Bill McCall …. John Scott
Roger Shelly …. Richard Hurndall
Philip Droste …. Simon Lack
Vanessa Droste …. Grizelda Hervey
Eddie …. John Cazabon
Taxi Driver …. Leigh Crutchley
Charles Marett …. John Bryning
Telephone Girl …. Beryl Calder

Producer: Martyn C Webster

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in January 1959.


WED 07:00 Winston (b007tbrv)
Winston in Europe

Don't Gush, Nancy

Father wants to move again. He's got the wanderlust. He's had enough of England.

You can't get decent eccles cakes here any longer...

Peter Tinniswood's bawdy six-part comedy serial.

Winston …. Bill Wallis
Father …. Maurice Denham
Nancy …. Shirley Dixon
Rosie …. Liz Goulding
William .… Christian Rodska

Director: Shaun MacLoughlin

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1992.


WED 07:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b00j283q)
Series 3

The Jewel Robbery

The Lad's getting a new car, so Sid decides to make the most of the opportunity.

Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's classic comedy about the life and times of Anthony Aloysius St John Hancock.

Starring Tony Hancock.

With:

Bill Kerr
Sidney James
Kenneth Williams
Andree Melly

Theme and incidental music written by Wally Stott.

Music recorded by the BBC Augmented Revue Orchestra conducted by Harry Rabinowitz.

Producer: Dennis Main Wilson

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in October 1955.


WED 08:00 The Architects (b051rjpp)
Series 2

Refurb

Matt and Tim are dispatched to Watford to restyle a Premier League footballer's mansion.

Meanwhile Sir Lucien must negotiate a press interview without putting his foot in it.

Comedy set in a struggling architectural practice.

Written by Jim Poyser with Neil Griffiths.

Sir Lucien ...... Geoffrey Whitehead
Tim ...... Alex Carter
Sarah ...... Anna Crilly
Matt ...... Dominic Coleman
Danny ...... Richie Campbell
Sean ...... Jude Akuwudike
John ...... Ian Conningham
Computer Caddie/Tony ...... Sam Dale

Directed by Toby Swift

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2015.


WED 08:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024nj3)
3. A New Saviour

Lizzie's lover Dante Rossetti introduces her to John Ruskin, and her own career as an artist takes off.

Read by Susannah Harker

Written by Lucinda Hawksley

Producer Elizabeth Allard

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2004.


WED 08:45 One Down (b007s1w4)
3. Fighting for Survival

Wrestling hold is murder no less: second missing nightclub chief (6).

Mary is pushing Julian to fight for the survival of his paper.

Julian ...... Nicholas Le Prevost
Mary ...... Adjoa Andoh
Abbie ...... Helen Longworth
Ian ...... Anthony Glennon
Tara ...... Jasmine Callan
Gavin ...... John Dougall
Trent ...... Simon Treves

Produced and directed by Paul Arnold.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2007.


WED 09:00 Yesterday in Parliament (m0024nj6)
The latest news from Westminster - and beyond.


WED 09:30 The Animals' VC (b0076m88)
3. Man's Best Friend

The majority of dogs awarded PDSA Dickin medals for bravery and devotion to duty won them between 1943 and 1949 as a result of the Second World War and its aftermath.

Dylan Winter hears the stories of Rob, Beauty, Judy and Gander - just a few of the many courageous canines who proved they were truly "man's best friend".

Producer: Sheena Duncan

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2004.


WED 09:45 Daily Service (m0024nj8)
Hymn Writers: Bernadette Farrell

Revd Dr Sam Wells introduces the next in this week's series on hymn writers, with music and reflections from Bernadette Farrell.

Reading: John 20: 1, 11-18

Music:

Christ be our light - Bernadette Farrell
St Martin's Voices (BBC recording)

Wherever there is love - Bernadette Farrell
CD: Love goes on - Farrell

Restless is the heart - Bernadette Farrell
CD: Restless is the heart - Farrell

O God you search me and you know me - Bernadette Farrell
St Martin's Voices (BBC recording)

Producer: Andrew Earis


WED 10:00 Archive on 4 (m00013md)
How We Remember Them

From 2014 to 2018, the world reflected on the centenary of the First World War.

The atrocities of the conflict have been well-covered.

So historian, Dan Snow looks at how and why our perceptions of the conflict have changed over time, and how that’s affected the way we commemorate the event.

With powerful accounts of veterans, from the iconic 1964 BBC series The Great War and the Imperial War Museum’s sound archive, as well as moving early commemorations at the Cenotaph.

With:

Dan Todman
Lucy Noakes
Helen McCartney
Jean Seaton
Peter Hart - who interviewed many veterans on behalf of the IWM.

Producers: Megan Jones and Glyn Tansley

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2018.


WED 11:00 Whodunnits (b007jplt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


WED 11:30 Paul Temple (b007jp9h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


WED 12:00 Winston (b007tbrv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


WED 12:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b00j283q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


WED 13:00 The Architects (b051rjpp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


WED 13:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024nj3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


WED 13:45 One Down (b007s1w4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


WED 14:00 Counterpoint (b02x66zq)
Series 27

2013 Heat 7

Paul Gambaccini chairs the general knowledge music quiz.

The questions and musical extracts cover territory as diverse as Wagner, Lionel Bart, Handel and Culture Club. As ever, the contestant who can demonstrate the widest range of musical knowledge stands to win a place in the semi-finals, which begin in a few weeks' time.

There are plenty of musical extracts to identify, both familiar and surprising.

This trio of competitors battling it out at the BBC's studios in Maida Vale, London are:

Stephen Bliss from Woodstock, Oxfordshire
Bob del Quiaro from South London
Roland Matthews from Romsey, Hampshire

Producer: Paul Bajoria

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2013.


WED 14:30 Smelling of Roses (b007jzm2)
Series 1

Out To Launch

Rosie's company is set to launch the autobiography of the country's most famous footballer, Lloyd Gratton.

The lives of Rosie and her granddaughter Jo are shaken by the return to Rosie's daughter Kate after a long spell working abroad.

The trials and tribulations of Rosie Burns and her event management company, based in Brighton.

Prunella Scales stars in Simon Brett's sitcom

Rosie ...... Prunella Scales
Kate ...... Arabella Weir
Jo ...... Rebecca Callard
Bob ...... Duncan Preston
Tess ...... Annette Badland
Greg Turnball ...... Jon Glover
Lalage Croxton-Sackville ...... Tracy-Ann Oberman
Lloyd Gratton ...... Will Ing

Producer: Maria Esposito

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2000.


WED 15:00 John Bunyan - The Pilgrim's Progress (b00fcd6c)
1. Setting Out

The adventures of Christian, a pilgrim who embarks on a perilous journey to the Celestial City.

John Bunyan's enduring 17th century classic novel.

Starring Anton Rogers.

Dramatised in three parts by Brian Sibley.

Bunyan ...... Anton Rodgers
Christian ...... Neil Dudgeon
Evangelist ...... Alec McCowen
Beelzebub ...... Don Warrington
Interpreter ...... Anna Massey
Caged Man ...... Peter Bowles
Elizabeth ...... Caroline Lee Johns
Jailer ...... Ioan Meredith
Judge ...... Derek Waring
Pliable ...... Philip Fox
Obstinate ...... Chris Moran
Help ...... Jaimi Barbakoff
Goodwill ...... Lydia Leonard
Angel ...... Cherie Taylor-Battiste
Child ...... Sophie Levy
Child ...... Nyla Lev

Director: Pam Fraser Solomon

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2004.


WED 16:00 Archive on 4 (m00013md)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


WED 17:00 Whodunnits (b007jplt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


WED 17:30 Paul Temple (b007jp9h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


WED 18:00 Winston (b007tbrv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


WED 18:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b00j283q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


WED 19:00 The Architects (b051rjpp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


WED 19:30 Lizzie Siddal (m0024nj3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


WED 19:45 One Down (b007s1w4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


WED 20:00 Counterpoint (b02x66zq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]


WED 20:30 Smelling of Roses (b007jzm2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]


WED 21:00 John Bunyan - The Pilgrim's Progress (b00fcd6c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]


WED 22:00 Ivo Graham's Obsessions (m0024f3x)
5. Kat Sadler & Felix White

Comedian and obsessive Ivo Graham welcomes another two celebrity obsessives to talk about their greatest loves.

This week, Ivo is joined by writer and star of the BAFTA-winning Such Brave Girls, Kat Sadler, and former Maccabees guitarist and current Tailenders host, Felix White. Kat has seen Friends more times than you can count, but which of the friends is she most like? Felix discovered his love of Baseball whilst touring the states, and explains to Ivo why he should be just as obsessed with it as he is.

Ivo also finds out what the studio audience's obsessions are, before being joined by a Very Obsessed Person, or VOP. Aaron Carty is a Beyoncé obsessive, and has toured the world as a Beyoncé drag impersonator - can you get more obsessed than that?

Hosted by Ivo Graham
Featuring Kat Sadler, Felix White and Aaron Carty

Written by Ivo Graham and Matthew Crosby

Additional Material by Cameron Loxdale, Christina Riggs and Peter Tellouche

Recorded at RADA Studios by Chris MacLean
Sound edited by Charlie Brandon-King
Production Coordinators: Katie Baum and Jodie Charman
Executive Producer: Pete Strauss

Produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies, a BBC Studios Audio production for Radio 4

An EcoAudio certified production
Show image: Matt Stronge


WED 22:30 Mark Thomas: The Manifesto (b01rlrjj)
Series 5

Bridport

Comedian and activist Mark Thomas travels to Bridport, Dorset to compile a People's Manifesto using policies suggested by his studio audience.

Producer: Colin Anderson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2013.


WED 23:00 The Big Fun Show (b00lbwgk)
Episode 4

Sketch series with Paul Merton, Julian Clary, Tony Hawks and Josie Lawrence - before they hit the big time.

Written and presented by Paul Merton, John Irwin and Neil Mullarkey.

Also starring:

Josie Lawrence
Tony Hawkes
Julian Clary

Music by Tony Hawks.

Producer: David Tyler

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1988.


WED 23:30 The Skewer (m0024f4c)
Series 12

Episode 8

The week’s biggest stories like you’ve never heard them before. Jon Holmes remixes the news into a satirical concept album.

This week - Budget, Bluffs, and Fight Club.

Producer: Jon Holmes
An unusual production for BBC Radio 4


WED 23:45 Self-Storage (b007znbd)
Series 1

House Hunting

Still homeless and separated from his wife, Dave plans to move out of The Storage Garden, while Geoff plans to move in.

Stars Reece Shearsmith and Mark Heap.

Sitcom written by Tom Collinson and Barnaby Power.

Dave ...... Reece Shearsmith.
Geoff ...... Mark Heap.
Ron ...... Tom Goodman-Hill.
Judy ...... Rosie Cavaliero.
Sarah ...... Susan Earl.
Estate agent ...... Phil Nichol

Producer: Ed Morrish

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2007.