The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
Last week Laurie Taylor travelled to Marseille to find out how the city’s ethnic diversity helped it to escape the race riots that scarred much of the rest of France. Can lessons be learnt from France’s most diverse city? And how successful is the British model of multi-culturalism? Laurie Taylor is joined by four experts on ethnic diversity, Professor Tariq Modood, Professor Sophie Watson, Professor Lola Young (Baroness Young of Hornsey) and Ted Cantle to discuss race, immigration and ethnicity in our cities and to debate the relative merits of multicultural and assimilatory approaches to migrant cultures.
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at
With Evan Davis and Edward Stourton. Including Sports Desk at
Andrew Marr sets the cultural agenda for the week. Guests are author Lisa Jardine, cellist Stephen Isserlis, BBC presenter Dan Cruickshank and Lord David Owen.
Deborah Findlay reads from Kate Summerscale's account of a Victorian murder case that gripped the nation.
1/5. On a summer night in 1860, a gruesome murder takes place in a remote Georgian country house. The household reverberates with shock, not least because it seems the murderer is still among them. Jack Whicher of Scotland Yard, the most celebrated detective of his day, is called to the scene. With only an inept local police force to help him, he faces an unenviable task.
British jazz legend Norma Winstone on how the jazz world has changed for women. Plus, Australian author Alexis Wright, and ovarian cancer screening debated.
Navid Akhtar investigates attempts to protect tenants from unscrupulous landlords as an expansion in the private rented sector has led to a rise in illegal evictions and harassment.
Ted Willis's classic TV series, dramatised by Sue Rodwell. 5/6: Rock Rattle and Roll. The theft of a football rattle provides a perfect excuse for a weekend away for Andy and Mary.
Paul Gambaccini chairs the general knowledge music quiz, covering the whole musical spectrum from the classics to jazz, stage and film music, rock and pop.
Three contestants battle it out - Graham Bandy from Woking, Chris Cook from Haslemere and Brian Thorne from Blandford.
The Walrus and the Terrier: When journalist James Cameron visited Nobel Prize winner Albert Schweitzer in Gabon in 1953, he was shocked by what he found.
Paul Lewis and guests answer calls on financial issues. Listeners can call 08700 100 444 from
WHAT I LEARNED FROM THE METAPHYSICAL POETS is a series of specially commissioned short stories which take their inspiration from the life and work of the seventeenth century poets John Donne, George Herbert and Andrew Marvell.
The first story in the series, "Rock of Eye" by Iain F MacLeod, is inspired by John Donne's poem "A Valediction: Forbidden Mourning". In it, an elderly Savile Row tailor comes face to face with a lost love and is forced to confront a painful event from his past. The reader is Paul Young.
The other writers in the series are Helen Dunmore, Ruth Thomas, Joe Dunthorne and Michele Roberts.
James Maw presents a series on life-changing inheritances. 1/5: My Wooden Headed Brother. Ventriloquist Peter Brough's dummy Archie Andrews was a radio and TV star of the 1950s.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) anti-depressants work little better than placebo according to a recent analysis of published and unpublished drugs trials.
The pharmaceutical companies have been accused of publishing the results of those trials that demonstrated the most positive results. But is that really true? And is part of the problem our own inability to understand the statistics?
Our reporter Ruth Alexander looked at why so many of us attach special properties to certain numbers. Mathematician Marcus du Sautoy explains its Pythagorean roots and why we are predisposed to look for numerical patterns.
Plus, was a Treasury minister really correct to say the rich have been getting poorer since Labour came to power? And do the number of people living outnumber the dead?
Palm Sunday is declared a day of mourning for Martin Luther King as rioting continues in America. Motor racing hero Jim Clark dies.
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including Weather at
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
James Walton takes the chair for the game of literary correctness, flanked by captains Sebastian Faulks and John Walsh with guests Peter Kemp and Andrew Davies. The author of the week and subject for pastiche is Jonathan Swift and the reader is Beth Chalmers.
It's day one of Taylor's rape trial. Kathy takes the stand while Pat and Kenton wait anxiously in the witnesses room. Kenton wishes he could be in there with Kathy - he can't bear the thought of what she's going through. Pat tries to keep Kenton calm.
Kathy copes well with the questioning from the prosecutor, who appreciates how difficult it is for Kathy to publicly admit that Taylor raped her. But the defence lawyer questions Kathy harshly, determined to prove that Kathy was a free agent who turned to Taylor and confided in him. Accusing Kathy of making up the rape, the barrister puts forward a strong case in Taylor's defence. Kathy buckles under her intense questioning, as she attempts to prove that everything Kathy says is a cover story.
The cross-examination takes it out of Kathy and she leaves the courtroom convinced she's messed up. Pat and Kenton try to assure he she hasn't blown it but Kathy feels sure she's been through all this for nothing - the defence made it sound like everything she said was untrue. Claire's got to face them tomorrow and Kathy's let her down. She only hopes that Claire can do better.
EF Benson's classic comedy, dramatised by John Peacock. 1/5: Whilst Georgie goes into hiding, Lucia approaches her fiftieth birthday, determined to make her mark on history.
Will Hutton talks to Tony Benn, Jacques Attali and others who debate the role of nationalisation in the postwar reconstruction of Europe.
Uzbekistan: Natalia Antelava asks whether the radical Ilkhom Theatre founded by Mark Weil can survive without its director after Weil was stabbed to death in the street last year.
Hugh Levinson asks whether science and technology can provide the key to ending under-development in Africa. 2/2: He asks what sort of research the scientists should conduct.
Mister Pip, by Lloyd Jones. 6/10: Despite the tensions on the island and his wife's illness, Mr Watts continues with his commitment to teach the children.
2/2. Hardeep Singh Kohli explores the world of Indian independent cinema, whose gritty themes and realism contrast sharply with escapist Bollywood.
Murderous crime thrillers, dramatised by Yvonne Antrobus. 1/3: The Fever Tree. Ford and Tricia travel to a South African nature reserve to try to patch up their awful marriage.
TUESDAY 08 APRIL 2008
TUE 00:00 News and Weather (b009pmq4)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
TUE 00:30 Book of the Week (b009ppjg)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Monday]
TUE 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009pmq6)
The latest shipping forecast.
TUE 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009pmq8)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at
5.20am.
TUE 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009pmqb)
The latest shipping forecast.
TUE 05:30 News Briefing (b009pmqd)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
TUE 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009pmqg)
Daily prayer and reflection from Wales with Rev Craig Gardiner.
TUE 05:45 Farming Today (b009pmqj)
News and issues in rural Britain with Anna Hill.
TUE 06:00 Today (b009pmql)
With Evan Davis and Edward Stourton. Including Sports Desk at
6.25am,
7.25am,
8.25am; Weather at
6.05am,
6.57am,
7.57am; Thought for the Day at
7.48am.
TUE 09:00 On the Ropes (b009q4wp)
Shy Keenan
John Humphrys talks to successful people who have weathered storms in their careers.
He meets Shy Keenan, who recalls how she survived over a decade of child abuse and now campaigns to prevent paedophiles from preying on youngsters.
TUE 09:30 Team Spirit (b009q4wr)
Episode 4
A girls' football squad in Bishop's Lydeard has learnt how to work as a unit. Presented by Claudia Hammond. From April 2008.
TUE 09:45 Book of the Week (b009ppjj)
Kate Summerscale - The Suspicions of Mr Whicher
Episode 2
Deborah Findlay reads from Kate Summerscale's account of a Victorian murder case that gripped the nation.
2/5. Certain that the local police's chief suspect is innocent, Whicher begins to piece together the family history of those at Road Hill House. Before long, he uncovers a web of deception and concealment going back decades. Finally, convinced that his instincts are correct, he makes an arrest that shocks disbelieving locals.
TUE 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009pq8y)
Historian Katie Hickman; Modern motherhood
Historian Katie Hickman on why she writes novels rather than academic papers. Plus, how the role of mothers has changed over the last generation, and boat life examined.
TUE 11:00 World On The Move: Great Animal Migrations (b009q4wt)
Great Animal Migrations: Philippa Forrester and Brett Westwood present the series following the movement and migration of animals across the planet.
TUE 11:30 The Pain of Laughter: The Last Days of Kenneth Williams (b009q4ww)
Episode 1
Rob Brydon explores the complex character of Kenneth Williams, a gifted and articulate performer at odds with his public persona. Kenneth's inner circle of friends offer an insight into his passions and private world, revealing an intelligent and spiritual man grappling with his declining career and health.
Contributors include Gyles Brandreth, Michael Whittaker, Michael Anderson, Peter Cadley, Robert Chidell, Paul Richardson and Angela Chidell.
TUE 12:00 Call You and Yours (b009pr6v)
Consumer news and issues with John Waite and Peter White.
TUE 12:57 Weather (b009pr6x)
The latest weather forecast.
TUE 13:00 World at One (b009pr6z)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.
TUE 13:30 Hip-Hop China-Style (b009jg3c)
Hip-hop artists in Beijing are unearthing forgotten parts of the Chinese language and traditional instruments. Stephen Armstrong explores this very distinctive fusion of East and West and examines the different generational responses to this music.
TUE 14:00 The Archers (b009q1vf)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Monday]
TUE 14:15 Drama (b00773dg)
Daybreak
Daybreak
By Tom Ray.
A week after his wife and teenage sweetheart of fourteen years has left him, Phil wakes up one morning to find that the sun has not risen. When she comes back with a van to collect her cherished wardrobe, he is forced to reveal his extraordinary secret.
Phil ...... Marshall Lancaster
Lisa ...... Lorraine Coady
Directed by Kate Chapman.
TUE 15:00 Making History (b009q4wy)
Murmansk Mutiny
The Murmansk Mutiny
Alan Wenham contacted Making History after discovering that his grandfather, Leonard, served in the Royal Marines at around the time at around the time of the Murmansk Mutiny of 1919. Could Leonard have been involved? Making History consulted Major (Retired) Mark Bentinck, the Royal Marines historian, at the Naval Historical Branch.
TUE 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009psnp)
What I Learned from the Metaphysical Poets
Get Lost
WHAT I LEARNED FROM THE METAPHYSICAL POETS: continuing our series of short stories inspired by the lives and work of the seventeenth century poets John Donne, George Herbert and Andrew Marvell.
"GET LOST" by Michéle Roberts, read by Joanna Tope.
George Herbert's poem "Prayer" provides the inspiration for tonight's story, in which a woman - grieving the death of her mother - walks for miles through the empty Sunday streets of London, before coming to rest in All Saints Place, a peaceful public garden surrounded by a square of eighteenth century houses.
Michéle Roberts is the author of twelve highly acclaimed novels, including DAUGHTERS OF THE HOUSE which won the WHSmith Literary Award and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize (1992). Half-English and Half-French, she is an acclaimed poet and short story writer with several collections of both in print.
Produced by Kirsteen Cameron.
TUE 15:45 Inheritance (b0080w71)
Byron's Gondolier
James Maw presents a series on life-changing inheritances. 2/5: Byron's Gondolier. Claudia discovered that a ring belonged to a distant ancestor who was Lord Byron's manservant.
TUE 16:00 Word of Mouth (b009q4x0)
Michael Rosen presents the series that takes a close look at the words we use, where they come from and how we play with them. He investigates why we sometimes find it hard to say what we mean or mean what we say.
TUE 16:30 Great Lives (b009s75h)
Series 15
Charles Bukowski
Series of biographical discussions with Matthew Parris.
Writer and comedy star Rhona Cameron champions Charles Bukowski, citing the enormous influence his writing had on her adolescence.
TUE 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009pyct)
8th April 1968
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.
Hanoi and Washington enter into talks, a Boeing 707 plane crashes at Heathrow and archaeological excavations at Silbury Hill commence.
TUE 17:00 PM (b009pycw)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including at
5.57pm Weather.
TUE 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009pycy)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
TUE 18:30 Ed Reardon's Week (b008crmm)
Series 4
The Wrong Fleece
Ed has had the kind of idea a writer gets perhaps once in a lifetime. Unfortunately, he can't remember where he put it. Stars Christopher Douglas. From November 2007.
TUE 19:00 The Archers (b009q1vm)
Aware that Nic gave up her home and benefits to move in with him, Will tries to give her some money. Nic reminds him that she never wanted his money but she wants to get something straight. She's sorry she hit George. Maybe she wasn't as understanding as she is with her own children but it had genuinely never happened before, no matter what anybody says. She realises that but it's too late now. Will's touched when she gives him a birthday present for George.
Kathy talks things through with Jacqui, who thinks there are similarities which are good for the prosecution. Having heard Claire's evidence, Kathy's glad she didn't fight back when Taylor raped her.
Kenton believes Sid's a strong witness but Pat's worried he might believe in Kathy just a bit too passionately.
Sid's anxious about giving evidence but states categorically that he knows Kathy well enough to know everything she's said is true. Under cross-examination Sid admits to hitting Taylor, insisting he just wanted him out of the village. The defence laywer questions whether Sid's too fond of Kathy to consider that Taylor might be innocent? Her final question leaves Sid with no option but to agree that Taylor never admitted to committing this rape.
Episode written by Mary Cutler.
TUE 19:15 Front Row (b009q1vp)
Arts news and reviews with Mark Lawson, including an interview with George Clooney, whose new film Leatherheads is set in the world of American football in the 1920s.
TUE 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009q1vr)
Lucia's Progress
Episode 2
EF Benson's classic comedy, dramatised by John Peacock. 2/5: With Mapp and Lucia running against each other in the council elections, loyalties are divided.
TUE 20:00 Tax Me If You Can (b009q4x2)
Allan Urry visits Liechtenstein, a tiny Alpine principality currently reeling from the unwelcome attentions of tax authorities in Germany and Britain.
TUE 20:40 In Touch (b009q4x4)
Peter White with news and information for the blind and partially sighted.
TUE 21:00 Case Notes (b009q4x6)
Herpes Viruses
Dr Mark Porter investigates health issues of the day.
TUE 21:30 On the Ropes (b009q4wp)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
TUE 21:58 Weather (b009q2ns)
The latest weather forecast.
TUE 22:00 The World Tonight (b009q2nv)
With Robin Lustig. Including reports on the continuing credit crisis, calls for US troop withdrawal from Iraq to be frozen and why food riots are spreading around the world.
TUE 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009q2nx)
Mister Pip
Episode 7
Mister Pip, by Lloyd Jones. 7/10: After his wife's death, Mr Watts continues with his project to help the children save their fragments of Pip's story.
TUE 23:00 The Arts and How They Was Done (b00777b4)
How Puccini Done Madame Butterfly
The National Theatre of Brent reveals mysteries behind the tragic opera. Stars Patrick Barlow. From May 2007.
TUE 23:30 Ruth Rendell's The Fever Tree (b007715d)
The Dreadful Day of Judgement
Series of murderous crime thrillers, dramatised by Yvonne Antrobus. 2/3: The Dreadful Day of Judgement. Three lost souls find themselves clearing up an abandoned graveyard.
WEDNESDAY 09 APRIL 2008
WED 00:00 News and Weather (b009pmqq)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
WED 00:30 Book of the Week (b009ppjj)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Tuesday]
WED 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009pmqs)
The latest shipping forecast.
WED 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009pmqv)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at
5.20am.
WED 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009pmqx)
The latest shipping forecast.
WED 05:30 News Briefing (b009pmqz)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
WED 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009pmr1)
Daily prayer and reflection from Wales with Rev Craig Gardiner.
WED 05:45 Farming Today (b009pmr3)
News and issues in rural Britain with Charlotte Smith.
WED 06:00 Today (b009pmr5)
With James Naughtie and Evan Davis. Including Sports Desk at
6.25am,
7.25am,
8.25am; Weather at
6.05am,
6.57am,
7.57am; Thought for the Day at
7.48am.
WED 09:00 Midweek (b009q5t4)
Lively and diverse conversation.
WED 09:45 Book of the Week (b009ppjl)
Kate Summerscale - The Suspicions of Mr Whicher
Episode 3
Deborah Findlay reads from Kate Summerscale's account of a Victorian murder case that gripped the nation.
3/5. Whicher's prime suspect Constance Kent is brought before the judge at Temperance Hall to face questions about the murder of her younger brother Saville. After a convincing performance by her defence team, Whicher's case seems to be crumbling. With the release of both Constance and the local police's suspect, nursemaid Elizabeth Gough, the truth seems as elusive as ever.
WED 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009pq90)
The life of poet Joan Easdale; Sexism in the City
Celia Robertson on her grandmother, the poet Joan Easdale. Plus, wildlife artist Pollyanna Pickering, and the challenge of tackling sexism in the city.
WED 11:00 Document (b008px3n)
Operation Safe Haven
Operation Safe Haven: In 1948, a representative of the airline KLM asked Swiss police to ease travel restrictions for Germans travelling to Argentina. Mike Thomson investigates.
WED 11:30 No Commitments (b016c7c0)
Series 9
Ill of the Dead
There is a death in the family and the ripples from Victoria's insecurities flow outward. With Angela Thorne. From January 2003.
WED 12:00 You and Yours (b009pr71)
Consumer news and issues with John Waite and Sheila McClennon.
WED 12:57 Weather (b009pr73)
The latest weather forecast.
WED 13:00 World at One (b009pr75)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.
WED 13:30 The Music Group (b009q6tc)
Series 2
Episode 1
Comedian, broadcaster and GP Dr Phil Hammond asks each of three guests to play the track of their choice for the delight or disdain of the others.
Poet Benjamin Zephaniah, writer Lynn Barber and comedian Arthur Smith discuss such diverse subjects as a musical desire to sleep with common people and a joyful Parisian explosion.
WED 14:00 The Archers (b009q1vm)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Tuesday]
WED 14:15 Drama (b007712j)
Hard Frosts in Florence
Hard Frosts in Florence: By David Pownall, specially written for the late Paul Scofield. A troubled Michelangelo returns to Florence to view his statue of David for the last time.
WED 15:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b009phv0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:00 on Sunday]
WED 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009rhjz)
What I Learned from the Metaphysical Poets
Instant Fires
WHAT I LEARNED FROM THE METAPHYSICAL POETS: continuing our series of short stories inspired by the lives and work of the seventeenth century poets John Donne, George Herbert and Andrew Marvell.
"INSTANT FIRES" by Joe Dunthorne, read by Jessica Harris.
Young novelist Joe Dunthorne's short story brilliantly evokes the preoccupations of seventeen year old Anna. Blazing with the confidence of youth - and the burgeoning instincts of the woman she will become - Anna is bemused by the attention paid to her by her English teacher, Mr Ashford. but not so distracted that she fails to notice the Head Boy's attempts to woo her using updated lines from Andrew Marvell's poem "To His Coy Mistress": "Girl, I'm thinking a half-term on your thighs, double maths on your neck, a lunch-hour to each of your teeth."
Produced by Kirsteen Cameron.
WED 15:45 Inheritance (b0081fkd)
Matthew's Tank
James Maw presents a series on life-changing inheritances. 3/5. Matthew's Tank. Matthew Kiln bought a Second World War tank and took it to Normandy in memory of his father.
WED 16:00 Thinking Allowed (b009q6tf)
Pets as Kin - India and Spirituality
PETS AS KIN
Researchers looking into people’s support groups and family networks were surprised to find that people kept mentioning their pets; twenty three per cent of the participants put their pets as part of the network of ‘people’ who helped them out. Professor Nickie Charles is co-author of a paper My Family and Other Animals. Pets as Kin; she explains the recent findings about the relationship between the British and their pets.
INDIA and SPIRITUALITY
India is one of the world’s fastest growing economies, with burgeoning cities and modernising technology. Perhaps surprisingly religion is growing as well. Laurie Taylor is joined by Professor Meera Nanda the author of a new book entitled God and Globalisation in India and Professor Nigel Harris, author of The Return of Cosmopolitan Capital to discuss the apparent paradox of the simultaneous rise of scientific modernity and traditional religiosity.
WED 16:30 Case Notes (b009q4x6)
[Repeat of broadcast at
21:00 on Tuesday]
WED 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009pyd0)
9th April 1968
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.
Martin Luther King's funeral takes place. Dubcek's Czechoslovakian government publish their statement of intent. Labour details the forthcoming Race Relations Bill and a glass car is seen on the streets of London.
WED 17:00 PM (b009pyd2)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including Weather at
5.57pm.
WED 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009pyd4)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
WED 18:30 Look Away Now (b009q6th)
Series 2
Episode 2
Garry Richardson presents a topical sports comedy show. With Laurence Howarth, Richie Webb, Dave Lamb, Mark Evans, Katherine Jakeways and special guests.
WED 19:00 The Archers (b009q1w0)
Pat explains the court procedures to Nigel while Kenton's giving his evidence. Nigel can't wait to get it over with. They make small talk, discussing Abbie's homecoming and Lewis doing the plans for Mike's conversion.
Kenton gives the prosecutor a clear account of his relationship with Kathy, and how she eventually told him what had happened to her. The defence makes out the change in Kathy's behaviour was due to Kenton leaving her to visit his ex-wife but Kenton strongly denies this and defends Kathy.
Pat tells the prosecution how badly Kathy was affected by the rape, and explains that Taylor had left her in such a terrible state she couldn't even seek justice. Pat then responds strongly to the tough defence questioning to justify why Kathy has now found the strength to come forward - to help another woman.
Kenton's impressed with Pat's evidence. If Nigel's as good as her, there'll be nothing to worry about. But Nigel finds it hard going with the defence questioning. He just hopes the prosecution do to Taylor what the defence has done to them.
Episode written by Mary Cutler.
WED 19:15 Front Row (b009q1vw)
Arts news and reviews with Mark Lawson.
WED 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009q1vy)
Lucia's Progress
Episode 3
EF Benson's classic comedy, dramatised by John Peacock. 3: As the Mapp-Flints fall on hard times, Lucia offers a solution and finds herself caught up in an archeological discovery.
WED 20:00 Bringing Up Britain (b009q6tk)
Series 1
Episode 2
Mariella Frostrup hosts a debate about parenting with families, experts and policy-makers. When a teenager's behaviour is out of control is it acceptable to tell him to leave home?
WED 20:45 From Trotsky to Respect (b00b1fk9)
Episode 1
Geoffrey Wall looks at the history of the Socialist Workers Party. 1/2: He talks to members past and present and asks how well a Marxist party is surviving in the 21st century.
WED 21:00 World On The Move: Great Animal Migrations (b009q4wt)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 on Tuesday]
WED 21:30 Midweek (b009q5t4)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
WED 21:58 Weather (b009q2nz)
The latest weather forecast.
WED 22:00 The World Tonight (b009q2p1)
With Robin Lustig. With reports on possible repercussions of further protests against China's Olympics; and how Zimbabwe's neighbours are reacting to delayed election results.
WED 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009q2p3)
Mister Pip
Episode 8
Mister Pip, by Lloyd Jones. 8/10: When the rebel fighters arrive in the village, Mr Watts draws them into the wonderful world of storytelling.
WED 23:00 Poets' Tree (b00slxyx)
Episode 2
Islington poet Paul Hamilton meets a fruit linguist, and visits a young offenders institute to demonstrate the rehabilitative powers of poetry.
Poetry magazine spoof with Kevin Eldon and Stewart Lee.
With Olivia Colman and Peter Serafinowicz.
Producer: Ed Morrish
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2008.
WED 23:15 Dr Pfeffer's Lonely Hearts Club (b00774st)
The Mayor of Lyon
By Jake Oldershaw and Craig Stephens.
A series of late night musical comedies featuring poignant songs of romance, mystery and horror. Enter a strange building down a dark back street and be taken on a journey to meet the enigmatic Dr Pfeffer for a unique rendez-vous.
Doors open onto busy French roads and rejected lovers storm along corridors. Dr Pfeffer is found sitting in a French cafe and his song is a poignant story of a woman longing for love.
The MC ...... Simon Munnery
Dr Pfeffer ...... Jake Oldershaw
Man ...... Saikat Ahamed
Woman ...... Alison Carney
Music composed by Derek Nisbet.
Director Kate Chapman.
WED 23:30 Ruth Rendell's The Fever Tree (b007719q)
Thornapple
Murderous crime thrillers dramatised by Yvonne Antrobus. 3/3: Thornapple. James's interest in poisons is purely scientific. If only everyone else felt the same way.
THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2008
THU 00:00 News and Weather (b009pmr9)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
THU 00:30 Book of the Week (b009ppjl)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Wednesday]
THU 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009pmrc)
The latest shipping forecast.
THU 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009pmrf)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at
5.20am.
THU 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009pmrh)
The latest shipping forecast.
THU 05:30 News Briefing (b009pmrk)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
THU 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009pmrm)
Daily prayer and reflection from Wales with Rev Craig Gardiner.
THU 05:45 Farming Today (b009pmrp)
News and issues in rural Britain with Anna Hill.
THU 06:00 Today (b009pmrr)
With James Naughtie and Sarah Montague. Including Sports Desk at
6.25am,
7.25am,
8.25am; Weather at
6.05am,
6.57am,
7.57am; Thought for the Day at
7.48am.
THU 09:00 In Our Time (b009q7zm)
The Norman Yoke
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss ‘the Norman Yoke’ – the idea that the Battle of Hastings sparked years of cruel oppression for the Anglo Saxons by a Norman ruling class. ‘Norman saw on English oak,On English neck a Norman yoke;Norman spoon in English dish,And England ruled as Normans wish.’Taken from Sir Walter Scott’s novel ‘Ivanhoe’, these words encapsulate the idea of ‘the Norman Yoke’ – that the Battle of Hastings sparked the cruel oppression of Anglo-Saxon liberties by a foreign ruling class. Certainly, William the Conqueror proclaimed his power in great castles and cathedrals, turned the church upside down and even changed the colour of scribal ink. But was it really such a terrible time for the Anglo Saxons or was the idea of beastly Norman oppressors and noble Saxon sufferers invented later to shore up the idea of Englishness? With Sarah Foot, Regius Professor of Ecclesiastical History at Christ Church, Oxford; Richard Gameson, Professor in the Department of History at Durham University; Matthew Strickland, Professor of Medieval History at the University of Glasgow.
THU 09:45 Book of the Week (b009ppjn)
Kate Summerscale - The Suspicions of Mr Whicher
Episode 4
Deborah Findlay reads from Kate Summerscale's account of a Victorian murder case that gripped the nation.
4/5. Constance Kent confesses to the murder. After a short trial, the death sentence is passed, but Queen Victoria spares her life. It is only after the trial that Constance's motives begin to come to light, and the case is by no means satisfactorily concluded.
THU 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009pq93)
Fertility treatment; Artist Joanna Kane
Why is fertility treatment in the UK 'the least safe in Europe'? Plus, artist Joanna Kane on resurrecting forgotten faces, and what are the pleasures and pitfalls of the home dye?
THU 11:00 Crossing Continents (b009mvj2)
Illegal Logging in the Siberian Taiga
Illegal Logging in the Siberian Taiga: Lucy Ash visits an area in Siberia where the vast forests are being cut down, frequently illegally, to meet China's surging demand for wood.
THU 11:30 1968: It's Not Just about the Music (b009q7zr)
Joe Queenan looks back at 40 years of Rolling Stone magazine. Founded by college drop-out Jan Wenner, who still remains the driving force behind it, the publication became the voice of its generation and has retained its iconic status with later generations.
Joe meets Jan Wenner, still the driving force behin the magazine, and also talks to writers Griel Marcus and Joe Klein.
THU 12:00 You and Yours (b009pr77)
Consumer news and issues with Winifred Robinson and Liz Barclay.
THU 12:57 Weather (b009pr79)
The latest weather forecast.
THU 13:00 World at One (b009pr7c)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.
THU 13:30 Open Country (b009pckw)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:07 on Saturday]
THU 14:00 The Archers (b009q1w0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Wednesday]
THU 14:15 Drama (b009q88s)
Tarzan of the Antirrhinums
Tarzan of the Antirrhinums: Comedy by Lavinia Murray. Tarzan emerges from the bushes and announces that he will save Marx's failing garden centre from financial ruin.
THU 15:00 Questions, Questions (b009q88v)
Stewart Henderson answers those niggling questions from everyday life.
THU 15:27 Radio 4 Appeal (b009pgkx)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:55 on Sunday]
THU 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009psp0)
What I Learned from the Metaphysical Poets
The Tiny and the Light
By Ruth Thomas.
A funny and profound story on the nature of transience and permanence, tonight's story, by the acclaimed poet and novelist Ruth Thomas, takes its inspiration from John Donne's poem "The Blossom".
A week before moving house, Anna finds distraction from packing by arranging and rearranging the furniture in her daughter's doll's house: "procrastination in miniature".
Reader: Cara Kelly
Produced by Kirsteen Cameron.
THU 15:45 Inheritance (b0082c3w)
Nana Quajo the First
James Maw presents a series on life-changing inheritances. 4/5. Nana Quajo the First. TV producer Humphrey Barclay inherited a village in Ghana and became their first white chief.
THU 16:00 Bookclub (b009phv5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:00 on Sunday]
THU 16:30 Material World (b009q88x)
Humans and Crops - Rosalind Franklin
Humans and Crops
How is DNA analysis and radio carbon dating helping bioarchaeologists understand when and where farming first started and the kinds of crops our ancestors grew? Quentin Cooper is joined by Professor Glynis Jones from the Department of Archaeology at the University of Sheffield and by Professor Huw Jones from the National Institute of Agricultural Botany in Cambridge to find out.
Rosalind Franklin
Material World will be shedding light on the woman who has been called by some 'the dark lady of DNA'. It is 50 years since the death of Rosalind Franklin, the woman who made a major contribution to the discovery of the structure of DNA. Quentin meets Nobel laureate Sir Aaron Klug who worked with Rosalind Franklin in the 1950s to discuss her life, legacy and incredible contribution to science and medicine.
THU 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009pyd6)
10th April 1968
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.
The TUC ignores the government pay ceilings and accusations of racism are levelled at London Transport.
THU 17:00 PM (b009pyd8)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including Weather at
5.57pm.
THU 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009pydb)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
THU 18:30 Banter (b009q8m5)
Series 3
Episode 2
Andrew Collins hosts the show in which guests are invited to offer their definitive top threes. Guests include Richard Herring and Russell Howard.
THU 19:00 The Archers (b009q1vt)
Ruth tells David that Jill has ordered Phil's 'light bucket' telescope at last. Fortunately Phil had marked a couple in a catalogue so Jill just picked the most expensive one.
Usha's wearing a beautiful engagement ring. They're planning a harvest wedding at St Stephen's and Rachel has agreed to take the service. Usha's only dread is that nobody will be there, although she hasn't entirely given up hope of Satya coming. Ruth insists the church will be packed with all her friends. Alan plans to tell the congregation at next week's AGM.
It's time for Taylor to take the stand. Taylor's adamant that his relationship with Kathy was above board and the sex was consensual. He's got an excuse for everything - his name changes, how he came back to Ambridge to talk to Kathy to find out why she was spreading this terrible lie, how he always seems to be unlucky in love. The prosecutor works hard to highlight the similarities in Claire and Kathy's circumstances and to wear Taylor down, calling him an inadequate man who preys on vulnerable women. Eventually it seems to work and Taylor loses control. Banging the dock, he shouts out that he hasn't done anything. They're evil lying bitches.
Episode written by Mary Cutler.
THU 19:15 Front Row (b009q1w2)
Arts news and reviews with Kirsty Lang, including an interview with the New Zealand writer Lloyd Jones, whose novel Mister Pip was nominated for the Man Booker Prize last year.
THU 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009q1w4)
Lucia's Progress
Episode 4
EF Benson's classic comedy, dramatised by John Peacock. 4: Lucia reaches the end of her excavations and begins to see the fruits of her political endeavours.
THU 20:00 Investigation (b009q8m7)
Series 4
Episode 3
Simon Cox investigates the drug problem in our prisons. He explores the smuggling techniques used by prisoners, inmates and even prison officers.
THU 20:30 Analysis (b009q8m9)
China's Eco-warrriors
Mukul Devichand meets China's eco-warrriors in Beijing and asks how the rest of the world should understand the significance of their activism.
THU 21:00 Leading Edge (b009q8mc)
Hydrogen Biofuels
Hydrogen biofuels
Geoff Watts examines a revolutionary process announced this week at the American Chemical Society meeting, for converting plant sugars into hydrogen, which could see sugar powered batteries for portable laptops and sugar fuel cells for vehicles within a decade.
Super strong squid beaks
How does the squid without any bones use its sharp tip to rip into prey without hurting itself? Insights into the extraordinary properties of squid beaks could lead to better medical implants and new ways of bonding materials.
The brain circuitry in drug addiction
New research uncovers the type of changes in the brain that occur with repeated use of metamphetamines. The work offers new insights into addiction-related behaviours such as drug craving and relapse. It could have big effects on the way we treat and manage drug addiction to a range of substances in the future.
Phoenix on Mars
As the Phoenix spacecraft – en route to the icy north pole of Mars - nears its journey’s end, Geoff Watts finds out whether this latest probe to visit the red planet, and the first probe to make contact with watery ice, will settle the debate about life on Mars.
THU 21:30 In Our Time (b009q7zm)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
THU 21:58 Weather (b009q2p5)
The latest weather forecast.
THU 22:00 The World Tonight (b009q2p7)
With Mishal Husain. We hear from an award-winning Chinese singing phenomena, and look at the latest developments in the Zimbabwean presidential elections.
THU 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009q2p9)
Mister Pip
Episode 9
Mister Pip, by Lloyd Jones. 9/10: The Rambos have left in the night, leaving the village to wonder what spooked them.
THU 23:00 Look Away Now (b009q6th)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:30 on Wednesday]
THU 23:30 Rocking Scots (b007gsr0)
Episode 1
1/2. Midge Ure returns to his native Glasgow to explore his musical roots, from his tenement upbringing to joining the short-lived boy band Slik in the 1970s. He assesses Scotland's contribution to rock and pop music during the 1960s and 70s, from Lulu to Alex Harvey. Contributors include Maggie Bell, Eddi Reader and Jim Diamond.
FRIDAY 11 APRIL 2008
FRI 00:00 News and Weather (b009pmrt)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
FRI 00:30 Book of the Week (b009ppjn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Thursday]
FRI 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009pmrw)
The latest shipping forecast.
FRI 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009pmry)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at
5.20am.
FRI 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009pms0)
The latest shipping forecast.
FRI 05:30 News Briefing (b009pms2)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
FRI 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009pms4)
Daily prayer and reflection from Wales with Rev Craig Gardiner.
FRI 05:45 Farming Today (b009pms6)
News and issues in rural Britain with Charlotte Smith.
FRI 06:00 Today (b009pms8)
Presented by James Naughtie and Sarah Montague.
Inlcuding:
Will the Serious Fraud Office re-open its criminal investigation into payments by the arms company BAE to Saudi Arabia? Former Attorney General Lord Lyell and Menzies Campbell comment on yesterday's high court ruling.
Could this be the return of Silvio Berlusconi? Europe Editor Mark Mardell reports on the run-up to the Italian elections.
Health Correspondent Adam Brimelow reports on a novel treatment for Alzheimer's disease.
One of Britain's most liberal local papers is publishing ads for the BNP.
Thought for the Day with Chief Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks.
A controversial method of creating DNA profiles has been given the all-clear by experts.
Post offices could affect the outcome of next month's local elections.
US President George W Bush plans to freeze the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq. With UN Special Representative for Iraq Staffan de Mistura.
FRI 09:00 The Reunion (b009pgl9)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:15 on Sunday]
FRI 09:45 Book of the Week (b009ppjq)
Kate Summerscale - The Suspicions of Mr Whicher
Episode 5
Deborah Findlay reads from Kate Summerscale's account of a Victorian murder case that gripped the nation.
5/5. Only in 1928, with the arrival of an anonymous letter from Sydney, do the real events at Road Hill House back in 1860 finally come to light.
FRI 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009pq95)
Forced marriages; Frank Cadogan Cowper's muse
How best to prevent forced marriages and honour-based violence in the UK? Plus, Valerie Tarantolo, Frank Cadogan Cowper's muse, and vibrators in history.
FRI 11:00 Monsieur le Maire (b009q9hl)
Susan Marling meets Ken Tatham, the only English mayor in France, and follows his campaign for re-election.
FRI 11:30 The Casebook of Inspector Steine (b009q9hn)
On the Road
Comedy drama series by Lynne Truss set in 1950s Brighton.
A day out in a singular vintage car turns out to be highly eventful, thanks to a certain cockney charlady.
Inspector Steine ...... Michael Fenton Stevens
Sergeant Brunswick ...... John Ramm
Mrs Groynes ...... Sam Spiro
Constable Twitten ...... Matt Green.
FRI 12:00 You and Yours (b009pr7f)
Consumer news and issues with John Waite and Liz Barclay.
FRI 12:57 Weather (b009pr7h)
The latest weather forecast.
FRI 13:00 World at One (b009pr7k)
National and international news with Shaun Ley.
FRI 13:30 The Message (b009q9hq)
Jenni Murray and guests in conversation about how current media trends affect our lives.
FRI 14:00 The Archers (b009q1vt)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Thursday]
FRI 14:15 Drama (b009q9hs)
Series 1
Mural
by Nick Warburton. Part 2: Mural. In an idiosyncratic restaurant deep in the Fens the ancient proprietor, Warwick, can't help interfering in the kitchen. He is driving his son mad. Until his grandson suggests they give the old man a project.
Warwick Hedges.....Trevor Peacock
Jack Hedges.....Sam Dale
David.....Chris Pavlo
Fay.....Liza Sadovy
Marcia.....Kate Buffery
Zofia.....Helen Longworth
Samuel.....John Rowe
Director Claire Grove.
FRI 15:00 Ramblings (b009q9hv)
Walking through Time
Wales - Cardiff
Walking through Time: Clare Balding explores routes with connections to the past. 3/5: She walks along a stretch of coastline near Cardiff, the site of the proposed Severn Barrage.
FRI 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009psp2)
What I Learned from the Metaphysical Poets
Taken in Shadows
By Helen Dunmore
A painted portrait, depicting the charismatic beauty of John Donne, inspires this short story by a mistress of the form.
Reader: Emma Fielding.
Produced by Kirsteen Cameron.
FRI 15:45 Inheritance (b0084gn7)
A Case of Pickled Penguins
James Maw presents a series on life-changing inheritances. 5/5: A Case of Pickled Penguins. Judy Skelton inherited a book given to her grandfather by Captain Robert Falcon Scott.
FRI 16:00 Last Word (b009q9hx)
Matthew Bannister presents the obituary series, analysing and celebrating the life stories of people who have recently died.
FRI 16:30 The Film Programme (b009q9hz)
In a special edition, Francine Stock follows the production of Mike Leigh's new film Happy-Go-Lucky from the perspective of its producer, Simon Channing-Williams.
FRI 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009pydd)
11th April 1968
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.
Militant German student leader Rudi Dutschke survives an assassination attempt. America's Civil Rights Bill is signed by President Lyndon B Johnson, and the leader of Biafra speaks out.
FRI 17:00 PM (b009pydg)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including Weather at
5.57pm.
FRI 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009pydj)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
FRI 18:30 The Now Show (b009rx9g)
Series 23
Episode 6
Comedy sketches and satirical comments from Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis and the team including Mitch Benn, Laura Shavin and Jon Holmes.
FRI 19:00 The Archers (b009q1w6)
Elizabeth's called by the defence. She answers the questions truthfully and although Kenton's not impressed Kathy thinks she did well under the circumstances. The prosecutor's cross-questioning gives Elizabeth an opportunity to set the record straight. It's almost over. After the judge's summing up, the jury go out and the wait begins. Kathy can't believe that now it just comes down to who the jury believe.
Sid finds Jolene in quite a state. She's talked to Phil and Jill about the trial, not realising that they knew nothing about it. They just thought everyone had gone down as character witnesses - and didn't even know Kenton had gone. They were shocked but, worse than that, they were hurt that Kenton hadn't told them. Sid comforts Jolene, pointing out that it's not her fault, but it's no consolation for her. Jolene wants to warn Kathy and Kenton but Sid doesn't want to disturb them while they're waiting for the verdict.
Kathy calls to say the jury can't reach a verdict today so everyone's been sent home. Kathy's on her way back, but Sid still doesn't think it's the right time to tell her that Phil and Jill know.
Episode written by Mary Cutler.
FRI 19:15 Front Row (b009q1w8)
Arts news and reviews with Kirsty Lang, including a look at the music of Mali-born kora player Toumani Diabate.
FRI 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009q1wb)
Lucia's Progress
Episode 5
EF Benson's classic comedy dramatised by John Peacock. 5/5: Floods hit Tilling and the Mapp-Flints find themselves again at the mercy of Lucia. Georgie makes an unexpected proposal.
FRI 20:00 Any Questions? (b009q9j3)
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs the topical debate from Harrogate. Panellists include Alan Johnson, William Hague, John Sentamu and Shirley Williams.
FRI 20:50 A Point of View (b009q9j5)
Right on the Money
Clive James turns his attention to the Royal Mail’s decision to redesign the coinage. The old coins, he says, did nothing except tell you what they were worth - and what’s the point in that!
FRI 21:00 Friday Drama (b00771nd)
Talking to Strangers
Talking to Strangers: Comedy by Charlotte Jones. A perennially shy man sets himself a challenge - to switch off his mobile phone, disregard his email and put aside his iPod.
FRI 21:58 Weather (b009q2pc)
The latest weather forecast.
FRI 22:00 The World Tonight (b009q2pf)
Robin Lustig reports from Milan ahead of the Italian elections, and Mishal Husain in London has the latest on the Zimbabwean election crisis and a report on food shortages.
FRI 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009q2ph)
Mister Pip
Episode 10
Mister Pip, by Lloyd Jones. 10/10: Matilda has escaped from the war-torn island and is on her way home to her father in Australia.
FRI 23:00 Great Lives (b009s75h)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:30 on Tuesday]
FRI 23:30 Rocking Scots (b007j27y)
Episode 2
2/2. Midge Ure returns to his native Glasgow to explore his musical roots, from his tenement upbringing to joining the short-lived boy band Slik in the 1970s. The 80s and 90s saw a new generation of Scottish artists gain self-confidence in their national identity.
Contributors include Jim Kerr from Simple Minds, Sharleen Spiteri from Texas, Ricky Ross of Deacon Blue and Proclaimers twins Charlie and Craig Reid.