SATURDAY 30 MARCH 2024

SAT 00:00 Hidden Treasures (m001xm6s)
JM Barrie - What Every Woman Knows
"Every man who is high up loves to think that he has done it all himself; and the wife smiles, and lets it go at that. It's our only joke. Every woman knows that."
JM Barrie's stage play set in Scotland towards the close of the 19th Century.
Maggie Wylie hides her capabilities to let her husband, John Shand think he has done it all by himself to get into the Houses of Parliament.
But during the newly established 'ladies committees', Lady Sybil becomes a distraction.
Who is really behind John Shand's success?
Starring Phyllis Logan and David Hayman.
Dramatised by Stewart Conn.
Maggie Wylie .... Phyllis Logan
John Shand .... David Hayman
Teller of the Tale .... Tom Fleming
Alick Wylie .... Tom Watson
David Wylie .... John Shedden
James Wylie .... Ray Dunsire
Lady Sybil .... Hetty Baynes
Comtesse de la Briere .....Vivienne Dixon
Venables .... Alan Rothwell
The stage play was first performed at the Duke of York's Theatre in London on 3rd September 1908.
Director Marilyn Ireland
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1983.
*************************************************************************************************************************************************
'What Every Woman Knows' is part of BBC Radio 4 Extra's Hidden Treasures collection selected from titles returned to the BBC by various collectors.
Our warm thanks go to the Radio Circle.
SAT 01:30 Whodunnits (b007jl8w)
Julie Enfield Investigates - The Smithfield Murders
5. A Passion for Hunting Something
With big business involved, DSI Julie Enfield finds herself trapped with hired killers underneath Smithfield meat market...
Starring Imelda Staunton as Detective Superintendent Julie Enfield.
Conclusion of Nick Fisher's atmospheric thriller.
DSI Julie Enfield ..... Imelda Staunton
Dad ...... Geoffrey Matthews
Stephen Temple ...... Gavin Muir
Alex Wild ...... Deborah Berlin
Joey Jones ...... Don McCorkindale
DS Lawrence Evans ...... Ross Livingstone
Sally ...... Jane Whittenshaw
Rachel Jones ...... Jilly Bond
Benjamin Travis ...... Geoffrey Whitehead
Henry Sinclair ...... John Turner
Johnson ...... Jonathan Keeble
Gordon Richards ...... David Timson
Voice 1 ...... David Collings
Voice 2 ...... John Hartley
Producer: Richard Wortley
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1995.
SAT 02:00 The Restaurant: A History of Eating Out by William Sitwell (m000h934)
5. Getting Spicy
The history of eating out is a story of life - of politics, courage, skill, art, innovation and of luck.   
We start in Pompeii, where  many restaurants doubled up as brothels.    
In the Ottoman Empire, we discover that doner kebabs were cooked in the open air at dainty picnics.
After Henry VIII’s break from Rome and the Dissolution of the Monasteries, travellers were left with nowhere to get a meal and a bed for the night and so the monastic staff who survived the purges needed places to work and very enterprisingly opened taverns which were soon packed with locals and visitors.
By the 1820s, Paris was freed from the restraints of the revolution and became fashionable again with luxurious shops and restaurants and chefs - notably Marie-Antoine Careme who turned French cuisine into Gastronomy and remains an influence on chefs even to this day
The 20th Century saw the birth and domination of fast food.
In 1948, McDonalds became successful and in 1951 a man called Glen Bell found a way to mass produce Tacos. Sushi became a world favourite after a Japanese entrepreneur visited a brewery and was inspired by the conveyer belt system of carrying bottles, which he adapted for his restaurants.
The Indian restaurant started life in the 1940s when a number of cafes sprang up in London’s Brick Lane and Commercial Road to support a community of seamen from Bangladesh.
Albert and the late Michel Roux set the standard of English restaurant food in 1960s London whether it was liked it or not. Customers complained that the portions were too small. "This is French gastronomy". But there were enough Londoners to keep the restaurant busy and full from day one. By March 1968, Le Gavroche was famous.
Written by William Sitwell.
Read by Lesley Sharp.
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2020.
SAT 02:15 Life Lines (m000bgnt)
Series 3
5. Support
When Carrie takes a call from Frances, she realises that she's in as much need of emotional as physical support.
Al Smith's award-winning drama series set in an ambulance control room.
Carrie ...... Sarah Ridgeway
Ian ...... Michael Jibson
Frances ...... Rebecca Root
Will ...... Rick Warden
Director: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2019.
SAT 02:30 All Those Women (b088jj62)
Series 2
Episode 4
Layla and Stu are having their new baby Barclay christened and have asked Maggie to be the godmother. She's thrilled. Jen's 'completely fine' with that.
Add in a newly released prison penpal, some impulsive behaviour, and a free bar and inevitably it's not a party that runs very smoothly...
Comedy series by Katherine Jakeways about four generations of women living under one roof.
All Those Women explores familial relationships, ageing, marriages - it's about life and love and things not turning out quite the way that you'd expected them to.
Join Hetty, Maggie, Jen and Emily as they struggle to resolve their own problems, and support one another.
Hetty ...... Marcia Warren
Maggie ...... Lesley Manville
Jen ...... Sinead Matthews
Emily ...... Lucy Hutchinson
Stuart ...... Nick Underwood
Layla ...... Katie Redford
Kenneth ...... Sam Dale
Rosie ...... Catriona McFarlane
Producer: Alexandra Smith
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in January 2017.
SAT 03:00 Marriage Lines (b068r53p)
Series 2
Episode 13
It's baby's christening day and George is packing for Africa.
Starring Richard Briers and Prunella Scales.
Richard Waring’s sitcom based on the mutual love and mistrust of two newlyweds.
Originating on BBC TV, Marriage Lines ran between 1963-65 and was adapted in two series for BBC radio due to its popularity.
George Starling …. Richard Briers
Kate …. Prunella Scales
Miles …. Edward De Souza
George’s Mum …. Diana King
George’s Dad …. Geoffrey Sumner
Kate’s Mum …. Joan Sanderson
The Mystery Guest …. Charlotte Mitchell
Other Roles …. Peter Hawkins
Producer: Charles Maxwell
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in June 1967.
SAT 03:30 Big Jim and the Figaro Club (b008p8q2)
The Old Dunkirk Spirit
Harold Perkins has no materials to rebuild post-war Britain, which well suits the workmates.
Six anarchic tales from those demob days “when we was going to build the new Jerusalem - you know, before the world turned lax and sour”.
Written by Ted Walker.
Narrated by Bernard Cribbins.
Big Jim …. Norman Rossington
Harold Perkins …. Roland Curram
Old Ned …. Harold Goodwin
Nimrod …. David John
Turps … Sylvester McCoy
Chick …. David Beckett
Fortescue …. Norman Bird
PC Speedworth …. Norman Mitchell
Producer: Martin Fisher
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1987.
SAT 04:00 Whispers (b007k2sf)
Series 3
Episode 2
Gyles Brandreth hosts the quiz show with scandal on its mind and slander at its heart.
Joining team captains Lucy Moore and Anthony Holden to run the gauntlet of gossip:
Richard Herring
Louise Doughty
Producer: Victoria Lloyd
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2005.
SAT 04:30 Bookcases (b00svc1m)
Series 1
Gone for a Burton
London 1855: Primus's latest publishing coup is the explorer Richard Burton, but drink and other substances seem to have destroyed Burton's sense of direction.
Starring Michael Cochrane and Maggie Steed.
Martyn Wade's Victorian era comedy.
Primus …. Michael Cochrane
Cordelia …. Maggie Steed
Edith …. Elizabeth Spriggs
Gerald …. David Horovitch
Katie Joiner …. Frances Jeater
Richard Burton …. Norman Rodway
Waiter …. David Antrobus
Director: Cherry Cookson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1998.
SAT 05:00 JD Salinger: Made in England (b070hbss)
JD Salinger is feted as the writer of one of greatest ever American novels.
The Catcher in Rye established him as the most celebrated chronicler of urban New York and, in Holden Caulfield, he created the enduring embodiment of disaffected American youth.
Less well known is that Salinger spent three months in Tiverton, Devon, while preparing to be part of the D Day landings in 1944, and that during this short time he wrote a revealing autobiographical short-story and worked on the development of Holden Caulfield's character.
Mark Hodkinson - a Salinger devotee who edited his best-selling biography - travels to Tiverton to retrace Salinger's steps and discover how Devon influenced Salinger's work.
The central character in the short-story, For Esme – with Love and Squalor, is, as Salinger was, a fledgling writer who becomes a US sergeant stationed in Devon. With the help of a local reading group, Mark visits the most likely church featured in the story and learns from people who remember the GIs being in town.
Mark is also accompanied by Dr Sarah Graham of the University of Leicester. They discuss how the story and Salinger's time in Devon informed his work, and life.
There's also an exclusive interview with a 96 year old New Yorker who served with Salinger in Tiverton and remained friends with the reclusive writer for the rest of his life.
"Salinger liked Devon," says the veteran soldier, "Any free time he had was taken up by writing on his portable typewriter."
Producer: Ian Bent
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2016.
SAT 05:30 Soul Music (m0011jwq)
Ain't No Mountain High Enough
Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell made Ain't No Mountain High Enough a hit for Motown in 1967.
Diana Ross followed suit in 1970 as a solo artist with her version of the song.
It has a place in people's hearts with its anthemic themes of love, loyalty, triumph and perseverance.
Cynthia Dagnal-Miron is an African American who grew up in the 1960s and she says the song gave black people a sense of comfort and of being loved.
Kevin Patterson recalls meeting an elderly lady in a store in Philadelphia and hearing the song. He learned she had been part of a movement to desegregate a local school in the 1960s and she had sung it then at a talent show.
John Harris says music and being part of a choir were what saved him when he sank into drug addiction and crime and ended up in court. When he got clean he sang that song at the Court's 25th anniversary celebration.
"No wind no rain no winters cold can stop me from getting to you" were the words Lesley Pearl sang to her birth mother as she lay gravely ill in hospital. Lesley had braved Hurricane Sandy to fly to Charleston to be with her and it brought them closer towards the end of her life.
At the height of the pandemic in 2020 when New York was suffering huge numbers of Covid deaths and hospitalisations, nurse Kym Villamer sang it to staff and patients at the hospital where she works to remind them of the perseverance of the human spirit and the goodness of humanity.
An Assistant Professor of Music at Washington University in St Louis breaks down the various musical elements that make it such an enduring powerful uplifting anthem.
Series about pieces of music with a powerful emotional impact.
Producer: Maggie Ayre
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2021.
SAT 06:00 Whodunnits (m001xwrj)
Sergeant Cribb - Swing Swing Together
Among fashion conscious Victorians, Jerome K Jerome's novel 'Three Men in a Boat' is the inspiration for countless boat-trips on the River Thames.
Out for a swim, Harriet Shaw notices an unlikely-looking threesome.
The next day a tramp is found drowned. The three men become the chief suspects. Harriet is the key witness.
Sergeant Cribb and Constable Thackeray take to the water in hot pursuit.
Starring Barry Foster and John Cater.
Peter Lovesey's murder mystery, first published in 1976.
Dramatised by Geoffrey M Matthews.
Sergeant Cribb .... Barry Foster
Constable Thackeray .... John Cater
Harriet Shaw .... Moir Leslie
Constable Hardy .... Brian Hewlett
Inspector Jowett .... Roger Hume
Fernandez/Lucifer .... Tim Brierley
Humberstone/Warden .... Stephen Hancock
Bustard/Goldstein .... Gordon Reid
Hackett/Lockman .... Terry Molloy
Gold/Matthew .... Tim Reynolds
Melanie .... Avril Clark
Miss Plummer .... Margaret Ward
Molly .... Jayne Dowell
Jane .... Deborah Makepeace
Director: Vanessa Whitburn
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1987.
SAT 07:30 The Peregrine read by David Attenborough (Omnibus) (m000gf0x)
David Attenborough reads from JA Baker's British nature writing classic which was published over 50 years ago to critical acclaim.
Written in the form of a diary, it covers seven months from autumn to spring, charting Baker's observations of this extraordinary predator.
The diaries give us insights into Baker’s obsession with the peregrine’s hunting life in and around the Essex countryside, a county where Baker lived all his life.
Omnibus of five parts abridged by Katrin Williams.
Producer: Elizabeth Allard
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2020.
SAT 08:45 Singular Women (b0075569)
Frances
Celia Imrie plays Frances, a shy teacher with an unwanted notoriety.
Following a school related incident, Frances takes some time out to reassess her life and career.
Stewart Permutt's bittersweet comedies of the world according to the second of four very different women.
Director: Marion Nancarrow
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1997.
SAT 09:00 Not in Front of the Children (b08l6y6m)
Series 2
Domestic Help
Desperate to get a cleaner - how can Jennifer raise the cash?
Starring Wendy Craig and Francis Matthews.
The comedy mishaps of the Corner family - Jennifer and Henry and their three kids Trudi, Amanda and Robin.
Four series were first shown on BBC TV from 1967 to 1970.
Richard Waring adapted his own TV scripts for this radio version, now fully restored from the original reel-to-reel tapes.
Jennifer Corner …. Wendy Craig
Henry Corner …. Francis Matthews
Mrs Scraggs …. Doris Rogers
Mrs Foskett-Dyke …. Joan Sanderson
Trudi …. Roberta Tovey
Amanda …. Jill Riddick
Mrs Hobson …. Olwen Griffiths
Don Scraggs …. Nigel Lambert
PC Wilson …. Frederick Treves
Music by Ronnie Hazlehurst
Producer: Trafford Whitelock.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in December 1970.
SAT 09:30 Ray's a Laugh (b00t141c)
From 29/01/1960
When Kitty hears about Ted's pay rise, she's keen to start splashing out....
Starring Ted Ray.
Ray's a Laugh - the successor to ITMA - follows the comedy exploits of Ted's life at home with his 'radio' wife Kitty, as well as in a variety of jobs. It ran from 1949-1961.
Written by Eddie Maguire, George Wadmore and Ted Ray.
With:
Kitty Bluett
Kenneth Connor
Pat Coombs
Laidman Browne
Music from the BBC Variety Orchestra
BBC Variety Orchestra conducted by Paul Fenoulhet.
Producer: Leslie Bridgmont
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in January 1960.
SAT 10:00 4 Extra Goes Gardening (m000v8st)
3. Percy Thrower and Christopher Lloyd
Penelope Keith concludes her exploration of Gertrude Jekyll's ten-acre garden – the enchanting Munstead Wood in Surrey
In the last of three programmes, Penelope discusses Gertrude's influence and changing horticultural fashions with broadcaster and author, James Wong, author Catherine Horwood and Munstead Wood's head gardener, Annabel Watts.
Horticultural wisdoms and delights featured from the BBC Archive:
* Percy Thrower from ‘BEYOND THE BACK DOOR: THAT REMINDS ME’ - BBC Home Service - 1963
* DESERT ISLAND DISCS – Christopher Lloyd - BBC Radio 4 - 2000
Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra by Pier Productions and first broadcast in February 2014
SAT 11:00 Whodunnits (m001xwrj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 12:30 The Peregrine read by David Attenborough (Omnibus) (m000gf0x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SAT 13:45 Singular Women (b0075569)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
SAT 14:00 Not in Front of the Children (b08l6y6m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 14:30 Ray's a Laugh (b00t141c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SAT 15:00 4 Extra Goes Gardening (m000v8st)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SAT 16:00 Produce (b0bhfhkm)
A couple discover that they can't have a healthy baby naturally.
Zenith Genomics seems to offer the solution.
They can create a perfect, bespoke child, with every gene hand-picked. For a price.
But the parents soon find that perfection brings its own problems...
Joseph Wilde's unsettling drama - set in the near future - is a dark fable about parental expectation - and the pressures of parenting in a competitive and commodified world.
Anita .... Laura dos Santos
Tom .... Joseph Kloska
Dr Ahmed .... Seeta Indrani
Beth .... Amy-Jayne Leigh
Mr Dean .... Ewan Bailey
Director: Abigail le Fleming
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2016.
SAT 16:45 HG Wells (b08wdsnj)
Ghost Stories by HG Wells
The Stolen Body
When a paranormal researcher experiments with astral projection, an interested party intervenes.
H G Wells’ short story was first published in 1898 in The Strand Magazine.
Read by David McAlister.
Abridged by Madge Hart.
Producer: Pat McLoughlin
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 1985.
SAT 17:00 Whodunnits (m001xwrj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 18:30 The Peregrine read by David Attenborough (Omnibus) (m000gf0x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SAT 19:45 Singular Women (b0075569)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
SAT 20:00 Not in Front of the Children (b08l6y6m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 20:30 Ray's a Laugh (b00t141c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SAT 21:00 4 Extra Goes Gardening (m000v8st)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SAT 22:00 Paul Sinha's General Knowledge (m00088nj)
Series 1
Episode 3
Paul Sinha - comedian, lapsed GP, Chaser and genuinely the fourth best quizzer in the United Kingdom, is here to tell you about... well, everything.
As a competitive quizzer, Paul learns fascinating facts all the time. As a curious man, he then looks up the stories behind those facts and they often turn out to be even more fascinating. In this series Paul Sinha's improves your general knowledge sharing fascinating facts and hilarious stories.
In this episode, Paul explains the illustrious company he’s joined since the previous recording of this series.
This showbiz-themed episode, sees him taking in the great American songbook, the biggest-selling single to have never been a hit in America, and a Nobel Literature Laureate's contribution to action movies.
Written and performed by Paul Sinha.
Producer: Ed Morrish
A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in September 2019.
SAT 22:30 That Mitchell and Webb Sound (b03k0s5j)
Series 5
Episode 2
The real point of owning a cat and a culture clash at the Proms.
Comedy from the lopsided world of David Mitchell and Robert Webb.
With:
Olivia Colman
James Bachman
Producer: Gareth Edwards
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2013.
SAT 23:00 Andrew Maxwell's Public Enemies (b007jtr3)
The Food Industry
Andrew Maxwell is one of the UK's most informed and fearless stand ups.
In this series of one-off stand up shows, he uses his trademark intelligence and political incisiveness to dig behind the clichés and assumptions about four possible threats to British society:
* The Food Industry
* The internet
* Drugs
* Nationalism
Andrew kicks off with a look at the food industry.
From horse-burgers right up to snail ice-cream, it seems like there's something wrong with every rung of the food ladder.
But given that food is essential to survival, shouldn't we be clearer about what it is we want from the industry that provides it?
A series showcasing a comedian at the top of his abilities tackling difficult and important 'slow news' topics with a depth and perceptiveness that remains outside the remit of mainstream 'topical' comedy.
Written and performed by Andrew Maxwell.
Script edited by Paul Byrne.
Producer: Ed Morrish
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 Extra in October 2013.
SAT 23:30 Hut 33 (b00vs38k)
Series 2
Royal Visit
It's panic stations at Hut 33!
A member of the royal family is paying a visit but the top brass suspect he might be a Nazi sympathiser.
The team has to delay him and make sure he doesn't see any of the codebreaking machines.
James Cary's sitcom set at Bletchley Park - the top-secret home of the Second World War codebreakers,
Archie …. Tom Goodman-Hill
Charles …. Robert Bathurst
Gordon …. Fergus Craig
Joshua … Alex McQueen
Minka …. Olivia Colman
Mrs Best …. Lill Roughley
Duke of Kent .... Michael Fenton Stevens
Producer: Adam Bromley
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2008.

SUNDAY 31 MARCH 2024

SUN 00:00 Produce (b0bhfhkm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Saturday]
SUN 00:45 HG Wells (b08wdsnj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:45 on Saturday]
SUN 02:00 Whodunnits (m001xwrj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Saturday]
SUN 03:30 The Peregrine read by David Attenborough (Omnibus) (m000gf0x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Saturday]
SUN 04:45 Singular Women (b0075569)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Saturday]
SUN 05:00 Not in Front of the Children (b08l6y6m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Saturday]
SUN 05:30 Ray's a Laugh (b00t141c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Saturday]
SUN 06:00 Poetry Extra (m001xv4n)
Ted Hughes and Seamus Heaney
Poet Daljit Nagra revisits the BBC's poetry archive to conclude his special collection of programmes across this month featuring Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath.
Listening and Writing - Writing About Landscape. This is a masterclass by Ted Hughes illustrated by poems: Virginia by TS Eliot; Inversnaid by Gerald Manley Hopkins and Wuthering Heights by Sylvia Plath.
Producer: Sam Langdon
First broadcast on the Home Service in May 1964
And Three Score and Ten featuring Ted Hughes' great fishing friend Seamus Heaney. Featuring archive readings from 1968 and 1978. Seamus Heaney talks about and reads his poems 'Digging' and 'The Ministry of Fear.'
Producer: Sharon Sephton
First broadcast on BBC Radio 3 in 2016.
*** And for Easter Sunday, Daljit selects a reading from his Poetry Extra Book of the Month: Egg/Shell by Victoria Kennefick.
SUN 06:30 The Restaurant: A History of Eating Out by William Sitwell (Omnibus) (m001xv4t)
The history of eating out is a story of life - of politics, courage, skill, art, innovation and of luck.   
We start in Pompeii, where  many restaurants doubled up as brothels and hear about the birth of coffee houses, Working Men's Clubs, fast food and how Indian cuisine established itself in the UK.
In the Ottoman Empire, we discover that doner kebabs were cooked in the open air at dainty picnics.
After Henry VIII’s break from Rome and the Dissolution of the Monasteries, travellers were left with nowhere to get a meal and a bed for the night and so the monastic staff who survived the purges needed places to work and very enterprisingly opened taverns which were soon packed with locals and visitors.
By the 1820s, Paris was freed from the restraints of the revolution and became fashionable again with luxurious shops and restaurants and chefs - notably Marie-Antoine Careme who turned French cuisine into Gastronomy and remains an influence on chefs even to this day
The 20th Century saw the birth and domination of fast food.
In 1948, McDonalds became successful and in 1951 a man called Glen Bell found a way to mass produce Tacos. Sushi became a world favourite after a Japanese entrepreneur visited a brewery and was inspired by the conveyer belt system of carrying bottles, which he adapted for his restaurants.
The Indian restaurant started life in the 1940s when a number of cafes sprang up in London’s Brick Lane and Commercial Road to support a community of seamen from Bangladesh.
Albert and the late Michel Roux set the standard of English restaurant food in 1960s London whether it was liked or not. Customers complained that the portions were too small. "This is French gastronomy". But there were enough Londoners to keep the restaurant busy and full from day one. By March 1968, Le Gavroche was famous.
Omnibus of five parts written by William Sitwell.
Read by Lesley Sharp.
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2020.
SUN 07:40 Inheritance Tracks (m001xv4z)
Owain Wyn Evans
The marathon drumming presenter Owain Wyn Evans chooses 'The Masquerade' by The Carpenters and 'This Hell' by Rina Sawayama.
SUN 07:50 Life Lines (m000bmh3)
Series 3 (Omnibus)
Award-winning drama series set in an ambulance control room.
Carrie the call handler must deal with heart-stopping situations.
A man is intent on taking his own life.
Can the emergency services get to him in time?
Omnibus of five parts written by Al Smith.
Carrie ..... Sarah Ridgeway
Peter ..... Jonjo O'Neill
Will ..... Rick Warden
Ian ..... Mike Jibson
Martin/Policeman ...... Shaun Mason
Darren ...... Michael Ajao
Monica ...... Amelia Lowdell
Gracie/Flo ...... Laura Christy
Luke/Craig ...... Will Kirk
Ailsa ...... Lucy Reynolds
Police Officer/Bill ...... Clive Hayward
Man/Paramedic ...... Illy Elyas
Chris ...... Jonny Holden
Mike ...... Greg Jones
Arthur ...... Neil McCaul
Jenny ...... Sinead MacInnes
Paramedic ...... Scarlett Courtney
Frances ...... Rebecca Root
Producer: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2019.
SUN 09:00 All Gas and Gaiters (m001xv5b)
Series 2
The Bishop Keeps His Diary
The Bishop’s 10th anniversary portrait causes a stir. But where will it be displayed?
Ecclesiastical sitcom which started life on BBC TV.
Written and adapted by husband-and-wife team, Pauline Devaney and Edwin Apps.
The Archdeacon …. Robertson Hare
The Bishop …. William Mervyn
The Bishop's Chaplain …. Jonathan Cecil
The Dean …. John Barron
All Gas and Gaiters started life as a TV pilot in Comedy Playhouse, ahead of a run on BBC1 from 1966 to 1971.
Selected scripts were revised and re-recorded for radio.
Producer: John Dyas
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1972.
***** This programme is an off-air recording, and so does have a few issues with its technical quality – but we hope you enjoy it anyway.
SUN 09:30 The Navy Lark (b04bs00t)
Series 10
Weathering
Can the inept crew of HMS Troutbridge manage to help a scientist complete their research mission?
Starring Leslie Phillips, Jon Pertwee and Stephen Murray.
Laughs afloat aboard British Royal Navy frigate HMS Troutbridge.
Written by Lawrie Wyman.
The Sub-Lieutenant ...... Leslie Phillips
The Chief Petty Officer ...... Jon Pertwee
The Number One ...... Stephen Murray
Captain Povey ...... Richard Caldicot
Mrs Povey ...... Heather Chasen
The Admiral ...... Tenniel Evans
The Professor ....... Michael Bates
AS Tiddy ...... Lawrie Wyman
The Spy ...... Elizabeth Morgan
The Navy Lark ran for an impressive 13 series between 1959 and 1976.
Producer: Alastair Scott Johnston.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in January 1969.
SUN 10:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m001xv5m)
Comic Castaways 4
Ricky Gervais
Comedian and writer Ricky Gervais is castaway Kirsty Young.
In just twelve episodes, his show The Office changed the face of British TV comedy. At its centre was the comic monster, David Brent, a middle-manager being filmed for a mock-documentary who saw the ever-present cameras as his route to popularity and fame. Ricky Gervais's performance was both excruciating and unmissable - one critic called the programme "among the most affecting and invigorating works of fiction since the turn of the century".
As he discusses with Kirsty Young, comedy was the language he grew up with - the youngest of four children, being able to come up with a gag or a smart rejoinder was the linguistic currency of his home. That, he says, is where the 'show-off performer' was born.
Now with seven BAFTAS, two Golden Globes and an Emmy to his name, Ricky is gratified that his work is recognised and says his aim has always been to bring art into comedy.
Favourite track: Lilywhite by Cat Stevens
Book: A coffee table book of art
Luxury: Vat of novocaine - a non-addictive pain-killer.
DISC ONE: Bob Dylan - If You See Her, Say Hello
DISC TWO: Yusuf Islam - Lilywhite
DISC THREE: Sex Pistols - Anarchy in the UK
DISC FOUR: Neil Young - After The Gold Rush
DISC FIVE: Radiohead - Bones
DISC SIX: David Bowie - Letter To Hermione
DISC SEVEN: Jimmy Webb - Galveston
DISC EIGHT: Willie Nelson - Always on My Mind
Producer: Leanne Buckle
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2007.
SUN 10:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b011ppq4)
Series 2
Nectar
The beautiful thick, sweet and luscious tasting delicacy of honey is one of the world's natural goodies.
Indigenous peoples from all over the world will go to great lengths to get the honey from wild bees - and for most of us less connected to the natural world, we love this product of bees bought from the shop.
Honey is nectar and David Attenborough poignantly points out this "was the first bribe in nature..." - it evolved 100,000,000 years ago with the flowering plants and drove the evolutionary relationship between animals and plants.
Written and presented by Sir David Attenborough.
Producer: Julian Hector.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2011.
SUN 11:00 Poetry Extra (m001xv4n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 11:30 The Restaurant: A History of Eating Out by William Sitwell (Omnibus) (m001xv4t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
SUN 12:40 Inheritance Tracks (m001xv4z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:40 today]
SUN 12:50 Life Lines (m000bmh3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:50 today]
SUN 14:00 All Gas and Gaiters (m001xv5b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SUN 14:30 The Navy Lark (b04bs00t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SUN 15:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m001xv5m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 15:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b011ppq4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:45 today]
SUN 16:00 Charles Chilton - Space Force (b007jmd7)
Series 1
4. The Time Ship
"The ship was as tall as a skyscraper and as long as an ocean liner - its hull was round, like a submarine's."
Taken hostage by the aliens, the crew discover more about their mysterious captors.
Starring Barry Foster and Nicky Henson.
Charles Chilton's intergalactic adventure.
Captain Saxon Berry .... Barry Foster
Chipper .... Nicky Henson
Magnus .... Nigel Stock
Lauderic .... Tony Osoba
Ifwa .... Wendy Murray
Treia .... Theresa Streatfeild
Voedica .... Lolly Cockerell
Jennie .... Jenny Twigge
Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in April 1984.
SUN 16:30 Susan Hill - The Woman in Black (b007jls5)
4. Letters and Death Certificates
Can solicitor Arthur Kipps finally unravel the eerie mystery of the isolated house of the reclusive Mrs Drablow?
Susan Hill's chilling ghost story.
Starring John Woodvine and Robert Glenister.
Dramatised by Jon Strickland.
Young Kipps ...... Robert Glenister
Old Kipps ...... John Woodvine
Esme ...... Paula Tilbrook
Stella ...... Jane Cox
Samuel Daily ...... Rod Arthur
Music composed by Derek Pearce.
Directed at BBC Manchester by Chris Wallis
First broadcast on BBC Radio 5 in December 1993.
SUN 17:00 Poetry Extra (m001xv4n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 17:30 The Restaurant: A History of Eating Out by William Sitwell (Omnibus) (m001xv4t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
SUN 18:40 Inheritance Tracks (m001xv4z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:40 today]
SUN 18:50 Life Lines (m000bmh3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:50 today]
SUN 20:00 All Gas and Gaiters (m001xv5b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SUN 20:30 The Navy Lark (b04bs00t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SUN 21:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m001xv5m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 21:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b011ppq4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:45 today]
SUN 22:00 Revolting People (b007jrt6)
Series 1
More Storm Clouds
Baltimore 1770. The reception of Cora and Ezekiel’s ‘wedding of the year’ ends in drunken chaos.
Sitcom set just before the American War of Independence.
Written by Andy Hamilton and Jay Tarses.
Samuel Oliphant …. Jay Tarses
Sergeant McGurk …. Andy Hamilton
Cora Oliphant …. Felicity Montagu
Ezekiel Spriggs …. Hugh Dennis
Mr Snavely …. Michael Fenton Stevens
Captain Grimshaw …. James Fleet
Joshua Oliphant …. Tony Maudsley
Mary Oliphant …. Sophie Thompson
Mrs Arbuthnot …. Susie Blake
Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2000.
SUN 22:30 Thanks a Lot, Milton Jones! (m000h8h0)
Series 4
Milton Jones - Eco Worrier
Milton goes under the sea to save the earth and stumbles across a mysterious Great Aunt at the same time.
Meanwhile, Anton gets his fingers burnt by an old flame.
Mention Milton Jones to most people and the first thing they think is "Help!"
In this series, Milton and his trusty assistant Anton set out to help people and soon find they're embroiled in a new adventure. Because when you're close to the edge, then Milton can give you a push.
Written by Milton with James Cary and Dan Evans.
With regulars:
Tom Goodman-Hill as the ever-faithful Anton
Josie Lawrence
Colin Hoult
Music by Guy Jackson.
Produced and directed by David Tyler.
A Pozzitive production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2020.
SUN 23:00 The Masterson Inheritance (b007jq63)
Series 2
The Mastersons Go Down
The Masterson's epic tale of murder, intrigue and a fast-talking parrot aboard a luxury cruiser.
Award-winning improvised historical comedy series.
Based entirely on audience suggestions - this is the unfolding saga of the Mastersons - a family at war with itself.
Starring:
Paul Merton
Josie Lawrence
Jim Sweeney
Phelim McDermott
Lee Simpson
Caroline Quentin
Producer: Phil Clarke
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1994.
SUN 23:30 The In Crowd (b007jp55)
Series 4
Episode 1
Compulsive Liars Anonymous and a birthday shock.
Comedy sketch show from Manchester.
With:
Helen Moon
Robin Ince
Smug Roberts
Kate Ward
Written by Carl Cooper, Susan Vale, Martin Moore, Susan Murray, Robin & Neil Gibbons, The Trap and Robin Ince.
Producer: Graham Frost
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2004.

MONDAY 01 APRIL 2024

MON 00:00 Charles Chilton - Space Force (b007jmd7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Sunday]
MON 00:30 Susan Hill - The Woman in Black (b007jls5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:30 on Sunday]
MON 01:00 Poetry Extra (m001xv4n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Sunday]
MON 01:30 The Restaurant: A History of Eating Out by William Sitwell (Omnibus) (m001xv4t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Sunday]
MON 02:40 Inheritance Tracks (m001xv4z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:40 on Sunday]
MON 02:50 Life Lines (m000bmh3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:50 on Sunday]
MON 04:00 All Gas and Gaiters (m001xv5b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Sunday]
MON 04:30 The Navy Lark (b04bs00t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Sunday]
MON 05:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m001xv5m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Sunday]
MON 05:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b011ppq4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:45 on Sunday]
MON 06:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p24p)
Sherlock Holmes with Carleton Hobbs - Series 7
1. The Dancing Men
Seemingly childish drawings foreshadow tragedy and death.
Carleton Hobbs and Norman Shelley star in their final series of stories about the Baker Street Sleuth by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Dramatised by Michael Hardwick.
Sherlock Holmes …. Carleton Hobbs
Doctor Watson …. Norman Shelley
Mrs Hudson …. Janet Morrison
Elsie Cubitt …. Ann Murray
Hilton Cubitt …. Humphrey Morton
Hunt …. John Gray
Inspector Martin …. Fred Yule
Mrs King …. Janet Hitchman
Abe Slaney …. John Bentley
Producer: Graham Gauld
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in June 1969.
MON 06:30 Whodunnits (b011q9fr)
Agatha Raisin - Series 3
1. The Murderous Marriage
After pursuing him for nearly four years, Cotswold sleuth Agatha Raisin is finally set to marry James Lacey, the handsome Colonel next door.
But there's just one little problem…
Penelope Keith stars as the PR guru turned amateur detective.
MC Beaton’s novel dramatised in six parts by David Semple.
Agatha Raisin …. Penelope Keith
James Lacey …. Malcolm Sinclair
Mrs Bloxby …. Liza Sadovy
DC Wong …. Stephen Hogan
Roy Silver …. James Holmes
Mrs Wendle …. Tina Gray
Jimmy Raisin …. John Rogan
Martin …. Tim Whitnall
Producer: Carol Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2006.
MON 07:00 Winston (b007rdrz)
Winston Comes to Town
Repeat After Me
A mystery letter sparks a family surprise thanks to William - and a decision is taken over the fate of Father...
Peter Tinniswood's bawdy comedy serial.
Winston ...... Bill Wallis
Father ...... Maurice Denham
Nancy ...... Shirley Dixon
Rosie ...... Liz Goulding
William ...... Christian Rodska
Director: Shaun MacLoughlin
First broadcast on BBC Radio in January 1990.
MON 07:30 Steptoe and Son (b007jn7v)
Series 5
A Winter's Tale
Harold admits he's planning a holiday - but without his dad Albert.
Starring Wilfrid Brambell and Harry H Corbett.
Classic sitcom about the lives of rag and bone men Albert Steptoe and his son Harold.
Written for BBC TV and adapted for BBC Radio by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.
Albert ...... Wilfrid Brambell
Harold ...... Harry H Corbett
Producer: Bobby Jaye
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in June 1974.
MON 08:00 Mum's on the Run (b00tpt3n)
Episode 4
Jen has trouble with mice, cats and the local constabulary.
Mum's on the Run is a modern-day twist on the single-family situation. It follows the hectic life ("What life?") of single mum, Jen.
Starring Ronni Ancona.
Mother of two, Master of none - Jen seems to spend most of her time as an unpaid chauffeur to a 15 year-old teenage existentialist son, Toby, and a tonally challenged recorder-practising 11 year-old daughter, Felicity
She must also cope with her jazz musician ex-husband, the fiercely competitive and annoying downstairs neighbour and a huge crush on her son's history teacher.
Written by Alexis Zegerman.
Jen ...... Ronni Ancona
Mr. Rigby ...... John Gordon Sinclair
Shelley ...... Alexis Zegerman
Vivienne ...... Christine Kavanagh
Felicity ...... Amy Dabrowa
Toby ...... Alexander Heath
Policeman ...... Tony Bell
Police Radio ...... Sam Dale
Producer: Dawn Ellis
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2010.
MON 08:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017lt53)
1. Childhood
Claire Tomalin's acclaimed biography of Britain's great novelist paints a portrait of an extraordinarily complex man.
It begins with an exploration of Charles Dickens's troubled childhood.
He’s portrayed as a writer "so charged with imaginative energy that he rendered 19th century England crackling, full of truth and life, with his laughter, horror and indignation - and sentimentality."
The Artful Dodger, Mr Pickwick, Pip and David Copperfield are just a handful of the characters he created and who continue to endure.
He was also a hard-working journalist, a philanthropist, a supporter of liberal social causes, and father of ten, and yet his genius also had a dark side which emerged with the breakdown of his marriage.
Read by Penelope Wilton.
Abridged in five parts by Richard Hamilton.
Producer: Elizabeth Allard
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
*** Claire Tomalin was literary editor of the The New Statesman and then the Sunday Times before becoming a full time writer. The Life and Death of Mary Wollstonecraft, won the Whitbread First Book Award, and Samuel Pepys: The Unequalled Self was Whitbread Book of the Year in 2002.
MON 08:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b06zqn14)
1. Accident
The Williams bumble along in a normally dysfunctional way until something happens which causes them all to unravel.
Lucy Catherine's beautifully observed ten-part account of a family in meltdown.
Luke ...... Tyger Drew-Honey
Nettie ...... Katie Angelou
Ailsa ...... Sharon Small
Martin ...... Justin Salinger
Orla ...... Rebecca Hamilton
Director: Mary Peate
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2016.
MON 09:00 One Person Found This Helpful (m001xm0y)
Series 1
6. Everybody Loves Velociraptor
Frank and guests Simon Evans, Ania Magliano, Sunil Patel and Kiri Pritchard-McLean find out what you think about sharp carpets and a keg with a difference.
This is the panel game based on what we all sit down and do at least once a day – shop online and leave a review, as an all-star panel celebrate the good, the bad and the baffling.
Written by Frank Skinner, Catherine Brinkworth, Sarah Dempster, Jason Hazeley, Rajiv Karia, Karl Minns, Katie Sayer & Peter Tellouche
Devised by Jason Hazeley and Simon Evans with the producer David Tyler
A Pozzitive production for BBC Radio 4
MON 09:30 A Guide to Garden Wildlife (b036k1s5)
1. Log Piles and Long Grass
Brett Westwood joins naturalist Phil Gates in a garden near Bristol.
With the help of wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson, they offer a practical and entertaining guide to the wildlife which you're most likely to see and hear in different habitats around the garden.
They find "tiggy hogs and coffin cutters", local names for woodlice; endearing little armoured scavengers that feed mostly on fungi. And where you find woodlice you might also find their predators; a spider, "which has got these enormous fangs and the woodlice meets a sticky end!"
The decaying leaves which accumulate in log piles are also good hibernation sites for bumblebees; which in spring will emerge to collect nectar and pollinate garden plants. So log piles can help ensure pollination.
In the long grass nearby, Brett and Phil go looking for cuckoo spit, and an insect which can catapult itself to a height of 140 times its body length! They are also attracted by a hive of activity; the sounds of red mason bees buzzing around artificial nesting sites which have been built for them; these are short lengths of drainpipe containing dozens of hollow tubes in which the bees make their nests and lay their eggs. Artificial nests are a great way of encouraging pollinators into your garden.
Finally they discuss the merits of wood mice in a garden and the creatures they attract:
"What could better than being in bed at night and hearing Tawny Owls hunting in your garden, wood mice are something you really do need!"
Producer Sarah Blunt
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2013.
MON 09:45 Daily Service (m001xv57)
Hymns: Thine Be The Glory - Thine Be The Glory
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Hymns: Thine Be The Glory - Thine Be The Glory
Led by the Revd Delyth Liddell
Reading: 1 Peter 1: 3-9
Thine be the glory
See what a morning gloriously bright
Crown him with many crowns.
MON 10:00 Radiolab (m001xv5k)
Series 11
Family People
Radiolab on Alex Neason’s journey into her family history marked by slavery in the USA.
With Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser.
Radiolab is a Peabody-award winning show about curiosity. Where sound illuminates ideas, and the boundaries blur between science, philosophy, and the human experience.
The Radiolab team investigate a strange world.
From WNYC. First broadcast on public radio in the USA in 2023.
MON 10:55 Inheritance Tracks (b073gtrg)
Joan Baez
American folk singer Joan Baez chooses 'Tonerna' sung by Jussi Bjorling and her own song 'Diamonds and Rust'.
MON 11:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p24p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 11:30 Whodunnits (b011q9fr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 12:00 Winston (b007rdrz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 12:30 Steptoe and Son (b007jn7v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 13:00 Mum's on the Run (b00tpt3n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 13:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017lt53)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 13:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b06zqn14)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
MON 14:00 Many a Slip (b007jv0k)
From 08/08/1978
Quizmaster Roy Plomley challenges his contestants to spot the mistakes.
Eleanor Summerfield and Gillian Reynolds
battle
David Nixon and Tim Rice
With some tune-twisters from Steve Race
Devised and written by Ian Messiter.
Producer: Martin Fisher
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1978.
MON 14:30 Ring Around the Bath (b01g8d6p)
Series 3
Willing It Away
Stella's luck goes from bad to worse.
Not only has daughter Alison moved back in, but granny's come to stay indefinitely!
Where will everyone sleep?
Starring Duncan Preston and Pippa Haywood.
Lucy Clare and Ian Davidson's sitcom about topsy-turvy family life.
Patrick …. Duncan Preston
Stella …. Pippa Haywood
Alison …. Claudie Blakley
Rick …. Bruce MacKinnon
Xanthe …. Catherine Shepherd
Egg …. Daniela Denby-Ashe
Rita Davies .... Mother
Director: Elizabeth Freestone
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2006.
MON 15:00 John Fowles - The French Lieutenant's Woman (b00hhn1j)
1. The Outcast
1867 Lyme Regis: Charles Smithson's complacent snobbery is about to be shattered as he encounters a young social outcast, Sarah Woodruff.
Passionate epic tale of two lovers in conflict with starched Victorian society.
John Fowles' novel, first published in 1969.
Starring Jonathan Firth and Emily Bruni.
With John Hurt as the narrator.
Dramatised in two parts by Graham White.
Narrator ...... John Hurt
Charles ...... Jonathan Firth
Sarah ...... Emily Bruni
Ernestina ...... Kelly Reilly
Mrs Tranter ...... Elizabeth Spriggs
Dr Grogan ...... TP McKenna
Mrs Poulteney ...... Susan Jameson
Sam ...... Nick Sayce
Mary ...... Ella Smith
The Dairyman ...... Gerard McDermott
Mrs Fairley ...... Colleen Prendergast
Ostler ...... Wayne Foskett
Producer: Peter Kavanagh
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2006.
MON 16:00 Radiolab (m001xv5k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
MON 16:55 Inheritance Tracks (b073gtrg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:55 today]
MON 17:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p24p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 17:30 Whodunnits (b011q9fr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 18:00 Winston (b007rdrz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 18:30 Steptoe and Son (b007jn7v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 19:00 Mum's on the Run (b00tpt3n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 19:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017lt53)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 19:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b06zqn14)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
MON 20:00 Many a Slip (b007jv0k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
MON 20:30 Ring Around the Bath (b01g8d6p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
MON 21:00 John Fowles - The French Lieutenant's Woman (b00hhn1j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
MON 22:00 One Person Found This Helpful (m001xm0y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
MON 22:30 Goodness Gracious Me (b007jv3v)
Series 1
Episode 3
Bhangraman must save the world - and the downside of keeping a cow as a family pet
Starring:
Sanjeev Bhaskar
Kulvinder Ghir
Meera Syal
Nina Wadia
Nitin Sawhney
Gold Winner of the Sony Radio Academy Awards. The sketch comedy show originally ran on BBC Radio 4 from 1996 to 1998, later transferring to TV on BBC Two from 1998 to 2001.
Written by Sharat Sardana, Richard Pinto and the cast.
Producers: Gareth Edwards & Anil Gupta
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1996.
MON 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m001y3wx)
Jonny Weldon 1/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Paul Garner chats to Jonny Weldon.
MON 23:00 The Now Show (m001xnf2)
Series 64
Episode 3
Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis present the week via topical stand-up and sketches. Starring Geoff Norcott on cynical advertising strategies, Rachel Fairburn on our nation's obsession with conspiracy theories and an original song from Rachel Parris. With voices from Jon Culshaw and Laura Shavin.
The show was written by the cast with additional material from Cameron Loxdale, Tasha Dhanraj, Pravanya Pillay & Christina Riggs.
Producer: Sasha Bobak
Executive Producer: Rich Morris
Production Coordinator: Caroline Barlow
A BBC Studios Production for Radio 4.
MON 23:30 Dave Podmore (b007qcsw)
Dave Podmore's Cricket Fix
Episode 2
Dave Podmore, the cricketer's cricketer is due to get the call any day now. But will it be from the Test selectors or VAT inspectors?
And Felicity Kendall had better watch out...
Christopher Douglas stars as Pod.
Written by Christopher Douglas, Nick Newman and Andrew Nickolds.
Dave ...... Chris Douglas
Andy ...... Andrew Nickolds
With Chris Pavlo and Nicola Sanderson.
Producer: Richard Wilson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2001.

TUESDAY 02 APRIL 2024

TUE 00:00 Radiolab (m001xv5k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Monday]
TUE 00:55 Inheritance Tracks (b073gtrg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:55 on Monday]
TUE 01:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p24p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Monday]
TUE 01:30 Whodunnits (b011q9fr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Monday]
TUE 02:00 Winston (b007rdrz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Monday]
TUE 02:30 Steptoe and Son (b007jn7v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:00 Mum's on the Run (b00tpt3n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Monday]
TUE 03:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017lt53)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b06zqn14)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Monday]
TUE 04:00 Many a Slip (b007jv0k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Monday]
TUE 04:30 Ring Around the Bath (b01g8d6p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Monday]
TUE 05:00 John Fowles - The French Lieutenant's Woman (b00hhn1j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Monday]
TUE 06:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p1tk)
Sherlock Holmes with Carleton Hobbs - Series 7
2. A Case of Identity
The Baker Street sleuth investigates a missing fiancé and shady stepfather.
Carleton Hobbs and Norman Shelley in their final series of tales by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle stories
Dramatised by Michael Hardwick.
Sherlock Holmes …. Carleton Hobbs
Doctor Watson …. Norman Shelley
Billy .... Terry Raven
Mary Sutherland .... Ysanne Churchman
Mrs Sutherland .... Eva Haddon
Hosmer Angel .... Lewis Stringer
Cabby .... Humphrey Morton
Producer: Graham Gauld
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in June 1969.
TUE 06:30 Whodunnits (b011qfr6)
Agatha Raisin - Series 3
2. The Disappearing Trick
With her marriage dreams in tatters, Agatha Raisin has the small task of returning all the wedding presents.
Plus the slightly larger one of clearing her name of murder...
Penelope Keith stars as the PR guru turned amateur detective.
MC Beaton’s novel dramatised by David Semple.
Agatha Raisin …. Penelope Keith
James Lacey …. Malcolm Sinclair
Mrs Bloxby …. Liza Sadovy
DC Bill Wong …. Stephen Hogan
Ry Silver …. James Holmes
Mrs Wendle …. Tina Gray
Martin …. Tim Whitnall
Harriet …. Belinda Lang

Producer: Carol Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2006.
TUE 07:00 The Michael Bentine Show (b00k3myf)
From 15/04/1984
This is the ultimate one man show.
Michael Bentine stars as everyone from his own father to a huge hairy mountain gorilla.
Written and performed by the host.
Producer: Jamie Rix
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in April 1984.
TUE 07:30 The Goon Show (b007k43y)
Series 5
The Affair of the Lone Banana
Neddie Seagoon tracks young Fred Nurke, who’s vanished from his banana-growing family's home.
Groundbreaking, surreal BBC radio comedy written by Spike Milligan.
Starring:
Peter Sellers
Harry Secombe
Spike Milligan
First billed as Crazy People, ten series of The Goon Show were recorded between 1951 and 1960, but sadly many of the earliest shows weren’t kept in the archive.
With the Ray Ellington Quartet and Max Geldray.
Orchestra conducted by Wally Stott.
Announcer: Wallace Greenslade
Producer: Peter Eton
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in October 1954.
TUE 08:00 Bad Salsa (b092ft05)
Series 3
Something Cold
Jill plans to re-marry her ex-husband Colin to protect their son's financial future.
This gives Terri an idea that involves Chippy.
Sitcom about three women who meet during cancer treatment and start going to salsa class together to maintain their friendship. As they adjust to life after cancer they realise that they've all changed.
The series is not about cancer, but about life after cancer, how you cope the changes in your outlook, your desires and your expectations. It's also about how other people cope with the change in you.
Terri ...... Camille Coduri
Chippy ...... Jessie Cave
Jill ...... Natasha Little
Joel ...... Joe Johnsey
Gordon ...... Andrew Obeney
Corinne ...... Kay Stonham
Colin ...... Martin Trenaman
Shop Assistant ...... Kerry Gooderson
Celebrant ...... Kerry Gooderson
Producer: Katie Tyrrell
A BBC Studio Production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2017.
TUE 08:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mrbj)
2. Early Successes
An exploration of Charles Dickens's early successes as a writer, and new beginnings.
Claire Tomalin's acclaimed biography of Britain's great novelist paints a vivid portrait of an extraordinarily complex man.
Tomalin describes the writer at work, and his extraordinary energy allowing him to write at an intense rate.
His personal life required almost as much energy, a husband, a father of ten and a man who enjoyed a busy social life, with evenings spent at the theatre among friends before returning home to write.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton.
Read by Penelope Wilton.
Producer: Elizabeth Allard
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
TUE 08:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705763)
2. Unhappy
A beautifully observed account of a family in meltdown by Lucy Catherine.
Nettie's mum and dad wait by her hospital bed to see if she will come round after her accident.
Luke tries to find out who has been making her so unhappy.
Luke ...... Tyger Drew-Honey
Nettie ...... Katie Angelou
Ailsa ...... Sharon Small
Martin ...... Justin Salinger
Orla ...... Rebecca Hamilton
Doctor ...... Susan Jameson
Mr Holbrook ...... Richard Pepple
Director: Mary Peate
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2016.
TUE 09:00 Tim Key's Poetry Programme (m001xmc4)
2. Customs
More comic chaos from Tim Key, Tom Basden, Katy Wix and guest star Mike Wozniak.
A poetry show like no other – over the course of 6 series Key has performed magic, music, cookery and witchcraft; he’s delivered a baby, gone underground, up the Shard and into space.
And sometimes he finds time to read poems.
This series our regulars are joined by guest stars Stephen Merchant, Lolly Adefope, Mike Wozniak, Sam Campbell, Simon Armstrong and Morgana Robinson.
Written and presented by Tim Key
Produced by James Robinson
A BBC Studios Audio Production for Radio 4
TUE 09:30 A Guide to Garden Wildlife (b036tsnf)
2. Ponds
Brett Westwood is joined by naturalist Phil Gates in a garden near Bristol.
With the help of recordings by wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson and Tom Lawrence, they offer a practical and entertaining guide to the wildlife which you're most likely to see and hear in a garden pond.
Brett and Phil begin by watching pond skaters (the wolves of the pond) and whirligig beetles on the surface of the water. These beetles are able to look down and up at the same time. Imagine if we could this!
Below the surface, life is anything but quiet as water boatmen communicate with one another by stridulation - producing a remarkably loud tapping sound. There are also backswimmers (so called because they swim upside down), which can be identified explains Phil as "the ones that bite really painfully" so best left alone.
Further below the surface, you might find frogs (their loud purring courtship calls announcing their return to the pond after hibernation and the arrival of spring), and the terrors of the deep; the dragonfly nymphs. These are fearsome predatory larvae with needle-sharp pincer-like jaws, "jet propelled" and feed on tadpoles.
These larvae are transformed into the beautiful flying adults, which are not uncommon; species like the Southern Hawker Dragonfly readily colonise small garden ponds and "they'll come and check you out. They're curious insects, they hover round your head and come and look at you." Don't be alarmed they are completely harmless despite their old names such as 'Horse stinger' and 'Devil's darning needle'!
Producer Sarah Blunt
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2013.
TUE 09:45 Daily Service (m001xxg9)
Hymns: Thine be the glory - risen, conquering Son
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Hymns: Thine be the glory - risen, conquering Son
Luke 24: 13-24
Led by Stef Benstead
Now the green blade riseth
Exmoor Singers
In Christ Alone
Lou Fellingham
O for a closer walk with God
Stuart Townend
TUE 10:00 A Good Read (b07z44bj)
Sebastian Faulks and Sarfraz Manzoor
Birdsong author Sebastian Faulks and journalist Sarfraz Manzoor join Harriet Gilbert to discuss their favourite books by Joseph Conrad, Philip Roth and Diana Athill.
Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
Publisher: Penguin
The Plot Against America by Philip Roth
Publisher: Vintage
Stet by Diana Athill
Publisher: Granta
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2016.
TUE 10:30 My Dream Dinner Party (m0008h3n)
Shappi Khorsandi's Dream Dinner Party
Comedian and author Shappi Khorsandi hosts a dinner party with a twist. All her guests are from beyond the grave, her heroes brought back to life by the magic of the BBC radio archive.
She’s joined by poet and memoirist Maya Angelou, broadcaster and comedian Kenny Everett, actor Richard Burton, post-war Labour politician and feminist campaigner Dr Edith Summerskill and singer songwriter Amy Winehouse.
While the saffron-inspired Persian feast simmers gently, the conversation around the dinner table heats up. But the early tensions soon dissolve as Shappi and her guests discuss the joy of music and the power of the human voice, home and exile, fighting prejudice, and Elizabeth Taylor.
Alongside frank confessions, there's laughter, singing and tales of love.
Presented by Shappi Khorsandi
Produced by Sarah Peters and Peregrine Andrews
A Tuning Fork and Open Audio production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in September 2019.
TUE 11:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p1tk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 11:30 Whodunnits (b011qfr6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 12:00 The Michael Bentine Show (b00k3myf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 12:30 The Goon Show (b007k43y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 13:00 Bad Salsa (b092ft05)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 13:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mrbj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 13:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705763)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
TUE 14:00 Hidden Treasures (b0546cwh)
Harewood House
Undiscovered treasures and porcelain posers.
Enthusiasts and experts come together at Harewood House in West Yorkshire, which is crammed with a fine collection of Chippendale furniture
Lars Tharp chairs the light-hearted antiques quiz.
With:
Philippa Glanville
Henry Sandon
Producer: Annie Bristow
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1998.
TUE 14:30 The Change (b0076p0j)
Series 3
Episode 2
Ken is surprised to find that he has a new bedmate - but not the one he'd hoped for...
Sitcom about a married couple's attempts to smooth over their singularly troubled midlife funk - Carol is hormonal and George is a transvestite.
Onlookers can't quite agree on the nature of their dynamic.
Starring Lynda Bellingham and Philip Jackson
Sitcom by Gavin Petrie and Jan Etherington.
Carol …. Lynda Bellingham
George …. Philip Jackson
Violet ...... Marcia Warren
Maureen …. Maureen Beattie
Ken …. James Vaughan
Sonia …. Emma Kennedy
Jerry …. Barnaby Kay
Dave …. Mark Powley
Producer: Elizabeth Freestone
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2004.
TUE 15:00 John Fowles - The French Lieutenant's Woman (b00hk2dv)
2. Conflicts
Charles's life as a complacent Victorian gent has been overturned by his secret meetings with the mysterious Sarah on the under-cliff at Lyme.
Having vowed to end the liaison he finds himself lured one last time.
He kisses Sarah passionately. Then discovers they're being watched...
Conclusion of John Fowles' passionate epic of two lovers in conflict with starched Victorian society.
Starring Jonathan Firth and Emily Bruni.
With John Hurt as the narrator.
Dramatised by Graham White.
Narrator ...... John Hurt
Charles ...... Jonathan Firth
Sarah ...... Emily Bruni
Ernestina ...... Kelly Reilly
Dr Grogan ...... TP McKenna
Mrs Endicott ...... Susan Jameson
Sam ...... Nick Sayce
Mary ...... Ella Smith
Mr Freeman ...... Gerard McDermott
Mrs Rogers ...... Colleen Prendergast
Montague ...... Wayne Foskett
Prostitute ...... Sophie Roberts
Curate ...... John Cummins
Producer: Peter Kavanagh
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2006.
TUE 16:00 A Good Read (b07z44bj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
TUE 16:30 My Dream Dinner Party (m0008h3n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
TUE 17:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p1tk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 17:30 Whodunnits (b011qfr6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 18:00 The Michael Bentine Show (b00k3myf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 18:30 The Goon Show (b007k43y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 19:00 Bad Salsa (b092ft05)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 19:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mrbj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 19:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705763)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
TUE 20:00 Hidden Treasures (b0546cwh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
TUE 20:30 The Change (b0076p0j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
TUE 21:00 John Fowles - The French Lieutenant's Woman (b00hk2dv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
TUE 22:00 Tim Key's Poetry Programme (m001xmc4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
TUE 22:30 Josh Howie's Losing It (m0000qv9)
Series 2
The Covenant
Stand-up comic Josh and his wife try to come to terms with the arrival of their first child.
Josh tries to convince a mohel that Monique was born Jewish – and there’s an unusual item to dispose of.
Sitcom starring Josh Howie and Pippa Evans.
Written by Josh Howie.
Josh ...... Josh Howie
Monique ...... Pippa Evans
With:
Paul Chahidi
Caroline Mabey
Natasha Radski
Xavi Spencer
Emma Jay Thomas
Producer: Ashley Blaker
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2018.
TUE 23:00 The John Moloney Show (m0007wg2)
Series 4
The Different Dog
The Godfather of British stand-up comedy is back on the live stage with his trials of modern life.
John takes the whole family to the historic city of York for a short break.
As travellers with pets will well know, dogs are not always welcome in hotels; after negotiating in the only way he knows how, Jeffrey the Jack Russell is welcomed to the fancy establishment under the strictest of security.
A very important person is staying in the same hotel, with a number of her own dogs taking residence on the top floor. This can only end well.
Featuring:
Karen Bartke
Ian Rankin
Producer: Richard Melvin
A Dabster production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2019
TUE 23:15 Tom Parry's Fancy Dressed Life (b08n3wps)
Series 1
Texas
It's the final fancy dress party of the year and Tom is off to a wedding.
Can a sweepstake, some cowboy boots and a little bit of line dancing end Tom's fancy dress year on a high?
Written by and starring: Tom Parry
With:
Ben Clarke
Celeste Dring
Gareth Pierce
Tom Parry is an award winning comedian, writer and actor whose credits include Miranda, Phone Shop and Drunk History. For more than a decade he has been part of the multi-award winning sketch team, Pappy's.
Producer: Richard Morris
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2017.
TUE 23:30 Pleased to Meet You (b007k2t5)
Series 1
Episode 2
90-something good-time girl Dora Dale spills the beans on her many celebrity friends – from Elvis to Jimmy Carr.
Betraying confidences and breaking unwritten rules galore, the friend of the stars reveals some surprising and salacious secrets to Martin Kelner.
Starring Dora Dale.
With Jake Yapp.
Written by Martin Kelner and Jake Yapp.
Produced by BBC Radio Leeds for BBC 7.
First broadcast in August 2006.

WEDNESDAY 03 APRIL 2024

WED 00:00 A Good Read (b07z44bj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Tuesday]
WED 00:30 My Dream Dinner Party (m0008h3n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Tuesday]
WED 01:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p1tk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Tuesday]
WED 01:30 Whodunnits (b011qfr6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Tuesday]
WED 02:00 The Michael Bentine Show (b00k3myf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Tuesday]
WED 02:30 The Goon Show (b007k43y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:00 Bad Salsa (b092ft05)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Tuesday]
WED 03:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mrbj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705763)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Tuesday]
WED 04:00 Hidden Treasures (b0546cwh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Tuesday]
WED 04:30 The Change (b0076p0j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Tuesday]
WED 05:00 John Fowles - The French Lieutenant's Woman (b00hk2dv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Tuesday]
WED 06:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p14z)
Sherlock Holmes with Carleton Hobbs - Series 7
3. Black Peter
The Baker Street sleuth investigates the violent death of a retired whaler known as "Black Peter".
Carleton Hobbs and Norman Shelley star as Holmes and Watson in their final series of dramatisations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle stories
Sherlock Holmes …. Carleton Hobbs
Doctor Watson …. Norman Shelley
Inspector Hopkins …. Arnold Peters
Neligan …. John Levitt
Mrs Carey …. Gladys Spencer
Miss Carey …. Mary Chester
Lancaster …. Carl Oatley
Pattins …. Brian Haines
Cairns …. Henry Stamper
Dramatist: Michael Hardwick
Producer: Graham Gauld
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in June 1969.
WED 06:30 Whodunnits (b011qm8t)
Agatha Raisin - Series 3
3. The Terrible Tourist
Now that their marriage plans have collapsed, Agatha is furious to discover that James is taking a holiday on the island where they were supposed to honeymoon together.
But when she sets out in pursuit of him, she stumbles upon another murder.
Agatha Raisin …. Penelope Keith
James Lacey …. Malcolm Sinclair
Olivia Debenham …. Caroline Harker
Sam Payne …. George Layton
Ella Payne …. Julia Deakin
George Debenham …. Spencer Banks
Jean-Pierre …. Peter Silverleaf)
Dramatised by David Semple from the novel by MC Beaton.
Producer: Carol Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2006.
WED 07:00 Ballylenon (b007szbq)
Series 3
Episode 3
It's 1955 in the sleepy Irish town. The BBC's plan to record a programme at the church causes some upset.
CAST:
Phonsie Doherty …. T.P. McKenna
Vera McConkey …. Stella McCusker
Muriel McConkey …. Margaret D’Arcy
Vivienne Boal …. Aine McCartney
Guard Gallagher …. John Hewitt
Sister Gabriel …. Marcella Riordan
Rev. Hawthorne …. Gerard Murphy
Set in County Donegal in the ‘50s, this sitcom ran to thirty episodes over six series between 1994 and 1999. After a ten-year hiatus, there were two subsequent series in 2009 and 2010.
Written by Christopher Fitz-Simon.
Producer: Eoin O'Callaghan
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1996.
WED 07:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jppj)
Series 6
Sid's Mystery Tours
Sid persuades the Lad to become a director of his guided tours company.
But there's a snag..!
Starring Tony Hancock.
With Sidney James, Bill Kerr, Warren Mitchell, Mavis Villers and Errol McKinnon.
Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.
Theme and incidental music written by Wally Stott.
Producer: Tom Ronald
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in November 1959.
WED 08:00 Dot (b08r1ljg)
Series 2
Meat
Dot and the gals take control of the kitchens in the War Rooms.
Their task is to prepare a delicious cut of veal to woo the American ambassador.
It's a shame Dot just ate it. How will they wriggle out of this one?
Rollicking war time comedy by Ed Harris about the staff from the personnel department of the Cabinet Rooms.
Dot ...... Fenella Woolgar
Myrtle ...... Kate O'Flynn
Peg ...... Freya Parker
Air Marshal Peabody ...... David Acton
Abraham A. Abrahams Jnr. III ...... Nicholas Murchie
Uncle Ken ...... John Dougall
Producer: Jessica Mitic
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2017.
WED 08:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mv1k)
3. America
Claire Tomalin's acclaimed biography of Britain's great novelist paints a portrait of an extraordinarily complex man, in this episode exploring how the novelist was well received in America.
Tomalin has created a vivid and evocative portrait of one of the nation's best loved writers.
The characters Dickens created are instantly recognisable, from David Copperfield, to Mr Micawber and Nicholas Nickleby.
His literary output was phenomenal.
He was also the father of ten, and a supporter of various social causes, all evident in his novels.
He was also a deeply complex man and a dark side accompanied his genius.
Claire Tomalin was literary editor of the The New Statesman and then the Sunday Times before becoming a full time writer. The Life and Death of Mary Wollstonecraft, won the Whitbread First Book Award, and Samuel Pepys: The Unequalled Self was Whitbread Book of the Year in 2002.
Read by Penelope Wilton.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton.
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
WED 08:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b07053mk)
3. Strain
A beautifully observed account of a family in meltdown by Lucy Catherine.
Everyone is feeling the strain of Nettie's situation.
Luke ...... Tyger Drew-Honey
Nettie ...... Katie Angelou
Ailsa ...... Sharon Small
Martin ...... Justin Salinger
Rachel ...... Jane Slavin
Doctor ...... Susan Jameson
Orla ...... Rebecca Hamilton
Joe ...... Leo Wan
Police Officer ...... Ewan Bailey
Mrs Straun ...... Debra Baker
Directed by Mary Peate.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2016.
WED 09:00 Janey Godley: The C Bomb (m001xmgs)
Series 2
4. Friends, Enemies, and a Big Decision
Janey knows she’s got a big mouth – and sometimes that’s a great thing. She can talk to anyone, and often makes celebrity mates without even knowing who they are! But it’s also got her into trouble on many occasions.
In this episode, she tells us all about making friends and enemies - and the Hollywood star she’s making a surprise gift!
Things also take a surprising turn as Janey decides in the spur of the moment to make a big decision, and say goodbye to something that’s been a massive part of her life for years, but which has now become a toxic influence that needs to go.
Reflecting with rare candour on her life, as she continues to live with a terminal diagnosis, she still finds humour and insight in both the darkness and the ridiculous.
A mix of stories told onstage to a hometown audience, and intimate conversations with her daughter Ashely Storrie, recorded in the living room of the home they share.
Produced by Julia Sutherland
Featuring Ashley Storrie
A Dabster production for BBC Radio 4
WED 09:30 A Guide to Garden Wildlife (b03757cm)
3. Hedges
Ever wondered what causes the semi-circular holes in your rose bushes, and what is it that raids the honeysuckle for nectar? Well the answers to these garden mysteries are revealed when Brett Westwood is joined by naturalist Phil Gates in a garden near Bristol and with the help of recordings by wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson and Geoff Sample, they offer a practical and entertaining guide to the wildlife which you're most likely to see and hear in a garden hedge.
Hedgerows provide food, shelter and nesting sites for birds, climbing frames for plants and food for insects. Male wrens build multiple nests (often in hedges) and the female then selects one in which to lay her eggs. Wrens are also notable for their song; it's a very loud explosive song for such a small bird "The whole bird seems to vibrate".
Brett and Phil then turn their attention from song to scent; and to the honeysuckle which grows in this garden around the porch, but is often entwined in hedges and likely to attract the lovely Twenty-plume Moth - so called because "their wings look like beautiful Chinese fans ... and each wing is divided into what look like little feathers", and although it's called the Twenty-plume Moth, it actually has 24 plumes, six on each of the four wings; a really exquisite moth.
They also look for signs of leafcutter bees, before finally discussing hedgehogs, the ardent adventures of one particular male in Phil's garden, their extraordinarily noisy courtship, and the importance of hedges as highways and corridors between gardens.
Producer Sarah Blunt
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2013.
WED 09:45 Daily Service (m001xxgc)
Hymns: Thine be the glory – thou over death has won
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Hymns: Thine be the glory – thou over death has won
Romans 6: 5-14
Led by Angel Morgan
Delorosa Hymn - Juanita Francis
Victory Belongs to Jesus - Todd Dulaney
Son of Suffering - Matt Redman
WED 10:00 Short Cuts (m000jvyl)
Words to Live By
Josie Long presents short documentaries about the writers and musicians whose words help us navigate the difficult moments in our lives. From James Baldwin to Adrienne Rich, the lyrics of Jimmie Rodgers to a new poem by Axel Kacoutié.
James Baldwin in conversation with Studs Terkel
Originally broadcast in 1961
Courtesy of the Studs Terkel Radio Archive
for george, breonna, ahmaud, and christian
Produced by James T. Green
Originally made for the podcast u+1f60c
Dedications
Featuring Mary Jean Chan
Produced by Alia Cassam
Featuring recordings of Adrienne Rich from the audio archives of the public radio show, New Letters on the Air, a production of New Letters magazine at the University of Missouri-Kansas City
The Watertank
Featuring Damian Le Bas
Produced by Andrea Rangecroft
You Got Through the Day
Produced by Axel Kacoutié
Production team: Andrea Rangecroft and Alia Cassam
Series Producer: Eleanor McDowall
A Falling Tree production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in June 2020.
WED 10:30 The Science of Dr Seuss (b085z058)
Comedian Robin Ince enters the wonderful wacky world of Dr Seuss, and uncovers some surprising real world science hidden within these childhood classics.
He's joined by scientists and fellow Seuss fans Sophie Scott, Andrea Sella, Mark Miodownick and Adam Rutherford who reveal some of the very real scientific ideas hiding within the seemingly nonsensical worlds and rhymes of Dr Seuss.
From "The Cat in the Hat comes Back" to "The Lorax" and "Oh the Places You'll Go", Robin and his team of scientists, reveal how ideas about the environment, scale, chemistry, genetics and psychology, can all be found within some very well known favourites.
They explore why they think Dr Seuss, perhaps surprisingly, thought like a scientist.
Producer: Alexandra Feachem
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2016.
WED 11:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p14z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 11:30 Whodunnits (b011qm8t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 12:00 Ballylenon (b007szbq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 12:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jppj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 13:00 Dot (b08r1ljg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 13:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mv1k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 13:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b07053mk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
WED 14:00 Dilemma (b01888wg)
Series 1
Episode 6
Sue Perkins puts Zoe Lyons, Phill Jupitus, Simon Garfield and Humphrey Ker through the moral and ethical wringer in the show where there are no "right" answers - but some deeply damning ones...
Quandaries on the agenda include swapped babies, one-night stands, and biochip crime prevention.
They also try to solve some dilemmas the audience have brought along.
Devised by Danielle Ward.
Producer: Ed Morrish
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2011.
WED 14:30 The Leopard in Autumn (b00cbm6c)
Series 1
Plethora Princess Regent
Awaiting news of a new pope, Plethora takes over Monte Guano and Ludovico takes to his bed.
Neal Anthony's 16th century comedy drama about the chaotic lives of the ruling family of Renaissance Italy's most inconsequential city-state.
Ludovico ...... David Swift
Plethora ...... Sian Phillips
Francesco ...... Graham Crowden
Alessandro ...... Paul Bigley
Rosalie ...... Saskia Wickham
Salvatori ...... Nick Romero
Guido ...... Christopher Kelham
Father Ignazio ...... Kim Wall
Producer: Helen Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2001.
WED 15:00 Good Queen Bess and the Dastardly Don (m001xvfv)
It is 1599, and unless a compromising letter can be recovered, Elizabeth's reputation as the Virgin Queen will be in tatters.
Time to call in Mistress Phoebe Fosdyke, Secret Agent.
A right royal historical romp by written by George MacDonald Fraser, author of the Flashman novels.
The Queen .... Vivienne Dixon
Robert Cecil .... Crawford Logan
Phoebe Fosdyke .... Katherine Igoe
Don Diego .... Mark McDonnell
Walter Raleigh .... James Bryce
Tracy .... Julie Austin
Director: Patrick Rayner
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2000.
WED 16:00 Short Cuts (m000jvyl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
WED 16:30 The Science of Dr Seuss (b085z058)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
WED 17:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p14z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 17:30 Whodunnits (b011qm8t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 18:00 Ballylenon (b007szbq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 18:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jppj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 19:00 Dot (b08r1ljg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 19:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mv1k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 19:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b07053mk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
WED 20:00 Dilemma (b01888wg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
WED 20:30 The Leopard in Autumn (b00cbm6c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
WED 21:00 Good Queen Bess and the Dastardly Don (m001xvfv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
WED 22:00 Janey Godley: The C Bomb (m001xmgs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
WED 22:30 Delve Special (b007jn2h)
Series 4
Resurrection of St Jerome
Intrepid reporter David Lander probes the extravagant lifestyle of Caribbean despot Felipe Delnazo and his wife Isabella.
Written by Tony Sarchet.
Starring Stephen Fry as David Lander.
With Brenda Blethyn, Robert Bathurst, Andrew Sachs, Philip Pope and Mark Arden.
Producer: Paul Mayhew Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1987.
WED 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m001y3wz)
Jonny Weldon 2/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Paul Garner chats again to Jonny Weldon.
WED 23:00 Alex Horne Presents The Horne Section (b042jhzs)
Series 3
Sara Pascoe and James Acaster
Stand-up Alex Horne and his band explore the theme of technology through live music and comedy.
With songs about a record player, hoover and a teasmaid amongst others.
With guest comedians:
Sara Pascoe
James Acaster
Alex's Horne Section are:
Joe Auckland
Mark Brown
Will Collier
Ben Reynolds
Ed Sheldrake
Producer: Julia McKenzie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2014.
WED 23:30 The Skewer (m001xmjp)
Series 11
Episode 7
The week’s biggest stories like you’ve never heard them before. The news, remixed as a satirical comedy concept album. This episode - We're Going On A Bear-emy Hunt, Peppa Pig Goes To Gaza, and fun with flags.
Jon Holmes presents the multi-award winning The Skewer. Headphones on.
Producer: Jon Holmes
An unusual production for BBC Radio 4
WED 23:45 Crème de la Crime (b0080sx1)
Series 1
A Death on the Ocean Wave
A case of murder on a luxury cruise liner.
Recalled by Michael Feydeau -TV's much-loved Inspector Niblett - and crime expert David Pershore
Using a daring mixture of reconstructions, interviews, music and specially made noises, tales from the vaults of villainy.
Written by and starring Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis.
With:
Simon Greenall
Emma Kennedy
Director: Adam Bromley
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2001.

THURSDAY 04 APRIL 2024

THU 00:00 Short Cuts (m000jvyl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Wednesday]
THU 00:30 The Science of Dr Seuss (b085z058)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Wednesday]
THU 01:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p14z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:30 Whodunnits (b011qm8t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Wednesday]
THU 02:00 Ballylenon (b007szbq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Wednesday]
THU 02:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jppj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:00 Dot (b08r1ljg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Wednesday]
THU 03:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mv1k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b07053mk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Wednesday]
THU 04:00 Dilemma (b01888wg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Wednesday]
THU 04:30 The Leopard in Autumn (b00cbm6c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Wednesday]
THU 05:00 Good Queen Bess and the Dastardly Don (m001xvfv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Wednesday]
THU 06:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p8kk)
Sherlock Holmes with Carleton Hobbs - Series 7
4. The Red Circle
The great detective investigates a lodger - and coded messages from a candle provides some vital clues...
Carleton Hobbs and Norman Shelley star as Holmes and Watson in their final series of dramatisations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle stories
Sherlock Holmes .... Carleton Hobbs
Dr Watson .... Norman Shelley
Mrs Warren .... Grace Allardyce
Gennaro ....Robert Rietty
Inspector Gregson .... Humphrey Morton
Leverton ....Robert Howay
Emilia ....Gici Gatti
Dramatist: Michael Hardwick
Producer: Graham Gauld
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in June 1969.
THU 06:30 Whodunnits (b011tz3y)
Agatha Raisin - Series 3
4. The Green-Eyed Monster
A murder at the hotel disco has forced the warring Agatha and James to co-habit. But will they be able to solve this sudden death before they end-up killing each other?
Agatha Raisin …. Penelope Keith
James Lacey …. Malcolm Sinclair
Olivia Debenham …. Caroline Harker
Sam Payne …. George Layton
George Debenham …. Spencer Banks
Dramatised by David Semple from the novel by MC Beaton.
Producer: Carol Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2006.
THU 07:00 Second Thoughts (b00jzckp)
Series 3
Name, Set and Match
Newly wed Faith and Bill's married monikers are a sensitive subject.
Starring Lynda Bellingham and James Bolam
Sitcom about the battles of divorcees Bill and Faith beginning married life, whilst balancing the demands of his ex-wife and her teenage children.
Faith …… Lynda Bellingham
Bill …… James Bolam
Liza …… Belinda Lang
Richard …… Geoffrey Whitehead
Joe …… Mark Denham
Hannah …… Emma Gregory
Mr Burrows …… Norman Bird
Inspired by the real lives of its writers, husband and wife Jan Etherington and Gavin Petrie.
A TV version made by LWT for ITV ran from 1991.
Producer: Paul Schlesinger
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1991.
THU 07:30 Dad's Army (b007jpvh)
Series 3
Keep Young and Beautiful
New War Office policy sparks drastic action amongst the platoon's old guard.
The comic exploits of a Second World War Home Guard platoon in Walmington-on-Sea.
Adapted for radio from Jimmy Perry and David Croft's TV scripts by Harold Snoad and Michael Knowles.
Captain Mainwaring …. Arthur Lowe
Sergeant Wilson …. John Le Mesurier
Corporal Jones …. Clive Dunn
Private Frazer …. John Laurie
Private Pike …. Ian Lavender
Private Godfrey …. Arnold Ridley
Private Walker …. Larry Martyn
Wig Maker …. Michael Burlington
Announcer …. John Snagge
Additional music by Dennis Gomm.
Producer: John Dyas
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1976.
THU 08:00 What Does the K Stand For? (b08dnwrr)
Series 3
Let's Talk About Sex
Stephen plucks up the courage to reveal a secret.
Stephen K Amos stars in this sitcom about growing up black, gay and funny in 1980s south London.
Written by Jonathan Harvey with Stephen K Amos.
With
Stephen K Amos
Ellen Thomas
Laurie Kynaston
Bola Okun
Emerald Crankson
Karen Bartke
David Sterne
Producer: Paul Sheehan.
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in February 2017.
THU 08:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mvx0)
4. Theatre
Claire Tomalin's acclaimed biography of Britain's great novelist paints a portrait of an extraordinarily complex man, in this episode exploring how a theatrical performance changes the course of his life.
Tomalin portrays Dickens as a complex man, a writer who created characters who continue to endure in the popular imagination from the The Artful Dodger, Mr Pickwick, Pip and David Copperfield.
He was also a ferociously hard-working writer, a philanthropist, a supporter of liberal social causes, and father of ten, and yet his genius also had a dark side.
Claire Tomalin was literary editor of the The New Statesman and then the Sunday Times before becoming a full time writer. The Life and Death of Mary Wollstonecraft, won the Whitbread First Book Award, and Samuel Pepys: The Unequalled Self was Whitbread Book of the Year in 2002.
Read by Penelope Wilton.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton.
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2011.
THU 08:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705clm)
4. Coma
A beautifully observed account of a family in meltdown by Lucy Catherine.
Nettie is still in a coma and the family is finding it a strain.
Luke ...... Tyger Drew-Honey
Nettie ...... Katie Angelou
Ailsa ...... Sharon Small
Martin ...... Justin Salinger
Rachel ...... Jane Slavin
Orla ...... Rebecca Hamilton
Mr Holbrook ...... Richard Pepple
Joe ...... Leo Wan
Doctor ...... Susan Jameson
Directed by Mary Peate.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2016.
THU 09:00 Conversations from a Long Marriage (m001xmj0)
Series 5
6. Out of Time
A spider rescue, a wedding and a huge shock. Can Joanna and Roger's marriage survive?
Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam play loving, long-marrieds, in the 5th series of Jan Etherington’s award-winning comedy.
This week, Joanna rescues a spider from the bedroom ceiling and there are joyful preparations for the wedding of Auntie Hilda and Jack in the care home. ‘The last wedding we planned was our own’ Joanna says, reminding Roger they’ve been together for 50 years. ‘On and off’ Roger responds. Then Roger has a visitor from his past that will rock the foundation of their marriage. Struggling through Auntie Hilda’s wedding day, a devastated Joanna tells him ‘I feel like I’m looking down on myself and trying to work out how I can live with this’ and she finally has to make a decision that breaks Roger’s heart.
Conversations from a Long Marriage is Written by Jan Etherington. It is produced and directed by Claire Jones. And it is a BBC Studios Production for Radio 4.
Wilfredo Acosta - sound engineer
Charlotte Sewter - studio assistant
Jon Calver - sound designer
Katie Baum - production coordinator
Conversations from a Long Marriage won the Voice of the Listener & Viewer Award for Best Radio Comedy in 2020, was nominated for a Writers’ Guild Award in 2022 and a British Comedy Guide award in 2024.
‘Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam have had illustrious acting careers but can they ever have done anything better than Jan Etherington’s two hander? This is a work of supreme craftsmanship.’ RADIO TIMES
‘Peppered with nostalgic 60s hits and especially written for the pair, it’s an endearing portrait of exasperation, laced with hard won tolerance – and something like love.’ THE GUARDIAN
‘You’ve been listening at my window, Jan’. JOANNA LUMLEY
‘Sitcom is what marriage is really like – repetitive and ridiculous – and Jan’s words are some of the best ever written on the subject’. RICHARD CURTIS
THU 09:30 A Guide to Garden Wildlife (b037gxxb)
4. Trees and Shrubs
If you want to take a closer look at the wildlife in your garden trees and shrubs, then you need an umbrella. The reason why becomes clear, when Brett Westwood is joined by naturalist Phil Gates in a garden near Bristol and with the help of recordings by wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson they offer a practical and entertaining guide to the wildlife which you're most likely to see and hear in garden trees and shrubs.
Storied vegetation creates the most diverse habitat for birds in gardens, mimicking the woodland edge. Willow Warblers, Blue Tits and Great Tits all use trees as a caterpillar food source and song posts. With the help of the umbrella, Brett and Phil discover looper caterpillars (larvae of Geometrid moths) and a staple diet of many nesting tits and warblers. They get their name from the way in they loop their body up and then stretch out. They are sometimes called 'measurers' or 'inch worms' as they appear to measure out an inch at a time.
Phil then produces a strange looking object "It reminds me of dish mop" he laughs. It turns out to be Rose bedeguar gall (Robin's pincushion) and Phil explains how these and other galls are produced in a fascinating process in which insects, (a wasp in the case of the Bedeguar gall) reprogramme plant tissue development.
Brett and Phil then move into the back garden to compare notes on the ideal tree for a small garden before finally discussing the value of old trees and dead wood in the garden; including feeding sites for birds like Nuthatches and sounding boards for drumming woodpeckers.
Producer Sarah Blunt
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2013.
THU 09:45 Daily Service (m001xxgf)
Hymns: Thine be the glory – lovingly He greets
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Hymns: Thine be the glory – lovingly He greets us
1 Peter 1: 13-21
Led by Rev Laura Darrall
THU 10:00 4 Extra Goes Gardening (m000v8st)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]
THU 11:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p8kk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 11:30 Whodunnits (b011tz3y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 12:00 Second Thoughts (b00jzckp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 12:30 Dad's Army (b007jpvh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 13:00 What Does the K Stand For? (b08dnwrr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 13:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mvx0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 13:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705clm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
THU 14:00 Genius (b0076vc0)
Series 2
Johnny Vegas
From a robotic dog to friendly car horns.
Dave Gorman asks comedian and actor Johnny Vegas to select the public's best loopy idea.
Series in which award-winning comedian Dave Gorman and a celebrity guest chew over the ridiculous, unworkable but sometimes genius inventions, schemes and policies of the public.
Producer: Simon Nicholls
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2006.
THU 14:30 Gilbert Without Sullivan (b0076c0t)
Series 1
The Finger of Fate
Foggerty is a confirmed bachelor in search of peace and quiet, but fate has other plans in store for him in the rather large shape of Dolly Fortescue.
Jonathan Coy stars as WS Gilbert in the first series of his short stories dramatised by Stephen Wyatt.
WS Gilbert ...... Jonathan Coy
Foggerty ...... Stephen Moore
Dolly ...... Alison Steadman
Guard ...... Martin Hyder
Missionary ...... Ian Masters
Playwright and humourist, Sir William Schwenck Gilbert (1836-1911) is best known for his comic opera collaborations with Sir Arthur Sullivan, which first captivated audiences across the English-speaking world in the late 19th century.
Director: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2002.
THU 15:00 RL Stevenson - The Master of Ballantrae (b00cbcpd)
1. The Unwelcome Return
Two brothers, James and Henry Durie, engage in a bitter struggle over money, power and love.
Robert Louis Stevenson's dark and dramatic adventure story set in 18th-century Scotland and America.
After the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745, the Master flees Scotland for a life of piracy, buried treasure and murder...
Starring David Rintoul and Liam Brennan.
Buccaneering tale first published in 1889 and dramatised in two parts by Chris Dolan.
James Durie …. David Rintoul
Henry Durie …. Liam Brennan
Ephraim McKellar …. John Shedden
Alison Graeme …. Vicki Liddelle
Chevalier Burke …. Patrick Moy
Captain Teach …. John Kazek
Dutton …. Simon Tait
Jess Broun …. Lesley Hart
Lord Durrisdeer …. Tom Fleming
Producer: Bruce Young
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2004.
THU 16:00 4 Extra Goes Gardening (m000v8st)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]
THU 17:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p8kk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 17:30 Whodunnits (b011tz3y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 18:00 Second Thoughts (b00jzckp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 18:30 Dad's Army (b007jpvh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 19:00 What Does the K Stand For? (b08dnwrr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 19:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mvx0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 19:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705clm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
THU 20:00 Genius (b0076vc0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
THU 20:30 Gilbert Without Sullivan (b0076c0t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
THU 21:00 RL Stevenson - The Master of Ballantrae (b00cbcpd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
THU 22:00 Conversations from a Long Marriage (m001xmj0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
THU 22:30 Clare in the Community (b01693gs)
Series 7
Basic Attraction
Finally, it's Clare and Brian's wedding day! But first there's the Hen Party and Stag Night to get through.
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.
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.
Clare ...... Sally Phillips
Brian ...... Alex Lowe
Megan ...... Nina Conti
Ray ...... Richard Lumsden
Helen ...... Liza Tarbuck
Simon ...... Andrew Wincott
Libby ...... Sarah Kendall
Nina / Mrs Mellish ...... Tracy Wiles
Registrar ...... Gerard McDermot
Gavin / Terry ...... Adam Billington
Nurse / Trudi ...... Victoria Inez Hardy
Written by Harry Venning and David Ramsden
Producer Katie Tyrrell.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2011.
THU 23:00 Foley and McColl: The Interview (b0076dcq)
For You the War is Over
Has Sean's hobby of historical re-enactment gone too far?
Written by and starring Sean Foley and Hamish McColl.
With Michael Parkinson as himself.
Director: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2003.
THU 23:15 Prince Ivor (b072969m)
Scottish musician and humorist, Ivor Cutler is invited by the BBC's Piers Plowright to write a 20-minute opera, 'Prince Ivor'.
However, from contract to the debut performance, nothing goes to plan...
Written by Ivor Cutler.
With:
Julianne Mason
John Fletcher
Producer: Piers Plowright
First broadcast on BBC Radio 3 in March 1983.
THU 23:30 And the Winner Is... (b00rpwn2)
Series 1
Episode 6
Matt Lucas hosts his alternative awards show – The Lucases.
Awards include the Lucas for Most Redundant Technology, The Greatest Historical Fatty, Ghastliest Holiday Destination and Worst Ever Vocal Performance on a Hit Single.
The nominations are provided by this week's guests, who are Bob Mortimer, Alex Macqueen and Tom Baker, but the ultimate decision is down to the whim of the host.
Script written by Ashley Blaker, Bill Matthews and Ged Parsons.
Producer: Ashley Blaker
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in 2010.

FRIDAY 05 APRIL 2024

FRI 00:00 4 Extra Goes Gardening (m000v8st)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]
FRI 01:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p8kk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Thursday]
FRI 01:30 Whodunnits (b011tz3y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Thursday]
FRI 02:00 Second Thoughts (b00jzckp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Thursday]
FRI 02:30 Dad's Army (b007jpvh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:00 What Does the K Stand For? (b08dnwrr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Thursday]
FRI 03:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mvx0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705clm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Thursday]
FRI 04:00 Genius (b0076vc0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Thursday]
FRI 04:30 Gilbert Without Sullivan (b0076c0t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Thursday]
FRI 05:00 RL Stevenson - The Master of Ballantrae (b00cbcpd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Thursday]
FRI 06:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p16q)
Sherlock Holmes with Carleton Hobbs - Series 7
5. The Lion's Mane
The Baker Street sleuth postpones a spot of beekeeping in order to investigate a violent death.
Carleton Hobbs and Norman Shelley star as Holmes and Watson in their final series of dramatisations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle stories.
Sherlock Holmes …. Carleton Hobbs
Doctor Watson …. Norman Shelley
Stackhurst …. Garard Green
Murdoch …. Henry Davies
Bellamy …. Humphrey Morton
Maud Bellamy …. Pat Pleasance
Mrs Hudson …. Janet Morrison
Dramatist: Michael Hardwick
Producer: Graham Gauld
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in July 1969.
FRI 06:30 Whodunnits (b011vf01)
Agatha Raisin - Series 3
5. The Fairies of Fryfam - Part 1
Hurt by James once too often, Agatha takes a trip to the Cornish village of Fryham, but is soon disturbed by some strange lights at the bottom of her garden.
Agatha Raisin …. Penelope Keith
James Lacey …. Malcolm Sinclair
Mrs Bloxby …. Liza Sadovy
Lucy Danvers …. Rebecca Saire
Tolly Danvers …. Mark Straker
Mr Popplewell …. Stephen Critchlow
Dramatised in two parts by David Semple from the novel by MC Beaton.
Producer: Carol Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2006.
FRI 07:00 Up the Garden Path (b007w43j)
Series 1
New Year, Old Problems
It’s the beginning of a new school term and Izzy is dreading it...
Tumbling from one love entanglement to another, 30 something teacher Izzy Comyn has a predilection for inappropriate men.
Imelda Staunton stars as Izzy.
Adapted by Sue Limb from her 1984 novel into 3 radio series which ran from 1987 to 1993. Granada also adapted the series for ITV.
Izzy ...... Imelda Staunton
Maria ...... Marty Cruickshank
Michael ...... Nicholas Le Prevost
Dick ...... Mike Grady
Gwyn ...... Sion Probert
Class 4C:
Cheryl Miller
Sarah Doyle
Mark Monero
Sam Smart
Producer: Jonathan James-Moore
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1987.
FRI 07:30 Albert and Me (b007k0dw)
Series 2
A Moving Story
Single dad Bryan tries to get a loan to move house, but it's not simple.
Stars Robert Lindsay and Pat Coombs.
Written by Jim Eldridge.
Robert Lindsay takes over as the single parent struggling to find work and raise his baby son.
In the original 1977 series, Bryan was played by the late Richard Beckinsale who tragically died in 1979. After a six-year hiatus, the series returned with Bryan's mother and baby Albert played once again by the ever-versatile Pat Coombs.
Bryan Archer ...... Robert Lindsay
Mum/Albert ...... Pat Coombs
Mrs Willis ...... Diana King
Mr Benson ...... John Arnatt
Mrs Hagger ...... Dilys Laye
Ron ...... Larry Martyn
Mary ...... Rosalind Adams
Mr Tibbies ...... Roland MacLeod
Incidental music by Max Harris.
Producer: John Fawcett Wilson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in March 1983.
FRI 08:00 Plum House (b0b48ksz)
Series 2
A Sound Investment
The team are making an audio tour they hope will bring visitors flocking. But they can't agree on who will star in the recording, and Tom has a bigger problem when he accidentally breaks the most valuable artefact in the museum.
Comedy about the inept staff at a historic house.
Every year, thousands of tourists flock to the Lake District. But one place they never go to is Plum House - the former country home of terrible poet George Pudding (1779-1848). Now a crumbling museum, losing money hand over fist, it struggles to stay open under its eccentric curator Peter Knight.
Tom Collyer tries and fails to get the museum back on track, alongside the hopelessly out of touch deputy Julian, corner-cutting gift shop manager Maureen, put-upon education officer Emma, and enthusiastic but dim-witted caretaker Alan.
Peter ...... Simon Callow
Julian ...... Miles Jupp
Maureen ...... Jane Horrocks
Tom ...... Tom Bell
Alan ...... Pearce Quigley
Emma ...... Louise Ford
Gerry ...... Danny Webb
Ralph ...... Ed Easton
Written by Ben Cottam and Paul McKenna
Produced by Sarah Cartwright
Directed by Paul Schlesinger
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in May 2018.
FRI 08:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mwz2)
5. Adulation and Farewells
Claire Tomalin's acclaimed biography of Britain's great novelist paints a portrait of an extraordinarily complex man, in this episode exploring adulation and farewells.
Tomalin evocatively portrays Dickens as a writer charged with tremendous imagination and energy, enabling him to create characters who continue to endure in our popular culture from The Artful Dodger, Mr Pickwick, Pip and David Copperfield.
He was also a hard-working journalist, a philanthropist, a supporter of social causes, and father of ten, and yet his genius also had a dark side.
Claire Tomalin was literary editor of the The New Statesman and then the Sunday Times before becoming a full time writer. The Life and Death of Mary Wollstonecraft, won the Whitbread First Book Award, and Samuel Pepys: The Unequalled Self was Whitbread Book of the Year in 2002.
Read by Penelope Wilton.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton.
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2011.
FRI 08:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705ckj)
5. Struggles
A beautifully observed account of a family in meltdown by Lucy Catherine.
Ailsa is struggling to accept that her daughter will never recover.
Luke ...... Tyger Drew-Honey
Nettie ...... Katie Angelou
Ailsa ...... Sharon Small
Martin ...... Justin Salinger
Orla ...... Rebecca Hamilton
Michael ...... Ewan Bailey
Male PC ...... Caolan McCarthy
Directed by Mary Peate.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2016.
FRI 09:00 Jokes (p0hc2b2d)
Stuart Mitchell's Cost of Living
6. Stuart is Happy
Comedian Stuart Mitchell examines his own cost of living crisis. After losing his dad and giving up everything, Stuart shares the lessons he has learnt that have brought him true happiness.
Each episode, Stuart looks at a chapter of his own unbelievable, but absolutely true, life story.
A working class boy, with huge aspirations, Stuart achieved everything he dreamed of and more. However, he soon came to realise that the cost of having everything was more than he was willing to pay. A morality tale featuring his time working in Westminster, moving to a highly paid job in banking and willingly losing it all to find happiness; Stuart will make us all question the true cost of living.
Written and performed by Stuart Mitchell
Produced by Lauren Mackay
FRI 09:15 Guy Browning's Small Talk (b0076d91)
Series 1
Duvet Control
It's a miracle men and women ever manage to share a bed - and the drawbacks of counting sheep.
More deep thoughts on trivia.
Written by and starring Guy Browning.
Producer: Jonquil Panting
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2003.
FRI 09:30 A Guide to Garden Wildlife (b037smx8)
5. Stones
Stones, patios, rockeries and walls may at first seem an unlikely habitat for wildlife but that's far from the truth as you can hear when Brett Westwood is joined by naturalist Phil Gates in a garden near Bristol and, with the help of recordings by wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson, they offer a practical and entertaining guide to the wildlife which you're most likely to see and hear associated with walls and stones in the garden.
Many invertebrates like to sunbathe on sun-drenched stones whilst others live in the cool shade under the stones. Wolf spiders and zebra spiders (the latter so called because of their black and white markings) can be found sunbathing on patios or house walls. "Watch out for their courtship - this is real edge of the seat drama " says Phil of the wolf spider as the smaller males risk their lives as they approach the female signalling to her, often for hours, before he mates, or in some cases, is eaten!
Stone walls may also harbour slow worms, although you can also encourage these into your garden with pieces of corrugated iron as Phil explains. Turning over some edging stones, Brett and Phil discover masses of black garden ants, which milk aphids for their sugary honeydew "rather like we milk herds of cattle", explains Phil. Snails in the garden are kept in check by Song Thrushes which use stones as anvils on which to crack the snail shells and extract the contents for a juicy meal. Perhaps most valuable of all are ivy-clad walls which offer shelter in winter for many species, as well as nesting sites for birds, and year round food. And if you have ivy and holly in your garden then you could be rewarded with the sight of a lovely Holly Blue butterfly which requires both to complete its life cycle.
Producer Sarah Blunt
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2013.
FRI 09:45 Daily Service (m001xxgh)
Hymns: Thine be the glory – glorious Prince of life
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Hymns: Thine be the glory – glorious Prince of life
Romans 6:5-14
Led by Leslie Griffiths
Because He Lives
The Spirituals
The Strife is O'er
Ripon Cathedral Choir
How Great Thou Art
Rachel John
FRI 10:00 Great Lives (m001h60k)
Comedian Chris McCausland on Kurt Cobain
Comedian, actor and writer Chris McCausland chooses Nirvana's lead singer, Kurt Cobain:
Chris McCausland tells Matthew Parris that for him, "it’s all about his authenticity".
Kurt Cobain, lead singer, guitarist and songwriter of the band Nirvana became the voice of a generation and is to this day considered one of the most influential musicians in the history of alternative rock. His angst ridden, often politically driven lyrics challenged the conventions of the day and resonated with youth audiences around the world. He championed the underdog and stood up for all those who had ever felt excluded from the mainstream.
Kurt’s message resonated with comedian, actor and writer Chris McCausland, but so did his music. With its raw energy and Kurt’s ‘take me as I am’ performances, Chris found a rock band that delivered the authenticity he’d been searching for.
Accompanied from New York by author, journalist and music specialist Laura Barton, Chris discusses the Great Life of Kurt Cobain, his music, his message, his sense of humour and why it’s never too late to jump in a mosh pit.
Presenter: Matthew Parris
Producer: Nicola Humphries
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2023.
FRI 10:30 And the Academy Award Goes To... (b05329jq)
Series 5
Chariots of Fire
Race, class and religion to a rhythm by Vangelis. Paul Gambaccini explores the story behind the Best Picture winner for 1981, Chariots of Fire.
It was the brainchild of Lord Puttnam, the screenplay by socialist Colin Welland, and yet adored by President Ronald Reagan, for its patriotic glory.
David Puttnam was looking around the bookshelves of a rented house in Los Angeles.
He'd just finished Midnight Express and was scouting for a new story to tell. The books were all about yachting - these people were sailing nuts - until suddenly "The History of the Olympic Games" stood out on a shelf.
Sitting back and reading about the games in the early decades of the 20th century, he came across two remarkable stories - Eric Liddell, son of Scottish missionaries, who was supposed to run in the 100 metres, but withdrew as the heats were held on a Sunday - but who went on the break world records and take Gold medal in the 400 metres. And the story of Harold Abrahams, a Cambridge scholar, determined to win in a world where anti-semitism was rife.
Paul Gambaccini meets the men who made these stories into the Best Picture Oscar winner of 1981; Lord Puttnam, editor Terry Rawlings, director Hugh Hudson, actor Nigel Havers and athletics adviser Tom McNab, who all give fresh accounts of their own race to the top of the pile at the Academy Awards.
With contributions from David Thomson and Toby Miller. Archive interviews with Colin Welland and Ben Cross.
Producer: Sara Jane Hall
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2015.
FRI 11:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p16q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 11:30 Whodunnits (b011vf01)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 12:00 Up the Garden Path (b007w43j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 12:30 Albert and Me (b007k0dw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 13:00 Plum House (b0b48ksz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 13:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mwz2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 13:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705ckj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
FRI 14:00 Whispers (b007k2sl)
Series 3
Episode 3
Gyles Brandreth hosts the quiz show with scandal on its mind and slander at its heart.
Dan Tetsell and John O'Farrell join team captains Lucy Moore and Anthony Holden to run the gauntlet of gossip.
Producer: Victoria Lloyd
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2005.
FRI 14:30 Bookcases (b00sxt6h)
Series 1
The Man in White
London 1858: A little bored by Gerald, Cordelia is having fun with the novelist Wilkie Collins, who’s having a spell of writer's block with The Woman in White.
Primus has the answer...or does he?
Primus …... Michael Cochrane
Cordelia …... Maggie Steed
Edith …... Elizabeth Spriggs
Gerald …... David Horovitch
Wilkie Collins …... David Timson
Simeon …... Charles Simpson
George Eliot ..…. David Antrobus
Written by Martyn Wade.
Director: Cherry Cookson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1998.
FRI 15:00 RL Stevenson - The Master of Ballantrae (b00cbmp9)
2. The Unpeaceful Rest
After the brother's bitter duel - the body of James Durie has mysteriously disappeared. The House of Durrisdeer is shattered for a second time.
Brothers James and Henry Durie engage in a bitter struggle over money, power and love in this dark and dramatic adventure story set in 18th-century Scotland and America.
Starring David Rintoul and Liam Brennan.
Conclusion of Robert Louis Stevenson's buccaneering tale
Dramatised by Chris Dolan.
James Durie …. David Rintoul
Henry Durie …. Liam Brennan
Ephraim McKellar …. John Shedden
Alison Graeme …. Vicki Liddelle
Hasty …. Patrick Moy
Captain Harris …. John Kazek
Carlyle/General Clinton …. Simon Tait
Lesley Hart (Katherine)
Lord Durrisdeer …. Tom Fleming
Secundra Dass …. Ali de Souza
Colonel Johnson …. James Bryce
Mr Mountain …. Alec Heggie
Alexander Durie …. Harris Young
Producer: Bruce Young
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2004.
FRI 16:00 Great Lives (m001h60k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
FRI 16:30 And the Academy Award Goes To... (b05329jq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
FRI 17:00 Sherlock Holmes (m000p16q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 17:30 Whodunnits (b011vf01)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 18:00 Up the Garden Path (b007w43j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 18:30 Albert and Me (b007k0dw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 19:00 Plum House (b0b48ksz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 19:30 Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin (b017mwz2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 19:45 Lucy Catherine - Halfway Here (b0705ckj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
FRI 20:00 Whispers (b007k2sl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
FRI 20:30 Bookcases (b00sxt6h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
FRI 21:00 RL Stevenson - The Master of Ballantrae (b00cbmp9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
FRI 22:00 Jokes (p0hc2b2d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
FRI 22:15 Guy Browning's Small Talk (b0076d91)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:15 today]
FRI 22:30 Laura Solon - Talking and Not Talking (b00773xs)
Series 1
Episode 5
The torrid tale of Justine's jeans and the sad story of a second gap year.
Award-winning comedian Laura Solon's sketch and character comedy series.
With:
Ben Moor
Katherine Parkinson
Ben Willbond
Written by Laura Solon.
With additional material by the cast, Carl Cooper, Tony Roche and Andy Marlatt.
Producer: Colin Anderson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2007.
FRI 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m001y3xq)
Jonny Weldon 3/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Paul Garner chats again to Jonny Weldon.
FRI 23:00 Jake Yapp's Media Circus (b0bbq1gm)
Daytime TV
Jake Yapp applies his sharp satirical eye to the modern media, exploring its strengths, weaknesses and idiosyncrasies through stand-up, sketch and music.
His first focus is the Daytime TV schedule.
Exploring its most common tropes and iterations while attempting to explain why he finds so much of it unwatchable.
Written, performed and composed by Jake Yapp.
With:
George Fouracres
Emily Lloyd-Saini
Additional material by Robin Morgan.
Producer: Joe Nunnery
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in July 2018.
FRI 23:30 Weak at the Top (b00tgch7)
Series 2
Booty
John Weak reveals the feminist metatext of a chocolate bar ad that features a bikini-clad model with lips that could suck the hair shirt off a Benedictine monk at 50 yards.
Randy, devious, sexist and workshy, John Weak puts the man into management – in Guy Browning’s sitcom.
Starring Alexander Armstrong as marketing maestro and "totty" magnet John Weak.
Hayley ...... Clare Perkins
Sir Marcus ...... Geoffrey Whitehead
Bill Peters ...... Ron Cook
Sasha ...... Tracy Wiles
Tibet ...... Adjoa Andoh
Ski Guy ...... Kim Wall
Producer: Jonquil Panting
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2006.