The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
The hopes and fears of childhood unite in the stories Breaking the Pig and Glittery Eyes.
Madeleine Bunting explores our relationship with water - practical, cultural, economic and spiritual. How will we adapt to mounting global anxiety about flood and drought, and how will our relationship with water change in the decades to come?
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.
Jane Little and guests discuss the religious and ethical news of the week.
Barbara Windsor appeals on behalf of the Theodora Children's Trust. Donations: Freepost BBC Radio 4 Appeal. Credit cards: Freephone 0800 404 8144.
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.
The Archbishop of Canterbury is the preacher at this special service based on sayings from St John's Gospel, live from St Dunstan's Church in Canterbury during the Lambeth Conference. Leader: Canon Chris Chivers. Director of Music: James Whitbourn. Organist: Steve Barker.
Kirsty Young's castaway on Desert Island Discs this week is the writer Antonia Fraser. Born Antonia Pakenham, the eldest of eight children, it was while growing up in Oxford that she became fascinated with the past and would make daily trips to the town's library to fuel her passion for history. With seven brothers and sisters it was, she says, "something of mine". Her father, Lord Longford, was a classicist and their lives were rich with interesting visitors like John Betjeman, William Beveridge and Isaiah Berlin. Both her parents stood unsuccessfully as Labour candidates.
An internationally regarded historian, her best-selling books are credited with bringing the past to life, full of painstakingly researched detail and strong narrative. Her first job was in publishing, working for George Weidenfeld and then marrying the Tory MP Hugh Fraser. She wrote the first of her best selling historical biographies, Mary Queen of Scots in 1969 while the mother of six young children - "the little baby enjoyed the sound of the typewriter".
Along with her husband, Nobel Laureate Harold Pinter, she has been at the centre of London's literati for well over 30 years. Her writing is still "place of solitude and a solace".
[Taken from the original programme material for this archive edition of Desert Island Discs]
Favourite track: 3rd Movement of Piano Concerto No. 23 by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Archive editions of the perennial antidote to panel games, broadcast in tribute to Humphrey Lyttelton, who died in April.
Regulars Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden and Tim Brooke-Taylor are joined by Jeremy Hardy, with Humph in the chair and Colin Sell on piano. The show was recorded at the London Palladium on 2 October 2005.
Andrew Jefford investigates the growing popularity and quality of English sparkling wine and finds out how it matches up to its French counterpart champagne. He investigates rumours that the French are buying up English chalky downland on which to plant their own vineyards.
Peter White continues to follow the progress of the 30 youngsters who travelled to Singapore in support of London's Olympic bid.
He focuses on the experiences of competitive swimmers in the capital, who badly need more access to pools. With the closure of the only Olympic-sized racing facility in the region, the lives of those training towards 2012 have become increasingly difficult, involving long journeys to and from training sessions.
Bunny Guinness, Matthew Biggs and John Cushnie answer questions from gardeners in Buckinghamshire.
The series on gardening fundamentals continues with Chris Beardshaw and Anne Swithinbank looking at the second largest plant family which has a massive geographical range - the orchid.
The Yorkshire Dales have starred on both the small and the big screen in a range of productions from All Creatures Great and Small to Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves and Calendar Girls.
Isabel has been married to the handsome and urbane Gilbert Osmond for three years.
Like a sparkling and brilliant jewel, she is part of his collection of beautiful things, but she is about to discover a startling truth.
Isabel Archer ...... Anna Maxwell Martin
Madame Merle ...... Haydn Gwynne
Lord Warburton ...... Robert Bathurst
Mrs Touchett ...... Gayle Hunnicutt
Gilbert Osmond ...... Colin Stinton
Ralph Touchett ...... Paul Venables
Henrietta Stackpole ...... Laurel Lefkow
Caspar Goodwood ...... Corey Johnson
Countess Gemini ...... Barbara Barnes
Edward Rosier ...... Nyasha Hatendi
Mother Catherine ...... Joan Walker
Narrator ...... William Hope
Mariella is joined by Orange Prize nominee and Somerset Maugham Prize winner Deirdre Madden, to talk about her new novel Molly Fox’s Birthday. The book centres on a triangular friendship between actress Molly Fox, a nameless narrator and a TV academic, Andrew. What is the reason for the narrator’s anonymity? And what are the challenges of writing about drama?
Despite being out of print for twenty years, The Grass Arena by John Healy has been reprinted as a Penguin Classic. The autobiography covers the period of John Healy’s life when he was living rough, as an alcoholic, in London. John talks to Mariella about his life as a vagrant and how learning chess saved his life. They are also joined by Professor John Sutherland, who wrote about his battle with alcoholism in Last Drink to LA.
It is common for novelists to tackle the world of art, but how easy is it to portray pictures in words? Art critic Richard Cork, and authors Elizabeth Lowry and Patrick Gale explain.
Effectively a creation of the 18th century, poetry was vital in creating a natural language and form of expression as modern Russia forged a separate identity from the old world of the Slavonic church. Pushkin was its first hero and remains the archetype of the brilliant but doomed poet whose quest for the essential truth of his nation and people carries with it fatal consequences.
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago. Preliminary peace talks between Nigeria and breakaway Biafra end inconclusively.
Misha Glenny charts the explosion and growth of international crime in our newly globalised world. He meets members of a crime syndicate in British Columbia who make colossal profits by smuggling hundreds of kilos of marijuana into the United States every year.
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
Carolyn Quinn presents a selection of highlights from the past week on BBC radio.
David's impressed with Pip's stock judging but Pip still wants more practice before the Young Farmers' competition in a fortnight.
Pip's off to Jonathan's to work on their 'Baggy Trousers' dance routine for the charity concert at the end of August. She got the idea from Kenton when he was talking about his and Shula's 80s themed birthday party.
Oliver gives Mike the bad news that he's winding up the business. Mike points out that once the TB is cleared the business is in good shape and the customers love the Guernsey milk. Oliver's mind is made up but he knows it will be hard on Ed and agrees to wait a bit longer before telling him.
Ed and Emma agree they need to tell everyone they're back together. Emma insists Will needs to be the first to know and she needs to be the one to tell him - on her own. They've wasted enough time apart so want to do everything right this time, starting with finding somewhere to live. They know this won't be easy but Ed insists they won't stop looking till they find somewhere. Emma just wants them to be together. For her, that's everything.
Barney Harwood presents the children's magazine. He meets Emily Gravett, author of Little Mouse's Big Book of Fears. The 2008 winner of the Kate Greenaway medal, Emily has created a mouse who is scared of so many things but starts to feel a whole lot better when he discovers that human beings are scared of him.
Stories showcasing new Scottish writing. In Fiona Thackeray's tale, an inmate finds unexpected refuge from prison life when some important guests pay a visit. Read by Gary Lewis.
Matthew Bannister presents the obituary series, analysing and celebrating the life stories of people who have recently died. The programme reflects on people of distinction and interest from many walks of life, some famous and some less well known.
He reports on a property club apparently set up to support buy-to-let investors, which now stands accused of selling over-valued properties that could never attract the rental income promised.
Recent months have seen several allegedly flawed elections in various countries. Are they evidence of a dangerous trend for autocratic regimes to seek legitimacy through the ballot box, or are even bad elections better than none at all? Zareer Masani considers the relationship between voting and other democratic rights and asks if we are too obsessed with elections as the key to democracy.
Reports from behind the scenes at Westminster. Including Bowing out Gracefully: The Brandreth Rules for Standing Down.
Another chance to look back at the events making the news 40 years ago with John Tusa.
Vietnam Peace talks take place in Honolulu. Jane Asher announces that she has split from Paul McCartney. A protest against the Vietnam war erupts into violence in London's Grosvenor Square. An El Al flight is hijacked by three Palestinian militants. After two police officers are shot, there is widespread rioting in Cleveland, Ohio. A man is found crucified on a seven-foot cross on Hampstead Heath.
MONDAY 28 JULY 2008
MON 00:00 Midnight News (b00cq5pz)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
MON 00:15 Thinking Allowed (b00cm9pb)
Bad Medicine - Heritage Miners
BAD MEDICINE
According to Professor David Wootton author of Bad Medicine: Doctors Doing Harm Since Hippocrates, up until the advent and application, in the 19th century, of Joseph Listers’s theories about antiseptic surgery, most doctors and medical practitioners did more harm than good. Laurie Taylor reappraises the history of medicine with historian, Professor David Wootton and medical sociologist, Professor David Armstrong from King’s College, London.
HERITAGE MINERS
Sociologist Bella Dicks talks about her study of the ex-miners who currently entertain and instruct visitors to coal-mining heritage sights.
MON 00:45 Bells on Sunday (b00cpvqw)
[Repeat of broadcast at
05:43 on Sunday]
MON 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5q1)
The latest shipping forecast.
MON 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00cq5q3)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
MON 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5q5)
The latest shipping forecast.
MON 05:30 News Briefing (b00cq5q7)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
MON 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00cq5fd)
Daily prayer and reflection with Canon Patrick Thomas.
MON 05:45 Farming Today (b00cq5q9)
News and issues in rural Britain with Mark Holdstock.
MON 05:57 Weather (b00cq5qc)
The latest weather forecast for farmers.
MON 06:00 Today (b00cq5qf)
Presented by Nick Robinson and Evan Davis.
Including:
John Prescott, Harriet Harman and Jack Straw have all come out in support of Gordon Brown, but is a coup on the cards? Vicky Young reports.
More than a third of people in the UK think the government is most to blame for high fuel prices, according to a poll for the BBC's Panorama. With Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks.
The singing telegram is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Dr Mike Jones of Liverpool University and Gillian Hardie, owner of Dial a Diva, discuss why the idea has lasted so long.
Thought for the Day with Rabbi Lionel Blue.
A BBC investigation has uncovered evidence that nearly 50 women identified as typhoid carriers were locked up in a mental asylum in Surrey between 1907 and the 1990s. Angus Stickler reports.
The pier at Weston-super-Mare in Somerset is on fire. Steph Mounsey from the Avon Fire and Rescue Service reports on efforts to save it. Tim Phillips, chairman of the National Piers Society, explains its importance.
NASA is 50 years old. Historian Piers Bizony and astronomer Heather Couper discuss the organisation's triumphs and failures.
At least 16 people have been killed and 154 wounded in two explosions in the Turkish city of Istanbul in an apparent terrorist attack. With Fadi Hakura, an analyst at Chatham House.
Sushi, chocolate and a new haircut could help beat depression, a new book suggests. Prof Jane Plant and Jane Harris of Rethink discuss what can increase happiness.
The Woodland Trust has bought more than 800 acres of land in Hertfordshire. Sarah Mukherjee reports.
Volunteer holidays are a growing market. Justin Francis of responsibletravel.com and Richard Harvey, who left his job for a year to work in Malawi, discuss working on holiday.
MON 09:00 Our Food, our Future (b00cq600)
Episode 1
Tom Heap examines the global food crisis and its impact on Britain.
Not long ago, we were sitting on top of a butter mountain and surrounded by groaning grain silos. Suddenly, wheat prices are soaring and the rising cost of food is noticeably beginning to hit family budgets. Is this simply an transient blip or the beginning of a dramatic change in the way we view food and the way we eat?
MON 09:30 Top of the Class (b00cq602)
Series 1
Bill Morris
John Wilson meets leading figures in their fields and takes them back to the places and people they left behind but who influenced their later success.
Former Trade Union leader, Lord Bill Morris returns to the car component manufacturer in Birmingham where he began work as an 18 year old in overalls on the factory floor drilling holes in 1954.
John Wilson takes Lord Bill Morris back to the company he worked for in Birmingham for nearly twenty years before he ascended the union ranks to become Britain's first black trade union leader. He is reunited with his then union mentor, Graham Gold and manager Maureen Constantine - both people who Bill regards as instrumental to his later success. Bill first worked in the car manufacturing firm in 1954 as an 18 year old in overalls drilling holes. All the time he was a quietly ambitious man with his eye on greater things. He quite fancied the "white coat" supervisor's job but found success first in the union.
Producer - Sarah Taylor.
MON 09:45 Book of the Week (b00cqcdz)
Crap at the Environment
Episode 1
Comedian Mark Watson reads from his account of his efforts to reduce his carbon footprint.
Mark admits that just over a year ago not only was he blissfully ignorant about the environment, but irritated by all the talk about it. While he didn't actively pollute, drive a huge car or honk the horn at passing wildlife, he had certainly never done anything eco-friendly. Then he saw the error of his ways.
MON 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00cqczh)
Jennie Rooney; Rebecca Lenkiewicz
Jennie Rooney talks about her novel Inside the Whale. Plus, playwright Rebecca Lenkiewicz on Suffragettes; gender equality in Albania; and women's golf.
MON 11:00 A Failure to Provide? (b00c0rsn)
Second and third generation British Asians are facing a new problem of how to care for their elderly parents now that the extended family has split up and become more Anglicised and less traditional. Yasmeen Khan travels around the UK to find out whether culturally specific care services are provided for elderly Asians, and asks whether there is a failure to provide for those whose language, nutritional and religious needs are varied and complex.
MON 11:30 Baggage (b008h4pr)
Series 3
The Regeneration Game
Comedy series by Hilary Lyon, set in Edinburgh.
Caroline's adoption journey stalls when both her social worker Miriam and Fiona's baby April insist on arriving early.
Caroline ...... Hilary Lyon
Fiona ...... Phyllis Logan
Ruth ...... Adie Allen
Roddy ...... Robin Cameron
Gladys ...... June Watson
Nicholas ...... Moray Hunter
Miriam ...... Nicola Grier
Directed by Marilyn Imrie.
MON 12:00 You and Yours (b00cqdz3)
Presented by Carolyn Atkinson and Liz Barclay.
Including:
Patientline, the largest provider of NHS bedside telephones and entertainment, has gone out of business with debts of around 90 million pounds.
Energy prices will continue to rise, pushing thousands of people into fuel poverty and putting manufacturing jobs at risk. According to the report by the House of Commons Business and Enterprise Committee, this is a result of the inefficiency of the UK energy market.
A new report says that the Government needs to rethink its policy on fuel poverty. With Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks and Duncan Sedgewick of the Energy Retail Association.
Ryanair is predicting losses for the first time in 20 years. With travel journalist Simon Calder.
MON 12:57 Weather (b00cqdms)
The latest weather forecast.
MON 13:00 World at One (b00cqdz5)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.
MON 13:30 Round Britain Quiz (b00cqdz7)
2008
Episode 5
Tom Sutcliffe chairs the latest heat of the cryptic general knowledge quiz. Wales take on the South of England.
Questions from Programme 6
Question 1
Wales
Why would a Club sandwich be appropriate for a collaborative 17th century playwright, a reggae star who was the first to scale a British summit, and a controversially-tripped athlete?
Question 2
South of England
In which art museum might you find a man-eating beast, a prolific crime writer, Billy the Kid’s would-be pardoner, and the householder of 62 West Wallaby Street in Wigan?
Question 3
Wales
The link between these three pieces is fundamental. What is it?
Question 4
South of England
In what way does each of the following have two titles?
Question 5 – listener question from Jude Rymer in York
Wales
One was the site of a fictional entrance in an unsuitable receptacle; another saw a departure, following a flight from home late in life. A third was the scene of a weekly romantic assignation; and a group braved the supernatural to stay the night at a fourth. What, and where, are they?
Question 6 – listener question from Sandy Duff in Spain
South of England
Where could you find together: a Commonwealth country consisting of 990 islands; a national park in Southern California; a character in the TV soap Emmerdale who retired to Spain; a James Bond actor; and a champion of consumers and children?
Question 7
Wales
A Christmas number which featured a mystery in a red room; an expert to whom 19th century English goodwives turned on a monthly basis; and the photographer of fashionable society. All successful, yet all losers – why?
Question 8
South of England
A 15th century French murder trial, Rose's wedding in the Sudan which received international attention, and the mass excommunication that provoked a theological dilemma. What's the legal connection?
MON 14:00 The Archers (b00cq524)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Sunday]
MON 14:15 Drama (b00cqdz9)
Goldengrove
Frances Byrnes' story of the relationship between a young working-class girl and the woman who transforms her. Margaret, a spinster, teaches Narn, a city child, how to shake hands firmly, polish silver and identify birds. Most of all, she teaches her how to speak.
Margaret ...... Jill Balcon
Narn ...... Jessica Jolleys
Narn Now ...... Siriol Jenkins
Josie ...... Beccy Alexander
Fred ...... Brendan Charleson
Directed by Kate McAll.
MON 15:00 Alvin Hall's World of Money (b00cpl3r)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:00 on Saturday]
MON 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b00cqgf9)
Nick Walker - The Further Adventures of the First King of Mars
Ninety Seconds of Terror
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the launch of Sputnik Nick Walker was commissioned to write the sci-fi adventure 'The First King Of Mars'.
Now, in five, thrilling, action-packed episodes we continue the story where it left off with our fearless commander, previously employed to head-up the first manned mission to Mars, plummeting towards the planet with no thick atmosphere to slow him down.
Starring Peter Capaldi.
Producer: Karen Rose
A Sweet Talk Production for BBC Radio 4.
MON 15:45 Centre of our World (b008521k)
Birmingham's Irish Club
Prof Carl Chinn visits a cross-section of community centres reflecting the city of Birmingham's ethnic diversity. He hears stories of why people have emigrated to Birmingham and what they make of England's second city.
He visits Birmingham's Irish Club.
MON 16:00 The Food Programme (b00cq31k)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:32 on Sunday]
MON 16:30 Beyond Belief (b00cqgfc)
Ernie Rea explores the place of faith in today's world, teasing out the hidden and often contradictory truths behind the experiences, values and traditions of our lives.
MON 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b00cqgrp)
28th July 1968
With John Tusa. Eldridge Cleaver, civil rights activist, Black Panther and US presidential candidate, makes a speech.
MON 17:00 PM (b00cqgrr)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.
MON 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00cqgrt)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
MON 18:30 Just a Minute (b00cqgrw)
Series 53
Episode 1
Nicholas Parsons chairs the devious word game from the Latitude Festival in Southwold. Panellists are Paul Merton, Clement Freud, Ross Noble and Phill Jupitus.
MON 19:00 The Archers (b00cqh2m)
Will enjoyed the Game Fair yesterday. Adam's interested to hear about it - he's not that clued up on the shoot but knows he needs to be, especially with Brian off on holiday on Friday. After being forced to put Tony in the cricket team last Saturday with disastrous results, Adam also wants Will to play cricket again, but Will's too busy these days. Adam talks about Alice and boys. Will remembers how things were when he and Emma first met. He tells Adam how much better they get on now. When Adam hints at a reconciliation, Will admits it's not out of the question.
Ed breaks the news to Clarrie and Eddie. Clarrie is distraught and blames Emma for everything. She worries about what this will do to William.
Will is stunned by the news. It's the last thing he expected to hear and it takes a while to really sink in. When it does, his worry is what it will do to George. Emma's sorry he takes it so badly and tries to explain why she wanted to tell him face to face. As far as Will's concerned, she's done that now so she might as well just go home.
Episode written by Adrian Flynn.
MON 19:15 Front Row (b00cqhjm)
Presented by Mark Lawson.
Including:
Novelist Justin Cartwright reviews a new West End production of Under The Blue Sky, David Eldridge's award-winning play about three connected love stories, starring Catherine Tate and Chris O'Dowd.
Jason Solomons reviews Mike Myers's latest cinematic creation. The Love Guru is a comedy about a matchmaker whose unique brand of relationship advice is offered up to Jessica Alba and Justin Timberlake.
The Bachelors enjoyed a string of hits during the early 60s. Con and Dec Cluskey, two of the original line-up, talk to Mark about their 50 years in entertainment.
Founded in the 1980s, the Ruthin Craft Centre now has a 4-million-pound building to house exhibitions, artists' studios, a cafe, shop and education centre. Mark talks to Director Philip Hughes, architect Mark Tuff from Sergison Bates and artist Eleri Mills.
MON 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00cqhjp)
Inside the Whale
The Absolute Beginning of Things
Jennie Roonie's tragi-comic tale of two lovers as they look back on their lives that should have been spent together.
As Michael lies mute, memories stir of his London childhood - the dairy where he grew up, the Morse code he learned with his best friend Brendan and the voice of his father which now echoes over his hospital bed. Meanwhile Stevie, newly widowed and struggling to recall her husband's face, finds herself re-living an older love story.
With Penelope Wilton and David Troughton.
Abridged by Penny Leicester.
MON 20:00 Petrov's Dilemma (b00c55vt)
Jonathan Charles hears the story of a man who obeyed his instincts and in doing so potentially saved the world from nuclear disaster.
On 26 September 1983, lieutenant colonel Stanislav Petrov, manning an installation where the Soviet Union monitored its early-warning satellites over the United States, was confronted by an alarm from a satellite signalling an American nuclear missile attack. Under enormous stress, he took the decision that the report was a false one triggered by system malfunction.
Contributors include diplomat Sir Christopher Mayer, KGB colonel and later a defector to the west Oleg Gordievsky, the Times diplomatic editor Michael Binyon and American nuclear weapons expert Paul Bracken.
MON 20:30 Crossing Continents (b00cmb2j)
Haiti
The Caribbean state is one of the poorest countries in the world. Malnutrition, already a widespread problem, has increased in the current climate of soaring food prices. In April, riots led to the sacking of the prime minister. Orin Gordon looks at the ongoing struggle for Haitians to feed themselves.
He also investigates the country's growing problem of kidnappings.
MON 21:00 Life's Soundtrack (b00cqhd2)
Trevor Cox explores how our voice and our hearing develop and change through our lives, from the vague rumblings that first greet us in the womb to our last gasping breath.
MON 21:30 Our Food, our Future (b00cq600)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
MON 21:58 Weather (b00cqhjr)
The latest weather forecast.
MON 22:00 The World Tonight (b00cqhjt)
National and international news and analysis with Ritula Shah.
MON 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00cqhhl)
God's Own Country
Episode 1
Matt Smith reads from Ross Raisin's compelling and disturbing tale of adolescence on the edge, set on the Yorkshire Moors.
Sam watches the arrival of a new family from London as they move into the farmhouse next door. His attention is particularly caught by the young daughter. Despite his parents' warnings, Sam can only keep his distance for so long.
MON 23:00 Word of Mouth (b009twrc)
Peggy Reynolds presents the series that takes a close look at the words we use, where they come from and how we play with them.
MON 23:30 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.
TUESDAY 29 JULY 2008
TUE 00:00 Midnight News (b00cq5fj)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
TUE 00:30 Book of the Week (b00cqcdz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Monday]
TUE 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5fl)
The latest shipping forecast.
TUE 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00cq5fn)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
TUE 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5fq)
The latest shipping forecast.
TUE 05:30 News Briefing (b00cq5fs)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
TUE 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00cq5fv)
Daily prayer and reflection with Canon Patrick Thomas.
TUE 05:45 Farming Today (b00cq5fx)
News and issues in rural Britain with Anna Hill.
TUE 06:00 Today (b00cq5fz)
Presented by Nick Robinson and Evan Davis.
Including:
The Foreign Office has admitted a serious breach of security following the theft of 3,000 blank passports and visas in transit from Manchester to London. Treeva Fenwick reports. Tom Craig of information security company Amarlis explains how the theft could have happened
Barack Obama has returned home following his world tour and is preparing for the battle with John McCain. North America editor Justin Webb discusses the campaign trail as it enters the home straight.
Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Chris Grayling is to give a speech in Liverpool on social division and inequality. He discusses whether the Conservatives can be the party for equality.
Britain's frog population is suffering from two catastrophic diseases. Zoologists are keen to find out more and want people to log reports of dead frogs. Dr Andrew Cunningham of London Zoo explains what they want to find out.
Thought for the Day with Anne Atkins, novelist and columnist.
Chancellor Alistair Darling announced a review of the mortgage market on April 9. Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesman Vince Cable and Sir George Cox, formerly of mortgage lender Bradford and Bingley, discuss how the market can recover.
A medical student with dyslexia is taking legal action against the General Medical Council to change the way doctors are trained. Angus Crawford reports.
Could next month's Olympics in Beijing risk being a fun-free zone? The number of overseas visitors has plummeted due to tighter visa rules and heightened security, while bars and restaurants have tighter restrictions on opening hours. Correspondent Quentin Sommerville reports.
TUE 09:00 The NHS at 60: The Cost of Health (b00cm9kv)
Who Pays? The Financial Future of the NHS
BBC health correspondent Branwen Jeffreys presents a series of debates as the NHS marks its sixtieth anniversary.
The idea of a health service free to all has been the cornerstone of the NHS. We are spending more than ever, but the expectations of healthcare and the costs of providing it are continually rising. Can these be met out of taxation, or will patients who can afford it increasingly top up their care? How much longer can the founding principles of the NHS remain intact?
TUE 09:45 Book of the Week (b00cq77b)
Crap at the Environment
Episode 2
Comedian Mark Watson reads from his account of his efforts to reduce his carbon footprint.
Mark has calculated his carbon footprint and is horrified. He decides to admit his shortcomings and set up an organisation to attract similarly incompetent but willing people to join him in taking the first halting steps to improve their act.
TUE 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00cqcrf)
Sa Dingding; Rachel Lomax
China's biggest pop star Sa Dingding talks about her career. Plus, former Deputy Governor of the Bank of England Rachel Lomax on the British economy.
TUE 11:00 World On The Move: Great Animal Migrations (b00cqhm6)
Philippa Forrester and Brett Westwood present the series following the movement and migration of animals across the planet, from the European eel to the African white-eared kob antelope. A team of wildlife specialists are joined by zoologists and conservationists around the world to present regular reports.
Including the last of three reports from Alaska as the sockeye salmon reach their spawning ground and complete their epic migration.
TUE 11:30 Movie Outcasts: The Making of Easy Rider (b00cqhm8)
Micky Dolenz explores how two producers, hot from the success of The Monkees TV series, kick-started an artistic renaissance in Hollywood with their counter-culture movie about two hippie bikers riding across America.
Contributors include Peter Tork, Jim Frawley, Steve Blauner, Henry Jaglom, Karen Black, Roger McGuinn, Donn Cambern and Peter Bogdanovich.
TUE 12:00 You and Yours (b00cqdkg)
Call You and Yours
Presented by Liz Barclay and Peter White.
What makes a good doctor?
The Government is pushing ahead with what is being described as the biggest shake-up in the medical profession for 150 years. Every one of Britain's 150,000 doctors will face a five-yearly performance check as well as annual appraisals.
With guests:
Dr Sarah Jarvis, RCGP
Dr Jonty Heaversedge, GP
Joyce Robins, Patient Concern
Dr Neil Bacon, Creator of iwantgreatcare.org
Hamish Meldrum, British Medical Association
Professor Parveen Kumar.
TUE 12:57 Weather (b00cqdmv)
The latest weather forecast.
TUE 13:00 World at One (b00cqdkj)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.
TUE 13:30 Page to Performance (b00cqhmb)
Series 2
Delius's Cuckoo
Lowri Blake explores the history of well-known pieces of music.
On Hearing The First Cuckoo in Spring by Frederick Delius is considered a perfect evocation of a spring morning in England. However, Delius composed it in France, was the son of German parents although born in Bradford, and adapted a Norwegian folk tune to provide the sublime melody that runs through the piece. Contributors include conductor David Lloyd-Jones and composer Anthony Payne.
TUE 14:00 The Archers (b00cqh2m)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Monday]
TUE 14:15 Drama (b008crmn)
The Tyger Hunt
Lavinia Murray's play imagines a surreal day in the life of the young William Blake. With a runaway tiger on the loose, William is out with his sketch pad to capture the magic of a truly enchanting and extraordinary afternoon.
William ...... Barney Clark
Mrs Blake/Mary Capper/Smock race runner ...... Pippa Haywood
Mr Blake/Broadsheet yeller/Innkeeper ...... David Fleeshman
Tol Tiddle Doll/Matchsyick seller ....... Jonathan Keeble
Ann Capper/Corncutter ...... Kathryn Hunt
Dog/Drunk/Bellows mender ...... Seamus O'Neill
Music consultant: Philip Tagney.
Directed by Pauline Harris.
TUE 15:00 Home Planet (b00cr57f)
Richard Daniel and the team discuss listeners' questions about the environment and the natural world.
TUE 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b00cqfym)
Nick Walker - The Further Adventures of the First King of Mars
The Shadow of a Volcano
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the launch of Sputnik, Nick Walker was commissioned to write the sci-fi adventure 'The First King Of Mars'.
'Mars Twenty' has landed. And it wasn't pretty.
Nick Walker's theatre work has been presented extensively in the UK as well as Europe, and the USA. His plays and short stories are often featured on BBC Radio 4 and 3 series of the late-night show The Bigger Issues. He is the author of two critically acclaimed novels Blackbox and Helloland, published in the UK, US, Australia, Japan and across Europe.
Performed by Peter Capaldi.
Producer: Karen Rose
A Sweet Talk Production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 15:45 Centre of our World (b008dpss)
Birmingham's Polish Centre
Prof Carl Chinn visits a cross-section of community centres reflecting the city of Birmingham's ethnic diversity. He hears stories of why people have emigrated to Birmingham and what they make of England's second city.
He visits Birmingham's Polish Centre.
TUE 16:00 Law in Action (b00cr57h)
A Legal Right to Food?
Clive Coleman takes his weekly look at legal issues. He asks if there can be a right to food and how might such a right be enforced.
TUE 16:30 A Good Read (b00cqhmd)
Tracy-Ann Oberman and Shaun Ley
Sue MacGregor and her guests- actress, Tracy Ann Oberman and BBC journalist, Shaun Ley - discuss favourite books by Gustave Flaubert, Aldous Huxley and David McKie.
Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert, tr. Geoffrey Wall
Publisher: Penguin Classics
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
Publisher: Vintage
Jabez: The Rise and Fall of a Victorian Rogue by David McKie
Publisher: Atlantic Books
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2008.
TUE 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b00cqgnq)
29th July 1968
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago. The BBC screens the futuristic drama The Year of the Sex Olympics, which predicts the advent of reality TV.
TUE 17:00 PM (b00cqgns)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news, presented by Eddie Mair.
TUE 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00cqgnw)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
TUE 18:30 Safety Catch (b00fn9d1)
Series 1
Whatever Happened to the Unlikely Lad?
Arms dealer Simon dreads his school reunion, but could he be the coolest kid in class?
Starring Darren Boyd as Simon McGrath.
Laurence Howarth’s black comedy of modern morality. Simon is essentially a nice man who also happens to be an arms dealer.
With:
Joanna Page
Lewis MacLeod
Sarah Smart
Brigit Forsyth
Nicholas Boulton
Producer: Dawn Ellis
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2007.
TUE 19:00 The Archers (b00cqh2p)
Eddie's surprised to learn that Joe had talked to Ed about his relationship with Emma. Joe defends the advice he gave, and points out how lucky he and Eddie have been. Eddie accepts the situation but tells Joe he'll need help to make Clarrie see things aren't as bad as she thinks.
Mildred fancies a last visit to Lower Loxley in the trap. They have a great time but Joe's desperate to get Mildred on her own for long enough to ask her if she'll come back at Christmas. Nigel unwittingly keeps Mildred's attention elsewhere and saves her from having to explain why that would be impossible.
Chris is getting flustered ahead of tomorrow's farrier exam. He's not too worried about the practical, but is concerned about the discussion afterwards. Neil and Susan are more concerned to learn about Emma and Ed. Susan thinks Emma's made the worst possible choice but starts to see how things might be different this time. Eventually Susan wonders if maybe they've both changed enough to make a go of it. If they're sensible maybe it'll be all right, and Emma will be happy. She asks Neil what he thinks. He's happy to go along with Susan.
Episode written by Adrian Flynn.
TUE 19:15 Front Row (b00cqh2r)
Presented by Mark Lawson.
Including:
As Alistair McGowan and Connie Fisher open in Neil Simon's musical They're Playing Our Song, they discuss Maria, impressions and the pitfalls of musical theatre.
Michael Portillo announces the long list of 13 books for this year's Man Booker prize.
Pianist and singer Buddy Greco has worked with artists of the calibre of Frank Sinatra and Benny Goodman and recorded countless hit versions of classic songs. He discusses why he doesn't want to retire, working with Sinatra and playing to casino audiences.
Early one morning in August 1974, a young Frenchman achieved his dream of tightrope-walking on a cable he illegally rigged between the tops of the Twin Towers in New York. Using archive footage, a new documentary Man On Wire follows Philippe Petit's eight months of planning through to the daring execution and its aftermath. Documentary maker Jane Treays gives her verdict on the film.
TUE 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00cqh2t)
Inside the Whale
In Sickness and in Health
Jennie Roonie's tragi-comic tale of two lovers as they look back on their lives that should have been spent together.
Despite lying mute in his hospital bed, Michael is determined to communicate at least part of his story to Anna, the young health care assistant who comes to tend to him. Installed in her daughter's spare room, Stevie is thinking of her mother Viv and the story of her unsuspecting marriage to the wrong man.
With Penelope Wilton and David Troughton.
Abridged by Penny Leicester.
TUE 20:00 How Crime Took on the World (b00cqhmg)
Episode 2
Misha Glenny charts the explosion and growth of international crime in our newly globalised world.
He investigates cigarette smuggling, visiting Belgrade and Montenegro before following a favoured route for contraband through Italy to Brussels. He examines allegations that the tobacco industry is complicit in the illegal trade.
TUE 20:40 In Touch (b00cr57k)
Peter White with news and information for the blind and partially sighted.
TUE 21:00 Case Notes (b00cr57m)
Physical Pain
Dr Mark Porter investigates health issues of the day.
He reports on the latest findings about the experience of physical pain. By doing real-time scanning of the brain, researchers can see where pain is experienced. The hope is that this understanding will lead to new treatments for pain, which could be either drugs or psychological. Mark also talks to doctors who are developing new ways of assessing how much pain babies are experiencing when they are ill or undergoing medical procedures.
TUE 21:30 The NHS at 60: The Cost of Health (b00cm9kv)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
TUE 21:58 Weather (b00cqhhg)
The latest weather forecast.
TUE 22:00 The World Tonight (b00cqhhj)
National and international news and analysis with Robin Lustig. Including world trade talks collapse, new hope for Alzheimer's treatment, and a final push against al-Qaeda in Iraq.
TUE 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00cr5nd)
God's Own Country
Episode 2
Matt Smith reads from Ross Raisin's compelling and disturbing tale of adolescence on the edge, set on the Yorkshire Moors.
Sam's first attempt to make the acquaintance of his new neighbours ends in disaster when he forgets to warn them to check his gift of wild mushrooms for maggots. He is also worried that they will find out about about his troubled past, in particular about the incident with Katie Carmichael. But a chance meeting renews his hopes of friendship with the daughter.
TUE 23:00 Quote... Unquote (b00cr57p)
Nigel Rees chairs the popular quiz involving the exchange of quotations and anecdotes.
TUE 23:30 The Pain of Laughter: The Last Days of Kenneth Williams (b009twr5)
Episode 2
Rob Brydon explores the complex character of Kenneth Williams, a gifted and articulate performer at odds with his public persona. Intimate friends offer a revealing insight into how Williams spent his last days exploring the mystery surrounding his death. Four main beneficiaries of Kenneth's will speak candidly about the man they knew and loved.
Contributors include Gyles Brandreth, Michael Whittaker, Michael Anderson, Peter Cadley, Robert Chidell, Paul Richardson and Angela Chidell.
WEDNESDAY 30 JULY 2008
WED 00:00 Midnight News (b00cq5g1)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
WED 00:30 Book of the Week (b00cq77b)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Tuesday]
WED 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5g3)
The latest shipping forecast.
WED 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00cq5g5)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
WED 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5g7)
The latest shipping forecast.
WED 05:30 News Briefing (b00cq5g9)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
WED 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00cq5gc)
Daily prayer and reflection with Canon Patrick Thomas.
WED 05:45 Farming Today (b00cq5gf)
News and issues in rural Britain with Charlotte Smith.
WED 06:00 Today (b00cq5gh)
Presented by Nick Robinson and James Naughtie.
Including:
International trade negotiators have expressed their disappointment at the failure of the latest talks in Geneva aimed at liberalising global trade. With Jim O'Neill from Goldman Sachs.
The musical Gigi is being revived in London for the first time in more than 20 years. Arts correspondent Rebecca Jones interviews Topol and Millicent Martin, both in their seventies, who are teaming up for the show.
Thought for the Day with Rt Rev James Jones, Bishop of Liverpool.
Sir John Sulston of the Human Genetics Commission discusses the findings of a government-funded inquiry which states that people who are innocent of any crime should not have their DNA recorded on the national database.
Emoti-bots, which are on display at the Science Museum in London, can relax when you hug them and flinch when you shout. Developers David McGoren and Matt Denton discuss their creations.
Foreign Secretary David Miliband has called for the Labour Party to stop feeling sorry for themselves, enjoy a break, and then find the confidence to make the party's case afresh. EU Commissioner Peter Mandelson discusses the current state of the party.
Riding a bike may be fashionable for the nation's politicians, but parking a bike is banned in selected parts of Westminster due to perceived threats of bombs. John Adams, an expert in risk management, tries to convince the council it is over-reacting.
Richard Blair, George Orwell's son, reads extracts from his father's diaries, which are to be made available online for the first time.
WED 09:00 Midweek (b00crbkx)
Lively and diverse conversation with Hardeep Singh Kohli and guests.
WED 09:45 Book of the Week (b00cq77d)
Crap at the Environment
Episode 3
Comedian Mark Watson reads from his account of his efforts to reduce his carbon footprint.
Mark continues his battle whilst on a comedy tour of Australia, with mixed success.
WED 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00cqcrh)
Midlife crises; Susan Aldworth
Labour deputy leader Harriet Harman on proposed changes to the murder laws. Plus, the differences between male and female midlife crisis; and artist Susan Aldworth on science.
WED 11:00 Cold Case (b00cqhr1)
Episode 2
Penny Marshall examines how advances in science are allowing the police to reopen unsolved cases.
She looks at the problems of revisiting old cases and the issues raised by the latest DNA techniques.
WED 11:30 Cabin Pressure (b00cqhr3)
Series 1
Edinburgh
Sitcom about the pilots of a tiny charter airline for whom no job is too small, but many, many jobs are too difficult.
A very special passenger makes Douglas grovel, Martin crawl, Carolyn frisk and Arthur cry. And drink nail-varnish
Carolyn Knapp-Shappey ...... Stephanie Cole
1st Officer Douglas Richardson ...... Roger Allam
Captain Martin Crieff ...... Benedict Cumberbatch
Arthur Shappey ...... John Finnemore
Mr Birling ...... Geoffrey Whitehead
Philip ...... Adam G Goodwin
Written by John Finnemore
Produced & directed by David Tyler
A Pozzitive production for the BBC
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2008.
WED 12:00 You and Yours (b00cqdkl)
With Carolyn Atkinson and Peter White.
Mark Holdstock reports on how inter-city rivalry can effect the economic growth of our smaller towns and cities.
The Football Association is introducing barriers between spectators and football pitches at junior football matches. The barriers are only ribbons wound around poles, but evidence from limited trials last year showed that the barriers mitigate the problem of pushy parents.
The introduction of traffic wardens to the streets of a Cheshire town is causing much unhappiness.
And the chief executive of the Food Standards Agency Tim Smith talks about the challenges he faces in his new job.
WED 12:57 Weather (b00cqdmx)
The latest weather forecast.
WED 13:00 World at One (b00csjhq)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.
WED 13:30 Off the Page (b00cqhr5)
Winning Ugly
Dominic Arkwright chairs the lively discussion series.
He is joined by prospective MP Wilfred Emmanuel Jones, writer Susannah Jowitt and former rugby international Brian Moore, who played on the losing side in the World Cup Final in 1991 and remains haunted by the event.
WED 14:00 The Archers (b00cqh2p)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Tuesday]
WED 14:15 Bad Faith (b00cqhr7)
Bad Faith
By Peter Jukes.
As a police chaplain, it is Jake Thorne's job to offer counselling and comfort to officers in trouble, victims and young offenders. But Jake is the epitome of a bad priest. He's lost his faith and has decided, as a test for God, to behave appallingly towards those he's supposed to help.
Jake Thorne ...... Lenny Henry
Michael ...... Danny Sapani
Ruth Thorne ...... Jenny Jules
Isaac Thorne ...... Oscar James
Helen ...... Helen Longworth
Denise ...... Rosie Cavaliero
Chantelle ...... Kerri Mclean
Declan ...... Ben Crowe
TJ ...... Daniel Anderson
Barry ...... Edward Clayton
Producer Steven Canny
Executive Producer Simon Elmes.
WED 15:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b00cq3jg)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:00 on Sunday]
WED 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b00cqfyp)
Nick Walker - The Further Adventures of the First King of Mars
A Shocking Discovery
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the launch of Sputnik, Nick Walker was commissioned to write the sci-fi adventure 'The First King Of Mars'.
Leonid's funeral is overshadowed by a shocking discovery.
Nick Walker's theatre work has been presented extensively in the UK as well as Europe, and the USA. His plays and short stories are often featured on BBC Radio 4 and 3 series of the late-night show The Bigger Issues. He is the author of two critically acclaimed novels Blackbox and Helloland, published in the UK, US, Australia, Japan and across Europe.
Performed by Peter Capaldi.
Producer: Karen Rose
A Sweet Talk Production for BBC Radio 4.
WED 15:45 Centre of our World (b008fphx)
West Midlands Yemeni Community Association
Prof Carl Chinn visits a cross-section of community centres reflecting the city of Birmingham's ethnic diversity. He hears stories of why people have emigrated to Birmingham and what they make of England's second city.
He visits the West Midlands Yemeni Community Association.
WED 16:00 Thinking Allowed (b00crbyr)
Punters - Cultural Transfer
PUNTERS
Dr Teela Sanders, Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Leeds, talks about her latest research findings on the complex and unexpected relationships which develop between sex workers and their regular clients.
CULTURAL TRANFER
According to new research, the increasing numbers of Chinese students coming to Britain expect to find themselves in a land of gentle people with good manners and respect, but some of them do not find what they were hoping for. Laurie Taylor is joined by Professor Greg Philo, author of a new survey entitled Cultural Transfer; The Impact of Direct Experience on Evaluations of British and Chinese Societies and by Professor Hugode Burgh, director of the China Media Centre at the University of Westminster, to discuss what China is learning back from Britain.
WED 16:30 Case Notes (b00cr57m)
[Repeat of broadcast at
21:00 on Tuesday]
WED 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b00cqgny)
30th July 1968
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago. The Archbishop of Canterbury disagrees with the Pope's recent ruling against artificial means of contraception.
WED 17:00 PM (b00cqgp0)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.
WED 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00cqgp2)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
WED 18:30 Count Arthur Strong's Radio Show! (b0192t2k)
Series 3
Piddler on the Roof
The showbiz veteran has a mishap, but must the show always go on? Stars Steve Delaney and Sue Perkins. From February 2008.
WED 19:00 The Archers (b00cqh2w)
Ed tells Emma that Clarrie's still unhappy about their reunion. Emma can't believe how upset Will was about it. They want to convince everyone they've done the right thing. Emma's picked up some leaflets about flats so they won't have to worry long about snatching time together away from people. In the meantime they head into Oliver's barn. Ed's plans for the evening can't include The Bull; Fallon's in a real strop. He assures Emma things will get better in time.
Matt's nettled that one of his developments is being delayed by newts; he's got enough worries at the moment. Lilian soothes him with a good malt; she's more interested in a letter from Social Services telling him they've got hold of his original birth certificate. Lilian casually suggests he meet with them next Wednesday. He agrees to ring them, and quietly speculates about the certificate.
On Lakey Hill, Mildred breaks the news to Joe that she has cancer. She's sorry she didn't tell him, but she didn't want to put a shadow over their days; they've grown so close. Joe says now that he knows she's chosen to spend so much of her valuable time with him, it's even more precious.
Episode written by Adrian Flynn.
WED 19:15 Front Row (b00cqh2y)
Presented by Mark Lawson.
Veteran American actress Elaine Stritch returns to the London stage to perform her Tony Award-winning show At Liberty. In a rare interview, the 82-year-old reflects on a life in the theatre, her battle with drink and how she still gets nervous before going on stage after all these years.
The X -Files: I Want to Believe is a new feature film based on the award-winning TV series starring David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. Reunited after a six-year gap, Fox Mulder and Dana Scully tackle the mysterious disappearance of an FBI agent, aided by the visions of a corrupt ex-priest played by Billy Connolly. Director and series creator Chris Carter discusses his update of the original idea.
As Arts Council England publishes the McIntosh review of its controversial funding decisions earlier in 2008, and Ofcom fines the BBC 400,000 pounds for phone-in scandals, Liz Forgan, former managing director of BBC Radio, former director of programmes Channel 4 and now Chair of National Heritage funds, discusses the best way to regulate public bodies.
Andrew Logan is the founder of the Alternative Miss World. His jewelled portraits of Gandhi, Sian Phillips, Zandra Rhodes, Maria Callas and his yoga teacher are included in an exhibition which marks the re-opening of the Ruthin Craft Centre.
WED 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00cqh30)
Inside the Whale
A Dairy and a Shoe-Box
Jennie Roonie's tragi-comic tale of two lovers as they look back on their lives that should have been spent together.
Michael is determined to tell Anna his story. Amongst the linen-backed telecommunications maps of Africa, the ledgers and a pile of old letters, he has found some tattered photographs. Meanwhile, Stevie is feeding bats and remembering Peckham Rye.
With Penelope Wilton and David Troughton.
Abridged by Penny Leicester.
WED 20:00 Moral Maze (b00cqhr9)
Michael Buerk chairs a debate on the moral questions behind the week's news. Melanie Phillips, Claire Fox, Michael Portillo and Clifford Longley cross-examine witnesses.
WED 20:45 Bowing out Gracefully: The Brandreth Rules on Standing Down (b00cqhrc)
Down and Out
Gyles Brandreth examines how political careers end and how to step down while maintaining one's dignity.
He talks to former MPs who have suddenly had to cope with the prospect of unemployment.
WED 21:00 World On The Move: Great Animal Migrations (b00cqhm6)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 on Tuesday]
WED 21:30 Midweek (b00crbkx)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
WED 21:58 Weather (b00cqhhn)
The latest weather forecast.
WED 22:00 The World Tonight (b00cqhhq)
National and international news and analysis with Robin Lustig.
We're live in Turkey after the governing party narrowly survives a ban. Will Radovan Karadzic's trial be completed before the Hague Tribunal's mandate runs out? And is knocking several billion off your currency the best way of stopping hyperinflation?
WED 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00cr5ng)
God's Own Country
Episode 3
Matt Smith reads from Ross Raisin's compelling and disturbing tale of adolescence on the edge, set on the Yorkshire Moors.
When his father sells his favourite pup Sal, Sam has no choice in the matter. Farmers can't afford to be sentimental about their animals. But the girl from a neighbouring farmhouse persuades him that together they can steal Sal back.
WED 23:00 Bespoken Word (b00cqhrf)
Mister Gee presents the performance poetry series, featuring highlights from the Latitude Festival in Suffolk. Performers include the internationally renowned Kat Francois.
WED 23:15 Fabulous (b007m0cd)
Sitcom by Lucy Clarke. With Daisy Haggard, Adam Buxton, Katy Brand, Eve Dallas, Olivia Colman, Jot Davies. Music by Osymyso.
WED 23:30 Crossing Continents (b009ydlq)
Israel Football
David Goldblatt reports from Jerusalem, where the fortunes of local football club Beitar Jerusalem have changed following a takeover by Russian billionaire Arkadi Gaydamak. The club is top of the Israeli league, but the behaviour of its hardcore fans continues to cause trouble.
THURSDAY 31 JULY 2008
THU 00:00 Midnight News (b00cq5gk)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
THU 00:30 Book of the Week (b00cq77d)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Wednesday]
THU 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5gm)
The latest shipping forecast.
THU 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00cq5gp)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
THU 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5gr)
The latest shipping forecast.
THU 05:30 News Briefing (b00cq5gt)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
THU 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00cq5gw)
Daily prayer and reflection with Canon Patrick Thomas.
THU 05:45 Farming Today (b00cq5gy)
News and issues in rural Britain with Anna Hill.
THU 06:00 Today (b00cq5h0)
Presented by Nick Robinson and James Naughtie.
Former Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic is due to be formally charged by the UN war crimes tribunal and has vowed to defend himself, as Slobodan Milosevic did. Steven Kay QC, one of two lawyers put on standby to defend Milosevic, says it should be easier to achieve a prosecution than it was with Milosevic.
A type of medieval calculator celebrated by Chaucer has been saved by the British Museum. Director of the Art Fund David Barrie explains the complications involved in the acquisition.
Thought for the Day: With Rev Roy Jenkins.
Defence solicitors have told the BBC they are concerned that criminals who should face prison are being given cautions and fixed penalties instead. Deputy chairman of the Magistrates' Association John Howson explains the concerns.
Police in Jersey have found partial remains of at least five children at the site of a former children's home. But deputy police chief Lenny Harper thinks it is unlikely a murder inquiry will be opened because experts have been unable to date the remains accurately. Harper, who has been leading the abuse inquiry, speaks to reporter Sanchia Berg.
The BFI is running a Clint Eastwood season where The Good, the Bad and the Ugly will take centre stage. Film critic Derek Malcolm and author Toby Young discuss whether any genre gives us such an insight into the American psyche as the western.
The government has published a consultation on ways to improve how video games are classified. Culture minister Margaret Hodge says the games market has outgrown the classification system.
Glenn Gould was one of the best pianists of the 20th century. American journalist Katie Hafner, who has written a new book him, explains her interest in the eccentric musician.
THU 09:00 Between Ourselves (b00crdsk)
Series 2
Episode 3
Olivia O'Leary presents the series which brings together two people who have had profound and similar experiences, to hear their individual stories and compare the long-term effects on each of their lives.
Yasmin is a British-born Pakistani who has fallen in love with a non-Muslim man. Janet left her husband for a woman. Both have felt huge pressure to keep their relationships secret.
THU 09:30 The Last Post (b00crdsm)
Episode 3
3/5. Mark Stephen explores the effects of changes in the Post Office network for communities around the UK.
THU 09:45 Book of the Week (b00cq77g)
Crap at the Environment
Episode 4
Comedian Mark Watson reads from his account of his efforts to reduce his carbon footprint.
Mark is bemused to discover that his personal crusade has led to his being regarded as some sort of expert. He decides to get his head round some of the facts.
THU 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00cqcrk)
Staycations; Mental health waiting lists
Can staying at home for the holidays really leave you feeling refreshed? Plus, waiting lists for mental health treatments; and women racing drivers at Brooklands.
THU 11:00 Crossing Continents (b00crgsr)
Belarus Youth
Lucy Ash travels to Belarus ahead of parliamentary elections in autumn 2008 to ask the post-Soviet generation where they think their future lies on a country often described as the last dictatorship in Europe. Former collective farm boss Alexander Lukashenka has kept an iron grip on power for the past 14 years in this country sandwiched between Russia and the European Union. After rigged presidential elections in 2006, thousands took to the streets hoping to emulate the bloodless regime changes in neighbouring Ukraine and Georgia. But they failed and the nation still seems stuck in a Communist era time warp. So are young people happy with the status quo or are they paralysed by fear?
THU 11:30 With Great Pleasure (b00cqhtw)
Catherine Bott
Guest performers select their favourite pieces of writing.
Classical singer and broadcaster Catherine Bott shows how writers as diverse as JM Coetzee and Joyce Grenfell have attempted to convey what music means in words. Sharing her deep love of the Archers, the readers are Patricia Greene and Tim Bentinck (Jill and David Archer).
THU 12:00 You and Yours (b00cqdkn)
Presented by Carolyn Atkinson and Peter White.
They have been around in America for years and have even been banned in some states, but pay-day loans companies are gaining a foothold in the UK. We speak to director of Credit Action Chris Tapp and chief executive of the British Cheque Cashers Association Jeff Holland.
The poisons unit at Guys Hospital is closing down, resulting in London being one of the few capitals in Europe without a dedicated poisons information service.
On 6 November 2008, the first TV region will start the conversion from the analogue system to digital. It's happening in the Scottish Borders and preparations are well under way. Will the elderly and vulnerable get the help they need to make the switch?
The honey industry is predicting that English honey with run out on supermarket shelves by Christmas 2008 and not reappear until summer 2009. Why and what can be done to save it? We speak to director of Honey Association and chairman of Rowse Honey Stuart Bailey and Dr Dave Chandler from Warwick University.
We look at the variety of reports about how the credit crunch is affecting the property market. With director of external affairs at the Home Builders Federation John Slaughter, head of member and external relations at the Council of Mortgage Lenders Sue Anderson and chief executive of the National Housing Federation David Orr.
THU 12:57 Weather (b00cqdmz)
The latest weather forecast.
THU 13:00 World at One (b00cqdkq)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.
THU 13:30 Open Country (b00cpl35)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:07 on Saturday]
THU 14:00 The Archers (b00cqh2w)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Wednesday]
THU 14:15 Drama (b00cqhty)
It's Better With Animals
Mike Walker's play is based on three short stories: The Red Fox Fur Coat by Teolinda Gersao, Blue Waltz with Coyotes by Jean Dixon and Pie Dance by Molly Giles.
An elderly proprietor of a fur shop in New York narrates three touching, funny and magical tales of animals, furs, and their impact on three different women.
Shopkeeper/Konrad ...... Russell Horton
Eve/Mom ...... Jennifer Van Dyck
Ellie/Pauline/Cop ...... Laura Dean
Barbara/Karen ...... Tory Wood
Dad/Gerry Mac/Mugger ...... Kevin T Collins
Children ...... Kate Kearns, Maggie Langer, Flora Salmand
Specially composed music by Jon Nicholls.
Directed by Judith Kampfner.
THU 15:00 Lives in a Landscape (b0076swk)
Clapham Mothers
Documentary series telling original stories about real lives in Britain today.
Frances, Arlene and Melissa live in an ordinary south London street near Clapham Common. In between her pre-dawn power exercise, piano lessons, Italian classes, book groups and dog walking, Frances is up to her ears organising the local fete.
THU 15:27 Radio 4 Appeal (b00cq313)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:55 on Sunday]
THU 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b00cqfyr)
Nick Walker - The Further Adventures of the First King of Mars
Take Me to Your Leader
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the launch of Sputnik we commissioned Nick Walker to write the sci-fi adventure 'The First King Of Mars'. Now in five thrilling action-packed episodes we continue the story where it left off.
Our intrepid crew fear that they are not alone on the Red Planet.
Nick Walker's theatre work has been presented extensively in the UK as well as Europe, and the USA. His plays and short stories are often featured on BBC Radio 4 and 3 series of the late-night show The Bigger Issues. He is the author of two critically acclaimed novels Blackbox and Helloland, published in the UK, US, Australia, Japan and across Europe.
Performed by Peter Capaldi
Producer: Karen Rose
A Sweet Talk Production for BBC Radio 4.
THU 15:45 Centre of our World (b008h3xj)
Birmingham Chinese Community Centre
Prof Carl Chinn visits a cross-section of community centres reflecting the city of Birmingham's ethnic diversity. He hears stories of why people have emigrated to Birmingham and what they make of England's second city.
He visits the Birmingham Chinese Community Centre.
THU 16:00 Open Book (b00cq3jl)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:00 on Sunday]
THU 16:30 Material World (b00crgst)
The Secret Seeds of Clouds - 150 Years of Fingerprints
The Secret Seeds of Clouds
Rain clouds and bad weather are the scourge of many a British summer. But where do the grey skies come from and is pollution making them worse? Describing the latest breakthroughs in weather research, Professor Roy Harrison from the University of Birmingham tells Quentin Cooper about witnessing unknown stages of cloud birth for the first time, and how minute particles of pollution can increase cloud cover.
Dr Stephen Dorling from the University of East Anglia takes a wider view and discusses how knowing about air pollution could improve our weather forecasts. But weather can affect pollution too. Could the clouds hold the answer to predicting chemical smog and perfect summer days?
150 Years of Fingerprints
This July sees the 150th anniversary of the first use of fingerprints as a way to uniquely identify a person.
Sir William Herschel (1833 - 1918) was working as Magistrate in India, and he used fingerprints to validate contracts with local people. This began science’s quest to be able to uniquely identify anyone using biological markers.
Quentin Cooper is joined by Dr. Simon Bramble, one of the UK’s leading fingerprint science experts – he is Head of Police Science and Forensics at National Policing Improvement Agency; and by Dr. Peter Gill, co-creator of DNA ‘fingerprinting’ and Senior Lecturer in Forensics at the Centre for Forensic Science, University of Strathclyde. Are fingerprints still up to the mark for solving crimes?
THU 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b00cqgp4)
31st July 1968
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago. The first ever episode of Dad's Army is aired on BBC TV.
THU 17:00 PM (b00cqgp6)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.
THU 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00cqgp8)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
THU 18:30 Fags, Mags and Bags (b012r8dd)
Series 1
January February
The local racists want to put a poster in the corner shop window. Stars Sanjeev Kohli and Donald Cameron. From November 2007.
THU 19:00 The Archers (b00cqh32)
Mike's looking into the possibility of other suppliers for his milk, though he'd really like to stick to Guernseys. He's hoping Oliver might think again about closing the dairy. But when he tells Oliver about Ed's suggestion to deliver other local food to give the rounds a boost, Oliver's adamant - there's no way forward other than winding down the dairy.
Usha's bewailing the state of Alan's furniture to Ruth. They will have two of everything, but she really just wants to keep her stuff and ditch most of his. She only likes his oak table. But he doesn't like her sofa. She has to tell him, but from experience she knows only to mention one or two things at a time.
Roy feels that things are not right with Will, and goes to see him to talk. Sure enough he finds Will full of rage and bitterness about Ed smashing between himself and Emma all over again. He's feeling the full force of the injustice of his brother living with George. Ed's ruined his marriage, and he's going to be George's stepfather. Will feels he won't stop until Will's got nothing left to live for.
Episode written by Adrian Flynn.
THU 19:15 Front Row (b00cqh34)
Presented by Kirsty Lang.
Bridget Kendall reviews ...some trace of her, a new multimedia performance inspired by The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoevsky. Katie Mitchell's adaptation uses a combination of video techniques with cameras operated by the cast live on stage.
Popular but controversial science writer Richard Dawkins discusses his new three-part television series The Genius of Charles Darwin, in which he retraces Darwin's journey and his confrontations with fundamentalists and theologians.
Belarus is growing increasingly repressive, yet there remain pockets of free expression. Lucy Ash reports on the clandestine Belarus Free Theatre, which survives even though its members have been blacklisted, beaten up and jailed, because it has some powerful international friends including Mick Jagger and Vaclav Havel.
When it was discovered that James Frey had made up large parts of his bestselling memoir A Million Little Pieces, the scandal ripped through the international publishing world. He was vilified by his readers, his agent and on national television by Oprah Winfrey. As he publishes his first book since then, a novel, he talks to Kirsty about LA, Oprah and coming back from the publishing wilderness.
THU 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00cqh36)
Inside the Whale
I Only Have Eyes for You
Jennie Roonie's tragi-comic tale of two lovers as they look back on their lives that should have been spent together.
As they approach the end of their lives, both Michael and Stevie are deep in the past, remembering the tender early days of their romance, the Peckham Lido, trips to the cinema, and then the beginning of the war that was to come between them in ways they could not begin to imagine in that heady autumn of 1939.
With Penelope Wilton and David Troughton.
Abridged by Penny Leicester.
THU 20:00 Children of the Olympic Bid (b00cq3jd)
[Repeat of broadcast at
13:30 on Sunday]
THU 20:30 Analysis (b00crn55)
Climate Change: The Quick Fix?
Frances Cairncross investigates geo-engineering, the idea that technology can be developed to cool the world if global warming accelerates. The theory is highly controversial and raises many questions which governments would prefer not to think about. Contributors include US legal expert David Victor of Stanford University, Prof Brian Launder of the University of Manchester and Julian Morris of the International Policy Network.
THU 21:00 Leading Edge (b00crn57)
Endurance-enhancing Drugs
Geoff Watts looks at the top science stories of the week, with Roger Highfield, science editor of the Daily Telegraph.
Endurance-enhancing Drugs
Scientists at Salk Institute in San Diego have created what they believe is the world's first endurance-enhancing drug. Originally created as a treatment for metabolic disease, the compound, when given to running mice, increased their endurance by more than 60 percent. But on the eve of the Olympics, could this research be abused by unscrupulous athletes seeking to gain an advantage?
Where Next for NASA?
NASA celebrated its 50th anniversary this week. Amid safety fears over the Space Shuttle and budget cuts, David Kestenbaum, science correspondent for US National Public Radio, wonders what the future holds for Agency?
Recognising Faces
How was former Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic able to live incognito for so long - even drinking in a bar where his picture was on display - simply by growing a beard? Humans pride themselves on their ability to recognise others' faces. But maybe we aren't as good as it as we think, as Geoff finds out from psychologist Mike Burton from Glasgow University.
Darwinian Architecture
Tracey Logan meets members of a new generation of architects who are embracing the Darwinian laws of natural selection.
Alcoholic Tree Shrews
Some tree shrews found in the Malaysian rain forest go out at
8pm in the evening and drink the equivalent of two bottles of wine. Unlike humans, however, the tree shrew doesn't fall over afterwards. As Dr Frank Wiens of the University of Bayreuth in Germany explains, the tree shrews survive by feeding on the fermented nectar within the flowers of certain palm trees, pollinating them as they drink. He talks about his research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science this week.
THU 21:30 Between Ourselves (b00crdsk)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
THU 21:58 Weather (b00cqhhs)
The latest weather forecast.
THU 22:00 The World Tonight (b00cqhhv)
National and international news and analysis with Robin Lustig.
Including reports on whether deals are being done over war crimes charges to extend the UN's peacekeeping mandate in Darfur, whether our lives will change in an era of high energy costs, and the challengers for the leadership of the Scottish Labour party following Wendy Alexander's resignation.
THU 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00cr5nk)
God's Own Country
Episode 4
Matt Smith reads from Ross Raisin's compelling and disturbing tale of adolescence on the edge, set on the Yorkshire Moors.
Sam and the girl next door have stolen back his favourite pup Sal. Given Sam's past, which includes an alleged attempt to rape a schoolmate, his parents are concerned about the friendship developing between the two teenagers. But Sam's attentions are more preoccupied with the arrival on the scene of the girl's new boyfriend.
THU 23:00 The Lost Weblog of Scrooby Trevithick (b00cqhv0)
Dream
Comedy series written by and starring Andy Parsons. Scrooby Trevithick has gone missing, leaving a number of recordings detailing his recent attempts to better himself.
Scrooby is worried about the content of his dreams. He tries to ease his nightmare-ridden slumber with the help of his mate Walshie, an analyst, a visit to a massage parlour and some very smelly cheese.
With Ben Hurley, Katherine Jakeways, Dara O'Briain, Marcus Brigstocke, Michael Legge, Lucy Porter.
THU 23:30 The Poet Unwound (b0092j0z)
Steve Punt explores the history of the spleen both as a medical organ and as a poetic metaphor and goes on a quest in search of the modern spleen and its poetic descendants. He talks to poets, medics and other spleen-users. He needs to find out if unhappy writing can survive the medical advance of the spleen. He meets the new miserablists who have inherited the vile and bile of the spleen lovers. He tries to investigate the true meaning of the ideas behind the spleen's traditional use. Is it, for example, physically possible to "vent your spleen"? And do the doctors think the poets of old were right to identify it as a source of their misery and anger? Why did that one organ above all others come to play such a crucial role in the most emotive and sensitive of writing?
FRIDAY 01 AUGUST 2008
FRI 00:00 Midnight News (b00cq5h2)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
FRI 00:30 Book of the Week (b00cq77g)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Thursday]
FRI 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5h4)
The latest shipping forecast.
FRI 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00cq5h6)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
FRI 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00cq5h8)
The latest shipping forecast.
FRI 05:30 News Briefing (b00cq5hb)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
FRI 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00cq5hd)
Daily prayer and reflection with Canon Patrick Thomas.
FRI 05:45 Farming Today (b00cq5hg)
News and issues in rural Britain with Charlotte Smith.
FRI 06:00 Today (b00cq5hj)
Presented by Evan Davis and James Naughtie.
The Democratic and Republican candidates in 2008's US election must soon announce their vice presidential running mates. Does history suggest that the vice president can really affect the outcome of an election? Justin Webb reports.
A Jersey senator and a British MP have begun legal action against Jack Straw over the prosecution of historic child abuse cases in Jersey. Sanchia Berg reports. Esther Rantzen, the founder of Childline who recently visited Jersey to speak to those who lived in Haut de la Garenne, would like the UK to intervene.
The first steam railway engine to be built from scratch on British soil for 50 years is due to take its first trip under its own steam. Robert Hall reports.
Thought for the Day: With Catherine Pepinster, editor of The Tablet.
The big energy companies have announced increased profits, which leaves a door open to the government to impose a windfall tax. The list of Labour MPs calling for a new tax continues to grow. Iain Watson reports. Director-general of the CBI Richard Lambert is strongly against the idea.
The first Carry On film was screened in 1958. Actress Anita Harris, who had a role in two of the films, and Kim Leggatt, who is producing the next, discuss the genre.
Two Labour MPs say David Miliband should be sacked for disloyalty, as leadership speculation continues. How does David Miliband measure up as a PM? Steve Richards of The Independent offers his judgement and businessman and Labour donor Gulam Noon says Miliband is not going for the PM's position.
The government's energy policy is under pressure after the collapse of a deal between the French-owned EDF and British Energy. Business secretary John Hutton says the government is 'disappointed'.
FRI 09:00 Desert Island Discs (b00cq31h)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:15 on Sunday]
FRI 09:45 Book of the Week (b00cq77j)
Crap at the Environment
Episode 5
Comedian Mark Watson reads from his account of his efforts to reduce his carbon footprint.
Mark does his first comedy gig on the subject of the environment at the Big Switch Off in Melbourne. But in spite of his efforts, he is still struggling with his battle.
FRI 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00cqcrm)
Trafficked women; British women Olympians
What happens to women claiming asylum after being trafficked into the UK for prostitution? Plus, past Olympians Dorothy Odam, Anita Lonborough and Alison Mowbray interviewed.
FRI 11:00 The Eureka Years (b00cqj26)
Series 4
1879
Adam Hart-Davis explores spectacular years in the history of science.
The light bulb and the first moving pictures appeared, and a scientist did a great service to dieters when he forgot to wash his hands before eating his sandwiches.
FRI 11:30 Mark Tavener - High Table, Lower Orders (b00h9t26)
Series 2
Episode 4
Simon is not convinced of a student's murder confession, but he soon gets sidetracked. Mark Tavener's comedy thriller stars Geoffrey Palmer and Samuel West.
FRI 12:00 You and Yours (b00cqdks)
Presented by Liz Barclay and John Waite.
Including:
Tesco responds to analysts' suggestions their Fresh and Easy stores are not doing as well as expected in the United States. With Tesco spokesperson Dharshini David.
British water company Biwater have lost their bid to sue an African government after the collapse of a flagship water privatisation project. With Biwater director Larry Magor, Benedict Southworth, Director of the World Development Movement, and Brian King, lawyer with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer.
Simon Calder reports on how the fuel price increase has affected British Airways winter flights and how US Visa security changes will mean registering personal details online.
FRI 12:57 Weather (b00cqdn1)
The latest weather forecast.
FRI 13:00 World at One (b00cqdkv)
National and international news with Shaun Ley.
FRI 13:30 For One Night Only (b00csh0c)
Series 3
When John Met John
Series in which Paul Gambaccini recalls classic concerts.
Playing at Madison Square Garden on Thanksgiving Night 1974, Elton John announced a surprise guest. To the delight of the audience, John Lennon took the stage in what would be his last public appearance before his assassination.
FRI 14:00 The Archers (b00cqh32)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Thursday]
FRI 14:15 Drama (b00770t5)
Sand
By Tilly Black.
As tensions mount after President Nasser's nationalisation of the Suez Canal in 1956, a ten-year-old's holiday diary tells a poignant human story against a backdrop of events which will change the world.
Elizabeth......Holly Bodimeade
Khalid......Omar Berdouni
Henry Gooding......Richard Mitchley
Kate Gooding ...... Jenny Coverack
Directed by Sara Davies.
FRI 15:00 Ramblings (b00cqj28)
Series 10
Alderney - Fort Clonque
Clare Balding explores holiday walking routes.
She walks the rugged landscape of Alderney with the island's harbour master. With a population of only two and a half thousand, there is plenty of space on the most northerly of the Channel Islands to get away from it all, as Clare discovers when she joins a group of local walkers.
FRI 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b00cqfyt)
Nick Walker - The Further Adventures of the First King of Mars
The King's Subjects
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the launch of Sputnik we commissioned Nick Walker to write the sci-fi adventure 'The First King Of Mars'. Now in five, thrilling action-packed episodes we continue the story where it left off.
The commander makes a shocking discovery when he finds a door in an underground tunnel.
Nick Walker's theatre work has been presented extensively in the UK as well as Europe, and the USA. His plays and short stories are often featured on BBC Radio 4 and 3 series of the late-night show The Bigger Issues. He is the author of two critically acclaimed novels Blackbox and Helloland, published in the UK, US, Australia, Japan and across Europe.
Performed by Peter Capaldi.
Producer: Karen Rose
A Sweet Talk Production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 15:45 Centre of our World (b008kh57)
Midlands Greek Cypriot Centre
Prof Carl Chinn visits a cross-section of community centres reflecting the city of Birmingham's ethnic diversity. He hears stories of why people have emigrated to Birmingham and what they make of England's second city.
He visits the Midlands Greek Cypriot Centre.
FRI 16:00 Last Word (b00crrbg)
Matthew Bannister presents the obituary series, analysing and celebrating the life stories of people who have recently died. The programme reflects on people of distinction and interest from many walks of life, some famous and some less well known.
FRI 16:30 The Film Programme (b00crrbj)
David Duchovny, the star of The X Files on why times have changed since the series ended in 2002.
Producer Simon Chinn discusses his documentary Man On Wire about Phillipe Petit, the Frenchman who found fame and notoriety after performing his high wire act between the Twin Towers in 1974 after breaking into the World Trade Centre.
Luc Jacquet, The director of March Of The Penguins, the phenomenally successful documentary, talks about his new wildlife movie.
FRI 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b00cqgpb)
1st August 1968
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago. Republican presidential candidate Ronald Reagan calls for an honourable peace in Vietnam.
FRI 17:00 PM (b00cqgpd)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.
FRI 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00cqgpg)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.
FRI 18:30 The Now Show (b00crs4v)
Series 24
Episode 6
Comedy sketches and satirical comments from Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis and the team including Mitch Benn, Marcus Brigstocke, Laura Shavin and Jon Holmes.
FRI 19:00 The Archers (b00cqh38)
Usha's trying an exercise in diplomacy to get her own furniture into the Vicarage bedroom. She knows it will fit; she's already measured up! Alan tells her lovingly she's going to be a handful when they're married.
David and Alan chat about the proposal to switch off the streetlights after midnight, as Alan has concerned parishioners. Alan also asks David whether Ruth became an interior design enthusiast when they got married!
Alan visits Will to ask about bell-ringing. Will gets the wrong end of the stick, thinking he's someone else commiserating over Emma and Ed. Alan doesn't know about this, but when he tries to talk to Will about it, he gets short shrift.
Emma and Ed are delighted to have Ambridge View to themselves. Emma leaves and Ed is waiting for her return when Will appears. He is furious to find Ed. Ed needn't think he's going to look after George - that's Will's responsibility. Will says Ed's no longer his brother. He's ruined his life, and George's. He loses control, trying to strangle Ed against the wall. Ed gasps for breath, but Emma returns just in time. She drags Will off Ed and screams at him to get out.
Episode written by Adrian Flynn.
FRI 19:15 Front Row (b00cqh3b)
Presented by Kirsty Lang.
Including:
Kirsty catches up with classical organist Wayne Marshall to discuss the art of organ improvisation, how to hide a pop song in the mix and the benefits of soft-soled shoes.
Debut author Sulaiman Addonia, a former refugee from Eritrea, discusses his novel The Consequences of Love, the story of a young Eritrean refugee in Saudi Arabia who embarks upon a dangerous and illegal romance when a veiled woman bravely drops notes at his feet.
Plans were confirmed today for a permanent memorial to the victims of the London bombings of 7 July 2005. The memorial will be in London's Hyde Park and the design has been overseen by artist Antony Gormley. Kevin Carmody, the architect for the project, discusses how he arrived at the design with the help of the bereaved families.
Ant and Dec's attempts to crack America are in trouble, with their new quiz show failing to attract big audiences. But in the UK they are regularly the television ratings winners. Fellow Brits Cat Deeley, Gordon Ramsay and Piers Morgan have become household names in the States. Heat magazine's TV editor Boyd Hilton discusses why some Brits fronting US shows succeed while others fail.
FRI 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00cqh3d)
Inside the Whale
Addis Ababa
Jennie Roonie's tragi-comic tale of two lovers as they look back on their lives that should have been spent together.
A factory bombed, a bombshell dropped and a desperate order in the desert. The war takes its toll on young love and future dreams.
With Penelope Wilton and David Troughton.
Abridged by Penny Leicester.
FRI 20:00 Any Questions? (b00crs4x)
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs the topical debate from Egham, Surrey.
The panel includes former deputy leader of the Labour Party Lord Hattersley, former leader of the Conservative Party Rt Hon Iain Duncan Smith MP, chair of the charity Turning Point and chair of the London Youth Crime Prevention Board Lord Adebowale and economist Ruth Lea.
FRI 20:50 A Point of View (b00crs4z)
A weekly reflection on a topical issue from Professor Lisa Jardine.
FRI 21:00 Friday Drama (b00cqj2b)
One Chord Wonders
This Is the Modern World
Series of plays by British screenwriter Frank Cottrell Boyce looking at the punk generation three decades on, with each play telling a different, but connected, story.
Earth toilet pioneer and former 'anarcho-punk' Muttley is about to be forcibly reunited with his former self on an unlikely pilgrimage to Camberley.
Muttley ...... Danny Webb
Lineel ...... Stephanie Leonidas
Lin ...... Ann Beach
Hippie ...... Carl Prekopp
Drug Dealer ...... John Biggins
Market Researcher ...... Alex Tregear
Club Doorman ...... John Cummins
Williams ...... Sam Dale
Hotel Receptionist ...... Liz Sutherland
Directed by Toby Swift.
FRI 21:58 Weather (b00cqhhx)
The latest weather forecast.
FRI 22:00 The World Tonight (b00cqhhz)
National and international news and analysis with Ritula Shah.
We ask whether Barry George was initially convicted for the murder of Jill Dando for being 'the likely subject'. Will India's proposed nuclear deal with the United States be a green light for proliferation? And is Dmitry Medvedev serious about cleaning up corporate Russia?
FRI 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00cr5nm)
God's Own Country
Episode 5
Matt Smith reads from Ross Raisin's compelling and disturbing tale of adolescence on the edge, set on the Yorkshire Moors.
The landscape Sam loves is changing rapidly with new housing developments, delicatessens and chain pubs to cater for the latest incomers from the city. But Sam is more preoccupied with his developing relationship with the rebellious teenage girl from a neighbouring farm. Luckily, nobody has told her about Sam's troubled past and the incident with Katie Carmichael.
FRI 23:00 A Good Read (b00cqhmd)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:30 on Tuesday]
FRI 23:30 How Robin Ince Got His Groove Back (b009fych)
Comedian Robin Ince asks if his was the last generation of truly obsessed pop fans. He is joined by guests including Stewart Lee and Andrew Collins. He also tries to reassemble his own precious record collection after it died in a freak sewage accident.