The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
Vomiting, urinating openly, dressing up as women and public nudity - some of the features of the Stag Tour which show a new kind of masculinity, claims new research from Thomas Thurnell-Read. He tells Laurie that far from the controlled, contained and emotionally repressed image of traditional men, these young men are letting it all hang out - at least for one weekend. Also on the programme how men experience the process of childbirth. Are they sidelined by the medical process? Alan Dolan talks about his latest research.
The social commentator Owen Jones also joins the discussion of modern young men and how masculinity is changing.
Farmers cannot be guaranteed anonymity if they cull badgers as part of a controversial trial in west Somerset and west Gloucestershire. Agriculture Minister Jim Paice MP says that it will be impossible for the public not to find out who is taking part in a trial this summer to determine how safe, humane and effective controlled shooting of badgers is.
So far, this January has been two degrees centigrade warmer than average. This mild winter is good news for earthworms and beetles which are thriving in the warm soil. Angela Frain visits Caroline Corsie at Lower Smite Farm run by the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust to dig up some worms.
Presented by Charlotte Smith. Produced by Emma Weatherill.
Morning news and current affairs, presented by Evan Davis and Justin Webb, with Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith on proposed cap on benefits payments (
Andrew Marr explores the idea of Justice on Start the Week. In a satire on the International Criminal Tribunal, the playwright Simon Stephens, asks how far such a court can deal with perpetrators of terrible crimes, when the accused neither recognises its authority, or shares its morality. Closer to home John Podmore looks back at 25 years as a prison governor and inspector, in a damning indictment on Britain's prison service. The criminologist Mike Hough asks why people obey the law, and questions whether the threat of punishment is ever a deterrent. And the director of Liberty Shami Chakrabarti defends the right to civil liberties and freedom of speech, even of those many may consider to be unpalatable.
For many men, middle age arrives too fast and without due warning. One day you are young, free and single; the next you are bald, fat and washed-up, with weird tendrils of hair growing out of your ears. None of it seems fair. With age should come dignity and respect, but instead everyone makes tired jokes about buying a motorbike.
Marcus Berkmann isn't having it. Having marked his fiftieth birthday by hiding under the duvet for six weeks, he is determined to find some light in the all-consuming darkness.
'We may have lost our hair, our waistline or our way completely. But we have also gained a certain amount of guile and what some might call "gravitas" (and others would call "weight").'
Musing over birth, death and all the messy stuff in between, he concludes that however dreadful you look in the mirror today, it will be much worse in ten years' time. His brutally candid dispatch from the front line is essential listening for anyone over thirty-five - as well as all those who want to prepare for what lies ahead...
Marcus Berkmann has spent more than thirty years sitting in front of various television screens swearing at incompetent England batsmen. In his leisure time he has written columns on sport for Punch, the Independent on Sunday and the Daily Express. He is a regular contributor to Private Eye and has been the Spectator's pop music critic for over twenty years. His books include Rain Men: The Madness of Cricket, Zimmer Men: The Trials and Tribulations of the Ageing Cricketer, Fatherhood: The Truth and A Matter of Facts: The Insider's Guide to Quizzing
Is sex something you can schedule in a relationship and how would you negotiate your terms? We hear the arguments for and against. In seeking to reduce the costs of welfare support, is the government right to include child benefit when assessing the income of parents? Martha Reeves gives a live performance of one of her Motown hits as she starts a nationwide tour. We hear what difference free healthcare has made to the risk of maternal mortality for pregnant women in Sierra Leone. Presented by Jane Garvey.
First published in 1925 to a storm of protest this is a haunting and poignant drama of a woman's spiritual awakening.
Kitty marries for the wrong reasons and is living with her husband, Walter, in Hong Kong. She's in love with another man and when her husband discovers her infidelity he, in an act of vengeance, poses a terrible ultimatum.
Kitty ....... Sarah Smart
Walter ..... Nicholas Farrell
Charles ....... James Nickerson
Shop worker ....... Chris Li
The new benefits system aims to shame the 'Shameless' generation into work. But can it be a success at a time of rapidly rising unemployment? A battery of new eligibility rules and tests may separate the workshy from the unemployable but is there any point when there are no jobs for the willing and able?
In the second of a two-part documentary Tom Heap meets those who find it difficult to seek regular employment and hears how the new system is affecting their outlook on the world of work.
The aspiring politicians of the new political party move on to tackle drugs and housing and come up with a convenient catch-all solution.
Simon ..... Tom Basden
Duncan ..... Tim Key
Jared ..... Jonny Sweet
Mel ..... Ann Crilly
Phoebe ..... Katy Wix
Paying councils to take on public health duties and does it matter if Roma dominate the Big Issue sales force?
The Health Secretary Andrew Lansley is to pay local councils billions to take on responsibility for health improvements like cutting tooth decay in children, boosting breastfeeding and tackling homelessness.
After a Roma Big Issue vendor in Bristol won her legal right to be recognised as self-employed and therefore entitled to benefits, we're looking at the changing profile of Big Issue sellers across the UK. In some places 80% of vendors are Roma. Does it matter who sells the magazine? Does it change the mission of the Big Issue, which was founded to give a hand up to homeless people?
And - you've been tangoed! We look at the high price paid by Ascot after it slapped orange stickers on race goers who fell short of a new dress code.
Martha Kearney presents the national and international news. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
In Picturing Britain, Adil Ray looks at British life through the lens of contemporary photographers.
In the first in this series Adil talks to Tim Walker, among the country's most influential photographers, as he creates one of his dramatic and epic sets. On a windy hill in Northumberland, models mount seahorses and dining room tables laden with crystal and china are hauled high into the canopy of a beech forest.
For more than a decade, Tim's exuberant pictures have helped to define style in the world's fashion magazines. And even in a bleak economic environment, his imagination and fairytale extravagance remain much in demand - whether it is Lily Cole eating from a giant indoor cake tree, Erin O'Connor dressed as a swan amongst geese or Otis Ferry posing indoors in pinks with beagles at his ankles.
Adil enters Tim's dream world to look at the impact he has on British design and beauty.
In the roaring twenties the world was changing at an electric pace. In science, commerce and art, everything seemed possible and the challenges were there to be confronted. By 1926, only five men had ever conquered the English Channel, and the race to become the first woman to swim the Channel captivated two continents. Many doubted that a woman could do it.
Gertrude Ederle, a brilliant young swimmer, was the 19-year-old daughter of a German migrant to the United States. Her father Henry Ederle ran a successful butcher's business in New York. Ederle's cross-channel swim was sponsored by the New York Daily News.
The News sent a crime reporter, Julia Harpman, to accompany the swimmer and cover the story and this drama is told through Julia's eyes.
Julia Harpman ..... Madeleine Potter
Trudy Ederle ..... Emily Bruni
Lillian Cannon ..... Samantha Dakin
Bill Burgess/Rutherford ..... Philip Jackson
Arthur Sorensen ..... Nathan Nolan
Joe Costa/Frank Pegler/Williams ..... Sam Dale
Henry "Pop" Ederle/Abbot ..... Nathan Osgood
The 2012 contest reaches the penultimate heat, from Salford, with Russell Davies in the chair. This week's competitors come from Hull, Glasgow, Bristol and Leeds.
Among the questions they face will be: What's the usual title given to the poem by Robert Browning that begins 'Oh, to be in England, now that April's there'?
And: Which physicist gave his name to zones of highly energised charged particles trapped at high altitude in the earth's magnetic field?
The winner today takes one of the last remaining places in the semi-finals, and takes a crucial step closer to the coveted title of Brain of Britain 2012.
The comedian, campaigner and satirist Mark Thomas presents his best loved literary extracts - with Orwell and AA Milne among them - to an audience at the Red Shed, Wakefield's Labour Club. This long, narrow wooden hut was where he performed his first satirical sketches during the Miners' Strike of the 1980s, when studying drama at nearby Bretton Hall. He's warmly greeted by the home crowd.
Mark shares a deep love of poetry and the written word - owing, he tellingly reflects - to being descended from a long line of Methodist lay preachers for whom the Word was key. He's joined in Wakefield by one of his favourite poets, John Hegley, who also reads Spike Milligan's brilliant account of the declaration of war in 1939.
Mark Thomas also revisits his very first performance piece - a poem about a mischievous mouse by AA Milne - which he proclaimed aged 4, from the pulpit of a church in Clapham, South London. The other extracts reveal Mark Thomas' passionately engaged journey through life and literature, building towards Brian Clough's tragi-comic epiphany in David Peace's 'The Damned United'.
This week's Beyond Belief comes from Scotland, where the Scottish government is considering legalising same sex marriage. A period of public consultation has provoked a huge response from many religious groups who are opposed, yet the opinion polls are generally in favour. Civil partnership ceremonies have been legal in Scotland since 2005 and include the possibility of a religious blessing afterwards. So why is there a need for this further step? What is marriage? Is it a human or a divine institution? And would such a law, if passed, lead to moral anarchy, as some have claimed?
Joining Ernie Rea to discuss same sex marriage are John Haldane, Professor of Philosophy at the University of St Andrew's, the Reverend John Bell, a Church of Scotland minister and Bashir Maan, Former Convenor of the Muslim Council of Scotland.
Eddie Mair presents the day's top stories. Including Weather.
David Mitchell hosts the panel game in which four comedians are encouraged to tell lies and compete against one another to see how many items of truth they're able to smuggle past their opponents. Mark Watson, Henning Wehn, Roisin Conaty and Alex Horne are the panellists obliged to talk with deliberate inaccuracy on subjects as varied as: Competitions, Chickens, Sweets and The Romans.
The show is devised by Graeme Garden and Jon Naismith, the team behind Radio 4's I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue.
Pat pulls no punches as she tells Brian how she feels about the mega-dairy. She's insulted when Brian insists there'll be room for her kind of niche farming. Their discussion gets heated.
Brian's pleased to see Borchester Land's new website finally up and running. Jennifer agrees it looks good but isn't happy to learn about Brian's spat with Pat. They'd agreed to try and build bridges. Brian insists he tried - to no avail.
Adam tells David that things are still not good with Brian, especially after Adam's opinion was aired on Radio Borsetshire.
David praises Pip for her presentation to the Hassett Hills meeting. She's got an idea for Brookfield too. Tom's products are on the up and he's good with marketing, so she thinks they should team up and do lamb burgers and sausages. She's sure Brookfield can come back just as strongly.
David thinks her ideas are great but they haven't got the money to develop a new product at the moment. Pip knows this, but they'd make the money back, and a profit. Whereas they're never going to recoup any money they spend on the slurry tank. £22,000 to stay in the same place. It doesn't make sense.
Suzanne Moore reviews the Oscar-tipped George Clooney in The Descendants, directed by Alexander Payne, who made the Academy Award winning comedy Sideways.
In a candid interview, author Edmund White discusses his life and work as his new novel is published.
This week sees the start of three new series following members of the medical profession. Mark meets Dr Ben Allin from BBC Three's Junior Doctors and Mr Mark George, veteran of the original 1980s Horizon series Doctors to Be, to find out how the filming process has changed.
As Jean Vigo's barge-set classic film L'Atalante is re-released, critic and houseboat dweller Antonia Quirke reveals why it still makes waves almost 80 years after it was made.
Jonathan Charles is given unique access to the team of British forensic archaeologists carrying out the first coordinated scientific attempt to locate the remains of Holocaust victims at the site of Treblinka's death camp.
Over 800,000 Jews were murdered at the camp from 1942 to 1943 as part of Operation Reinhard, the name given by the Nazis for the plan to exterminate the Jews of Poland. After an uprising by prisoners, the camp was destroyed by the Germans who wanted to erase all evidence of their crimes. Unlike Auschwitz where its gas chambers and crematoria have survived, the memorial at Treblinka now consists of 17,000 stones with the names of places where Jews were transported from all around Europe.
Now for the first time, a team led by Caroline Sturdy Colls from the University of Birmingham, will use the latest imaging techniques to locate Treblink's mass graves and the location of its buildings. The project will not break the ground, respecting Jewish Halacha law which forbids the disturbance of the dead, but instead will use geophysics such as ground penetrating radar, aerial and satellite imagery in conjunction with witness testimony and archival evidence. There are thought to be a number of large grave pits around the camp, which at the moment visitors may not realise they are walking over.
Along with the Treblinka memorial authorities, the project has been approved by the Chief Rabbi of Poland Michael Schudrich, who says the work is very important and has implications for other Holocaust grave sites around Europe. The programme also includes interviews with Kalman Taigman, one of the last remaining survivors of Treblinka and Holocaust expert Dr Yitzhak Arad.
Are the champions of the capitalist system now turning against the super-rich? And if they are, what will they now do about it? In this week's Analysis, we meet leading figures of the centre right who suddenly seem to have something in common with the political left: a moral aversion to the an era of high finance that saw huge payouts to a few, and bailouts funded by the rest. Prime Minster David Cameron opened 2011 with a speech criticising a system where "a few at the top get rewards that seem to have nothing to do with the risks they take or the effort they put in." He promises change, but how can that be achieved without undermining the logic of capitalism? Edward Stourton meets influential defenders of market forces who say they can keep the best of free trade but exclude the undeserving rich.
Charles Moore, former editor of The Daily Telegraph, The Sunday Telegraph and The Spectator
Raghuram Rajan, Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business
This week, Quentin Cooper studies the most detailed 3D map yet made of the entire land surface of the Earth. He looks into a dusty cabinet containing some of Darwin's fossil collection and asks if climate change could have been responsible for the fall of the Khmer empire in Cambodia.
Adam Rutherford joins another of our amateur finalist in 'So You Want to Be a Scientist?'. Val Watham from Berkshire wonders if the right stripes really do make you look slimmer and embarks on an experiment to prove it.
The Government stick to their position on the benefits cap - but are they in tune with the public mood?
Will the new set of Iran sanctions make a real difference to their nuclear programme?
The First World War brought changes previously unimaginable to every aspect of life. Louisa Young's story explores the impact on the lives of women, on the challenge to the Edwardian class structure and on assumptions about patriotism and duty.
Following a glorious interlude in London with Nadine, Riley is back in Flanders stumbling through the valley of the shadow of death.
Michael Rosen explores the new wave of public-speaking events including Ignite and TED, and asks if the culture of 'Show & Tell' in American classrooms produces better public speakers.
He visits the American Museum in Britain and speaks to their Head of Learning, Laura Brown about what's influenced the nation's approach to public speaking, and how a sense of optimism drives their passion to share ideas.
He also speaks to Chris Anderson about how he attracted such big names to speak at the TED events, and how it's grown into a global community of public speaking. Plus there's an interview with Amanda Timberg from TeachFirst about the way 'Show and Tell', 'Hot Seat' and TED talks all feed into their working practises.
Ignite has been described as a "gig for speakers" and event organiser Andy Kervell describes the challenges of both putting together a five minute talk backed by twenty slides, and then delivering it to a rowdy and excitable crowd. Some of the speakers including Sky at Night presenter Dr. Chris Lintott explain why they enjoy taking part in these events.
Tonight the government faces robust criticism in the House of Lords over its planned welfare changes.
The government says it is determined to impose a cap on the amount of benefits any family can claim in England, Scotland and Wales.
Ministers reject the suggestion that thousands of children could be forced into poverty by the change.
Some members of the Lords, including Church of England Bishops oppose the plan - and want child benefit excluded from the cap.
TUESDAY 24 JANUARY 2012
TUE 00:00 Midnight News (b019q8w1)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
TUE 00:30 Book of the Week (b019rhzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Monday]
TUE 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b019q8w3)
The latest shipping forecast.
TUE 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b019q8w5)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
TUE 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b019q8w7)
The latest shipping forecast.
TUE 05:30 News Briefing (b019q8w9)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
TUE 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01b66xf)
with Leon Litvack.
TUE 05:45 Farming Today (b019rlq2)
The UK is changing the world's crops by quickly developing new breeds. Last year's tsunami has made Japanese farmland very salty, which stops the crops growing properly. Dr Brande Wulff explains to Anna Hill how the Sainsbury Laboratory in Norfolk is speeding up how long it takes to breed new varieties of plants by mutating their genes.
Shadow Environment Secretary, Mary Creagh MP, calls for supermarkets to have stronger restrictions under an adjudicator. She thinks that supermarkets should be fined if they mistreat farmers and that healthy foods should be part of supermarket special offers.
It has been an unseasonably mild winter. Angela Frain visits Lower Smite Farm in Worcestershire to hear how this has been good news for birds.
And preparations are under way for this year's tractor pulling competitions. Andy Miller, Chairman of the British Tractor Pullers Association, explains how this unusual sport works.
Presented by Anna Hill. Produced by Emma Weatherill.
TUE 06:00 Today (b019rlxz)
Morning news and current affairs, presented by James Naughtie and Justin Webb, debating NHS efficiency savings with Health Secretary Andrew Lansley (
08:10), whether shale gas changes the narrative on climate change (
08:40) and the likely three month sentence for the US soldier who killed unarmed Iraqis in Haditha (
08:30).
TUE 09:00 The Long View (b019rly1)
Crossrail/Brunel's Thames Tunnel
Jonathan Freedland takes the Long View of the fate of grand building projects at times of economic uncertainty.
The importance of major transport infrastructure schemes is much in the headlines, with the Government's confirmation of plans to build a new high speed rail link between London and Birmingham. But while the reality of an HS2 line is still some way off, a very real project is now well underway beneath London, carving out the massive London Crossrail network, which will link Heathrow Airport with the financial heart of the capital.
This scheme has taken many years for work even to start. But, as Jonathan discovers, such struggles have a long history.
Back in the 1820s, a similarly grandiose scheme - a North-South tunnel under the River Thames - was getting underway, and hitting problems and protestations.
Jonathan is joined by contributors including leading columnist Sir Simon Jenkins, and former Transport Secretary and Chancellor of the Exchequeur Alistair Darling, who gave Crossrail the green light.
Is the 'can-do' attitude of the great Victorian engineers something we can learn from today - or was it really little more than a myth?
Producer: Tom Alban.
Image: Cross-section showing impression of Marc Isambart Brunel's double arched masonry Thames Tunnel built 1825-1843. Originally a roadway, it is still used by electric trains between Whitechapel and New Cross, London. Woodcut, 1832.
TUE 09:30 Musical Migrants (b015ztm9)
Series 3
Cajun
Five portraits of people who relocated to other countries, influenced by music.
We join Ann Savoy cooking up some chicken sauce piquant in the kitchen of her traditional Arcadian home in Eunice, Louisiana, in the heart of Cajun country.
Ann was born in Richmond, Virginia and was raised to be a 'southern lady'. But her love for the wild freedom she found in Cajun music drew her to relocate to the Deep South and the prairies of south-western Louisiana - an area which she describes as 'Virginia blown to smithereens'. There, alongside her husband Marc Savoy (who hails from a Cajun family with many generations of musicians), Ann earned her stripes by playing Cajun guitar for hours at all-night parties out on the bayou, while gumbo bubbled away in trash cans. She also began documenting the old-time Cajun musicians and their way of life, interviewing some of the greats like Dennis McGee and Wade Fruge, whilst also raising a family who are now forming the new generation of Cajun musicians.
Producer: Rachel Hopkin
A Falling Tree Production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 09:45 Book of the Week (b01bbz0q)
Marcus Berkmann - A Shed of One's Own: Midlife Without the Crisis
Episode 2
For many men, middle age arrives too fast and without due warning. One day you are young, free and single; the next you are bald, fat and washed-up, with weird tendrils of hair growing out of your ears. None of it seems fair. With age should come dignity and respect, but instead everyone makes tired jokes about buying a motorbike.
Marcus Berkmann isn't having it. Having marked his fiftieth birthday by hiding under the duvet for six weeks, he is determined to find some light in the all-consuming darkness.
'We may have lost our hair, our waistline or our way completely. But we have also gained a certain amount of guile and what some might call "gravitas" (and others would call "weight").'
Musing over birth, death and all the messy stuff in between, he concludes that however dreadful you look in the mirror today, it will be much worse in ten years' time. His brutally candid dispatch from the front line is essential listening for anyone over thirty-five - as well as all those who want to prepare for what lies ahead...
Marcus Berkmann has spent more than thirty years sitting in front of various television screens swearing at incompetent England batsmen. In his leisure time he has written columns on sport for Punch, the Independent on Sunday and the Daily Express. He is a regular contributor to Private Eye and has been the Spectator's pop music critic for over twenty years. His books include Rain Men: The Madness of Cricket, Zimmer Men: The Trials and Tribulations of the Ageing Cricketer, Fatherhood: The Truth and A Matter of Facts: The Insider's Guide to Quizzing
Read by Toby Longworth
Producer/Abridger: Joanna Green
A Pier Production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 10:00 Woman's Hour (b019rly3)
Women and the Leveson Enquiry. Is IVF Overpriced? Alternatives to Prison for Female Offenders. Breast Awareness
Over-priced fertility treatment - should there be limits on how much private clinics can charge? Will the Leveson Enquiry look into how women are portrayed in the media as part of its review? New alternatives to prison for female offenders and breast awareness - what should you do to check for cancer? Presented by Jenni Murray.
TUE 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b1pym)
W Somerset Maugham - The Painted Veil
Episode 2
by Somerset Maugham
dramatised by Lizzie Nunnery
First published in 1925 to a storm of protest this is a haunting and poignant drama of a woman's spiritual awakening.
Set in 1920's China. Kitty runs to her lover seeking solace and the promise of marriage. Instead she is faced with the terrible truth and is forced to leave for the cholera infested island of Mei-Fan-Tu with husband, Walter.
Kitty ....... Sarah Smart
Walter ..... Nicholas Farrell
Charles ....... James Nickerson
Waddington ..... Conrad Nelson
Chinese worker ....... Chris Li
Directed by Pauline Harris.
TUE 11:00 Nature (b019rlz0)
Series 5
Emma Turner; a life in the reeds
In 1911 a photograph of young Bittern in the nest taken by Emma Turner proved that Bitterns were breeding again in Norfolk having been driven to extinction in Britain in the late 1800s. Using extracts from her book, 'Broadland Birds', this programme tells the remarkable story of Emma Turner a pioneer of bird photography (1866-1940); who spent some 20 years at Hickling Broad in Norfolk, where she lived on a houseboat she designed named 'Water Rail' (after the first photograph she took in the Broadlands) and in a hut on a tiny island amongst the reeds (which became known as Turner's island). After meeting and being inspired by Richard Kearton (who along with his brother Cherry Kearton was one of earliest wildlife photographers) she decided to take up wildlife photography and to document all the Broadland birds. She befriended two marshmen, Alfred Nudd and keeper Jim Vincent, and with their help she learned the ways of the marsh, and how to find, study and photograph the Broadland birds. It was Vincent who helped her find the young Bittern in 1911. She was awarded the Gold Medal of the Royal Photographic Society for her photograph of the bird. Emma Turner was not only a pioneer bird photographer but a hugely respected ornithologist, whose studies of birds contributed enormously to our knowledge today. She died in 1940 with many accolades including having been one of the first ten women to be elected a fellow of the Linnaean Society and the first honorary ladies member of the British Ornithologists' Union.
Sound recordings by wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson.
Producer Sarah Blunt.
TUE 11:30 A Last Excuse Me Dance (b019rm1j)
The ever-popular children's writer and illustrator Shirley Hughes recently published a magazine article recalling the dances she attended as a teenager growing up in wartime West Kirby. Readers responded with their own memories of similar dances in other parts of the country. Amongst them was the writer and journalist, Philip Purser. But he didn't just remember similar dances: he remembered exactly the same ones.
Now, over seventy years after Shirley and Philip danced the foxtrot and joined in a Paul Jones or an Excuse-Me dance together, they are reunited for the very first time, not only in recalling these Saturday night dances but with the promise of taking to the dance-floor one last time.
Felicity Finch, herself a keen dancer, hears from Philip and from Shirley about their memories of the dances and the music, the clothes and shoes, and about the heated atmosphere of teenage courtship in West Kirby as nearby Liverpool blazed in the Blitz. She tracks down the girl whom Shirley envied above all others and whom Philip most desired - Joan Brotherton, now also in her late 80s - and hears her side of the story.
Finally, she reunites Philip and Shirley for what may be a last Excuse Me Dance.
Producer: Beaty Rubens.
TUE 12:00 You and Yours (b019rm1l)
Call You and Yours: Will the benefits cap force more children into poverty?
The Government plans to cap household benefit entitlement for out of work households so that the amount received in benefits cannot exceed average weekly wages for working households. The cap is expected to be set at around £500 per week for couples and lone parent households.
The Government's equality impact assessment estimates that 50,000 households will be affected by the planned cap on household benefit entitlement. The average loss resulting from the cap will be around £93 per week of household income, and 7,500 households will lose more than £150 per week.
The Government forecast this will save £290m in 2013-14 and £330m in 2014-15.
The annual cap would come into force in England, Scotland and Wales from 2013.
So from April 2013, the total amount of benefit that working-age people can receive will be capped so that households on out-of-work benefits will not receive more than the average household weekly wage.
This applies to the combined income from the main out-of-work benefits including Jobseeker's Allowance, Income Support, and Employment Support Allowance - and other benefits such as Housing Benefit, Child Benefit and Child Tax Credit, Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
Exemptions include households in receipt of Working Tax Credit, Disability Living Allowance or its successor Personal Independence Payment, Constant Attendance Allowance and war widows and widowers.
So in tomorrow's programme we want to hear what you think of the planned cap? Are you one of those families which will be affected by the proposed limit on benefits for households? Or are you in agreement with the idea of a cap? The Government need to save money and this is one way of doing it.
03700 100 400 is the phone number, or you can e-mail via bbc dot co dot uk stroke radio 4 stroke you and yours or text us on 84844 and we might call you back.
TUE 12:57 Weather (b019q8wc)
The latest weather forecast.
TUE 13:00 World at One (b019rpvc)
National and international news with Martha Kearney. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
TUE 13:45 Picturing Britain (b014m770)
Series 2
From Pop to Pregnancy
In Picturing Britain, Adil Ray examines the country through the lens of it's most distinctive photographers.
In this second programme Adil meets Andy Fallon, a music photographer whose gritty, authentic style enlivens Britain's music magazines and newspapers. As he shoots the indie band Wild Beasts, Adil gets a glimpse into the artistry and gaffa tape behind the taking of iconic music photographs.
His wife Elle was also a music photographer, but she has left behind the mud of Glastonbury and crush of concerts, to take classic black and white portraits of bumps and babies. Adil hears how women, four weeks before their birth, no longer hide in tent-shaped clothes but celebrate the beauty of their changing bodies.
Producer: Sarah Bowen.
TUE 14:00 The Archers (b019rlnn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Monday]
TUE 14:15 Drama (b019rpvk)
Birkett
Birkett and the Naked Toreador
By Caroline and David Stafford.
4/4
Blackmail, snobbery, scandal and bullfighting. Norman Birkett, the most celebrated advocate of the inter-war years, takes on his most famous case. 4/4
Norman Birkett.....Neil Dudgeon
Billie.....Bonnie Engstrom
Edgar.....Alun Raglan
Lady Caernarvon.....Joanna Monro
Sir Edward.....Nicholas Jones
Dennistoun.....Carl Prekopp
Mlle Cina.....Victoria Inez Hardy
Dorothy.....Adjoa Andoh.
TUE 15:00 Short Cuts (b019rpvp)
Series 1
The Comfort of Strangers
A selection of brief encounters, true stories and found sound find a home in this new series for BBC Radio 4.
Nina Garthwaite, the founder of the public listening phenomenon 'In the Dark', presents a showcase for delightful and adventurous short documentaries.
In this third edition of the series we seek the 'Comfort of Strangers' as Nina examines the ties which bind us to those we barely know. We hear a heartbreaking tale of companionship between a woman and an injured whale alongside the story of a Danish legionnaire who spent four years entrusting his life to a circle of strangers, thrown together in terrible circumstances. The writer Deborah Moggach relays an act of extraordinary kindness from someone she didn't know and the musician Jack Lewis explores how those closest to you can sometimes seem like strangers as he interviews his brother Jeffrey.
Produced by Eleanor McDowall
A Falling Tree Production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 15:30 Questions, Questions (b013flfr)
Stewart Henderson presents another sparkling series of Questions Questions - the programme which offers answers to those intriguing questions of everyday life, inspired by current events and popular culture.
Each programme is compiled directly from the well-informed and inquisitive Radio 4 audience, who bring their unrivalled collective brain to bear on these puzzlers every week.
In this week's programme Stewart helps a listener who has long been mystified as to why bacon comes in rashers but everything else in slices. He finds out why so many Greek theatres were built close to the coast and about a strange seaside phenomenon, the mechanical elephant. And, with Buster Keaton in mind, he discovers how fast a car would need to go to lift you off your feet and fly you horizontally behind it!
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 16:00 Word of Mouth (b019rpvw)
Teens and TV
Michael Rosen explores the portrayal of teens on TV, and speaks to Phil Redmond, creator of Grange Hill about how approaches have changed over the years, and the battle Grange Hill faced to stay on the air.
He visits Albert Square and speaks to writer/cast-members of E20, Emer Kenny and Arinze Kene. Together with senior writer Jeff Povey they discuss how they developed the character of Fatboy to parody people who over-use slang, and Emer talks collecting words on buses.
What programme about young people and TV would be complete without mention of Skins? Writer Laura Hunter and cast talk about how they coined the phrase "Amazeballs."
We also hear from Paul Parry, the self-styled "literally tsar" about the way the use of the word has changed. Why is it, like, literally everywhere?
Producer: Toby Field.
TUE 16:30 Great Lives (b019rpw0)
Series 26
Vera Brittain
The writer and pacifist Vera Brittain is discussed by her daughter Baroness Shirley Williams and Dr Clare Gerada, Chair of the Royal College of GPs.
Vera Brittain's life was shaped by the grief that followed the loss of her fiance, her brother and two good friends. She candidly conveyed the toll of the First World War on her generation in the best-selling 1933 book, Testament of Youth.
Matthew Parris chairs an insightful exploration of what it was like to be brought up by Vera a mother who was, for many reasons, simply unavailable to the young Shirley Williams.
Vera was a teenage feminist desperate for an education. But she turned her back on her studies at Oxford in 1914 because she felt compelled to serve as a nurse, wanting to join her brother and his friends in the trenches.
Shirley Williams explains that as a result of her experiences, Vera became a committed pacifist, at a time when it was deeply unpopular to do so.
Dr Clare Gerada nominates a fascinating life while paying tribute to two women - mother and daughter - who she believes have made the 21st century a better place for women to live.
Produced by Mark Smalley.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2012.
TUE 17:00 PM (b019rpw4)
Eddie Mair presents the day's top stories. Including Weather.
TUE 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b019q8wh)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
TUE 18:30 Mr and Mrs Smith (b019rpw8)
The Dinner Party
A year into married life and already things are a little creaky. So, following Will's unimaginative anniversary present (a draining rack), Annabelle's signed them up for a course of marriage counselling.
Counsellor Guy mediates a recent dispute between Will and Annabelle, with flashbacks to the events that spawned the argument...
Will Smith's sitcom about a couple in marriage counselling
Will Smith ..... Will Smith
Annabelle Smith ..... Sarah Hadland
Guy ..... Paterson Joseph
Katrina ..... Tracy Wiles
Doug ..... Simon Bubb
Heather ..... Morwenna Banks
Producer: Tilusha Ghelani
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
TUE 19:00 The Archers (b019rqcg)
Clarrie enjoys looking after Keira but tells Susan that she needs a job before her jobseekers' allowance stops in March.
Jim asks Susan if Neil could offer something for the promises auction. Susan points out how busy he is. Jim persuades Clarrie to offer gardening advice. Jim also needs to sort the share out of cider to club members. Susan reminds him not to forget his own contribution.
Tracy's called Neil round to sort out her painting. She's painting light over dark. Neil reckons he's got some white emulsion which will solve the problem. Tracy persuades him to fetch it, so she can get on while she's got the chance, but then persuades him to start it for her.
Jennifer finds the village shop a godsend for last minute essentials but is uncomfortable when Susan brings up Adam's rant on Radio Borsetshire, and the tricky situation with Adam and Brian. Jennifer points out that the dairy is a Borchester Land, not Home Farm, project. She's dismayed that Susan thinks so many people are against it, and that Brian's avoiding The Bull.
Neil thinks Susan's touched a nerve. David's having his NFU meeting about the badger vaccination at the Bull tomorrow evening, so they shall see if Brian will go to that.
TUE 19:15 Front Row (b019rqcj)
2012 Academy Award nominations
Mark Lawson reports on this year's Academy Award nominations, announced today, with comments and critical assessment from film critics Chris Tookey and Larushka Ivan-Zadeh, and contributions from the following nominees:-
Kenneth Branagh: best supporting actor;
Meryl Streep and Viola Davis: best actress;
Stephen Daldry: best director;
J.C.Chandor: best original screenplay;
Peter McDonald: best short live-action film;
Lucy Walker: best documentary;
David Vickery: best visual effects
Producer Timothy Prosser.
TUE 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b1pym)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
TUE 20:00 File on 4 (b019rqcl)
Carers in Conflict
Jenny Cuffe talks to foster parents who find themselves battling with local authorities over the children in their care. They describe a Kafkaesque nightmare where doors are shut, telephone calls and emails unanswered, even court orders are ignored. Meanwhile, vulnerable children are treated as pawns as social workers move them from one place to another.
In one case investigated by File on 4, foster parents who offered to care for four siblings were denied the financial and practical support they needed from the council. Their official complaints were upheld yet key recommendations continued to be ignored and, as a consequence, the children have now been split up. After giving up their jobs to care for the children, the couple are now in debt and have to sell their home. The local MP describes the council's treatment of the family as outrageous. He says the case is extreme but not unusual and he's called for an enquiry.
In another case, a teenager with complex mental and physical needs was unlawfully removed from the foster home where he'd grown up. His sister told File on 4: "When he was in his foster mum's care he was always clean, always happy and he looked well but when I saw him he was dishevelled. It was as if someone took him away from himself. I felt his personality had gone." When his foster mother went to court to get him back, she was vilified by the council who used public funds to defend their actions to the bitter end but lost in court.
A recent report identified a shortage of foster carers in the UK but are some councils driving away the people who should be their best resource?
Producer: Sally Chesworth.
TUE 20:40 In Touch (b019rqcn)
Is 'shared space' a safe place for blind and partially sighted people? - 24/01/2012
Is 'shared space' a safe place for blind and partially sighted people?
Shared space is a concept used in urban planning to encourage a more integrated use of public space - kerbs are dropped, and traffic lights and pedestrian crossings are often removed. Pedestrians walk along designated safe areas similar in width to a pavement but there is no kerb, instead cars, cyclists and pedestrians are all on the same level. But how suitable is it for visually impaired people? Supporters say that safety records are higher than traditionally designed high streets but some blind people argue that these spaces are not only dangerous but have become no-go areas for blind people.
Peter visits Exhibition Road, a 'shared space' in London's museum district, and talks to David Bonnett, one of the architects behind the design, as well as guide dog user Dave Kent and blind campaigner Jill Allen King.
And we hear more from blind and partially sighted listeners about their experiences of the job market.
TUE 21:00 Inside Health (b019rqcq)
NHS bill, tinnitus, pedestrians, teenage info, Vitamin D, cough mix
Inside Health covers the ongoing debate about proposed reforms to the NHS in England. This week Colleges representing nurses, midwives and physios have joined sceptical GPs and hospital specialists by announcing their opposition to the reforms. And, just out, a report by a cross party select committee on health questions whether current financial pressures make it too risky to implement the most radical changes in the Service's history.
Health Minister Lord Howe talks to Dr Mark Porter in response to the criticisms from Professor Martin McKee and Dr Clare Gerada in last week's programme..
And an Inside Health listener emailed to ask why Tinnitus confuses patients as well as doctors. Dr Max Pemberton investigates.
Plus why are teenagers - the most internet savvy generation of all - finding it difficult to access good health information in the internet? Psychologist Ellen Henderson at the University of Bath is one of the authors behind a new study looking at websites aimed at young people and offering advice on treating pain like headaches and period cramps.
Vitamin D supplementation is currently recommended for all groups at particular risk of deficiency - such as pregnant and breastfeeding women and young children - but three quarters of parents, and more than half of doctors, midwives and health visitors are not up to speed with the latest guidance, so don't follow it. As Chief Medical Officer for England, Dame Sally Davies, writes to healthcare professionals highlighting the importance of vitamin D supplements Inside Health talks to Nick Bishop Professor of Paediatric bone disease at The University of Sheffield.
Finally, our resident sceptic Dr Margaret McCartney explains why she doesn't rate over the counter cough mixtures.
Producer: Erika Wright.
TUE 21:30 The Long View (b019rly1)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
TUE 21:58 Weather (b019q8wk)
The latest weather forecast.
TUE 22:00 The World Tonight (b019rqcs)
The IMF downgrades its forecasts for world economic growth...so why is Germany feeling so secure?
Alex Salmond says Scotland is the 'progressive beacon' for the UK - is he right?
And terror in Nigeria - a special report from there.
With Robin Lustig.
TUE 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b019rqcv)
My Dear I Wanted to Tell You
Is This Cruel Enough?
The First World War brought changes previously unimaginable to every aspect of life. Louisa Young's story explores the impact on the lives of women, on the challenge to the Edwardian class structure and on assumptions about patriotism and duty.
Episode 7 : "Is this cruel enough?"
Riley has been seriously and hideously injured at Ypres and is being nursed by Rose Locke.
Abridged by Lauris Morgan-Griffiths
Producer Christine Hall.
TUE 23:00 I, Regress (b019rqcx)
Series 1
Episode 4
A dark, David Lynch-ian comedy, ideally suited for an unsettling and surreal late night listen. 'I, Regress' sees Matt Berry (The IT Crowd, Garth Marenghi's Dark Place, Snuff Box) playing a corrupt and bizarre hypnotherapist taking unsuspecting clients on twisted, misleading journeys through their subconscious.
Each episode sees the doctor dealing with a different client who has come to him for a different problem (quitting smoking, fear of water, etc). As the patient is put under hypnosis, we 'enter' their mind, and all the various situations the hypnotherapist takes them through are played out for us to hear. The result is a dream- (or nightmare-) like trip through the patient's mind, as funny as it is disturbing.
Episode 4: Ray Highknock (Alex Lowe) goes to Dr Matt Berry hoping that his experimental regressive hypnotherapy will cure his smoking addiction. The result is a series of strange encounters that all seem strangely familiar...
The cast across the series include Katherine Parkinson (IT Crowd), Morgana Robinson (The Morgana Show), Simon Greenall (I'm Alan Partridge), Jack Klaff (Star Wars, For Your Eyes Only), Tara Flynn (The Impressions Show, Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle), Alex Lowe (Barry From Watford, The Peter Serafinowicz Show), and Derek Griffiths (Playschool, Bod, and The Royal Exchange).
A compelling late night listen: tune in and occupy someone else's head!
Produced by Sam Bryant.
TUE 23:15 Continuity (b00tmtwk)
Episode 4
A seasoned and meticulous continuity announcer presents the very best of next week's radio with aplomb.
There's something for everyone here: Radio 4 goes to Preston for the national pie competition, Sarah Topolski gives us a sneak preview of next week's obituaries - exciting for most of us - and there's unbridled hilarity from the United Nations as our Foreign Office sitcom goes Stateside. No Philosophical Logic this week though. You can't have everything.
Alistair McGowan stars in this subversive sitcom about a continuity announcer, written by Hugh Rycroft. Also starring Lewis Macleod, Sally Grace, Charlotte Page and David Holt.
Produced by David Spicer and Frank Stirling
A Unique production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 23:30 Today in Parliament (b019rqdc)
The Foreign Secretary tells MPs that he hopes the European Union oil embargo against Iran will force it back to the negotiating table over Tehran's nuclear amibitions.
The Shadow Chancellor challenges the Government over the International Monetary Fund's decision to cut its economic growth forecast for the UK.
The Virgin boss, Sir Richard Branson, tells a committee of MPs that drug use should be treated as a health problem - not a crime.
And ministers face a challenge in the Lords over the expected £25 million cost of altering vending machines to take new 5p and 10p coins.
Sean Curran and team report on today's events in Parliament.
WEDNESDAY 25 JANUARY 2012
WED 00:00 Midnight News (b019q8x6)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
WED 00:30 Book of the Week (b01bbz0q)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Tuesday]
WED 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b019q8x8)
The latest shipping forecast.
WED 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b019q8xb)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
WED 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b019q8xd)
The latest shipping forecast.
WED 05:30 News Briefing (b019q8xg)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
WED 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01b66y8)
with Leon Litvack.
WED 05:45 Farming Today (b019rqgq)
BBC TV's Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden says UK farmers are missing a trick by not better promoting humanely produced Rose Veal. She says consumers still have an out-dated image of animals living in crates on concrete floors. The practice has been outlawed in the UK for years. She tells Anna Hill, the veal market presents a limited but sound business opportunity for farmers.
An animal disease expert says conditions like African Horse Sickness, Blue Tongue and West Nile Virus could present a threat to humans or livestock in the UK in the future. Professor Peter Mertens from the Institute for Animal Health discusses the possibility of the viruses spreading to our shores following the outbreak of a previously unknown animal disease called Schmallenberg on four UK farms.
Also in the programme, new born calves are being allowed straight out to the fields thanks to the milder winter weather. Emma Weatherill is on the farm in Shropshire, whilst Anna Hill is looking at how farmers work with ecologists to help protect the rare wildlife in the Norfolk Broads.
This programme is presented by Anna Hill and produced in Birmingham by Angela Frain.
WED 06:00 Today (b019rqgs)
Morning news and current affairs, presented by James Naughtie and Evan Davis, with Bill Gates on capitalism and philanthropy (
07:30) and debating the European Court of Human Rights (
08:10) and the integrity test (
07:50).
WED 09:00 Midweek (b019rqgv)
Libby Purves is joined by Graham Short, Peter Tatchell, Gary Mulgrew and Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace.
Graham Short is known as "the world's smallest engraver" for his miniature masterpieces. He has spent almost fifty years honing his craft, going to physical and mental extremes to produce the highest quality engravings. His latest work, The Word of God, is the first chapter of the Qur'an engraved on the head of a pin, which follows on from his first pin on which he engraved the Lord's Prayer.
Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell turns sixty today. This year also marks 45 years since his first human rights campaign in 1967 which was against the death penalty in Australia. Also July is the 40th year of London LGBT (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender) Pride Parade; he helped to organise the first one in 1972 and has attended every parade since.
Gary Mulgrew became known as one of the 'Natwest Three' when he was extradited to the US and served a prison sentence for banking fraud. His book, Gang of One, tells of his time serving in one of America's toughest prisons, Big Spring in Texas. Gang of One is published by Hodder & Stoughton.
Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace, stars of BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, bring their creation, Midnight Tango to London's West End. Set in a late-night bar in downtown Buenos Aires, it brings to life all the drama, sensuality and elegance of the tango. Midnight Tango is on at the Aldwych Theatre.
Producer: Paula McGinley.
WED 09:45 Book of the Week (b01bbz0z)
Marcus Berkmann - A Shed of One's Own: Midlife Without the Crisis
Episode 3
For many men, middle age arrives too fast and without due warning. One day you are young, free and single; the next you are bald, fat and washed-up, with weird tendrils of hair growing out of your ears. None of it seems fair. With age should come dignity and respect, but instead everyone makes tired jokes about buying a motorbike.
Marcus Berkmann isn't having it. Having marked his fiftieth birthday by hiding under the duvet for six weeks, he is determined to find some light in the all-consuming darkness.
'We may have lost our hair, our waistline or our way completely. But we have also gained a certain amount of guile and what some might call "gravitas" (and others would call "weight").'
Musing over birth, death and all the messy stuff in between, he concludes that however dreadful you look in the mirror today, it will be much worse in ten years' time. His brutally candid dispatch from the front line is essential listening for anyone over thirty-five - as well as all those who want to prepare for what lies ahead...
Marcus Berkmann has spent more than thirty years sitting in front of various television screens swearing at incompetent England batsmen. In his leisure time he has written columns on sport for Punch, the Independent on Sunday and the Daily Express. He is a regular contributor to Private Eye and has been the Spectator's pop music critic for over twenty years. His books include Rain Men: The Madness of Cricket, Zimmer Men: The Trials and Tribulations of the Ageing Cricketer, Fatherhood: The Truth and A Matter of Facts: The Insider's Guide to Quizzing
Read by Toby Longworth
Producer/Abridger: Joanna Green
A Pier Production for BBC Radio 4.
WED 10:00 Woman's Hour (b019rqgx)
The National Childbirth Trust have launched a new strategy called 20/20, aiming to reach 20 million parents by 2020. They have been criticised in the past for being too white and middle class and too 'evangelical' in their approach to breastfeeding, being accused of making women who can not or will not breastfeed feel guilty. So how is the charity intending to move away from being the choice for posh parents?
The small French town of Cesson-Sevigne has banned the word "mademoiselle", arguing that women, like men, should not be defined by their marital status. In Germany, Fraulein stopped being used to address adult women in 1972. Is it time we Brits got rid of Miss and Mrs?
The Olivier award winning actress Kathryn Hunter is renowned for her portrayals of male characters. She will be in the studio to discuss her latest role as businessman Mr. Idoo in The Bee - a harrowing tale of kidnapping and revenge.
We live in an age where many people turn to clairvoyants and mediums for help with their lives. Some go in order to obtain spiritual guidance or healing - others go simply for entertainment. Private readings, stage shows, Psychic TV and phone readings - the psychic world is now a multi-million pound industry. Why's it so popular?
And learning to type. Were you told not to in order to further your career? Is our relationship with typing and the computer keyboard now gender neutral?
Presented by Jenni Murray.
WED 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b1g90)
W Somerset Maugham - The Painted Veil
Episode 3
by Somerset Maugham
dramatised by Lizzie Nunnery
First published in 1925 to a storm of protest this is a haunting and poignant drama of a woman's spiritual awakening.
Set in 1920's China. Kitty. after being virtually forced to live in the cholera infested island of Mei-Fan-Tu with husband, Walter, visits the orphanage where he works as a doctor and bacteriologist. She see Walter in a new light after she discovers how hard he is working, how the locals adore and admire him, and how he is helping to rid the island of the epidemic .
Kitty Fane ...... Sarah Smart
Walter Fane ...... Nicholas Farrell
Waddington ... Conrad Nelson
Souer St Joseph..... Isabelle Defaut
Mother Superior ..... Caroline Loncq
Beggar man ....... Chris Lee
Chinese consultant - Jing Griffin
Directed by Pauline Harris.
WED 11:00 Friends through Thick and Thin (b019rqgz)
An exploration of female friendship through the moving stories of three sets of friends - when times are tough it's often friendships which sustain. This programme tells the story of three female friendships which have weathered the years. In a tie-in with Woman's Hour, we asked listeners to send their stories.
We hear from Jean and June, who first met in the ladies' at work 65 years ago; they started a business together, lived on a boat, then started a commune with husband and son and mother in tow; now, they are living next door to each other - widowed, with each other as company.
The second couple, Geraldine and Catherine, also built a business - but as it became more and more successful, the strains started to show. There was a rift, and then a rupture which lasted ten years. They tell the story of how and why they came back together.
Finally, we hear the extraordinary story of the most precious gift one friend can give another. Sue and Sarah were old friends; when Sarah's kidney began to fail, Sue decided the obvious thing was to donate one of hers. Sarah refused. Sue persisted, for two years. She won, the operation was a success, but how did it affect their relationship?
Through these stories we explore the complexity of female friendship: intimacy vs possessiveness; support vs competition. There's lots of affectionate bickering, and some music from Judy Garland.
Following on from this programme, a special edition of Woman's Hour will explore the psychology of female friendship from childhood through to old age.
Producers: Elizabeth Burke and Kim Normanton
A Loftus Audio production for BBC Radio 4.
WED 11:30 A Short Gentleman (b019rqh1)
Episode 4
QC Robert's nemesis approaches, along with Edward, basset hound of doom.
Hugh Bonneville stars as Robert Purcell, QC, a perfect specimen of the British Establishment, who applies faultless legal logic to his disastrous personal life.
Conclusion of Jon Canter's comic novel 'A Short Gentleman' adapted by Robin Brooks.
Robert Purcell ..... Hugh Bonneville
Geoffrey ..... Paul Moriarty
Father ..... James Hayes
Elizabeth ..... Lyndsey Marshal
Judy ..... Tracy Wiles
Pilkington ..... Ewan Bailey
Sergeant Carl Prekopp
Isbabel Lauren Mote
Max Ted Allpress
Alan ..... Gerard McDermott
Director: Jonquil Panting
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
WED 12:00 You and Yours (b019rqh3)
Solar panels, free schools and Woolies in Germany
Radio 4's Consumer Affairs Programme with Winifred Robinson. The passing of Woolworths marked the end of a chapter in British retail history but Woolies has survived in Germany and is expanding - how has it achieved its success?
The Lake District village that has been without mains electricity since Christmas Eve.
And we find out how some people in Cornwall have been getting much faster broadband.
WED 12:57 Weather (b019q8xj)
The latest weather forecast.
WED 13:00 World at One (b01b1g92)
National and international news with Martha Kearney. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
WED 13:45 Picturing Britain (b0150ghc)
Series 2
The Lady Bangers
In Picturing Britain, Adil Ray explores British life through the lens of some of the country's photographers.
In this programme, Adil takes to the track - the oval track - to discover the wild world of banger racing and meet the diehard foot-soldiers and fans of the sport.
He goes to an evening meeting just outside Eastbourne with documentary photographer Chloe Dewe Mathews as she works on her latest project. Their main focus - to follow the lady banger drivers as they prepare to for the first of the evening's races.
As he wanders around the arena, Adil discovers banger racing is very much alive and kicking thanks to a small but devoted band of followers who invest all their time and energy, not to mention money, in doing up old, useless and scrap cars and making them safe to race.
The cars are painstakingly stripped inside and out, all glass removed, doors taped and then painted in bright colours - only to have them smashed them to pieces on the track.
As he discovers, it's very much a family affair - bringing together two or three generations with a passion for the sport.
And it is a close-knit community and a warm and welcoming one - but keen to share the love of this forgotten motorsport with all newcomers.
Producer: Mohini Patel.
WED 14:00 The Archers (b019rqcg)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Tuesday]
WED 14:15 Drama (b019xw43)
Burns and the Bankers
Helen Simpson's hilarious and poignant short story, dramatised for radio by Liz Lochhead, Scotland's Makar (national poet).
Sophie Thompson, Greg Wise, John Sessions and Peter Forbes star in this warm-hearted midwinter's-night sex comedy.
When Nicola Beaumont (English, partner in a law firm, mother of four) sits down to a long-winded corporate Burns Supper, she sweeps us up in her private account of the evening's events. At first impatient with all the whisky-fuelled pomposity around her, Nicola finds herself surprisingly moved as the traditional rituals of a Burns Night unfold. What she comes to learn about the eighteenth-century Scots poet, Robert Burns, brings new self-knowledge which will help her through the night's violent emotions and climactic events.
This production brings together acclaimed English short story writer, Helen Simpson, and Liz Lochhead, award-winning dramatist and Scotland's Makar.
Helen Simpson's story 'Burns and the Bankers' is part of her collection 'Hey Yeah Right Get a Life' (Jonathan Cape, 2000); her latest book is 'A Bunch of Fives: Selected Stories' (Vintage Classics, 2012).
Liz Lochhead was appointed as Scotland's national poet in January 2011.
Cast:
London taxi driver ..... Maynard Eziashi
Nicola Beaumont ..... Sophie Thompson
Torquil Cameron ..... John Sessions
Charlie Beaumont ..... Greg Wise
Donald Forfar ..... Peter Forbes
Iain Buchanan ..... David McKay
Susan Buchanan ..... Angela Darcy
Professor Sydney Campbell-Douglas ..... Siobhan Redmond
Gemma Goodman ..... Phoebe Waller-Bridge
Recorded on location at the Caledonian Club, London, with violinist Sam McGregor.
Sound Design: David Chilton
Producer/Director: Amber Barnfather
A Goldhawk Essential production for BBC Radio 4.
WED 15:00 Money Box Live (b01b1g94)
Paul Lewis and expert panel take your calls on tax and self assessment.
If you are one of the nine million people in the self-assessment system and you have not yet filed your online return you have until January 31st to do so or face a series of new penalties which will reach at least £1600 in fines if you delay filing for a year.
Crucially you cannot avoid the fines by arguing that you have no tax to pay. HM Revenue & Customs has decided to act as it says there is a hard core of taxpayers who persistently fail to pay on time.
The 31st January 2012 is also a payment deadline for those paying a final amount for the tax year 2010-11 and also to make a payment on account for the current tax year 2011-12.
So if you want to make the most of your exemptions or need some tax tips, talk to our tax experts on Wednesday.
Are you aware that the fines for late filing have gone up?
What allowances are you entitled to?
Can you carry forward any unused reliefs?
What rate do you pay on capital gains tax?
Can you offset losses on your investments against gains?
Should you transfer some of your assets to your spouse?
If you want to appeal against late filing are you clear how to do this?
If you are running a small business are you clear about your tax filing obligations?
Paul Lewis will be joined by:
Jane Moore, Technical Manager at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Leonie Kerswill, Tax Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers
Chas Roy-Chowdhury, ACCA, Head of Taxation.
Lines open at
13:00. The number to ring - 03 700 100 444.
Producer: Michael Wendling.
WED 15:30 Inside Health (b019rqcq)
[Repeat of broadcast at
21:00 on Tuesday]
WED 16:00 Thinking Allowed (b01b1g96)
Conspiracy theories - International suffering
Do you remember the moon landings? Up to 20% of American believe they never happened. When it comes to 9/11 the public suspicion is even greater. Polls consistently show that between 30% and 40% of Americans think the official account is a cover up, that the US establishment was directly involved in planting explosives in the towers or was guilty of deliberately looking the other way as the attacks were planned. In this country we are scarcely more trusting. Why has suspicion of conspiracy become so widespread? Laurie discusses the lure of the conspiracy theory with David Aaronovitch and Jovan Byford.
Also on the programme, the suffering of strangers: What is it that makes us care for people we have never met and have very different lives from our own? A sense of justice or an impulse for charity? Laurie talks to Kate Nash
Producer: Charlie Taylor.
WED 16:30 The Media Show (b01b1g98)
Last Autumn BBC management proposed a wide-ranging series of cuts which would see the Corporation's local radio services cut by 20%. As the BBC Trust prepares to publish the results of its consultation on the plan, Steve talks to Lord Patten, Chair of the Trust. Will the cuts go ahead? And if not, what can the BBC do instead to make the savings?
Plus, Ed Vaizey, Minister for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries, on the Government's plans for the communications sector, to be laid out for consultation early this year.
The producer is Simon Tillotson.
WED 17:00 PM (b01b1g9b)
Eddie Mair presents full coverage and analysis of the day's news.
WED 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b019q8xl)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
WED 18:30 Everyone Quite Likes Justin (b01292g0)
Series 1
Episode 2
Justin is a Manchester DJ who tries to balance love, work and everything else without much success.
Now his job seems to be on the line.
Starring Justin Moorhouse, Anne Reid and Paul Copley.
Sitcom written by Justin Moorhouse and Jim Poyser.
Despite his messy life, Justin always remains positive. Every new day is a new opportunity, "When life throws you lemons, make lemonade".
Recorded in front of an audience in Manchester.
Anne Reid ..... Gran
Christine Bottomley ..... Lisa
Justin Moorhouse ..... Justin
Lloyd Langford ..... Bryn
Paul Copley ..... Ray
Susan Cookson ..... Tanya
Producer: Steven Canny
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2011
WED 19:00 The Archers (b01b1g9d)
Jolene remains tight-lipped about what's been said about Brian in The Bull. And when Jim's equally surprised to see him, Brian decides to show his face at the NFU meeting upstairs. Jim pulls no punches in telling him he's against the dairy.
Jim's worried that a promise of four hours of gardening is too general. Jolene assures him Harry will attract a lot of bidders at the auction but it's not his gardening skills they're after. Jim also needs to find out how many hours the Cider Club members have actually put in.
When Brian appears, David suggests any conversation about the dairy project should wait till after the meeting. Ed reckons Mike might be surprised by what Oliver says. Oliver puts across his case. Mike's still not convinced but the meeting ends with a vote to start a badger vaccination programme.
Mike tells Brian he's basically in favour of the dairy but Brian's attempt to buy everyone a drink fails - he ends up on his own. At least he can tell Jenny he tried. And he tells Jolene he can look forward to the Echo coming out tomorrow. As far as he knows there's nothing in it about the dairy.
WED 19:15 Front Row (b01b1g9g)
Andrew Miller and Nicholas Hytner
With Mark Lawson.
Andrew Miller last night won the Costa Book of the Year with his historical novel Pure, set in pre-revolutionary Paris. Mark talked to the author just after hearing the news.
National Theatre Director Nicholas Hytner announces his plans for the year ahead.
Jens Lapidus is a Swedish criminal defence lawyer and author. His debut novel is Easy Money, set amongst gangsters and criminals in the Stockholm underworld. He told Mark how he made the transition from criminal defence to crime writing.
New film Acts of Godfrey, starring Simon Callow and Harry Enfield, is written entirely in rhyming couplets. Poet Paul Farley gives his verdict in rhyme.
Producer Katie Langton.
WED 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b1g90)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
WED 20:00 Decision Time (b01b1g9j)
Nick Robinson goes behind the closed doors of Whitehall and inside Westminster to explore how controversial decisions are reached. Each week, he asks people with experience of government and politics how a government, of whatever political colour, would approach a looming decision. Producer, Rob Shepherd.
WED 20:45 Four Thought (b01b1g9l)
Series 2
Gerard Darby: Science and Creativity
Creativity is just as vital in science and engineering as it is in art and drama, argues Gerard Darby.
Yet the present education system is undermining young people's natural creativity, he says, and is in urgent need of reform. He highlights some novel approaches, and explains why this matters both for the individuals, and for our wider society and economy.
Four Thought is a series of talks which combine thought provoking ideas and engaging storytelling.
Recorded in front of an audience at the RSA in London, speakers take to the stage to air their latest thinking on the trends, ideas, interests and passions that affect our culture and society.
Producer: Giles Edwards.
WED 21:00 Domesday Reloaded: How Britain Has Changed (b01b1hzw)
As we reach the end of the Domesday Reloaded project, Prof Danny Dorling compares the 2011 and 1986 views of the UK to give a unique insight into how the country has changed in the last 25 years.
Since March 27th 2011, the public have been updating a repository of 24,000 photographs, taken for the BBC's Domesday project in 1986. Danny picks four areas in which to explore the transformations of the UK. He visits these places and talks to the individuals who have updated the squares about their lives and experience of the way that their locality has changed.
One theme Danny explores is the disappearance of an industrial landscape since the 1980s. He looks at Sheffield, where he is Professor of Human Geography, to explore how this once steel town has benefitted from the expansion of higher education to become a centre of student life.
He also looks at aspects of life that haven't changed in a quarter of a century, such as the pantomime in the Scottish village of Buchlyvie. The residents were keen contributors to the 1986 Domesday project and they have updated their square in 2011.
Producer: Alex Mansfield.
WED 21:30 Midweek (b019rqgv)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
WED 21:58 Weather (b019q8xn)
The latest weather forecast.
WED 22:00 The World Tonight (b01b1jwj)
Growth figures fall by 0.2% - sparking fears of another recession for the UK. More unrest in Libya. What does independence mean to Scottish highlanders?
WED 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b01b1jwq)
My Dear I Wanted to Tell You
No Forwarding Address
The First World War brought changes previously unimaginable to every aspect of life. Louisa Young's story explores the impact on the lives of women, on the challenge to the Edwardian class structure and on assumptions about patriotism and duty.
Episode 8: No forwarding address
November 1917. Riley Purefoy, suffering horrific facial injuries, is in hospital undergoing reconstructive surgery and refusing to allow anyone from his old life to see him. He has told Nadine that his injuries are not serious but that he has met someone else and will not be returning to Nadine after the war.
Abridged by Lauris Morgan-Griffiths
Producer Christine Hall.
WED 23:00 Tina C (b01b1jwx)
Tina C's Global Depression Tour
Australia
Country legend Tina C challenges the Secretary for the US Treasury, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve and the former CEO of Goldman Sachs.
Where they have failed, she can come up with a solution to the Global Recession.
So Tina has set off on a six country tour to prove it - and her next stop is down under.
Tina C ...... Christopher Green
With:
Andrew Cornell
Victoria Inez Hard
James Lailey
Musical arrangements by Duncan Walsh Atkins and Christopher Green
Director: Jeremy Mortimer.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
WED 23:15 What to Do If You're Not Like Everybody Else (b00tq0p4)
Series 1
Work
Andrew Lawrence explores the pressure we all face to do a full-time job and earn sufficient money to live a respectable life.
A four part mini-series of short comedic monologues taking a light-hearted look at various aspects of conventional living and the pressure we feel to conform to social norms and ideals.
From the Edinburgh Comedy Festival.
Written by Andrew Lawrence.
Producer: Jane Berthoud
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2010.
WED 23:30 Today in Parliament (b01b1jx3)
Susan Hulme with the day's top news stories from Westminster .
Tonight: David Cameron and Ed Miliband do battle over the economy and England's NHS.
Also on the programme, Mps debate the security situation in Northern Ireland and Peers once again turn their attention to government plans to shake up the welfare system.
THURSDAY 26 JANUARY 2012
THU 00:00 Midnight News (b019q8y9)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
THU 00:30 Book of the Week (b01bbz0z)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Wednesday]
THU 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b019q8yc)
The latest shipping forecast.
THU 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b019q8yf)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
THU 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b019q8yh)
The latest shipping forecast.
THU 05:30 News Briefing (b019q8yk)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
THU 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01b66z3)
with Leon Litvack.
THU 05:45 Farming Today (b01b1ljh)
A new Government report predicts wheat yields could increase by between 40% and 140% on current levels, by the 2050s, because of climate change. But Professor Andy Challinor, from the University of Leeds, tells Charlotte Smith the accuracy of the prediction all depends on the availability of water. The UK Climate Change Risk Assessment 2012 also predicts that thousands more acres of farmland will be affected by flooding. Here in 2012, the mild weather is making crops grow early, but at the same time making them susceptible to diseases like mildew. Also in the programme, illegal slaughter and unhygienic conditions at an unlicensed Northamptonshire farm shop.
Presenter: Charlotte Smith
Producer: Sarah Swadling.
THU 06:00 Today (b01b1ljk)
Morning news and current affairs, presented by James Naughtie and Evan Davis, with Lord Mandelson on globalisation and technology (
08:10), Jeremy Bowen's report from inside Syria (
08:20) and investigating the link between Vitamin D and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (
07:30).
THU 09:00 In Our Time (b01b1ljm)
The Scientific Method
Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the evolution of the Scientific Method, the systematic and analytical approach to scientific thought. In 1620 the great philosopher and scientist Francis Bacon published the Novum Organum, a work outlining a new system of thought which he believed should inform all enquiry into the laws of nature. Philosophers before him had given their attention to the reasoning that underlies scientific enquiry; but Bacon's emphasis on observation and experience is often seen today as giving rise to a new phenomenon: the scientific method.The scientific method, and the logical processes on which it is based, became a topic of intense debate in the seventeenth century, and thinkers including Isaac Newton, Thomas Huxley and Karl Popper all made important contributions. Some of the greatest discoveries of the modern age were informed by their work, although even today the term 'scientific method' remains difficult to define.With: Simon SchafferProfessor of the History of Science at the University of CambridgeJohn WorrallProfessor of the Philosophy of Science at the London School of Economics and Political ScienceMichela MassimiSenior Lecturer in the Philosophy of Science at University College London.Producer: Thomas Morris.
THU 09:45 Book of the Week (b01bbz1c)
Marcus Berkmann - A Shed of One's Own: Midlife Without the Crisis
Episode 4
For many men, middle age arrives too fast and without due warning. One day you are young, free and single; the next you are bald, fat and washed-up, with weird tendrils of hair growing out of your ears. None of it seems fair. With age should come dignity and respect, but instead everyone makes tired jokes about buying a motorbike.
Marcus Berkmann isn't having it. Having marked his fiftieth birthday by hiding under the duvet for six weeks, he is determined to find some light in the all-consuming darkness.
'We may have lost our hair, our waistline or our way completely. But we have also gained a certain amount of guile and what some might call "gravitas" (and others would call "weight").'
Musing over birth, death and all the messy stuff in between, he concludes that however dreadful you look in the mirror today, it will be much worse in ten years' time. His brutally candid dispatch from the front line is essential listening for anyone over thirty-five - as well as all those who want to prepare for what lies ahead...
Marcus Berkmann has spent more than thirty years sitting in front of various television screens swearing at incompetent England batsmen. In his leisure time he has written columns on sport for Punch, the Independent on Sunday and the Daily Express. He is a regular contributor to Private Eye and has been the Spectator's pop music critic for over twenty years. His books include Rain Men: The Madness of Cricket, Zimmer Men: The Trials and Tribulations of the Ageing Cricketer, Fatherhood: The Truth and A Matter of Facts: The Insider's Guide to Quizzing
Read by Toby Longworth
Producer/Abridger: Joanna Green
A Pier Production for BBC Radio 4.
THU 10:00 Woman's Hour (b01b1ljp)
Friendship from Cradle to Grave
Who are your closest friends? Why do some friendships last and others drift away? Are women better at friendships than men? Jane Garvey is joined in the studio by consultant psychologist Laverne Antrobus, journalist and historian Dan Jones and broadcaster Josie Barnard who is the author of The Book of Friendship to discuss the nature of friendship.
"A Girl's Best Friend"
Why is the notion of "best friends" so important to little girls? And do boys feel the same pressure to have a special friend? Jo Daykin joins a group of Year 6 from pupils to explore the psychology of partnering up.
Competition and conflict in friendships
Anna Bailey talks to two women who have taken part in research into friendships and conflict with Alison Winch, lecturer in English Literature at Middlesex University. Alison identifies competition as frequent source of conflict between women, so how do our insecurities about work, childrearing and our appearance affect our friendships?
Women in Business
Is it possible separate personal friendships from professional relationships?
Jane is joined by Daniella Genas who started a business with three friends but quickly discovered it had a detrimental affect on both the friendships and the enterprise. So when can friends work together? Is it a good idea to befriend colleagues? And how do promotions, pay rises and redundancy affect our friendships?
Friends for life
The Chemistry of long lasting friendships and what makes them tick.
Presenter Jane Garvey
Producer Caroline Donne.
THU 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b1ljr)
W Somerset Maugham - The Painted Veil
Episode 4
by Somerset Maugham
dramatised by Lizzie Nunnery
Set in 1920's China. Kitty has started working in the orphanage run by the French nuns. When she collapses one day she fears it is cholera but discovers she's pregnant. Her husband Walter, who adores children, demands to know if it's his child.
Kitty Fane ...... Sarah Smart
Walter Fane ...... Nicholas Farrell
Waddington ... Conrad Nelson
Souer St Joseph..... Isabelle Defaut
Mother Superior ..... Caroline Loncq
Girl in orphanage - Shamae Griffin
Chinese consultant - Jing Griffin
Directed by Pauline Harris.
THU 11:00 From Our Own Correspondent (b01b1ljt)
Twenty-six planeloads of Libyans arriving at Amman airport. It's an unexpected consequence of the Libyan revolution and, as Matthew Teller in Amman tells us, it means a tremendous boost for the Jordanian economy. Pauline Davies learns what's meant by marriage Papua New Guinea-style at the nuptials there of her niece, apparently a four-pig bride. Aidan Lewis finds himself the subject of police scrutiny as he explores the troubled relations between Morocco and Western Sahara. Mark Tully's finding out if the residents of Delhi really do resent the fact that their city was created as the capital of the British Raj and Allan Little's been meeting some of those behind the creation of the European single currency. He poses the question: what on earth's gone wrong?
THU 11:30 Vic Oliver: The First Castaway Remembered (b01b1ljw)
As Desert Island Discs celebrates 70 years this month, David Baddiel explores the mercurial life of its very first castaway, entertainer Vic Oliver.
In the early forties presenter Roy Plomley devised a series which has been a constant presence in the choppy waters of radio ever since. The very first broadcast of Desert Island Discs was recorded at the bomb-damaged Maida Vale studios, London, on 27 January 1942. Plomley's guest was Vic Oliver.
In the forties, as a comedian, musician, host and music hall act Oliver was a household name. He'd married Winston Churchill's daughter and found fame appearing on the wartime radio show "Hi Gang" while forging a successful stage career.
During those war years he'd also attracted the attention of the Nazi party who'd included his name on a list of people to be arrested in the event of a successful invasion of Britain, there are also reports that his mother and daughter perished in a concentration camp despite Oliver claiming in his 1950's autobiography that his mother was alive and well.
As David Baddiel discovers there's a whole series of these myths and contradictions about Oliver's personal life, his relationship with the Churchill family, his impact on the world of entertainment and an untold story of how he appeared to keep his Jewish background private.
With archive of Oliver in conversation and performance, contributors include; Bill Pertwee, Writer Brad Ashton, Theatre Historian Chris Woodward and trumpeter Joan Hinde.
The programme is written by Phil Collinge and produced in Salford by Stephen Garner.
THU 12:00 You and Yours (b01b1ljy)
Producer Kevin Mousley
Presenter Winifred Robinson.
THU 12:57 Weather (b019q8ym)
The latest weather forecast.
THU 13:00 World at One (b01b1lk0)
Martha Kearney presents the national and international news. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
THU 13:45 Picturing Britain (b015bqby)
Series 2
The Fisherman's Tale
In Picturing Britain, Adil Ray explores British life through the lens of some of the country's photographers.
How locals survive in Cornwall's ever-changing economic landscape is the subject of a popular weekly column in the Western Morning News. In this programme, Adil gets a chance to spend a day with the paper's photographer Emily Whitfield-Wicks, as she captures the life of fisherman Nigel Legge.
Like so many others, Nigel's economic survival depends on mastering the art of diversification, and in Cornwall this means embracing tourism.
Nigel, a member of the crab fleet based in Cadgwith, now has to supplement his living by giving boat tours of the rugged coastline in the summer and spending the winter months handcrafting traditional lobster pots of all sizes to sell to the general public as indoor and outdoor ornaments.
Producer: Mohini Patel.
THU 14:00 The Archers (b01b1g9d)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Wednesday]
THU 14:15 Drama (b01b1lk2)
Pilgrim - Series 3
Crowsfall Wood
By Sebastian Baczkiewicz.
1 of 4
Pilgrim is called upon to help an old friend who is possessed by a deadly forest spirit . The first of four new dark fantasy adventures featuring the immortal William Palmer.
CAST
William Palmer ..... Paul Hilton
Tadek ..... Karl Johnson
Cecilia ..... Faye Castelow
Ewa ..... Susan Engel
Macadam ..... Dudley Sutton
Cripps ..... John Rowe
Henselow ..... Adam Billington
Grainger ..... Rikki Lawton
Directed by Marc Beeby
This is the third series of enormously popular adventures to feature cult hero William Palmer - the Pilgrim of the title.
In 1185, William Palmer was making pilgrimage to Canterbury. Unbeknownst to him his fellow pilgrim was the King of the Greyfolk. When William claimed that the Church would wipe out the belief in the Faerie world, he was cursed by the Faerie King and condemned forever to the walk between our world and theirs.
The plays in PILGRIM are thrilling, dark and contemporary. They're set in a very recognisable, very real present, but a present haunted by the folktales of these islands: forest spirits, changeling children, Merlin...
THU 15:00 Open Country (b01b1lk4)
Deep in the countryside of eastern England, British troops train in a mock Afghan village designed to look, feel, and sound like the real thing. The 30,000-acre training complex allows soldiers to prepare themselves for the cultural and tactical challenges operating in Afghanistan. The facility, built in 2008, is meant to replicate a typical village in Helmand, with houses, shops and open markets, and the exiles playing the role of villagers.
In July 1942 about a thousand men, women and children were compulsorily evacuated from the site north of Thetford. It is an area of heath forming a large part of the unique Norfolk- Suffolk Breckland landscape which was cleared to make way for an army training area where troops could manoeuvre using live ammunition.
On today's Open Country, Jules Hudson visits the site to investigate how important the village is in preparing the troops for Afghanistan and finds out how those displaced from their villages in 1942 feel about the evacuation 70 years on.
THU 15:27 Radio 4 Appeal (b019rd6v)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:55 on Sunday]
THU 15:30 Open Book (b019rgt3)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:00 on Sunday]
THU 16:00 The Film Programme (b01b1lk6)
Francine Stock talks to three Oscar-nominated directors - Martin Scorsese, Michel Hazanavicius and Woody Allen.
Uggie, the Jack Russell from The Artist, has been snubbed by the Academy despite an online campaign to have him receive a best actor nod. But should animals receive Academy Awards? Susan Orlean, author of a new biography of Rin Tin Tin, believes so. She explains why.
Director Volker Schlöndorff discusses his Oscar winning film from 1979, The Tim Drum, an adaptation of Gunter Grass's celebrated novel of the same name.
And former cast member of Radio 4's The Archers Felicity Jones discusses her new film, Like Crazy.
Producer: Craig Smith.
THU 16:30 Material World (b01b1lk8)
Do the health and bio-security risks of influenza research justify its benefits in preparing for the next pandemic? Could a fresh water bulge in the Arctic Ocean upset the British climate? Does the shape of someone's face affect the tone of their voice? And will the widening of the Panama Canal bring environmental benefits? Quentin Cooper questions the scientists involved.
Producer: Martin Redfern.
THU 17:00 PM (b01b1lnc)
Eddie Mair presents the day's top stories. Including Weather.
THU 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b019q8yp)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
THU 18:30 Clare in the Community (b015ctw6)
Series 7
Rude Girl
Social Worker, Clare Barker, is concerned she may be linguistically out of touch with today's youth. Brian fails to impress Clare with numerous romantic gestures. A Heating Engineer causes a stir in the Family Centre and Megan causes chaos.
Sally Phillips is Clare Barker the social worker who has all the right jargon but never a practical solution.
A control freak, Clare likes nothing better than interfering in other people's lives on both a professional and personal basis. Clare is in her thirties, white, middle class and heterosexual, all of which are occasional causes of discomfort to her.
Each week we join Clare in her continued struggle to control both her professional and private life
In today's Big Society there are plenty of challenges out there for an involved, caring social worker. Or even Clare.
Episode Three 'Rude Girl' Cast:
SALLY PHILLIPS Clare
ALEX LOWE Brian
NINA CONTI Megan / Nali / Beautician
RICHARD LUMSDEN Ray
LIZA TARBUCK Helen
ANDREW WINCOTT Simon / John Harris / Youth Leader
SARAH KENDALL Libby
NATHAN CATON Daniel
GERARD McDERMOT Mr Truscott / Barman / Paramedic
STEFAN RAMSDEN Thomas
Written by Harry Venning and David Ramsden
Producer Katie Tyrrell.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2011.
THU 19:00 The Archers (b01b1lnf)
Brian's astounded. The Borchester Echo is quoting Adam and an extended family member who's said they're all against the dairy. Adam is equally surprised. He admits speaking to the Echo, but he only confirmed what they already knew. Brian's convinced Pat's responsible and wishes Adam had kept his stupid comments to himself. Adam insists they're not stupid. He never meant this to happen, and he's sorry, but he's not the only one against. Brian can deal with outside opposition but being stabbed in the back by a family member is something else.
Unhappy Tony has to take more supplies to Jaxx. Helen knows it's been hard, with Tom away.
Pat finds the HEFF inspection nerve-wracking but they get a five star rating. After a tough week, she hopes this will put a spring in Tony's step.
Tom's back, and it's all systems go with the ready meals. Tom's seen the article in the Echo. Tony admits that he spoke to them, so they're the extended family it refers to.
Brian doesn't know how he can go on working with Adam. Jennifer appreciates it's a difficult situation. Brian can't cope with her defending Adam at the moment and doesn't want to talk about it.
THU 19:15 Front Row (b01b1lnh)
Hajj at the British Museum
With John Wilson.
Hajj: Journey To The Heart Of Islam, at the British Museum, is the first major exhibition dedicated to the pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Historian Thomas Asbridge and Mehdi Hasan of the New Statesman give their verdict.
The film Like Crazy was a hit at last year's Sundance Festival, winning the Grand Jury Prize. British actress Felicity Jones - who played Emma in The Archers - won best actress for her starring role in this largely improvised film, which tracks a long-distant relationship. Rebecca Nicholson reviews.
Last year, writer and actor Chris Larner accompanied his chronically ill ex-wife, Allyson, to the Dignitas clinic in Switzerland. His one-man show about the experience won a Fringe First Award in Edinburgh, and he's about to take it on a national tour. He tells the story of its creation, and discusses what it's like to go straight from playing a pantomime dame to this more reflective show.
Comedian and actress Andi Osho is now an established figure on the stand-up circuit. She tells John about why she thinks her early acting career featured so many medical roles - and what drew her to comic performance.
Producer Rebecca Nicholson.
THU 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b1ljr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
THU 20:00 The Report (b01b1lnk)
The Drug Khat
The drug Khat, mainly used by East Africans, is illegal in many western countries and has recently been outlawed by the Dutch, famed for their liberal approach to drugs. Yet it remains legal in the UK. The Report asks why Britain is out of step, and what impact this will have. How harmful is the drug to users and society? Will the UK become the centre of unlawful distribution of the drug throughout Europe? And is the Khat trade funding terrorism? Lucy Ash investigates.
Producer: John Murphy; Presenter: Lucy Ash
Assistant Editor: Jane Ashley.
THU 20:30 The Bottom Line (b01b1lnm)
Capitalism
The view from the top of business. Presented by Evan Davis, The Bottom Line cuts through confusion, statistics and spin to present a clearer view of the business world, through discussion with people running leading and emerging companies. The programme is broadcast first on BBC Radio 4 and later on BBC World Service Radio, BBC World News TV and BBC News Channel TV.
Evan and his panel debate the big issue of the moment: capitalism, its virtues and vices. Across the media it's associated with negative words like 'crisis' and 'crony'. So how would Evan's executive guests redesign and rebrand capitalism? They also discuss peaking - just when do you reach your prime in business?
Joining Evan in the studio are Keith Clarke, former Chief Executive and now Director of Sustainability at civil engineering and design consultancy Atkins; entrepreneur and investor Deborah Meaden; Heather Killen, co-founder of private equity and corporate finance advisory boutique Hemisphere Capital.
Producer: Ben Crighton
Editor: Stephen Chilcott.
THU 21:00 Nature (b019rlz0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 on Tuesday]
THU 21:30 In Our Time (b01b1ljm)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
THU 21:58 Weather (b019q8yr)
The latest weather forecast.
THU 22:00 The World Tonight (b01b1m2r)
David Cameron rebukes his European colleagues for failing to solve the euro crisis - we hear reaction from Berlin.
The French Socialist hopeful reveals his programme for the presidency.
And do the battlefields of Culloden have lessons for the debate on Scottish independence.
With Robin Lustig.
THU 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b01b1m2t)
My Dear I Wanted to Tell You
Be of Good Cheer
The First World War brought changes previously unimaginable to every aspect of life. Louisa Young's story explores the impact on the lives of women, on the challenge to the Edwardian class structure and on assumptions about patriotism and duty.
Episode 9: Be of good cheer
November 1918. The Armistice forces Riley to think about his future. Though he has so far not left the hospital in Sidcup where his jaw has been rebuilt, he travels to Wigan to visit the widow of his old comrade Ainsworth. Encouraged by the matter-of-fact reactions of Sybil Ainsworth and her children to his shattered face, he returns to Sidcup and tells his surgeon that he is "of good cheer."
Abridged by Lauris Morgan-Griffiths
Producer Christine Hall.
THU 23:00 Paul Temple (b00sms54)
Paul Temple and Steve
The Notorious Dr Belasco
A new production of the 1947 detective serial 'Paul Temple and Steve.' One of the great radio detectives returns refreshed and reinvigorated to the airwaves to investigate the activities of a shadowy and ruthless criminal mastermind in post-war London.
Enlisted by Sir Graham Forbes of Scotland Yard to help track down the mysterious Dr. Belasco, Paul and his wife Steve find clues in cigarette lighters and bodies in shrubberies, dance the night away in louche Latin American night clubs, meet sinister menservants and suspicious foreigners, and have their lives threatened at every turn. Just as well Steve remembered to bring along her revolver as well as her ration book... A mid-morning vintage champagne crime cocktail.
Paul Temple ..... Crawford Logan
Steve ..... Gerda Stevenson
Sir Graham Forbes ..... Gareth Thomas
Nelson ..... Jimmy Chisholm
Mary Hamilton ..... Eliza Langland
Kaufman ..... Nick Underwood
Charlie/Worth ..... Greg Powrie
Produced by Patrick Rayner
The background:
April 1938 saw the transmission on the BBC's Midland Regional Programme of a thriller serial called 'Send for Paul Temple', written by Francis Durbridge. For the next thirty years, until 1968, the incomparably suave private detective and crime novelist Paul, together with his glamorous Fleet Street journalist wife Steve, solved case after baffling case in one of BBC radio's most enduringly popular series. Unfortunately, recordings of many of the early series are lost to the archives.
In 2006 Radio 4 broadcast a brand new production of one of the missing Temples - the ninth series, 'Paul Temple and the Sullivan Mystery', with Crawford Logan and Gerda Stevenson as Paul and Steve. Using vintage microphones and sound effects, and much of the original incidental music, the production was as far as possible a technical and stylistic replica of how the 1947 original might have sounded if its recording had survived. It proved enormously popular with the audience on Radio 4, and subsequently on Radio 7, with hundreds of letters, e-mails and phone calls. A second revival in 2008 (this time of 'Paul Temple and the Madison Mystery') proved equally popular. So, here we go again, with 'Paul Temple and Steve', which was first broadcast on the BBC's Light Programme in eight weekly episodes from 30th March 1947 to 18th May 1947.
Francis Durbridge, the creator of Paul Temple, was born in Hull in 1912 and died in 1998. He one of the most successful novelists, playwrights and scriptwriters of his day.
THU 23:30 Today in Parliament (b01b1m2w)
Sean Curran with the latest from Westminster, where MPs offered the Prime Minister advice ahead of next week's European summit.
Peers debated a Bill to transfer more powers from Westminster to the Scottish Parliament.
The Energy Secretary, Chris Huhne, faced a barrage of criticism over his decision to continue the Government's legal battle to cut solar subsidies.
And how a Government Minister got stuck in the lavatory during a crucial Commons vote.
FRIDAY 27 JANUARY 2012
FRI 00:00 Midnight News (b019q8zb)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
FRI 00:30 Book of the Week (b01bbz1c)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Thursday]
FRI 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b019q8zd)
The latest shipping forecast.
FRI 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b019q8zg)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
FRI 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b019q8zj)
The latest shipping forecast.
FRI 05:30 News Briefing (b019q8zl)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
FRI 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01b6724)
with Leon Litvack.
FRI 05:45 Farming Today (b01b1njz)
How British food exports could be the key to an ailing economy, Charlotte Smith investigates. Today, the government launches an export action plan to help smaller companies sell their produce abroad. Farming Today visits the oldest producer of smoked salmon in London to find out what makes exporting food difficult.
The mild winter means more rats, mice and rabbits on farmland than ever before. Clare Freeman goes underground an arable farmer's grain store to see the evidence for herself. But whilst the warmer weather means good news for pests, it's also of benefit to birds. Charlotte asks the RSPB if it means this years Big Garden Birdwatch may paint a different picture than previous surveys.
And EU Commission spokesperson, Frederic Vincent, tells Farming Today the UK is lucky not to be facing legal action over the continued use of battery cages. Charlotte asks, if the UK isn't compliant by DEFRA's new deadline of 1st February, what the penalties will be.
Presented by Charlotte Smith. Produced by Clare Freeman in Birmingham.
FRI 06:00 Today (b01b1nk1)
Morning news and current affairs, presented by John Humphrys and Sarah Montague, debating RBS boss Stephen Hester's bonus (
08:10), a new test for autism (
07:50), police officer numbers (
07:30) and the next challenge for physicists at Cern (
08:30).
FRI 09:00 Desert Island Discs (b019rd99)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:15 on Sunday]
FRI 09:45 Book of the Week (b01bbz1y)
Marcus Berkmann - A Shed of One's Own: Midlife Without the Crisis
Episode 5
For many men, middle age arrives too fast and without due warning. One day you are young, free and single; the next you are bald, fat and washed-up, with weird tendrils of hair growing out of your ears. None of it seems fair. With age should come dignity and respect, but instead everyone makes tired jokes about buying a motorbike.
Marcus Berkmann isn't having it. Having marked his fiftieth birthday by hiding under the duvet for six weeks, he is determined to find some light in the all-consuming darkness.
'We may have lost our hair, our waistline or our way completely. But we have also gained a certain amount of guile and what some might call "gravitas" (and others would call "weight").'
Musing over birth, death and all the messy stuff in between, he concludes that however dreadful you look in the mirror today, it will be much worse in ten years' time. His brutally candid dispatch from the front line is essential listening for anyone over thirty-five - as well as all those who want to prepare for what lies ahead...
Marcus Berkmann has spent more than thirty years sitting in front of various television screens swearing at incompetent England batsmen. In his leisure time he has written columns on sport for Punch, the Independent on Sunday and the Daily Express. He is a regular contributor to Private Eye and has been the Spectator's pop music critic for over twenty years. His books include Rain Men: The Madness of Cricket, Zimmer Men: The Trials and Tribulations of the Ageing Cricketer, Fatherhood: The Truth and A Matter of Facts: The Insider's Guide to Quizzing
Read by Toby Longworth
Producer/Abridger: Joanna Green
A Pier Production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 10:00 Woman's Hour (b01b1nk3)
When to tell people you're pregnant, and female soldiers on film
New poll data suggests that men and women are more or less, equally unconvinced by the idea of Ed Miliband as Prime Minister. But when asked to say why they find it hard to imagine him in the top job women are much more likely to say they don't know enough about him to make a clear judgement. Men are firmer in their reasons; more of them think he is not up to the job of being Prime Minister. So is this a glimmer of hope for Labour? What can the party's strategists do to sell their leader to women.
When should you tell people you're pregnant? It used to be that most women would wait until at least 12 weeks, then, once people knew, you'd simply wait until the baby was born. Today's parents can have 3 dimensional photographs of the foetus. Some people post their scans on Facebook or announce their pregnancy on Twitter. You can find out the baby's sex, you can give it a name. So how has technology changed the 'pregnancy announcement' - and has it done so for the better?
We visit the Armitt Museum in the Lake District - founded by three sisters from Salford and home to some of the area's most important papers.
It's 40 years since MASH first appeared on television - and with it one of the most famous female soldiers - Margaret 'Hot Lips' Houlihan. Since then we've had Private Benjamin and GI Jane, plus a host of futuristic soldiers in films like Avatar, Starship Troopers and Aliens. So how has the cinematic image of women in uniform changed since World War Two?
Plus - your response to whether Miss, Mrs and Ms should be ditched.
Presented by Jenni Murray.
FRI 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b1nk5)
W Somerset Maugham - The Painted Veil
Episode 5
by Somerset Maugham
dramatised by Lizzie Nunnery
First published in 1925 to a storm of protest this is a haunting and poignant drama of a woman's spiritual awakening.
Set in 1920's China. Walter has cholera and Kitty is horrified and heartbroken. She leaves Mei-Fan-Tu and back in
Hong Kong finds herself in the same house as her ex-lover Charles Townsend.
Kitty Fane ...... Sarah Smart
Walter Fane ...... Nicholas Farrell
Waddington ... Conrad Nelson
Dorothy Townsend ..... Julia Rounthwaite
Charles Townsend ..... James Nickerson
Officer/Doctor ....... Chris Lee
Directed by Pauline Harris.
FRI 11:00 No Brakes, No Fear (b019xrnr)
Hurtling around a tight shale-covered oval track at full throttle takes a certain sort of sporting courage. To do so at speeds of 60mph without brakes would, to most people, appear foolhardy.
In No Brakes, No Fear, the young speedway riders of Kings Lynn Stars are captured on the night of a league play-off decider, as a former Kings Lynn Star and former world champion Michael Lee recalls his successes on the track, his fall from grace off it and the continuing appeal and redemptive aspects of British speedway riding.
Producer: Alan Hall
A Falling Tree production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 11:30 The Write Stuff (b01b1nk7)
Series 15
Daniel Defoe
Daniel Defoe is the Author of the Week this episode - a man who both helped establish modern journalism and modern espionage, as well as being the creator of such literary classics as "Moll Flanders" and "Robinson Crusoe", a book that, the Bible excepted, has been translated into more languages than any other.
Team captains Sebastian Faulks and John Walsh are joined by journalist, Jane Thynne, and creator of the DI Thorne novels, Mark Billingham.
For the finale of the show, the teams are asked to imagine Robinson Crusoe's observations were he to be marooned on an island today...the Isle of Dogs or Ibiza, for example.
FRI 12:00 You and Yours (b01b1nk9)
How are car dealerships coping with the downturn?
Pub companies are to be allowed to continue regulating themselves, despite failing to meet a government target to improve the way they are run. So what does it mean for the future of our pubs?
Our series on the British car industry continues with a look at how dealerships are coping during tough economic times.
And as more cracks are found in the wings of an Airbus A380 plane where does this latest setback leave the superjumbo which was supposed to revolutionise air travel?
Presented by Peter White
Produced by Jon Douglas.
FRI 12:57 Weather (b019q8zn)
The latest weather forecast.
FRI 13:00 World at One (b01b1nkc)
National and international news with James Robbins. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
FRI 13:45 Picturing Britain (b015mvs4)
Series 2
Beyond the Security Fence
In Picturing Britain, Adil Ray explores British life through the lens of some of the country's photographers.
Urban explorers creep through tunnels and drains, scale cooling towers and climb into abandoned buildings to get into parts of the country that are off-limits. Adil joins Li as he photographs a derelict military site, clambering through nettles and decaying buildings to document a hidden side of Britain. Although unusually Li has permission to photograph, Adil is still on his guard, tiptoeing through the crumbling ruins and jumping at every sound.
By day Li works with architects constructing buildings. But at night he dons his black clothes and grabs his camera and torch to record their demise. He sees himself as a modern day historian, safeguarding Britain's heritage by photographing buildings before they are torn down or collapse.
Urbexers, as they call themselves, emphasise that they have huge respect for the buildings they enter - and that they frown upon theft and leave nothing but footprints. Adil examines the ethics of trespass with Li as he photographs ivy bursting through a window, showing the beauty of decay and allure of peeling paint.
Producer: Sarah Bowen.
FRI 14:00 The Archers (b01b1lnf)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Thursday]
FRI 14:15 David Pownall - Nyama (b00s0wrb)
David Pownall's cautionary tale about a money-crazed entrepreneur who transports a pickled whale from the Cape of Good Hope round Southern Africa and makes a fortune.
Other parts played by Alison Pettitt, John Biggins, David Seddon, Michael Shelford and Keeley Beresford
Music composed and performed by Russell Taylor and Steve Cooke.
Directed by Peter Kavanagh.
FRI 15:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b01bs90w)
Postbag Edition
Peter Gibbs chairs a postbag programme from the GQT potting shed in Sparsholt College.
Bob Flowerdew, Matthew Biggs and Pippa Greenwood answer the questions you've sent in by post and email. In addition, is green manure compatible with 'no dig'? And how does long-term seed storage affect plant health?
Questions answered in the programme:
I bought bare-rooted blackcurrant bushes that eventually turned out to be redcurrant bushes.
What is the best to tell the difference early on?
How can I encourage my lemon tree to flower earlier?
Can the panel suggest annuals/perennials to suit a Queen's Diamond Jubilee motif?
Plant suggestions included: Petunias, Lobelia, & bedding Salvias.
The lawn beneath our conifers is damaged. Which lawn seeds do you recommend for the affected area?
Is green manure compatible with 'no dig' gardening?
How does long-term seed storage affect plant health?
If over-watering tomatoes reduces their flavour, does that make hydroponic cultivation a bad idea?
Could I grow an espaliered Bramley in free ground, unsupported?
How can I create a lavender garden from my north-facing gravel garden?
Why doesn't my Garrya eliptica have tassels?
What can I plant as a wind-breaking hedge beside 4 tennis courts?
Suggestions included: Leylandii and Thuja.
Produced by Howard Shannon
A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 15:45 New Year, New Writers (b01b1nkh)
Bread
Stories to mark the New Year by new writers from Scotland.
'Bread', by Jane Flett. A remorseful woman clings to the hope that she can mend her broken relationship as she sprinkles flour, kneads dough and coaxes bread to rise. Read by Rosalind Sydney.
Produced by Eilidh McCreadie.
FRI 16:00 Last Word (b01b1nkk)
Nicol Williamson, Gustav Leonhardt, Manuel Fraga and Hugh Carless
Matthew Bannister on
The actor Nicol Williamson, praised for his passionate performances in Shakespeare and Osborne, notorious for his erratic and sometimes violent behaviour
The harpsichordist and conductor Gustav Leonhardt, a leading figure in the early music movement.
The Spanish politician Manuel Fraga, who founded the current centre right governing party and once shot Franco's daughter in the bottom during a hunting trip.
And Hugh Carless, the diplomat who went with the travel writer Eric Newby on his celebrated "Short Walk In the Hindu Kush".
FRI 16:30 Feedback (b01b1nkm)
The decision to end Radio 4's Home Planet has dismayed many listeners. The programme has been answering listeners' environmental science questions for the last 10 years. This week two listeners meet commissioning editor Mohit Bakaya to ask - what on earth is going on? They also talk to the newly appointed science editor David Shukman about his plans for science on BBC radio.
And Happy 70th Birthday Desert Island Discs. Executive producer Cathy Drysdale tells Roger how this weekend - each BBC local radio station as well as BBC Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales are running special programmes dedicated to the music choices and personal stories of hundreds of listeners.
We also hear your reactions to news that the BBC Trust has ordered BBC managers to rethink cuts to local radio budgets.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 17:00 PM (b01b1nkp)
Eddie Mair presents the day's top stories. Including Weather.
FRI 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b019q8zq)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
FRI 18:30 The News Quiz (b01b1nkr)
Series 76
Episode 6
Drugs, Debt and Delicious Dinners: Sandi Toksvig hosts Radio 4's long running panel game in the week that National Debt reached £1Trillion, Richard Branson called for a softer approach to narcotics, and schoolchildren were asked to create a new dish for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Rebecca Front, Hugo Rifkind and Steve Punt join series regular Jeremy Hardy, and Carolyn Brown reads the news.
Produced by Lyndsay Fenner.
FRI 19:00 The Archers (b01b1nkt)
Joe wants to plant Borsetshire Beauty saplings but Jim's been researching local single variety ciders and reckons there are different apples they could use in the orchard. Joe's happy to try out the different ciders. He's also happy to sort out Jim's records of the hours people have put in. Jim thinks it's an impossible task but Joe insists he can manage. Jim doesn't think it's right to involve Joe but admits he needs help from someone impartial.
Adam doesn't see how he and Brian can continue to work together. Jennifer understands Adam didn't mean things to go this far and agrees with Ian that Debbie might be able to see a way through.
Debbie's really annoyed that Adam spoke to the Echo, but he protests that he thought they would explain it wasn't a family feud. Eventually Debbie sees that Adam's in an impossible position. She still thinks he was an idiot and is angry on the business side of things but he's her brother. They've been through worse, and she expects they'll survive. This means so much to Adam. He thought it had soured everything between them, like it has with him and Brian. He doesn't think Brian will ever forgive him.
FRI 19:15 Front Row (b01b1nkw)
Alice Coote; Turner in Margate; Lana del Rey
With John Wilson.
Novelist and psychogeographer Iain Sinclair reviews Turner and the Elements, a new exhibition at the Turner Contemporary gallery in the artist's old stomping ground of Margate.
Alice Coote is one of the world's most acclaimed mezzo-sopranos, famous for taking on the male parts or "trouser roles" in opera. She talks to John about assuming the gait of a man, the demands of being jet-setting soloist, and how a car crash made her realise the importance of music.
In 1962 the playwright Joe Orton was sent to prison for six months for defacing books in Islington Public Library. Fifty years later, barrister Greg Foxsmith is staging a re-trial to examine what sentence Orton might have received today. He tells John why.
Singer Lana Del Rey releases her debut album on Monday. Although her song Video Games was one of the most acclaimed tracks of 2011, her decadent image has provoked debates about her authenticity and her recent live performances have drawn criticism. Kitty Empire gives her verdict.
Producer Ellie Bury.
FRI 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b1nk5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
FRI 20:00 Any Questions? (b01b1nky)
Lichfield
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs a live discussion of news and politics from Lichfield Cathedral with former Labour Cabinet minister, David Blunkett; Parliamentary Private Secretary at the Department of Health, Anna Soubry; Director of newly established think tank British Future, Sunder Katwala; and Times columnist, Danny Finkelstein.
Producer: Victoria Wakely.
FRI 20:50 A Point of View (b01b1nl0)
The Thatcher Story
The historian Lisa Jardine reflects on the week's events.
Producer: Sheila Cook.
FRI 21:00 Saturday Drama (b00v11t7)
Jonathan Holloway - The Kane Conspiracy
In 1941 Orson Welles' film Citizen Kane, now regularly voted top in critics' and audience polls, picked up nine Oscar nominations and was already being spoken of as a work of genius. But there were powerful forces lobbying hard against it, not least among them William Randolph Hearst, the media mogul on whom the story is based, and FBI supremo J Edgar Hoover.
As the Oscar nominations are announced, Welles suffers an uncharacteristic attack of anxiety. And not without cause: FBI supremo J.Edgar Hoover has tasked a small-time FBI agent, Special Agent RB Wood, with making sure the film doesn't triumph at the Oscars ceremony. Hearst has banned any mention of the film across his media empire, RKO, the distributor, is looking shaky, and while the movie plays to capacity houses in art-house cinemas, no major theatres or cinema chains will take it. A chance encounter in an elevator leads to a highly charged head-to-head between Hearst and Welles when the two men lay their cards on the table. At the ceremony in February 1941 the film only wins one Oscar, and Welles' reputation in America never recovers.
Only the character of Agent Wood is imagined, although he is based on a documented but shadowy figure mentioned in the FBI archives. And it is Wood who finally confronts Welles with the uncomfortable truth about the film: in hijacking Hearst's life for Citizen Kane, Welles has replaced it with his own.
Orson Welles.........Jeff Harding
J. Edgar Hoover........Toby Jones
Herman Mankiewicz.....John Guerrasio
William Randolph Hearst...Peter Marinker
George Schaefer.......Garrick Hagon
Agent Wood..........Val Jobara
Radio Interviewer.......Paul Mundell
Written by Jonathan Holloway
Producer: Sara Davies.
FRI 21:58 Weather (b019q8zs)
The latest weather forecast.
FRI 22:00 The World Tonight (b01b1nl2)
The global economy - tonight we hear about the impact of Greek financial woes, and from Davos where business leaders and politicians look to the future.
The UN Security Council meets to discuss Syria, as there are reports of renewed assaults in Homs and Hama.
And Britain's top taxman says if you pay cash in hand, you're 'diddling the country' - so why do so many people do it?
FRI 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b01b1nl4)
My Dear I Wanted to Tell You
The Lucky Ones
The First World War brought changes previously unimaginable to every aspect of life. Louisa Young's story explores the impact on the lives of women, on the challenge to the Edwardian class structure and on assumptions about patriotism and duty.
Episode 10: The lucky ones
At Christmas 1918, Riley Purefoy is out scouring the streets of London for his traumatised comrade Peter Locke. He finds him, very drunk, in a bar and takes him back to Locke Hill. By coincidence, Nadine - the girl who has always loved him but whom he has tried to turn away because he doesn't want to ruin her life - is spending Christmas there. Inevitably they are thrown together and after they have allowed themselves to be totally honest with each other, they realise that the one thing they can be sure of is each other, and agree to marry.
Abridged by Lauris Morgan-Griffiths
Producer Christine Hall.
FRI 23:00 Great Lives (b019rpw0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:30 on Tuesday]
FRI 23:30 Today in Parliament (b01b1nl6)
Mark D'Arcy with the day's top news stories from Westminster .
Tonight: Peers debate a bill to protect children and vulnerable adults from serious harm.
Also in the programme, after Peers inflict several defeats on government legislation, we hear about the continuing conflict between the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
We ask, does the Commons have too few scientists and we hear from the committee that's asking the public to submit questions via the internet site, Twitter.
LIST OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAMMES
(Note: the times link back to the details; the pids link to the BBC page, including iPlayer)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 MON (b019rhzn)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 MON (b019rhzn)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 TUE (b01b1pym)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 TUE (b01b1pym)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 WED (b01b1g90)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 WED (b01b1g90)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 THU (b01b1ljr)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 THU (b01b1ljr)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 FRI (b01b1nk5)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 FRI (b01b1nk5)
A Last Excuse Me Dance
11:30 TUE (b019rm1j)
A Point of View
08:50 SUN (b019h3q4)
A Point of View
20:50 FRI (b01b1nl0)
A Short Gentleman
11:30 WED (b019rqh1)
Analysis
20:30 MON (b019rlnv)
Any Answers?
14:00 SAT (b019qblk)
Any Questions?
13:10 SAT (b019h3q2)
Any Questions?
20:00 FRI (b01b1nky)
Archive on 4
20:00 SAT (b019qj15)
Bells on Sunday
05:43 SUN (b019rd2q)
Bells on Sunday
00:45 MON (b019rd2q)
Beyond Belief
16:30 MON (b019rlng)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 MON (b019rlnz)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 TUE (b019rqcv)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 WED (b01b1jwq)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 THU (b01b1m2t)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 FRI (b01b1nl4)
Book of the Week
00:30 SAT (b01b3hgn)
Book of the Week
09:45 MON (b019rhzj)
Book of the Week
00:30 TUE (b019rhzj)
Book of the Week
09:45 TUE (b01bbz0q)
Book of the Week
00:30 WED (b01bbz0q)
Book of the Week
09:45 WED (b01bbz0z)
Book of the Week
00:30 THU (b01bbz0z)
Book of the Week
09:45 THU (b01bbz1c)
Book of the Week
00:30 FRI (b01bbz1c)
Book of the Week
09:45 FRI (b01bbz1y)
Brain of Britain
23:00 SAT (b019f8bp)
Brain of Britain
15:00 MON (b019rjng)
Brief Sparks
00:30 SUN (b019qm1n)
Broadcasting House
09:00 SUN (b019rd7k)
Clare in the Community
18:30 THU (b015ctw6)
Classic Serial
21:00 SAT (b019f6k4)
Continuity
23:15 TUE (b00tmtwk)
David Cameron's Big Idea
13:30 SUN (b019rf5m)
David Pownall - Nyama
14:15 FRI (b00s0wrb)
Decision Time
22:15 SAT (b019fyqm)
Decision Time
20:00 WED (b01b1g9j)
Desert Island Discs
11:15 SUN (b019rd99)
Desert Island Discs
09:00 FRI (b019rd99)
Domesday Reloaded: How Britain Has Changed
21:00 WED (b01b1hzw)
Drama
14:15 MON (b00tjf5d)
Drama
14:15 TUE (b019rpvk)
Drama
14:15 WED (b019xw43)
Drama
14:15 THU (b01b1lk2)
Everyone Quite Likes Justin
18:30 WED (b01292g0)
Excess Baggage
10:00 SAT (b019q9jz)
Farming Today
06:30 SAT (b019q9bv)
Farming Today
05:45 MON (b019rhzb)
Farming Today
05:45 TUE (b019rlq2)
Farming Today
05:45 WED (b019rqgq)
Farming Today
05:45 THU (b01b1ljh)
Farming Today
05:45 FRI (b01b1njz)
Feedback
20:00 SUN (b019h3pr)
Feedback
16:30 FRI (b01b1nkm)
File on 4
20:00 TUE (b019rqcl)
Four Thought
05:45 SUN (b019fyqp)
Four Thought
20:45 WED (b01b1g9l)
Friends through Thick and Thin
11:00 WED (b019rqgz)
From Fact to Fiction
19:00 SAT (b019qbwl)
From Fact to Fiction
17:40 SUN (b019qbwl)
From Our Own Correspondent
11:30 SAT (b019q9kt)
From Our Own Correspondent
11:00 THU (b01b1ljt)
Front Row
19:15 MON (b019rlnq)
Front Row
19:15 TUE (b019rqcj)
Front Row
19:15 WED (b01b1g9g)
Front Row
19:15 THU (b01b1lnh)
Front Row
19:15 FRI (b01b1nkw)
Gardeners' Question Time
14:00 SUN (b019h3pk)
Gardeners' Question Time
15:00 FRI (b01bs90w)
Great Lives
16:30 TUE (b019rpw0)
Great Lives
23:00 FRI (b019rpw0)
I, Regress
23:00 TUE (b019rqcx)
In Business
21:30 SUN (b019gzqt)
In Our Time
09:00 THU (b01b1ljm)
In Our Time
21:30 THU (b01b1ljm)
In Touch
20:40 TUE (b019rqcn)
Inside Health
21:00 TUE (b019rqcq)
Inside Health
15:30 WED (b019rqcq)
It's Your Round
19:15 SUN (b019rgtc)
James Fenimore Cooper - The Spy
15:00 SUN (b019rgnv)
Kenneth Cranham on the Water
19:45 SUN (b01b1lv6)
Last Word
20:30 SUN (b019h3pp)
Last Word
16:00 FRI (b01b1nkk)
Loose Ends
18:15 SAT (b019qbwj)
Material World
21:00 MON (b019gzqh)
Material World
16:30 THU (b01b1lk8)
Midnight News
00:00 SAT (b019h3s2)
Midnight News
00:00 SUN (b019q8sd)
Midnight News
00:00 MON (b019q8ty)
Midnight News
00:00 TUE (b019q8w1)
Midnight News
00:00 WED (b019q8x6)
Midnight News
00:00 THU (b019q8y9)
Midnight News
00:00 FRI (b019q8zb)
Midweek
09:00 WED (b019rqgv)
Midweek
21:30 WED (b019rqgv)
Money Box Live
15:00 WED (b01b1g94)
Money Box
12:00 SAT (b019q9kw)
Money Box
21:00 SUN (b019q9kw)
Mr and Mrs Smith
18:30 TUE (b019rpw8)
Musical Migrants
09:30 TUE (b015ztm9)
Nature
11:00 TUE (b019rlz0)
Nature
21:00 THU (b019rlz0)
New Year, New Writers
15:45 FRI (b01b1nkh)
News Briefing
05:30 SAT (b019h3sb)
News Briefing
05:30 SUN (b019q8sn)
News Briefing
05:30 MON (b019q8v6)
News Briefing
05:30 TUE (b019q8w9)
News Briefing
05:30 WED (b019q8xg)
News Briefing
05:30 THU (b019q8yk)
News Briefing
05:30 FRI (b019q8zl)
News Headlines
06:00 SUN (b019q8sq)
News and Papers
06:00 SAT (b019h3sd)
News and Papers
07:00 SUN (b019q8sv)
News and Papers
08:00 SUN (b019q8sz)
News and Weather
22:00 SAT (b019h3sx)
News
13:00 SAT (b019h3sn)
No Brakes, No Fear
11:00 FRI (b019xrnr)
On Your Farm
06:35 SUN (b019rd6q)
Open Book
16:00 SUN (b019rgt3)
Open Book
15:30 THU (b019rgt3)
Open Country
06:07 SAT (b019gz0m)
Open Country
15:00 THU (b01b1lk4)
PM
17:00 SAT (b019qbn5)
PM
17:00 MON (b019rlnj)
PM
17:00 TUE (b019rpw4)
PM
17:00 WED (b01b1g9b)
PM
17:00 THU (b01b1lnc)
PM
17:00 FRI (b01b1nkp)
Party
11:30 MON (b011znh7)
Paul Temple
23:00 THU (b00sms54)
Pick of the Week
18:15 SUN (b019rgt7)
Picturing Britain
13:45 MON (b014f5tg)
Picturing Britain
13:45 TUE (b014m770)
Picturing Britain
13:45 WED (b0150ghc)
Picturing Britain
13:45 THU (b015bqby)
Picturing Britain
13:45 FRI (b015mvs4)
Poetry Please
23:30 SAT (b019f6k6)
Poetry Please
16:30 SUN (b019rgt5)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 SAT (b019h3tr)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 MON (b019rhz8)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 TUE (b01b66xf)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 WED (b01b66y8)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 THU (b01b66z3)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 FRI (b01b6724)
Questions, Questions
15:30 TUE (b013flfr)
Radio 4 Appeal
07:55 SUN (b019rd6v)
Radio 4 Appeal
21:26 SUN (b019rd6v)
Radio 4 Appeal
15:27 THU (b019rd6v)
Reasons to be Cheerful
10:30 SAT (b019q9k1)
Saturday Drama
14:30 SAT (b019qblm)
Saturday Drama
21:00 FRI (b00v11t7)
Saturday Live
09:00 SAT (b019q9jx)
Saturday Review
19:15 SAT (b019qbwn)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 SAT (b019h3s6)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 SUN (b019q8sj)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 MON (b019q8v2)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 TUE (b019q8w5)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 WED (b019q8xb)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 THU (b019q8yf)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 FRI (b019q8zg)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 SAT (b019h3s4)
Shipping Forecast
05:20 SAT (b019h3s8)
Shipping Forecast
17:54 SAT (b019h3sq)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 SUN (b019q8sg)
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Six O'Clock News
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Six O'Clock News
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Six O'Clock News
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Six O'Clock News
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Six O'Clock News
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Six O'Clock News
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Six O'Clock News
18:00 FRI (b019q8zq)
Something Understood
06:05 SUN (b019rd6n)
Something Understood
23:30 SUN (b019rd6n)
Start the Week
09:00 MON (b019rhzg)
Start the Week
21:30 MON (b019rhzg)
Sunday Worship
08:10 SUN (b019rd6x)
Sunday
07:10 SUN (b019rd6s)
The Archers Omnibus
10:00 SUN (b019rd7m)
The Archers
19:00 SUN (b019rgt9)
The Archers
14:00 MON (b019rgt9)
The Archers
19:00 MON (b019rlnn)
The Archers
14:00 TUE (b019rlnn)
The Archers
19:00 TUE (b019rqcg)
The Archers
14:00 WED (b019rqcg)
The Archers
19:00 WED (b01b1g9d)
The Archers
14:00 THU (b01b1g9d)
The Archers
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The Archers
14:00 FRI (b01b1lnf)
The Archers
19:00 FRI (b01b1nkt)
The Bottom Line
20:30 THU (b01b1lnm)
The Film Programme
23:00 SUN (b019gzqf)
The Film Programme
16:00 THU (b01b1lk6)
The Food Programme
12:32 SUN (b019rd9c)
The Food Programme
15:30 MON (b019rd9c)
The Hidden Graves of the Holocaust
20:00 MON (b019rlns)
The Long View
09:00 TUE (b019rly1)
The Long View
21:30 TUE (b019rly1)
The Media Show
16:30 WED (b01b1g98)
The News Quiz
12:30 SAT (b019h3pw)
The News Quiz
18:30 FRI (b01b1nkr)
The Print Master
15:30 SAT (b019fwvx)
The Report
20:00 THU (b01b1lnk)
The Unbelievable Truth
12:00 SUN (b019f8by)
The Unbelievable Truth
18:30 MON (b019rlnl)
The Week in Westminster
11:00 SAT (b019q9k3)
The World This Weekend
13:00 SUN (b019rf5k)
The World Tonight
22:00 MON (b019rlnx)
The World Tonight
22:00 TUE (b019rqcs)
The World Tonight
22:00 WED (b01b1jwj)
The World Tonight
22:00 THU (b01b1m2r)
The World Tonight
22:00 FRI (b01b1nl2)
The Write Stuff
11:30 FRI (b01b1nk7)
Thinking Allowed
00:15 MON (b019fyq7)
Thinking Allowed
16:00 WED (b01b1g96)
Three Generations of Incarceration
17:00 SUN (b019fxb1)
Tina C
23:00 WED (b01b1jwx)
Today in Parliament
23:30 MON (b019rlp3)
Today in Parliament
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Today in Parliament
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Today in Parliament
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Today in Parliament
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Today
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Today
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Today
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Today
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Today
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Today
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Vic Oliver: The First Castaway Remembered
11:30 THU (b01b1ljw)
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21:58 FRI (b019q8zs)
Welsh's Scottish Journey
14:45 SUN (b019rfq6)
Westminster Hour
22:00 SUN (b019rgwz)
What the Papers Say
22:45 SUN (b019rgx1)
What to Do If You're Not Like Everybody Else
23:15 WED (b00tq0p4)
What's the Benefit?
11:00 MON (b019rhzq)
With Great Pleasure
16:00 MON (b019rjnl)
Woman's Hour
16:00 SAT (b019qbn3)
Woman's Hour
10:00 MON (b019rhzl)
Woman's Hour
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Woman's Hour
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Woman's Hour
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Woman's Hour
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Word of Mouth
23:00 MON (b019fx9q)
Word of Mouth
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World at One
13:00 MON (b019rjnd)
World at One
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World at One
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World at One
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World at One
13:00 FRI (b01b1nkc)
You and Yours
12:00 MON (b019rjnb)
You and Yours
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You and Yours
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You and Yours
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You and Yours
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