SATURDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2024

SAT 00:00 Soul Music (m001ml4x)
Dancing in the Dark
"Dancing in the Dark was written under duress!" Bruce Springsteen says it was a song about not wanting to write another song.
"I get up in the evening / And I ain't got nothing to say" - By 1984, Bruce Springsteen had been recording songs for his album Born in the U.S.A. for two years, but the producer told him the album still didn't have a lead single. This became a product of that conversation, written in just 40 minutes.
"I ain't nothing but tired / Man, I'm just tired and bored with myself" - Kieran Leonard's mum was a huge Bruce Springsteen fan. After he lost her to cancer, he paid tribute to her by performing his songs dressed as Bruce on stage.
"You can't start a fire / You can't start a fire without a spark" - Ian Gravell was driving to pick up his daughter from nursery on a snowy evening when a lorry appeared out of nowhere. He thought he might never walk again, until hospital staff played his favourite Springsteen album compelling him to his feet.
'Messages keep getting clearer / Radio's on and I'm moving round my place' - Musician Lucy Dacus talks about playing the song on stage with her dad and the genius of the lyrics.
"There's something happening somewhere / Baby, I just know that there is" - Artist Holly Casio found huge comfort in Springsteen's music as a young person growing up gay in a small town in West Yorkshire in the era of Section 28.
"This gun's for hire / Even if we're just dancing in the dark"- when Jackie Heintz brought a Springsteen record home as a teenager, she never imagined that her mum Jeannie would become a huge fan – following Bruce on tour through her 70s and 80s, and dancing on stage with him aged 91.
Produced by Mair Bosworth and Caitlin Hobbs.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2023.
SAT 00:30 24 Hours of Sunset (b0833sfh)
2. Night
Sunset Boulevard is one of those long, long American streets, 22 miles that tell the story of film, of Hollywood, of course, but Laura Barton thinks this street tells the story of America itself.
Laura Barton loves Sunset Boulevard and walking through LA, a city utterly devoted to driving. At foot level, you see things you'd never see in a car.
In this 2 part series, Laura walks the length of Sunset Boulevard in 24 hours. Along the way, she uncovers the contemporary arts stories and the iconic artistic legacy of this street. She meets artists and historians, as well as ordinary people who live and work along one of the most famous streets in the world.
The second episode takes Laura Barton from the glamourous, raucous Sunset Strip out to the coast, the edge of the Pacific Ocean - through the wealthy Beverly Hills neighbourhood and its manicured, lawns. She meets with professor of public policy Elizabeth Currid-Halkett, cultural historian David Ulin, soul band KING, former poet laureate Luis Rodriguez, and architect Alice Kimm, revealing the famous and the hidden stories of Sunset's artistic life.
Sunset Blvd's cultural landmarks tell LA's story - the drought threatening a city by the sea, the mixed up sub-cultures and ethnic and racial communities that come together to make the city - this is why Laura thinks Sunset is a microcosm of today's American story.
In 24 Hours on Sunset, Laura finds how Sunset Boulevard and its artistic legacy have become a shorthand for what LA represents in our collective imagination.
Producer: Nija Dalal-Small
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016.
SAT 01:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nmqc)
1. Bankrupt
A small town in Galloway, on the South-west coast of Scotland. A cottage mysteriously unchanged since 1941. A dead nurse.
And lawyer Peter Calman with one million pounds in his bank account, and no idea how it got there.
A thriller serial in six episodes by Edward Boyd.
Peter Calman ...... David Asthon
Jenny ...... Stella Forge
Magda ...... Vivienne Dixon
Old Hansford ...... Ian Stewart
Douglas ...... Robert Paterson
Jock ...... John Shedden
Receptionist ...... Tamara Kennedy
Anderson/McLeod ...... John Buick
Nurse Nicolson ...... Anne Cullen
Directed at BBC Scotland by Patrick Rayner.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1984.
SAT 01:30 The Joke About Hilary Spite (m000l9mm)
5. Universal General Hire
As the danger mounts, Hilary is forced to hang on for rescue from the sky.
Starring Angela Pleasance.
Christopher Bidmead's spy adventure about a woman with exceptional computing skills.
Hilary …. Angela Pleasance
Beresford …. Rolf Lefebvre
Cannon …. Nigel Anthony
Jean …. Hilda Kriseman
Dr Reece …. John Pullen
Mortimer …. Dinsdale Landen
Le Noir …. Charles Hyatt
Matron …. Margaret Wolfit
Williams …. Peter Tuddenham
Dr Wormald …. Malcolm Hayes
Girl …. Jo Manning Wilson
Nurse …. Deborah Dallas
Rick …. Andrew Sachs
Michael …. Brian Hewlett
Technician …. James Thompson
Fernberg …. Kerry Francis
Policeman / Guard …. Brian Haines
Producer: John Tydeman
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1970.
SAT 02:00 The Older Woman (b039tqfd)
Series 2
Episode 4
Roy Hitchcock is a hack journalist on a provincial paper with big ideas and an attitude problem.
When he meets his former English teacher, his private fantasies get a new lease of life as he sets out to win her against all the odds - including staying in a caravan in her garden.
Starring Geraldine James and Martin Clunes.
Tony Bagley's romantic comedy drama serial with a twist.
Roy.................Martin Clunes
Jane..............Geraldine James
Chad.............Nicky Henson
Colin.............David Troughton
Marina..........Tilly Vosburgh
Win................Sue Roderick
Other parts played by:
Melanie Hudson
Peter Serafinowcz
Alistair McGowan
Music composed by Julian Wostall
Theme sung by Toyah Willcox
Producer: Paul Schlesinger
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1994.
SAT 02:30 The Burkiss Way (b00d16g6)
Series 5
Sack the Burkiss Way
Confusion at Eddie's 24 Hour Sniffery and let's play 'Family Fortunes'.
Starring Fred Harris, Jo Kendall, Nigel Rees and Chris Emmett.
Cult sketch comedy series which originally ran from 1976 to 1980.
Written by Andrew Marshall and David Renwick.
Producer: David Hatch
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1980.
SAT 03:00 Room 101 with Paul Merton (m001n8wd)
Series 1
Julian Clary
Paul Merton interviews guests from the world of comedy and entertainment, to find out what they would like to send to Room 101
In this episode, Julian Clary's choices include wild swimmers and Love Your Garden with Alan Titchmarsh.
Additional material by John Irwin and Suki Webster
Produced by Richard Wilson
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in June 2023.
SAT 03:30 Homecoming by Colin Grant (m0009lpq)
5. Pride in the Home
Growing up in 1960s Luton, Colin Grant avoided asking his Jamaican parents why they had emigrated to Britain in the 1950s. But now, seventy years after many ships - including the Empire Windrush - anchored on British shores, he brings together over a hundred first-hand interviews, archival recordings and memoirs by the women and men who came to Britain from the West Indies between the late 1940s and early 1960s.
After the Second World War, Britain encouraged immigration from Commonwealth countries. To a large extent this was to help rebuild the country, as there was a shortage of labour at the time. The migrants were coming to a country promising prosperity and employment. Their stories are of hope and regret, of triumphs and challenges, brimming with humour, anger and wisdom. Together, they reveal a rich tapestry of Caribbean British lives.
The institutions of Caribbean life were brought to Britain by those who arrived in the 40s, 50s and 60s, what was left behind was a place that many felt they could never return to, even if some still called it 'home'.
Introduction by Colin Grant
Readers: Burt Caesar, Don Warrington, Michelle Greenidge, Colin Salmon, Dona Croll
Abridged by Colin Grant, Jill Waters and Isobel Creed
Produced by Jill Waters.
A Waters Company production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2019.
SAT 03:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bltrnk)
10. Recognition
Sophie's campaign for equality continues, as she draws closer to seeing women receive medical degrees in their own country.
Conclusion of the true story of late 19th century pioneer Sophia Jex-Blake's in Maggie Allen's ten-part dramatisation.
CAST:
Sophia Jex-Blake ... Julia Watson
Mr Norton .... Christopher Scott
Mrs Jex-Blake ... Tina Gray
Ursula du Pre ... Joanna Monro
Isabel Thorne ... Sara Coward
Edith Pechey ... Susan Jeffrey
Mr Henry Littlejohn .... Gavin Muir
Elsie Inglis ..... Tracy Wiles
Ina Cadell ..... Teresa Gallagher
Jessie MacGregor ... Hilary MacLean
John Inglis .... Bob Docherty
Miss Gosse ... Jenny Lee
Dr Milne .... Jamie Ballard
Director: Sue Wilson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2001.
SAT 04:00 Foul Play (b00zshr3)
Series 4
Murder for Starters
Crime writers Robert Barnard and Lindsey Davis probe who wielded a deadly skewer.
Simon Brett hosts the murder mystery panel game.
Witnesses played by:
Maria McErlane
Lee Simpson
Producer: Liz Anstee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1998.
SAT 04:30 Hidden Treasures (m0023733)
Edgar Wallace - The Calendar
Captain Gary Anson's friends gather at his home to attend the racing at Ascot - and place bets.
His faithful Butler Hillcott tells the story of "one of the 'best do's I was ever in on".
Edgar Wallace's stage play was first performed in 1929, followed by a novel in 1930.
Adapted for broadcasting by Cynthia Pughe.
Hillcott .... Charles Leno
Henry Lascarne .... Ralph Hallett
Gary Anson .... Richard Hurndall
Molly Panniford .... Penelope Lee
Lady Panniford (Wenda) .... June Tobin
Sir William Panniford .... Denis Goacher
Mr Waye .... Wilfred Babbage
Andy Lynn .... Henry Kaye
John Dory .... Philip Morant
Sir George Garth .... Norman Claridge
Lord Innspond .... Derek Birch
Lord Fallingham .... Hugh Manning
Producer: Archie Campbell
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in December 1961.
**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
'The Calendar’ is part of BBC Radio 4 Extra's Hidden Treasures collection of selected titles returned to the BBC by various collectors.
Our warm thanks go to the Radio Circle.
SAT 05:30 The Mind of Mr JG Reeder (b0082gzy)
The Troupe
Intrigued by the arrival in London of a transatlantic visitor he knows to have managed a troupe of actors, Mr JG Reeder tries to get to the bottom of a jewellery fraud.
Read by David Horovitch
Mr JG Reeder's novel methods bring the criminals of 1920s London to justice.
Created by Edgar Wallace, he is a uniquely English detective. An apparent fuddy-duddy working in some obscure capacity in the Public Prosecutor's office, he actually has a razor-sharp intellect and is a super-sleuth.
Mr JG Reeder solves his mysteries because he fully understands the "criminal mind".
Abridged by Neville Teller.
Producer: Gemma Jenkins
Made for BBC Radio 7 and first broadcast in October 2007.
SAT 06:00 Rod Beacham - The Inter-City Contract (m0023fnb)
A chess-playing Hungarian, a concert harpist and a septuagenarian lady mountaineer are just some of the travellers on the overnight express from London's King's Cross to Edinburgh.
And then, of course, there's a hired assassin - and the dead body in the baggage compartment.
Inter-City makes the going's easy is the popular tagline, but will anyone be coming back..?
Crime thriller written by Rod Beacham.
Sam .............................. Michael Maloney
Fran ............................. Melinda Walker
Brent ........................... Steve Hodson
Tabori .......................... George Pravda
Carstairs ..................... Roger Hammond
Eve ................................ Carole Boyd
Ernie ............................. Alan Downer
Davinia ....................... Margot Boyd
Dave ............................. Mark Straker
Sir John Carlyle ......... Brian Smith
Fraser ............................Graham Blockey
Director: Matthew Walters
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1985
SAT 07:30 English Pastoral: An Inheritance by James Rebanks (Omnibus) (m0023fnd)
Lake District farmer James Rebanks, author of the hugely popular ‘The Shepherd’s Life’, considers the environment, legacy and how to live a good life on the land.
From being encouraged by his grandfather, to combining old methods with new thinking, Rebanks sees the land around him come to life as his hard work begins to pay off.
Omnibus of five parts abridged by Siân Preece.
Read by Bryan Dick.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2021.
SAT 08:45 Tales From A Long Room by Peter Tinniswood (m00027jk)
Series 1
Our Own Dear Queen
Had Queen Victoria become a Test cricketer, would there still be a British Empire?
Robin Bailey reads the first of five stories from Peter Tinniswood's cricket tales.
Abridged for radio by the author.
Producer: Tony Cliff
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1981,
SAT 09:00 Play It Cool (b05tbp4r)
Episode 6
Revealing tales of Hollywood and the life of William Shakespeare.
Fast-moving sketches written by Eric Merriman - best known for Beyond Our Ken.
Starring:
Ian Carmichael
Joan Sims
Hugh Paddick
Music from:
Rosemary Squires
The Mike Sammes Singers
The Ken Thorne Orchestra
Producer: John Simmonds
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in August 1964.
SAT 09:30 Brothers in Law (b007js3q)
Series 2
1471
Both of barrister Roger Thursby's girlfriends, Sally and Joy attempt to get him some work.
Starring Richard Briers as Roger Thursby, John Glyn-Jones as Grimes, Julia Lockwood as Sally, Bridget Armstrong as Joy, Blake Butler as Alec and James Hayter as Tewksbury.
Other parts played by Garard Green and John Ruddock.
Written by Henry Cecil and Basil Dawson.
Published in 1955, Henry Cecil's comic legal novel Brothers in Law was adapted first for TV in 1962 by Frank Muir and Denis Norden. It provided the first regular starring role for Richard Briers, who later reprised his role of the idealistic young lawyer Roger Thursby for BBC Radio between 1970 and 1972.
Producer: David Hatch.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1971.
SAT 10:00 Clowning Around on 4 Extra (m001b4b7)
3. Max Wall and Beyond
Tony Lidington concludes tracing the role of the clown in British humour – from the Great Grimaldi through stars of circus, pantomime and Pierrots, to modern entertainers and even activists.
Tony draws on his own performances, BBC archive and contemporary experts.
In the last of three programmes, he examines the impact of Max Wall and how clowning has changed in the 21st century
Producer: Mike Greenwood
Made for Radio 4 Extra by Pier Productions and first broadcast in March 2014.
SAT 11:00 Rod Beacham - The Inter-City Contract (m0023fnb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 12:30 English Pastoral: An Inheritance by James Rebanks (Omnibus) (m0023fnd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SAT 13:45 Tales From A Long Room by Peter Tinniswood (m00027jk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
SAT 14:00 Play It Cool (b05tbp4r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 14:30 Brothers in Law (b007js3q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SAT 15:00 Clowning Around on 4 Extra (m001b4b7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SAT 16:00 Jill Hyem - Past Refrain (m0004xtg)
Lara is haunted by a Corsican lullaby. Can it be due to some repressed memory from her childhood?
Lara …. Tracy Wiles
Sam …. Ben Crowe
Mrs Osborne …. Mary Wimbush
Aiden Routh …. John Turner
Judith Routh …. Elizabeth Bell
Marjory …. Tessa Worsley
Vicar …. Ioan Meredith
Various …. Stephen Critchlow
Various …. Becky Hindley
Written by Jill Hyem.
Director: Cherry Cookson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1999.
SAT 17:00 Rod Beacham - The Inter-City Contract (m0023fnb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 18:30 English Pastoral: An Inheritance by James Rebanks (Omnibus) (m0023fnd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SAT 19:45 Tales From A Long Room by Peter Tinniswood (m00027jk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
SAT 20:00 Play It Cool (b05tbp4r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 20:30 Brothers in Law (b007js3q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SAT 21:00 Clowning Around on 4 Extra (m001b4b7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SAT 22:00 Welcome to Wherever You Are (b09h6k1g)
Series 1
Episode 2
Andrew Maxwell hosts a truly global stand-up show, in which comedians perform from wherever on the planet they happen to be, to an audience in the BBC Radio Theatre, London.
With:
Tats Nzonzo
Sharul Channa
Ari Eldjárn
Tats Nkonzo reveals how the Rainbow Nation is doing;
Andrew finds out if Singapore has changed since he was last there with Sharul Channa;
And get up to speed with Iceland/Denmark rivalry with Reykjavik's own Ari Eldjárn.
Photo credit: Matt Stronge
Producer: Ed Morrish
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in December 2017.
SAT 22:30 Tom Allen Is Actually Not Very Nice (m000cl9g)
Episode 4
Tom Allen is Actually Not Very Nice explores what happens when Tom's calm and collected exterior collapses.
He used to be such a nice boy but what has happened to turn him naughty?
With help from the assembled studio audience, Tom works out how best to navigate some tricky social situations and how to keep a lid on his fury when confronted with life's small injustices.
Featuring Gabby Best.
Photo credit: Edward Moore @edshots
Producer: Richard Morris
A BBC Studios Production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in December 2019.
SAT 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m0023qq5)
Ed Patrick 1/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, The Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. And tonight, Stephen Bailey interviews the doctor and comedian Ed Patrick.
SAT 23:00 Sorry About Last Night (b00nj7cz)
A Enemy
Dad's double-life shocks Andy and Julie.
Written by and starring Alexei Sayle.
Sitcom about life, love and not living together.
Andy ...... Alexei Sayle
Julie ...... Siobhan Redmond
Mr Hamad ...... Nadim Sawalha
Mrs Abasanjo ...... Adjoa Andoh
Mr Lucik ...... Chris Pavlo
Dad ...... Harry Towb
Mr Overthorpe ...... Simon Greenall
Michael ...... Gary Bleasdale
Mrs Overthrope ...... Kay Stonham
Bronson ...... Tony Burgess
Produced and directed by Jo Clegg with Alexei Sayle.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1999.
SAT 23:30 Can't Tell Nathan Caton Nothing (b01sdmzn)
Series 2
About Money
Nathan discovers how his loved ones would react if he were rich.
But, sadly, he isn't.
This is the story of young, up-and-coming comedian Nathan Caton, who becomes the first in his family to graduate from University - only to opt for a career in comedy - much to his family's annoyance who want him to get a 'proper job' using his architecture degree.
Each episode shows the criticism, interference and rollercoaster ride that Nathan endures from his family as he pursues his career against their wishes.
Will Nathan be able to persist and follow his dreams? Or will he give in to his family's interference?
A mix of Nathan's stand-up intercut with scenes from his family life.
Written by: Nathan Caton.
Additional material by: Ola and Maff Brown.
Nathan ..... Nathan Caton
Mum ..... Adjoa Andoh
Dad ..... Curtis Walker
Grandma ..... Mona Hammond
Layla ..... Chizzy Akudolu
Reverend Williams / Mr Daniels ..... Don Gilet
Shifty ..... Ola
Producer: Katie Tyrrell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2013.
SAT 23:45 Sounding Off with McGough (b007k4cn)
3. The Meaning of Life
Roger McGough's poetic reflections on 'the meaning of life'
With the accompaniment of long-time musical collaborator Andy Roberts.
Recorded at the Bath Festival.
Producer: Sara Davies
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2000.

SUNDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2024

SUN 00:00 Jill Hyem - Past Refrain (m0004xtg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Saturday]
SUN 01:00 Rod Beacham - The Inter-City Contract (m0023fnb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Saturday]
SUN 02:30 English Pastoral: An Inheritance by James Rebanks (Omnibus) (m0023fnd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Saturday]
SUN 03:45 Tales From A Long Room by Peter Tinniswood (m00027jk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Saturday]
SUN 04:00 Play It Cool (b05tbp4r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Saturday]
SUN 04:30 Brothers in Law (b007js3q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Saturday]
SUN 05:00 Clowning Around on 4 Extra (m001b4b7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]
SUN 06:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m0023gfg)
American Singers
Randy Newman
American composer, singer and song-writer Randy Newman is castaway by Kirsty Young.
Colleagues say he stands shoulder-to-shoulder with musical legends Cole Porter and George Gershwin. He first made his name by writing mordant and often satirical pop songs - including A Few Words in Defence of Our Country, Political Science and Short People. For the past 25 years he has been better known for his Hollywood film music - including writing the scores for the first four Disney/Pixar films.
He held the unique distinction for being Oscar-nominated 15 times without winning until 2002, when he picked up the award for Best Original Song for If I Didn't Have You from Monsters Inc. His songs are often written from the point of view of unlikeable characters - from slave masters to stalkers - it was a style, he acknowledges, that wasn't universally liked, but he adds: "I wouldn't have it any differently".
DISC ONE: Beethoven's String Quartet No. 16 in F major, Op. 135 - The Hollywood String Quartet
DISC TWO: Alfred Newman - Goodbyes
DISC THREE: George Jones - The Door
DISC FOUR: Fletcher Henderson - The Stampede
DISC FIVE: Igor Stravinsky's Sacrificial Dance (from The Rite of Spring) - Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Benjamin Zander
DISC SIX: Dmitry Shostakovich's Symphony No. 15 in A major, 1st movement - London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Bernard Haitink -
DISC SEVEN: Mahler - Symphony No. 9 in D major, 4th movement - Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Herbert von Karajan
DISC EIGHT: Ray Charles - Come Rain or Come Shine
CASTAWAY'S FAVOURITE: The Hollywood String Quartet - Ludwig van Beethoven's String Quartet No. 16 in F major, Op. 135
BOOK CHOICE: The Divine Comedy (with translation) - Dante Alighieri
LUXURY CHOICE: A piano
Producer: Jane Thurlow
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2008.
SUN 06:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b01130qm)
Series 2
Cuckoo
The Cuckoo is one of the iconic brood parasites of the world - the bird that cons another species into taking its egg as its own and rears the chick to fledging.
In the single frame of the Cuckoo you have a long distance migrant, travelling from Africa to breeding grounds in the temperate north, and back again.
The Cuckoo does not raise its own chick and across a range of Cuckoo individuals, they parasitise several species of bird - all much smaller than they are.
Sir David Attenborough explores the world of the Cuckoo and not only marvels at their natural history but tells the story of how a wildlife cameraman resolved a scientific mystery - and how the Cuckoo itself harbours yet more secrets to science and natural history.
Producer: Julian Hector.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2011
SUN 07:00 Poetry Extra (m0023gfj)
The New Lyrical Ballads
Poet Daljit Nagra revisits the BBC's poetry archives and selects The New Lyrical Ballads with Zaffar Kunial, Kim Moore, Helen Mort and Jacob Polley.
Lyrical Ballads, a collection of poems by William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge first published in 1798, changed the course of British poetry. Growing up in the Lake District, Wordsworth set out to use the everyday language he heard around him in his poems in order to make them accessible to a wider audience. Both poets drew inspiration from seeing a return to the original state of nature, in which people led a purer and more innocent existence. The word Lyrical linked their poems to ancient rustic bards, while Ballad refers to an oral storytelling tradition. Both poets used rural life and country people as the subject of their poetry which was a marked shift from what had come before.
In 2020 the programme originally marked the 250th anniversary of Wordsworth's birth. Four leading poets Zaffar Kunial, Kim Moore, Helen Mort and Jacob Polley read new lyrical ballads inspired by the ideas in the original collection. Each of the contemporary poets have strong links to Cumbria and the Lake District and their poems give us a glimpse into life in the county now.
Produced by Lorna Newman and Susan Roberts
A BBC North production.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2020.
SUN 07:30 Homecoming by Colin Grant (Omnibus) (m0009s2x)
Growing up in 1960s Luton, Colin Grant avoided asking his Jamaican parents why they had emigrated to Britain in the 1950s.
But now, 70 years after many ships - including the Empire Windrush - anchored on British shores, he brings together over a hundred first-hand interviews, archival recordings and memoirs by the women and men who came to Britain from the West Indies between the late 1940s and early 1960s.
After the Second World War, Britain encouraged immigration from Commonwealth countries. To a large extent this was to help rebuild the country, as there was a shortage of labour at the time.
The migrants were coming to a country promising prosperity and employment. Their stories are of hope and regret, of triumphs and challenges, brimming with humour, anger and wisdom. Together, they reveal a rich tapestry of Caribbean British lives.
Omnibus of five episodes abridged by Colin Grant, Jill Waters and Isobel Creed.
Introduction by Colin Grant.
Readers: Burt Caesar, Don Warrington, Michelle Greenidge, Colin Salmon, Dona Croll
Producer: Jill Waters
A Waters Company production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in October 2019.
SUN 08:40 Inheritance Tracks (m0023gfl)
Ed Gamble
Comedian Ed Gamble passes on 'Lady Grinning Soul' by David Bowie, and 'Black Sabbath' by Black Sabbath.
SUN 08:50 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (Omnibus) (b0bm9b8z)
Episode 2. 1876-1894
By 1876, Sophia finally has a medical degree and sets up her own practice, but the challenges ahead lead her to question her very calling...
Omnibus of the last five episodes of Maggie Allen's ten-part dramatisation of the life the medical pioneer who campaigned for women's right to education in the late 19th century.
Starring Julia Watson as Sophia Jex-Blake; Tina Gray as Mrs Jex-Blake; Christopher Scott as Mr Norton; Joanna Monro as Ursula Du Pre; Isabel Thorne as Sara Coward; Susan Jeffrey as Edith Pechey; Gavin Muir as Henry Littlejohn; Tracy Wiles as Elsie Inglis; Teresa Gallagher as Ina Cadell; Hilary MacLean as Jessie MacGregor; Bob Docherty as John Inglis; Jenny Lee as Miss Gosse; and Jamie Ballard as Dr Milne.
Director: Sue Wilson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2001.
SUN 10:00 The Clitheroe Kid (m0023gfn)
Series 6
Sorry You've Been Troubled
Will the cheeky schoolboy be able to resist getting into trouble with the new telephone?
Starring the diminutive Jimmy Clitheroe
Legendary sitcom about Lancashire’s eternal cheeky schoolboy who lives with his Mother, sister Susan and Grandad
At its peak, ten million fans tuned in each week to hear Jimmy’s latest antics
Written by Frank Roscoe.
The Kid Himself …. Jimmy Clitheroe
Mother …. Patricia Burke
Grandad …. Peter Sinclair
Theodore Craythorpe/Harry Whittle …. Leonard Williams
Alfie .... Danny Ross
Susan …. Diana Day
Telephone Man/ Old Mr Whittle …. Derek Guyler
Theme music by Alan Roper and played by the BBC Northern Dance Orchestra directed by Alan Ainsworth.
Producer: James Casey
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in November 1962.
SUN 10:30 The Enchanting World of Hinge and Bracket (m0023gfq)
Series 2
The House Warming Party
The dear ladies reminisce about the day they moved in.
Starring Dame Hilda Bracket and her lifelong companion Dr Evadne Hinge.
Brought to you from the genteel setting of the Suffolk village of Stackton Tressel, where the musical duo reside.
Written by Mike Craig, Lawrie Kinsley and Ron McDonnell.
Dame Hilda Bracket ...... George Logan
Dr Evadne Hinge ...... Patrick Fyffe
With Daphne Heard.
Three series ran on BBC Radio 4 between 1977 and 1979, with further spin-off seasons on BBC Radio 2 until 1990.
In the early 1980s, they expanded over to BBC TV with the series Dear Ladies.
Producer: James Casey.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1978.
SUN 11:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m0023gfg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 11:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b01130qm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 today]
SUN 12:00 Poetry Extra (m0023gfj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
SUN 12:30 Homecoming by Colin Grant (Omnibus) (m0009s2x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SUN 13:40 Inheritance Tracks (m0023gfl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 today]
SUN 13:50 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (Omnibus) (b0bm9b8z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]
SUN 15:00 The Clitheroe Kid (m0023gfn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 15:30 The Enchanting World of Hinge and Bracket (m0023gfq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
SUN 16:00 A Stone Woman by AS Byatt (m000n66x)
1. Flint
Acclaimed actress Penelope Wilton reads AS Byatt's sensuous and ultimately uplifting account of one woman's transformation into stone.
Ines is a middle-aged etymologist. When her mother dies, grief overtakes her. Then, after a minor surgery, she discovers her navel has turned to flint.
The first of three parts of a modern day gothic fable that muses on grief.
Producer: Claudine Toutoungi
Made for BBC 7 and first broadcast in December 2004.
SUN 16:30 Wally K Daly (b007k406)
The Silent Scream
Episode 3
As the alien takeover deadline approaches, can humanity fend off enemies from without and within?
Wally K. Daly's sequel to 'Before the Screaming Begins'.
CAST:
Tom Harris …. James Laurenson
A.P. Smith …. Donald Hewlett
Prime Minister …. Colin Douglas
Silkin …. Peter Wickham
Sally Harris …. Hannah Gordon
Opposition MP/Colonel …. Peter Williams
Andy …. Elizabeth Lindsay
Gloria/Cabinet Minister …. Brenda Kaye
Second Pilot/PC …. Gregory de Polnay
Alien Controller/Cabinet Minister …. Manning Wilson
Second Boy …. Tim Bentinck
First Girl …. Alison Draper
Audio from Wally K. Daly's own collection and reversioned into three parts by BBC Radio 4 Extra
Producer: Martin Jenkins
First broadcast as a ninety-minute Saturday Night Drama on BBC Radio 4 in 1979.
SUN 17:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m0023gfg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 17:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b01130qm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 today]
SUN 18:00 Poetry Extra (m0023gfj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
SUN 18:30 Homecoming by Colin Grant (Omnibus) (m0009s2x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SUN 19:40 Inheritance Tracks (m0023gfl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 today]
SUN 19:50 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (Omnibus) (b0bm9b8z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]
SUN 21:00 The Clitheroe Kid (m0023gfn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 21:30 The Enchanting World of Hinge and Bracket (m0023gfq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
SUN 22:00 Revolting People (b008kmv2)
Series 3
Secrets and Lies
War is now only two days away. Or three if wet.
Sitcom set just before the American War of Independence.
Written by Andy Hamilton and Jay Tarses.
McGurk …. Andy Hamilton
Samuel …. Jay Tarses
Captain Brimshaw …. James Fleet
Joshua …. Tony Maudsley
Mary …. Jan Ravens
Ezekiel …. Hugh Dennis
Cora …. Penelope Cora
Stan …. Philip Pope
Elizabeth …. Rebecca Front
Agnes …. Selina Griffiths
Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2004.
SUN 22:30 Unnatural Acts (b00l1rz9)
Series 2
Victorian Values
A political 'back to basics' push puts Caroline in danger, and Kit into a maid's outfit.
A slightly surreal sitcom about a happily-married couple - Jeremy and Kit - and their unusual friends.
Jeremy.....Jeremy Hardy
Kit.............. Kit Hollerbach
Paul............Paul B Davies
Caroline.... Caroline Leddy
Written by Jeremy Hardy, Kit Hollerbach, Paul B Davies and Peter Sinclair.
Producer: David Tyler
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1988.
SUN 23:00 Great Unanswered Questions (b011r18c)
Series 3
Episode 5
Northern Ireland comedian Colin Murphy with physics expert Dr David Booth, Matthew Collins and special guest Bernard O'Shea set out to solve conundrums.
Ever wondered if fish get thirsty - or what would happen if the world just stopped turning? The team will try to satisfy some of your curiosity - with some laughs along the way.
Producer: Jackie Hamilton
First broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster in December 2010.
SUN 23:30 Elastic Planet (b007k399)
The Objects
Revealing the links between the art of siren writing, the discovery of pants, the Church of England motorcycle display team and the flamenco guitar.
Oliver Postgate narrates a stream of bizarre coincidences.
Ben Moor’s cosmic comedy of connections.
With:
Caron Keating
Raymond Baxter
Rebecca Front
Dan Strauss
Kerry Shale
Geoff McGivern
Ben Moor
Producer: Jon Naismith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1995.
SUN 23:45 Hearing with Hegley (b0075sf5)
Series 3
Episode 5
The nation's second favourite comic poet drops in to the Aldeburgh Poetry Festival in Suffolk.
Comedian Arnold Brown adds a limerick or two to the proceedings.
Producer: Nigel Piper
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2000.

MONDAY 30 SEPTEMBER 2024

MON 00:00 A Stone Woman by AS Byatt (m000n66x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Sunday]
MON 00:30 Wally K Daly (b007k406)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:30 on Sunday]
MON 01:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m0023gfg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Sunday]
MON 01:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b01130qm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 on Sunday]
MON 02:00 Poetry Extra (m0023gfj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Sunday]
MON 02:30 Homecoming by Colin Grant (Omnibus) (m0009s2x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Sunday]
MON 03:40 Inheritance Tracks (m0023gfl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 on Sunday]
MON 03:50 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (Omnibus) (b0bm9b8z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Sunday]
MON 05:00 The Clitheroe Kid (m0023gfn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Sunday]
MON 05:30 The Enchanting World of Hinge and Bracket (m0023gfq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Sunday]
MON 06:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nmrv)
2. Hit and Run
Nurse Nicolson lies dead in the mortuary. Suspicion lies on lawyer Peter Calman.
And someone is lying through their teeth...
Thriller serial by Edward Boyd starring David Ashton.
Peter Calman ...... David Ashton
Anderson / McLeod ...... John Buick
Douglas/Elphinstone ...... Robert Paterson
Magda ...... Vivienne Dixon
Old Hansford ...... Ian Stewart
Directed at BBC Scotland by Patrick Rayner.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1984.
MON 06:30 The Joke About Hilary Spite (m000l87w)
6. The Cross of Light
Hilary is getting closer to the facts, but will she be able to face the truth?
Starring Angela Pleasance.
Conclusion of Christopher Bidmead's spy adventure,
Hilary …. Angela Pleasance
Beresford …. Rolf Lefebvre
Cannon …. Nigel Anthony
Jean …. Hilda Kriseman
Mortimer …. Dinsdale Landen
Maximillian …. Harold Kasket
Dr Reece …. John Pullen
Fernberg …. Harry Francis
Matron …. Margaret Wolfit
Dr Wormald …. Malcolm Hayes
Esther …. Patricia Gallimore
Keredic / Waiter …. John Rye
Nurse …. Deborah Dallas
Rick …. Andrew Sachs
Producer: John Tydeman
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1970.
MON 07:00 Babblewick Hall (b04p56x5)
Series 2
Episode 4
Scott Cherry's 18th-century comedy
Lady Keene knows that Fenton Babblewick wants something from her - but is it her hand in marriage or her cruelly enslaved pet marmoset Ponto?
Nicholas Le Prevost.......Squire Fenton Babblewick
Augustus Snipe................Forbes Masson
Jack.......................................Dave Hill
Molly....................................Maggie McCarthy
Barney.................................Benedict Sandiford
Lady Keene.......................Sophie Thompson
Agnes.................................Rosemary Leach
Music By: Paul Mottram
Producer: Jon Rolph
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1998.
MON 07:30 The Navy Lark (m0023fwt)
Series 11
Stranded
Can the crew of HMS Troutbridge answer a call for help from a British embassy?
Stars Leslie Phillips, Jon Pertwee and Stephen Murray.
Laughs afloat aboard British Royal Navy frigate HMS Troutbridge. The Navy Lark ran for an impressive 13 series between 1959 and 1976.
The Sub-Lieutenant ...... Leslie Phillips
The Chief Petty Officer / Vice Admiral Buttonshaw...... Jon Pertwee
The CO ...... Stephen Murray
Captain Povey ...... Richard Caldicot
Heather ….. Heather Chasen
Lt Sharp ….. Tenniel Evans
The Padre …. Michael Bates
Written by Lawrie Wyman.
Producer: Alastair Scott Johnston.
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in January 1970.
MON 08:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b03w01zk)
Series 3
The Travel Piece
Damien confronts his hatred of barbecuing while Mullaney is sorting out his “shoffice".
Sitcom written by and starring Miles Jupp, charting the life of cookery writer Damien Trench and his partner Anthony.
Damien Trench ...... Miles Jupp
Anthony ...... Justin Edwards
Ian Frobisher ...... Philip Fox
Marion Duffett ...... Lesley Vickerage
Damien's Mother ...... Selina Cadell
Ray Jarrow ...... Christopher Brand
Shooting Instructor ...... Christopher Brand
Producer: Sam Michell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2014.
MON 08:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m0pg)
1. Tekels Park
Helen Macdonald reads from her collection of essays about "love for the glittering world of non-human life around us."
In this episode, Helen reflects on the changing landscape of her childhood home.
Vesper Flights is the hotly anticipated essay collection by Helen Macdonald - her first book since the publication of her award-winning and best-selling H is for Hawk. Each essay by the acclaimed nature writer explores humanity’s connection with the natural world, our curiosity about it and our love for it, as well as its increasingly urgent fragility. The essays are also a reminder that we inhabit a beautiful world and they celebrate its “quality of wonder".
Helen Macdonald is a writer, poet, naturalist and historian of science. H is for Hawk won several prestigious prizes, including the Samuel Johnson and the Prix du Meilleur Livre Etranger in France.
Abridged by Julian Wilkinson.
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2020.
MON 08:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmkt)
1. Temptation
France 1815: Jean Valjean - sentenced to 19 years hard labour for stealing a loaf of bread - is finally released from prison.
Given shelter by the kind-hearted Bishop of Digne, he's tempted to carry out one more criminal act.
Victor Hugo's epic story of social injustice.
Dramatised in 25 episodes by Sebastian Baczkiewicz and Lin Coghlan.

Jean Valjean …… Roger Allam
Victor Hugo …… Joss Ackland
Inspector Javert …… David Schofield
Bishop Myriel …… David De Keyser
Mme Magloire …… Marlene Sidaway
Landlord …… Christopher Godwin
Pascal …… Peter Darney
Policeman 1 …… Jonathan Forbes
Policeman 2 …… Carl Prekopp
Other parts played by the cast.
Producer: Jeremy Mortimer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2001.
MON 09:00 Just a Minute (m00237hn)
Series 93
2. A Punk Band Called The Sticky Carpets
Sue Perkins challenges Lucy Porter, Gyles Brandreth, Desiree Burch and Glenn Moore to speak for 60 seconds without repetition, deviation or hesitation. Subjects include doomsday bunkers, coriander, and polite conversation between enemies.
Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls
Sound Editor: Marc Willcox
Producer: Rajiv Karia
An EcoAudio certified production.
A BBC Studios Production for Radio 4.
MON 09:30 His Master's Voices (b06ptdd6)
1. Beginnings
Singer Cerys Matthews and music expert Tristram Penna go back to summer 1898 when The Gramophone Company opened offices in London's Covent Garden.
This was the very first disc record company in the UK, later becoming well known as HMV and EMI, and was the London affiliate of inventor Emile Berliner's US National Gramophone Company.
The first inventory consisted of imported parts for 3,000 gramophones and 150,000 American records. It was swiftly obvious that British tastes meant local repertoire was vital, so Berliner sent his top engineer and talent man Fred Gaisberg to London. On 9 Aug - the day of the very first gramophone recording session - Fred recorded Adam Umbach, clarinettist from the Trocadero, playing Mendelssohn's Spring Song.
Close by, Rules Restaurant, London's oldest restaurant which opened in 1798, also played an important part as a place where artists and Gramophone Company staff could fraternise. Here Gaisberg heard Australian singer Syria Lamonte, leading to a legendary recording of Coming Through The Rye on the 2 September.
Fred wanted to record everything and anything that he thought might sell and the very first gramophone record catalogue contains several thousand very diverse recordings.
The early recording process may have been primitive, but many artists were persuaded to record by a pioneering spirit. By Christmas 1898 the company had sold out of all machines and records so the entire staff poured into Rules to celebrate.
We hear from Christopher Proudfoot, CLPGS chairman, academic Peter Adamson, and music manager/author Simon Napier-Bell. The early recordings are courtesy of the EMI Archive Trust.
A Sue Clark Production, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2015.
MON 09:45 Daily Service (m0023fww)
Therefore with angels - War In Heaven
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Therefore with angels - War In Heaven
Led by the Revd Dr Stephen Wigley
MON 10:00 Frankly Speaking (b05ndh2t)
Evelyn Waugh
Brideshead Revisited author Evelyn Waugh is grilled about his life and career by Charles Wilmot, Jack Davies and Stephen Black
Regarded as one of the most brilliant novelists of his day, Waugh loathed the BBC. His grandson Alexander believes that this interview, along with a cocktail of sleeping draughts, helped to send him "rather mad". The author later turned his experience on Frankly Speaking into a scene in his novel 'The Ordeal of Gilbert Pinfold' with Stephen Black becoming the character Angel who haunts Pinfold in his hallucinations.
Launched in 1952 on the BBC Home Service, Frankly Speaking was a novel, ground breaking series. Unrehearsed and unscripted, the traditional interviewee/interviewer pairing was initially jettisoned for three interviewers firing direct questions - straight to the point.
Early critics described it as 'unkempt', 'an inquisition' and described the guest as prey being cornered, quarry being pursued - with calls to axe the unscripted interview. But the format won out and eventually won over its detractors.
Unknown or very inexperienced broadcasters were employed as interviewers, notably John Freeman, John Betjeman, Malcolm Muggeridge, Harold Hobson, Penelope Mortimer, Elizabeth Beresford and Katherine Whitehorn.
Only about 40 of the original 100 programmes survive.
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in November 1953.
MON 10:30 Lanyon's Last Flight (b00yyg27)
In August 1964 the artist Peter Lanyon died as the result of a gliding accident. He was 46, had enjoyed successful shows in New York, and his work was being eagerly sought. Today he is recognised as one of the most innovative painters in 20th century British art.
Lanyon's great painting, Thermal, has been admired by the thousands of visitors to his recent retrospective at Tate St Ives. It's a painting that grew out of Lanyon's passion for gliding, yet its vivid abstract forms and resonant colour express his lifelong attempt to create a visual language for his intense experience of the environment - his quest for an art of 'placeness'.
This programme follows Lanyon's creative journey, which began with his deep immersion in the landscape and history of his native Cornwall and took him to the experimental edge of international abstract art in the 1950s.
Michael Bird tracks Lanyon to places that were crucial to his art, like the ruined tin mine at Levant and the cliff-top airfield from which he flew. He talks to Lanyon's sons, who each shed a different light on their father's complex personality. He asks Lanyon fans in Tate St Ives what draws them to his work, and Lanyon expert Toby Treves about his wider reputation.
We also hear archive appreciations of Lanyon from Mark Rothko and the poet W.S. Graham reading 'The Thermal Stair', his powerful elegy to his artist friend. Lanyon himself speaks about how gliding influenced his art.
Like Jackson Pollock's fatal car crash eight years earlier, the story of Lanyon's last flight speaks of a generation of artists for whom art demanded physical immersion in the act of painting and a wholehearted faith in the creative accident.
Producer: Julian May
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2011.
MON 11:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nmrv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 11:30 The Joke About Hilary Spite (m000l87w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 12:00 Babblewick Hall (b04p56x5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 12:30 The Navy Lark (m0023fwt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 13:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b03w01zk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 13:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m0pg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 13:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmkt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
MON 14:00 It's Not What You Know (b09w10bc)
Series 5
Episode 3
What's Mel C's favourite Spice Girls song?
Where is Kerry's dream holiday destination?
Who would play Jack in the film of his life?
All these questions, and more, will be answered in the show by host Joe Lycett, where panellists Melanie Chisholm, Kerry Godliman and Jack Carroll are tested on how well they know their nearest and dearest.
Producer: Adnan Ahmed.
A BBC Studios Production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in March 2018.
MON 14:30 Spending My Inheritance (b00fkx90)
Voluntary Service
Cash-strapped Harry tries to stop his parents spending money and steers them towards charity work.
A 40 -something son must watch from the sidelines as his newly-retired parents spend their hard-earned cash on themselves.
Starring Kris Marhall.
Sitcom written by Clive Coleman.
Harry ...... Kris Marshall
Jo ...... Raquel Cassidy
Brian ...... Kenneth Cranham
Liz ...... Judy Parfitt
Jess ...... Antonia Thomas
Mike ...... Robert Lonsdale
Jan ...... Jill Cardo
Director: Sam Hoyle
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2008.
MON 15:00 Martyn Wade - The Bringer of Peace (b007739x)
Martyn Wade's drama explores the life of Gustav Holst and the astrological inspiration behind the Planets Suite, his most famous work.
The story covers 20 years of this extraordinary composer's life, his relationship with his family, his friends, his teaching and composing and his constant solitary walking and travelling.
Gustav Holst ...... Adrian Scarborough
Isobel Holst ...... Amanda Root
Ralph Vaughan Williams ...... Michael Maloney
Imogen Holst ...... Georgina Osen
Constable ...... Mark Straker
Reporter ...... Anthony Glennon
Director: David Hitchinson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2007.
MON 15:45 Short Works (m000ms09)
Post by Elaine Feeney
On the morning of her 80th birthday, Joan bumps into her 12 year old neighbour Fionn at the post box.
The story of an unlikely friendship between two neighbours in rural Ireland.
Elaine Feeney's short story read by Maggie Cronin.
Elaine Feeney is an Irish poet, novelist, and playwright. She has published three collections of poetry, Where’s Katie?, The Radio was Gospel, Rise, and a drama piece, WRoNGHEADED, commissioned by Liz Roche Company. She teaches at The National University of Ireland, Galway and St Jarlath’s College.
Her work has been widely published and anthologised in Poetry Review, The Stinging Fly, The Irish Times and others. Her fiction debut 'As You Were' was featured in the Observer's Ten Best Debut Novelists of 2020.
Producer: Michael Shannon.
A BBC Northern Ireland production for BBC Radio 4 , first broadcast in September 2020.
MON 16:00 Frankly Speaking (b05ndh2t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
MON 16:30 Lanyon's Last Flight (b00yyg27)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
MON 17:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nmrv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 17:30 The Joke About Hilary Spite (m000l87w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 18:00 Babblewick Hall (b04p56x5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 18:30 The Navy Lark (m0023fwt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 19:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b03w01zk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 19:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m0pg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 19:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmkt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
MON 20:00 It's Not What You Know (b09w10bc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
MON 20:30 Spending My Inheritance (b00fkx90)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
MON 21:00 Martyn Wade - The Bringer of Peace (b007739x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
MON 21:45 Short Works (m000ms09)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:45 today]
MON 22:00 Just a Minute (m00237hn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
MON 22:30 Alexei Sayle's Strangers on a Train (m00193sf)
Series 1
Cardiff to Portsmouth
Alexei Sayle takes a train journey and breaks the golden rule of travelling by train in the UK - he actually talks to his fellow passengers.
He travels in this episode from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Among his many fellow travellers, he meets David who looks after tunnels for a living, Tess who speaks Russian and Ukrainian and has been trained to drive a tank, and technician Megan from the National Oceanography Centre who, while many of us might be daunted by trying to deal with a leaking washing machine, loves fixing things and takes on the maintenance of mass spectrometers as part of the centre’s work on climate change.
Produced by Peter Lowe and Nick Symons.
A Ride production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in July 2022.
MON 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m0023qqp)
Ed Patrick 2/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, The Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. And tonight, Stephen Bailey interviews the doctor and comedian Ed Patrick.
MON 23:00 The News Quiz (m00237n6)
Series 115
Episode 4
Topical panel quiz show, taking its questions from the week's news stories.
MON 23:30 Chris Addison's Civilization (b00f2zsd)
A Working Society
Charting our bumpy evolution, Chris Addison explains why he chose to spell civilisation with a Z.
Continuing his journey through the vast and rich subject of civilisation, the thinking-idiot's anthropologist explains exactly what we need to create a new one.
With:
Professor Austin Herring (Geoffrey McGivern)
Jo Enright
Dan Tetsell
Producer: Simon Nicholls
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2006.

TUESDAY 01 OCTOBER 2024

TUE 00:00 Frankly Speaking (b05ndh2t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Monday]
TUE 00:30 Lanyon's Last Flight (b00yyg27)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Monday]
TUE 01:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nmrv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Monday]
TUE 01:30 The Joke About Hilary Spite (m000l87w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Monday]
TUE 02:00 Babblewick Hall (b04p56x5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Monday]
TUE 02:30 The Navy Lark (m0023fwt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b03w01zk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Monday]
TUE 03:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m0pg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmkt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Monday]
TUE 04:00 It's Not What You Know (b09w10bc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Monday]
TUE 04:30 Spending My Inheritance (b00fkx90)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Monday]
TUE 05:00 Martyn Wade - The Bringer of Peace (b007739x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Monday]
TUE 05:45 Short Works (m000ms09)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:45 on Monday]
TUE 06:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nwdq)
3. The Cottage
Can lawyer Peter Calman discover who wrecked his office and what his new German client really wants?
Thriller serial by Edward Boyd starring David Ashton.
Peter Calman …. David Ashton
Dunsmore …. Gregor Fisher
Jenny …. Stella Forge
Old Hansford …. Ian Stewart
Receptionist …. Tamara Kennedy
Scholl …. Brown Derby
Mary …. Doreen Cameron
Dr Webber …. Sandy Neilson
Directed at BBC Scotland by Patrick Rayner.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1984.
TUE 06:30 The Rivals (b015zq2w)
Series 1
1. Auguste Dupin: The Murders In The Rue Morgue
Inspector Lestrade was made to look a fool in the Sherlock Holmes stories.
Now he has a chance to get his own back, with tales of Holmes' rivals.
He begins with the famous case of the Murders In The Rue Morgue, and the eccentric talents of Auguste Dupin...
Starring Andrew Scott and James Fleet.
Written by Edgar Allan Poe.
Dramatised by Chris Harrald.
Lestrade . . . . . James Fleet
Dupin . . . . . Andrew Scott
Lucy . . . . . Alex Tregear
Granjean . . . . . Sean Baker
Duborg . . . . . Brian Bowles
Mme Duborg . . . . . Jane Whittenshaw
Sailor . . . . . Stuart McLoughlin
Director: Sasha Yevtushenko
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2011.
TUE 07:00 Rent (b00752s3)
Series 3
Episode 5
Paul has a very serious question to ask Ruby, and Maria is developing a serious problem with gambling.
Series 3 of Lucy Flannery's award-winning sitcom about Maria and Richard Reynolds and their lodgers.
Maria …. Barbara Flynn
Richard …. Patrick Barlow
Amy …. Linda Polan
Ruby …. Vivienne Rochester
Paul …. Dave Lamb
Betting Shop Assistant …. Amanda Davies
Producer: Liz Anstee.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1997.
TUE 07:30 The Goon Show (b008p7by)
Series 6
The Pevensey Bay Disaster
To foil Grytpype-Thynne and Moriarty, Neddie Seagoon must plough his way to the Sussex coast.
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 April 1956.
TUE 08:00 Alone (m0009klr)
Series 2
A Few Loose Ends
Ellie meets Kath, an old female friend of Mitch, and invites her to visit them.
But there’s more to Kath’s story than at first appears and Mitch and Will soon find themselves at loggerheads.
Meanwhile, Louisa acts the role of Morris’ partner to help her career and hopefully to heighten his pulling power at a party.
Sitcom about five single, middle aged neighbours living in flats in a converted house in North London.
Mitch is a widower and part-time therapist, looking to put his life back together now that he is single and living with Will, his younger, more volatile and unhappily divorced half-brother. Elsewhere in the building is schoolteacher Ellie who is shy, nervous and holds a secret candle for Mitch. Overly honest, frustrated actress Louisa, and socially inept IT nerd Morris complete the line-up of mis-matched neighbours.
Mitch ...... Angus Deayton
Will ...... Pearce Quigley
Ellie ...... Abigail Cruttenden
Louisa ...... Kate Isitt
Morris ...... Bennett Arron
Kath and Alice ...... Morwenna Banks
Written and created by Moray Hunter
Produced by Gordon Kennedy
Based on an original idea developed in association with Dandy Productions
An Absolutely production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2019.
TUE 08:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m10s)
2. High Rise
Helen Macdonald reads from her collection of essays about "love for the glittering world of non-human life around us."
In this episode, she is on the observation deck at the Empire State Building, and more than a thousand feet up she finds that the skies are 'teeming with unexpected biological abundance.'
Vesper Flights is Helen Macdonald's first book since the publication of the award-winning and best-selling H is for Hawk. Each essay in this collection by the acclaimed nature writer explores humanity’s connection with the natural world, our curiosity about it and our love for it, as well as its increasingly urgent fragility. The essays are also a reminder that we inhabit a beautiful world, and celebrate it in all its wonder.
Helen Macdonald is a writer, poet, naturalist and historian of science. H is for Hawk won several prestigious prizes, including the Samuel Johnson and the Prix du Meilleur Livre Etranger in France.
Abridged by Julian Wilkinson.
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2020.
TUE 08:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmld)
2. On The Run
Jean Valjean has broken the terms of his parole, and is on the run.
Victor Hugo's epic story of social injustice.
Dramatised by Sebastian Baczkiewicz.
Jean Valjean ...... Roger Allam
Victor Hugo ...... Joss Ackland
Bishop Myriel ...... David De Keyser
Mme Magloire ...... Marlene Sidaway
Fantine .... Emily Bruni
Daniel Hanbridge .... Gervais
Thenardier .... Henry Goodman
Mme Thenadier .... Jane Whittenshaw
Cosette .... Sophie Shad
Policeman 1 ...... Jonathan Forbes
Policeman 2 ...... Carl Prekopp
Director: Jeremy Mortimer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2001.
TUE 09:00 Heresy (m0017tcn)
Series 12
Episode 2
Victoria Coren Mitchell presents a new series of the show which dares to commit heresy.
Joining Victoria Coren Mitchell to commit heresy about being at one with nature and mediocrity are the comedians Miles Jupp and David Mitchell, and former chair of the Conservative Party, Baroness Sayeeda Warsi.
Written, presented, and produced by Victoria Coren Mitchell
with additional material from Dan Gaster and Charlie Skelton
Series created by David Baddiel
An Avalon production for BBC Radio 4
TUE 09:30 His Master's Voices (b06qnx0l)
2. Laughter and Novelty
Singer Cerys Matthews and music expert Tristram Penna continue their investigation into the pioneering days of the UK record industry with a programme dedicated to laughter and novelty.
The Gramophone Company's chief producer Fred Gaisberg was enthusiastic to record all sorts of sounds, not just music, and so he scoured the country for likeable talents. He taught his friend, the Music Hall entertainer Burt Shephard, The Laughing Song which was already a proven hit in America and Shephard proved a natural to put it on record for British audiences.
Artists with robust hearty voices worked best on the recording equipment they used, so we see that the technology was beginning to dictate what would be ultimately captured on disc.
Laughter doesn't recognise international borders and Gaisberg's original 1902 recording became a hit across the world. Pursuing the laughing tradition on popular records, we hear other examples where laughter on tracks has been a requisite for success - including The Laughing Policeman from the 1920s and David Bowie's The Laughing Gnome of the late '60s.
Fred's thirst for recording sounds also led him to create 'novelty records', including the Chairman of the Gramophone Company, Trevor Williams recording his party piece of farmyard animal sounds.
By the early 1900s the Gramophone was becoming a popular machine people could buy to have in their homes which gave them instant laughter, sounds and songs to entertain them.
We also hear from academic and record collector Peter Adamson, and music manager/author Simon Napier-Bell. The early recordings are courtesy of the EMI Archive Trust.
A Sue Clark Production, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2015.
TUE 09:45 Daily Service (m0023g7d)
Therefore with angels - Angels in their place
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Therefore with angels - Angels in their place
Presenter: Greg Finn
Reading: Hebrews 1: 5-9, 13-14
Producer: Miriam Williamson
Music:
Psalm 91 - Jonathan Ogden
Angel of God - Francesca LaRosa
Whom Shall I Fear - Chris Tomlin
TUE 10:00 A Good Read (b098jjr6)
Georgia Lewis Anderson and Owen Jones
Journalist Georgia Lewis Anderson and writer Owen Jones join Harriett Gilbert to discuss favourite books by Alan Hollinghurst, Sybille Bedford and Naomi Alderman.
The Line of Beauty by Alan Hollinghurst
Publisher: Picador
The Trial of Lady Chatterley's Lover by Sybille Bedford
Publisher: Daunt Books
The Power by Naomi Alderman
Publisher: Penguin
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2017.
TUE 10:30 Things Called Jazz That Are Not Jazz (b07q7lzc)
There's a Jazz apple, Jazz aftershave, Jazz car, Jazz spreadsheet software, even a range of non-alcoholic beer called Jazz. Why are so many things called Jazz that are not Jazz?
Presenter Russell Finch - documentary maker and failed jazz musician - has an unusual hobby. He collects examples of Things Called Jazz That Are Not Jazz.
There are more than you’d think. The UK intellectual property office lists over 290 trademarks for things called jazz - everything from jazz garlic to jazz wigs to a jazz wettable powder biofungicide. Russell has been documenting some of his stranger discoveries on a blog. He insists it almost went viral once.
But it’s made him curious why are so many completely unrelated objects named after this one music genre? Even more mysterious, why are they named after a type of music that - it pains him to admit - not many people actually like?

Along the way he finds out the surprising origins of the word, the reason some musicians find it offensive, and why jazz is not a good name for food.
With comedian Stewart Lee, singer Gwyneth Herbert and musician Nicholas Payton.
Producers: Peggy Sutton and Russell Finch
A Somethin’ Else production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in August 2016.
TUE 11:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nwdq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 11:30 The Rivals (b015zq2w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 12:00 Rent (b00752s3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 12:30 The Goon Show (b008p7by)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 13:00 Alone (m0009klr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 13:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m10s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 13:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmld)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
TUE 14:00 Booked (b00753z7)
Series 1
Episode 4
It's the Cat in the Hat and the Mellors meet Captain Hornblower.
Outrageous parody, biting wit and bizarre couplings from:
Mark Thomas
Dillie Keane
Miles Kington
Roger McGough
Ian McMillan chairs the irreverent literary game.
Producer: Marc Jobst
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1995.
TUE 14:30 Romantic Friction (b0075w4v)
Thwarted
Lovelorn romance writer Anna is up against a deadline for her latest potboiler, a tale of love, suffering and jealousy.
But her creative juices don't seem to be flowing as, after years of having a purely fictional love-life, she's met a real-live man.
She's also constantly thwarted by her characters, who keep leaping off the page into her living room to challenge her about their plotlines.
Starring Samantha Bond and Hugh Bonneville.
Michelle Read's four-part comedy-drama series.
Anna ...... Samantha Bond
Brian ...... Hugh Bonneville
Deirdre ...... Beth Chambers
Fertility Doll ...... Adjoa Andoh
Book ...... Michael Fenton Stevens
Producer: Dawn Ellis
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2000.
TUE 15:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007k1tz)
1. Flora's Rights
In which Flora Poste - she of the strong will and the slender ankle - begins her adventures.
Flora believes that unless life is tidy, one cannot even begin to enjoy it - and life with her relatives at Cold Comfort Farm promises to be anything but.
Starring Patricia Gallimore and Elizabeth Proud.
First published in 1932, Stella Gibbons' tale of early-20th-century rural England
Dramatised in four parts by Elizabeth Proud.
Flora Poste ..... Patricia Gallimore
Stella Gibbons ..... Elizabeth Proud
The Abbe Fausse-Maigre ..... Malcolm Hayes
Reader ..... John Westbrook
Mary Smiling ..... Kate Binchy
Charles Fairford ..... David McAlistair
Aunt Gwen ..... Pauline Letts
Angus McKnag ..... Alexander John
Spiritualist Lady ..... Gladys Spencer
Judith Starkadder ..... Margaret Robertson
Reuben Starkadder ..... Trevor Martin
Adam Lambsbreath ..... Cyril Shaps
Seth Starkadder ..... Sion Prober
Amos Starkadder ..... John Hollis
Mark Dolour ..... Stephen Garlick
Elfine Starkadder ..... Jane Knowles
Music: Terence Allbright
Director: Ian Cotterell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1981
TUE 16:00 A Good Read (b098jjr6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
TUE 16:30 Things Called Jazz That Are Not Jazz (b07q7lzc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
TUE 17:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nwdq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 17:30 The Rivals (b015zq2w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 18:00 Rent (b00752s3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 18:30 The Goon Show (b008p7by)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 19:00 Alone (m0009klr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 19:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m10s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 19:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmld)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
TUE 20:00 Booked (b00753z7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
TUE 20:30 Romantic Friction (b0075w4v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
TUE 21:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007k1tz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
TUE 22:00 Heresy (m0017tcn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
TUE 22:30 The Consultants (b0076prd)
Series 2
Episode 3
The Consultants learn to combat stress with "bent dolphins" and practise the dark arts with a lightly tossed salad
Plus they make latex representations of a spaniel with the help of children's entertainer Jeremy Lion.
Cerebral sketch show written by and starring:
Neil Edmond
Justin Edwards
James Rawlings
Producer: Will Saunders
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2003.
TUE 23:00 The Shuttleworths (b008tzyp)
Series 3
John Le Shuttle
When his agent Ken adopts a high-tech lifestyle, can John Shuttleworth manage to keep up?
Written and performed by Graham Fellows.
Producer: Paul Schlesinger
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1997.
TUE 23:15 Warhorses of Letters (b01p0s13)
Series 2
Episode 1
The return of two of history's most important horses, Napoleon and Wellington.
More romantic correspondence between Napoleon Bonaparte's mount Marengo and the Duke of Wellington's own Copenhagen.
This time, the two lovers are sundered by fate as Napoleon returns from Elba.
Their letters speak eloquently of love, loss, jealousy and nuts.
Marengo ..... Stephen Fry
Copenhagen ..... Daniel Rigby
Narrator ..... Tamsin Greig
Written on their behalf by Marie Phillips and Robbie Hudson.
Producer: Gareth Edwards.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2012.
TUE 23:30 Lionel Nimrod's Inexplicable World (b007r4mj)
Series 1
Death and the Afterlife
The sci-fi star and inventor explains life's big mysteries.
Written by and starring Richard Herring and Stewart Lee.
With:
Tom Baker
Rebecca Front
Armando Iannucci
Producer Sarah Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1992

WEDNESDAY 02 OCTOBER 2024

WED 00:00 A Good Read (b098jjr6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Tuesday]
WED 00:30 Things Called Jazz That Are Not Jazz (b07q7lzc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Tuesday]
WED 01:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nwdq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Tuesday]
WED 01:30 The Rivals (b015zq2w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Tuesday]
WED 02:00 Rent (b00752s3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Tuesday]
WED 02:30 The Goon Show (b008p7by)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:00 Alone (m0009klr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Tuesday]
WED 03:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m10s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmld)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Tuesday]
WED 04:00 Booked (b00753z7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Tuesday]
WED 04:30 Romantic Friction (b0075w4v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Tuesday]
WED 05:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007k1tz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Tuesday]
WED 06:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nw8b)
4. The Hermit
Old Hansford has died and Tim Leighton has disappeared.
Dr Webber has a suspicious sun tan.
Hardly the time, you would think, for lawyer Peter Calman to go poaching at Dungrennan Bay?
Thriller serial by Edward Boyd starring David Ashton.
Peter Calman …. David Ashton
Dunsmore …. Gregor Fisher
Jenny …. Stella Forge
Brill/Clerk…. Finlay Welsh
Scholl …. Brown Derby
Dr Webber …. Sandy Neilson
Directed at BBC Scotland by Patrick Rayner
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1984.
WED 06:30 The Rivals (b01684jh)
Series 1
2. Professor SFX Van Dusen: The Problem of Cell 13
Inspector Lestrade was made to look a fool in the Sherlock Holmes stories.
Now he's trying to get his own back, with tales of Holmes' rivals.
He continues with the extraordinary story of Professor SFX Van Dusen, who thinks his way out of a locked prison cell.
Starring Paul Rhys and James Fleet.
Written by Jacques Futrelle.
Dramatised by Chris Harrald.
Lestrade . . . . . James Fleet
Van Dusen . . . . . Paul Rhys
Lucy . . . . . Alex Tregear
Fielding . . . . . Sean Baker
Merriman . . . . . Stuart McLoughlin
Hatch . . . . . Alun Raglan
O'Connor . . . . . Simon Bubb
Director: Sasha Yevtushenko
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2011.
WED 07:00 Ballylenon (b007jx5y)
Series 5
Episode 2
Guard Gallagher gets new lodgings, as arguments rage over President Hoover's cottage.
Series set in the sleepy town of Ballylenon, Co Donegal in 1956.
Written by Christopher Fitz-Simon.
Phonsie Doherty …. TP McKenna
Muriel McConkey …. Margaret D'Arcy
Vera McConkey …. Stella McCusker
Vivienne Hawthorne …. Aine McCartney
Rev Hawthorne …. Gerard Murphy
Peg Sweeney …. Marcella Riordan
Father O'Flatley …. John Guiney
Packy McGoldrick …. Charlie Bonnar
Music arranged and performed by Stephanie Hughes.
Director: Eoin O'Callaghan
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1998.
WED 07:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007k1x5)
Series 2
The Television Set
Living in the only house in Railway Cuttings without a telly, the Lad takes action.
Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's classic comedy about the life and times of Anthony Aloysius St John Hancock.
Starring Tony Hancock.
With:
Bill Kerr
Sidney James
Kenneth Williams
Andree Melly
Announcer: Kenneth Williams
Theme and incidental music written by Wally Stott.
Music recorded by the BBC Augmented Revue Orchestra conducted by Harry Rabinowitz.
Producer: Dennis Main Wilson
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in June 1955.
WED 08:00 Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang-Ups (b04ps720)
Series 2
Running on Empty
Tom Wrigglesworth is worried for his health with his invite to an adventure-packed stag weekend of "coasteering" – where you hurl yourself off tall rocks into the sea!
But that's nothing compared with what his dad’s preparing himself for: the Sheffield marathon. An event he's decided to enter to get one over on the next door neighbour...
Tom ...... Tom Wrigglesworth
Granny ...... Judy Parfitt
Dad ...... Paul Copley
Mum ...... Kate Anthony
Written by Tom Wrigglesworth and James Kettle. With Miles Jupp.
Producer: Katie Tyrrell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2014.
WED 08:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000lzh6)
3. Eclipse
Helen Macdonald reads from her collection of essays about "love for the glittering world of non-human life around us."
In this episode, Helen considers crowds, community and the overwhelming experience of witnessing an eclipse.
Vesper Flights is the hotly anticipated essay collection by Helen Macdonald - her first book since the publication of her award-winning and best-selling H is for Hawk. Each essay by the acclaimed nature writer explores humanity’s connection with the natural world, our curiosity about it and our love for it, as well as its increasingly urgent fragility. The essays are also a reminder that we inhabit a beautiful world and they celebrate its “quality of wonder".
Helen Macdonald is a writer, poet, naturalist and historian of science. H is for Hawk won several prestigious prizes, including the Samuel Johnson and the Prix du Meilleur Livre Etranger in France.
Abridged by Julian Wilkinson.
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2020.
WED 08:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmly)
3. Respect
Jean Valjean is now known as Monsieur Madeleine, the mayor of Montreuil Sur Mer.
Victor Hugo's epic story of social injustice.
Dramatised by Lin Coghlan.
Jean Valjean ...... Roger Allam
Victor Hugo ...... Joss Ackland
Inspector Javert ...... David Schofield
Sister Simplice .... Carolyn Pickles
Fauchelevant .... Sean Baker
Fantine .... Emily Bruni
Child .... Daniel Hanbridge
Victoria .... Elizabeth Bennett
Dentist .... Christopher Godwin
Man 1 / Bamatabois .... Peter Darney
Man 2 / Blanard / Poissant .... Ewan Bailey
Elise / Woman 1 .... Sarah Paul
Alice / Woman 2 .... Helen Longworth
Director Jeremy Mortimer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2001.
WED 09:00 Paul Sinha's Perfect Pub Quiz (m00174f1)
Series 1
Round four: Everything
So the more quizzes you do, the more predictable they get. Luckily, here comes quizzer, comedian and Rose d’Or winner Paul Sinha with his series, Paul Sinha’s Perfect Pub Quiz. In each episode he invites the audience to tell him their favourite quiz questions, before offering up not just different and surprising questions, but also the fascinating stories behind the answers.
This week's show is a general knowledge round. Paul asks about popes, toy companies and Nazis. The audience, meanwhile, contribute questions about cars, Margaret Rutherford quotes and Nazis.
It’s facts, jokes, stories and puns – just the way you like them.
Written and performed by Paul Sinha
Additional material: Oliver Levy
Additional questions: The Audience
Original music: Tim Sutton
Sound engineer: Jerry Peal
Producer: Ed Morrish
A Lead Mojo production for BBC Radio 4
WED 09:30 His Master's Voices (b06r3pmf)
3. British Ethnic
Singer Cerys Matthews and music expert Tristram Penna continue their investigation into the early days of the recording industry in the UK. They are in Cecil Sharp House, the home of English Folk Dance and Song Society, and are joined by Steve Roud, creator of the Roud Folk Song Index.
In the first few years of the Gramophone Company's history, they were making records of many popular songs rooted in the folk tradition including many old work songs, and producer Fred Gaisberg first travelled the British Isles in 1899 to find and record them. He began in Scotland with pipers and singers, then going to Wales to record choirs including the Rhondda Royal Glee Society, and lastly to Dublin to record the very best of the local talents.
These discs captured local folk songs and melodies but, with an ear for what might sell, Gaisberg nearly always added a piano accompaniment and gentrified them for the Gramophone's targeted genteel audience.
The portable recording equipment they needed consisted of at least six crate loads and involved an interesting mixture of zinc plate, wax and toxic chemicals as well as an electrically driven recording machine.
We end with a recording of English Music Hall artist Gus Elen and an English hit song which points to the future of the popular recording industry in the UK - pop songs leading us all the way from Gus to The Beatles.
We also hear from academic Peter Adamson and Christopher Proudfoot, CLPGS President. The early recordings are courtesy of the EMI Archive Trust.
A Sue Clark Production, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2015.
WED 09:45 Daily Service (m0023ds1)
Therefore with angels - Angelic protection
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme:
Therefore with angels - Angelic protection
Presenter: Lyndall Bywater
Reading: Psalm 91:1-6, 11-12.
Producer: Rachel Ross
Music:
Sing praise to God who reigns above (Palace Green) - Choir of King's School ,Canterbury
Angels - Elle Limebear
By gracious powers (Bradley Roberts) - St Martin's Voices
WED 10:00 Archive on 4 (b010y1x6)
Julian Huxley and the Invention of the Public Scientist
Through the life and work of Julian Huxley Jim Al-Khalili explores the idea of the public scientist.
Huxley was a member of the BBC's Brains Trust and a founder of UNESCO.
He also invented the Childrens Zoo at London Zoo. He wrote accessible books on evolution.
But how did being a media figure, committed to the public understanding, square with the world of academic science? And where does Huxley's influence lie to this day? Without Huxley no Brian Cox?
Producer: Tim Dee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2011.
WED 11:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nw8b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 11:30 The Rivals (b01684jh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 12:00 Ballylenon (b007jx5y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 12:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007k1x5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 13:00 Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang-Ups (b04ps720)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 13:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000lzh6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 13:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmly)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
WED 14:00 Counterpoint (b01sd5gv)
Series 27
2013 Heat 2
Paul Gambaccini chairs the general knowledge music quiz.
The questions cover every aspect of music - from which cathedral the England cricket captain Alastair Cook was once a chorister to which eccentric musician fronted The Magic Band.
The second trio of competitors are in the BBC Radio Theatre in London for the second heat of the series.
Howard Delmonte, a pyschotherapist from North London
Mick Quinn, a retired mental health nurse from Bristol
Rufus Stilgoe, a barrister from South London
Producer: Paul Bajoria
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2013.
WED 14:30 Hazelbeach (b00lrsnp)
Series 2
Meat
Ronnie organises a raffle whilst James seems to be having a bad hair day.
Starring Jamie Foreman.
Caroline and David Stafford's comedy drama about likeable conman Ronnie Hazelbeach.
Ronnie Hazelbeach ...... Jamie Foreman
Nick ...... Paul Bazely
James ...... Neil Stuke
Director: Marc Beeby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2009.
WED 15:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007k22w)
2. Amos's Call
Flora aims to tidy up the Starkadders, and the apocalyptic ravings of preacher Amos.
Flora believes that unless life is tidy, one cannot even begin to enjoy it - and life with her relatives at Cold Comfort Farm promises to be anything but.
Starring Patricia Gallimore and Elizabeth Proud.
Stella Gibbons' tale of early-20th-century rural England.
Dramatised by Elizabeth Proud.
Flora Poste ..... Patricia Gallimore
Stella Gibbons ..... Elizabeth Proud
Reader ..... John Westbrook
Reuben Starkadder ..... Trevor Martin
Adam Lambsbreath ..... Cyril Shaps
Seth Starkadder ..... Sion Probert
Amos Starkadder ..... John Hollis
Aunt Ada Doom ..... Fabia Drake
Meriam ..... Amanda Murray
Mrs Beetle ..... Miriam Margolyes
Mrs Murther ..... Diana Bishop
Mr Mybug ..... Michael Spice
Waitress ..... Kathryn Hurlbutt
Music: Terence Allbright
Director: Ian Cotterell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1981
WED 16:00 Archive on 4 (b010y1x6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
WED 17:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nw8b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 17:30 The Rivals (b01684jh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 18:00 Ballylenon (b007jx5y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 18:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007k1x5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 19:00 Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang-Ups (b04ps720)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 19:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000lzh6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 19:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmly)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
WED 20:00 Counterpoint (b01sd5gv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
WED 20:30 Hazelbeach (b00lrsnp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
WED 21:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007k22w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
WED 22:00 Paul Sinha's Perfect Pub Quiz (m00174f1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
WED 22:30 The Goldfish Bowl (m0018115)
Series 2
Episode 4
Anton and Liam - the Eric and Ernie of the fish fraternity - are back with more underwater wit and fishy frivolity.
Liam discovers that the tank is full of trouble and awful rhyming slang.
Starring Sean Foley and Hamish McColl.
Goldfish bowl based sitcom written by Shaun Prendergast.
Anton .... Sean Foley
Liam ....Hamish McColl
Susan ....Tracy Ann Oberman
Struan ....Shaun Prendergast
Director: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2000.
WED 22:45 Deborah Frances-White Introduces... (m000tnrh)
4. Steve Ali
Travis Alabanza, Scarlett Curtis, Jessica Fostekew and Steve Ali join Deborah Frances-White to tell stories.
Deborah is a comedian and writer best known for The Guilty Feminist podcast which has had 85 million downloads and she has appeared at The Royal Albert Hall, The Sydney Opera House and The London Palladium.
She has hosted many storytelling events and, for this special broadcast series, she has picked four very different writers to take part. She gave them all the prompt – The Devil You Know and in this episode we hear Steve Ali's story, which takes us back to his childhood in Aleppo to explore family legends and memories.
He is a Syrian writer and broadcaster living in London. He was a regular on all four seasons of the BBC podcast GrownUpLand and has appeared on Global Pillage and The Guilty Feminist as well as Amnesty International’s Secret Policeman’s Tour shows. He has written for The Sunday Times Magazine, GQ Magazine and The Evening Standard and is co-founder of The Refugee Media Centre. He is a silversmith and has his own jewellery company. Steve is currently developing a one man show called The Alcohol of the Soul.
Written and Read by Steve Ali.
Produced by Caroline Raphael.
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2021.
WED 23:00 Elis James's Pantheon of Heroes (b01b5yyr)
Series 1
Adventurers
More historical heroism - as adventurer Henry Morton Stanley, the 1958 Wales World Cup team and the 19th century naturalist, Alfred Russel Wallace are put to the Totaliser Test.
Comedian Elis James compares key figures in Welsh history to determine the ultimate heroes of Wales.
With:
Ben Partridge
Nadia Kamil
Written by Elis James, Gareth Gwyn and Benjamin Partridge
Producer: Sharif Shahwan
First broadcast on BBC Radio Wales in February 2012
WED 23:30 The Skewer (m00237wh)
Series 12
Episode 3
Jon Holmes brings you the week's biggest stories like you've never heard them before.
WED 23:45 Little Lifetimes by Jenny Eclair (b04d4qpn)
Series 1
A Trolley for a Change
A grandmother visits an upmarket supermarket to buy her grandchildren a meal they won't forget.
But the trip proves memorable for all the wrong reasons.
Starring Ruth Sheen.
Leading actresses star in Jenny Eclair's comic series about women facing a crisis in their lives.
Pat ..... Ruth Sheen
Checkout woman ...... Elaine Claxton
Security Guard ..... Clive Hayward
Lauren ..... Jane Slavin
Producer: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2014.

THURSDAY 03 OCTOBER 2024

THU 00:00 Archive on 4 (b010y1x6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nw8b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:30 The Rivals (b01684jh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Wednesday]
THU 02:00 Ballylenon (b007jx5y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Wednesday]
THU 02:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007k1x5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:00 Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang-Ups (b04ps720)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Wednesday]
THU 03:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000lzh6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmly)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Wednesday]
THU 04:00 Counterpoint (b01sd5gv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Wednesday]
THU 04:30 Hazelbeach (b00lrsnp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Wednesday]
THU 05:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007k22w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Wednesday]
THU 06:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nwf5)
5. Dungrennan Bay
Lawyer Peter Caiman takes the path to moonlit Dungrennan Bay, but his investigation is hampered when he runs into police superintendent Bullivant.
Thriller serial by Edward Boyd starring David Ashton.
Peter Calman …. David Ashton
Dunsmore …. Gregor Fisher
Douglas …. Robert Paterson
Receptionist …. Tamara Kennedy
Walter Hansford …. Ronald Aitken
Bullivant …. Arthur Boland
Brill / Clerk …. Finlay Welsh
Directed at BBC Scotland by Patrick Rayner.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1984.
THU 06:30 The Rivals (b016lf2q)
Series 1
3. Paul Beck: Murder by Proxy
Inspector Lestrade was made to look a fool in the Sherlock Holmes stories.
Now he's trying to get his own back, with tales of Holmes' rivals.
He continues with a country house murder and the devious talents of private detective Paul Beck.
Starring Anton Lesser and James Fleet.
Written by Matthias McDonnell Bodkin.
Dramatised by Chris Harrald.
Lestrade . . . . . James Fleet
Paul Beck . . . . . Anton Lesser
Lucy . . . . . Alex Tregear
Jonathan . . . . . Stuart McLoughlin
Mark . . . . . Simon Bubb
Julia . . . . . Eloise Secker
Neville . . . . . Sean Baker
Tilley . . . . . Brian Bowles
Mrs Beck . . . . . Jane Whittenshaw
Director: Sasha Yevtushenko
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
THU 07:00 Are You From the Bugle? (b01hpx3f)
The Drama Began
Graham is starting a new job as a local cub reporter. What could possibly go wrong?
John Gradwell's six-part sitcom about life in Butterthwaite's local newspaper office.
Bert Ball …. Jeffrey Holland
Graham Carpenter …. Robert Beck
Brenda Thistlethwaite …. Frances Jeater
Arnold Beasley …. David Ryall
Vicky Cox …. Sue Devaney
Lawrence Stevens …. Dean Williamson
All other parts played by Rachel Atkins and Mark Gatiss.
Producer: Kathy Smith.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1996.
THU 07:30 It Sticks Out Half A Mile (b007k29b)
4. Inspecting the Piles?
1948: In their battle to restore the pier in Frambourne-on-Sea, Frank and Uncle Arthur must tackle a tricky situation - with an inflatable dinghy.
Starring John Le Mesurier, Ian Lavender and Bill Pertwee.
A seaside saga of pier perpetuation.
Written by Harold Snoad and Michael Knowles.
Arthur Wilson ...... John Le Mesurier
Frank Pike ...... Ian Lavender
Bert Hodges ...... Bill Pertwee
Miss Perkins ...... Vivienne Martin
Based on the Dad's Army characters originally created by Jimmy Perry and David Croft.
Producer: Martin Fisher
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in December 1983.
THU 08:00 Mr Muzak (b095qcjy)
Series 1
2. Rock the Boat
Nigel Penny's attempts to live his life in the background have been thwarted by the surprise arrival of his entrepreneurial half-brother, Pav who is desperate to find gigs for Nigel and his musical partner, wannabe singer Rachel.
Despite his protestations of sea-sickness, Pav books Nigel to accompany Rachel as the entertainment on a floating barge at an event hosted by Belinda, an old acquaintance of Nigel's.
Meanwhile Stan is yearning to return to his homeland.
Richie Webb stars as performance shy cocktail pianist Nigel Penny.
Nigel Penny ...... Richie Webb
Pav Penny ...... Paul G Raymond
Rachel ...... Jess Robinson
Marco ...... Dave Lamb
Stanislav ...... Dave Lamb
Rob ...... Jim North
Director: Nick Walker
Audio Production: Matt Katz
Written and produced by Richie Webb
A Top Dog production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in September 2017.
THU 08:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000lyzs)
4. Wicken & In Spight of Prisons
Helen Macdonald reads from her collection of essays about "love for the glittering world of non-human life around us."
In this episode - nature reserves and our precious relationship with the natural world.
Vesper Flights is the hotly anticipated essay collection by Helen Macdonald - her first book since the publication of her award-winning and best-selling H is for Hawk. Each essay by the acclaimed nature writer explores humanity’s connection with the natural world, our curiosity about it and our love for it, as well as its increasingly urgent fragility. The essays are also a reminder that we inhabit a beautiful world and they celebrate its “quality of wonder".
Helen Macdonald is a writer, poet, naturalist and historian of science. H is for Hawk won several prestigious prizes, including the Samuel Johnson and the Prix du Meilleur Livre Etranger in France.
Abridged by Julian Wilkinson.
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2020.
THU 08:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmmg)
4. Fate
Inspector Javert breaks the news to Monsieur Madeleine that Jean Valjean has been arrested and sent to trial in Arras.
Victor Hugo's epic story of social injustice.
Dramatised by Lin Coghlan
Jean Valjean .... Roger Allam
Victor Hugo .... Joss Ackland
Inspector Javert .... David Schofield
Fantine .... Emily Bruni
Sister Simplice .... Carolyn Pickles
Judge/ Man 1 .... Christopher Godwin
Prosecutor .... Peter Darney
Scaufflaire / Doctor .... Sean Baker
Clerk / Bourgaillard .... Carl Prekopp
Boy .... Jonathan Forbes
Gervais .... Daniel Hanbridge
Bishop Myriel ...... David De Keyser
Director: Jeremy Mortimer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2001.
THU 09:00 Phil Ellis Is Trying (m000mzsh)
Series 3
Pondlife 2000
When he's accused of murdering a hipster, Phil is hauled before the Supreme Court of Parbold presided over by the ruthless Judge Shawshank (Jack Dee). Phil must find a way to counter the allegations of Parbold's best prosecutor (Sindhu Vee) and the witness statements of several of Parbold's residents, including Mick the Chinese herbalist and Ellie the florist. Otherwise, it looks like Phil might be facing a lengthy jail term. Polly could help his cause as foreman of the jury, but as she's not been paid for months, she's got it in for Phil too. Luckily, the defendant has Johnny on his side. If only the court vending machine hadn't been so recently stocked full of Caramacs.
Cast includes:
Phil Ellis as Phil
Johnny Vegas as Johnny
Amy Gledhill as Polly
Katia Kvinge as Ellie the florist
Mick Ferry as Mick the Chinese herbalist
Jason Barnett as Keith the barman
Terry Mynott as Jarvis Cocker
And guest starring Sindhu Vee as the Prosecutor, and Jack Dee as Judge Shawshank.
It was produced by Sam Michell and is a BBC Studios Production
THU 09:30 His Master's Voices (b06r3q5t)
4. The Theatre/EMI Archive
Singer Cerys Matthews and music expert Tristram Penna continue their investigation into the very earliest days of the recording industry in the UK.
Tristram with Christopher Proudfoot, CLPGS chairman, visits the EMI Archive Trust in Hayes, which houses Fred Gaisberg's own collection of over 14,000 7 inch discs dating from 1898 as well as an amazing collection of early gramophones.
Cerys and Tristram visit Wyndham's Theatre in London's West End where they meet actor Kenneth Cranham. Charles Wyndham was a famous actor/impresario who built this theatre in 1899 and a disc of Wyndham's voice reciting a poem recorded in December 1898 is played on the stage - probably the first time his voice has been heard there for over 100 years. This disc has not been previously broadcast.
As an actor himself, Wyndham had this theatre built to his own specifications so the acoustics are incredibly good - and even today actors require no amplification.
The recording process of the Gramophone Company back in 1898 had certain technological limitations and so they needed the right voices to put on disc, and famous actors of the day were an obvious choice. The people with Gramophones in their own home would be incredibly proud to have the latest speech from actors like Charles Wyndham to impress their peers. For those less fortunate who couldn't afford a Gramophone in their own home, there were Gramophone evenings in theatres across the country where they could go along and pay a shilling or so and hear the latest speeches.
It was also at this point the Victorians realised that recording famous people of the day would be good for their future legacy. The early recordings are courtesy of the EMI Archive Trust.
A Sue Clark Production, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2015.
THU 09:45 Daily Service (m0023dxy)
Therefore with angels - Message for Mary
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Therefore with angels - Message for Mary
Presenter: Rachel Mann
Reading: Luke 1: 30a, 31-37
Producer: Andrew Earis
THU 10:00 Great Lives (b00776hc)
Tintin
Tintin breaks all this programme's rules - he didn't exist, and he hasn't died.
But photojournalist Nick Danziger makes a powerful case for the inclusion of the little Belgian reporter and his small dog among the pantheon of greats.
Presenter Matthew Parris seems more concerned about Tintin's sexuality - he lived with a sailor, there are no women and look at that hair - while Tintinologist Michael Farr attempts to keep the conversation on a higher plane.
The programme includes archive of Tintin's creator, Hergé.
Produced by Miles Warde.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2007.
THU 10:30 The Real Apprentice (b010t5wk)
Seven unemployed men compete to win a builder's apprenticeship in South Wales.
Jon Manel follows their progress, and explores how our concept of apprenticeship has changed over centuries.
The charity Construction Youth Trust took its Real Apprentice scheme to Newport in the summer of 2010. Seven young people who weren't in education or employment were put to work on a building site, redeveloping two flats. The best performer won an apprenticeship with Newport City Homes. Jon Manel watches the competition and hears about the contestants' experience of trying to find work.
But what can the winner expect of his apprenticeship? And how does the experience of today's apprentices compare to that of their predecessors decades - even centuries - ago?
Jon meets a manager at Tata Steel - formerly British Steel - in Port Talbot, who is still with the company nearly forty years after he joined as an apprentice. And then we go back nearly six hundred years to discover the story of a fifteenth century butcher's apprentice from Newbury, recorded in a document in the Berkshire Record Office. Alison Fuller from Southampton University gives a potted history of how the lives of apprentices developed in the intervening years - for better and for worse.
Produced by Chris Ledguard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2011.
THU 11:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nwf5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 11:30 The Rivals (b016lf2q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 12:00 Are You From the Bugle? (b01hpx3f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 12:30 It Sticks Out Half A Mile (b007k29b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 13:00 Mr Muzak (b095qcjy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 13:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000lyzs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 13:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmmg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
THU 14:00 Wordaholics (b04hyrq3)
Series 3
Episode 4
Comedian Josh Widdicombe, lexicographer Susie Dent, astronomy enthusiast Helen Keen and comedian Natalie Haynes vie for word supremacy.
Gyles Brandreth is in the chair.
The letter of the week is 'L'.
The panellists are asked to invent new words or phrases - and there are rounds about terms for different occupations and Victorian slang terms.
Writers: Jon Hunter and James Kettle.
Producer: Claire Jones.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2014.
THU 14:30 The Brothers (b00pm1nv)
Series 3
Gothic
When Nigel and Michael interview candidates to sit on reception, events take a melodramatic turn......
Sitcom about the dysfunctional Burbage siblings.
Written by Caroline and David Stafford.
Nigel Burbage …. Adam Godley
Michael Burbage …. Ray Coulthard
Oonagh …. Pauline McLynn
Peter Burbage …. James Fleet
Director: Marc Beeby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2007.
THU 15:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007jpwk)
3. Elfine's Rights
In which Flora's plots begin to thicken and she seems to be making headway over the tidying-up of the farm. But she’s reckoned without Aunt Ada Doom...
Starring Patricia Gallimore and Elizabeth Proud.
Stella Gibbons' tale of early-20th-century rural England.
Dramatised by Elizabeth Proud.
Flora Poste ..... Patricia Gallimore
Stella Gibbons ..... Elizabeth Proud
Reader ..... John Westbrook
Reuben Starkadder ..... Trevor Martin
Judith Starkadder Margaret Robertson
Adam Lambsbreath ..... Cyril Shaps
Seth Starkadder ..... Sion Probert
Amos Starkadder ..... John Hollis
Micah Starkadder ..... Alexander John
Richard Hawk-Monitor ..... Stephen Garlick
The Abbé Fausse-Maigre ..... Malcolm Hayes
Meriam ..... Amanda Murray
Mrs Beetle ..... Miriam Margolyes
Aunt Ada Doom ..... Fabia Drake
Mr Mybug ..... Michael Spice
Claud Hart-Harris ..... Roger Hammond
Harkaway Starkadder ..... David Timson
Urk Starkadder ..... Christopher Scott
Monsieur Solide ..... Alan Dudley
Rennett Starkadder ..... Christine Absalom
Mrs Hawk-Monitor ..... Margot Boyd
Elfine Starkadder ..... Jane Knowles
Young Man ..... David McAlister
Music: Terence Allbright
Director: Ian Cotterell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1981.
THU 16:00 Great Lives (b00776hc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
THU 16:30 The Real Apprentice (b010t5wk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
THU 17:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nwf5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 17:30 The Rivals (b016lf2q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 18:00 Are You From the Bugle? (b01hpx3f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 18:30 It Sticks Out Half A Mile (b007k29b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 19:00 Mr Muzak (b095qcjy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 19:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000lyzs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 19:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmmg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
THU 20:00 Wordaholics (b04hyrq3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
THU 20:30 The Brothers (b00pm1nv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
THU 21:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007jpwk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
THU 22:00 Phil Ellis Is Trying (m000mzsh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
THU 22:30 On the Hour (b007k3g0)
Series 1
Episode 1
From disasters and corruption to beachcombing and medical mayhem.
All the news as it happens, if it happens.
Plus all the sport from Alan Partridge
Savagely satirical award-winning comedy starring Chris Morris.
With Steve Coogan, David Schneider, Rebecca Front, Patrick Marber and Doon Mackichan.
Written by Chris Morris, Richard Herring, Steven Wells, Andrew Glover, David Quantick and Stewart Lee.
Editor: Armando lannucci
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1991.
THU 23:00 The Harpoon (b00cmgpb)
Series 3
Episode 3
Across the Atlantic alone, and great beverages from history.
More nostalgic fun in the spoof of boys' adventure story papers - this time, incorporating 'Lathe Monthly'.
Written by Julian Dutton and Peter Baynham.
Performed by:
Alistair McGowan
Peter Baynham
Susie Brann
Mary Elliot-Nelson
Julian Dutton
Producer: Sarah Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1994.
THU 23:30 Party (b011znh7)
Series 2
Is the Party Over?
The aspiring politicians of the new political party move on to tackle drugs and housing and come up with a convenient catch-all solution.
But is there any point if Jared's all set to move to the Isle of Wight?
Tom Basden's satirical comedy about a political party run by young idealists.
Simon ..... Tom Basden
Duncan ..... Tim Key
Jared ..... Jonny Sweet
Mel ..... Ann Crilly
Phoebe ..... Katy Wix
Producer: Julia McKenzie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2011.

FRIDAY 04 OCTOBER 2024

FRI 00:00 Great Lives (b00776hc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Thursday]
FRI 00:30 The Real Apprentice (b010t5wk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Thursday]
FRI 01:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nwf5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Thursday]
FRI 01:30 The Rivals (b016lf2q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Thursday]
FRI 02:00 Are You From the Bugle? (b01hpx3f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Thursday]
FRI 02:30 It Sticks Out Half A Mile (b007k29b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:00 Mr Muzak (b095qcjy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Thursday]
FRI 03:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000lyzs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmmg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Thursday]
FRI 04:00 Wordaholics (b04hyrq3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Thursday]
FRI 04:30 The Brothers (b00pm1nv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Thursday]
FRI 05:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007jpwk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Thursday]
FRI 06:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nvrb)
6. Back to the Cave
Lawyer Peter Calman finds out more about the mysterious Scholl and faces a final showdown with Bullivant.
And then he makes a vital discovery...
Conclusion of Edward Boyd's thriller starring David Ashton.
Peter Calman …. David Ashton
Dunsmore …. Gregor Fisher
Jenny …. Stella Forge
Douglas …. Robert Paterson
Walter Hansford …. Ronald Aitken
Scholl …. Brown Derby
Chief Constable …. John Buick
Bullivant …. Arthur Boland
Leighton …. Tom Criddle
Directed at BBC Scotland by Patrick Rayner.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1984.
FRI 06:30 The Rivals (b016x22y)
Series 1
4. Loveday Brooke: The Mystery of Redstone Manor
Inspector Lestrade was made to look a fool in the Sherlock Holmes stories.
Now he's trying to get his own back, with tales of Holmes' rivals.
He concludes with a nail-biting adventure that features the uncompromising Loveday Brooke.
Starring Honeysuckle Weeks and James Fleet.
Written by Chris Harrald, based on the character created by Catherine Louisa Pirkis.
Lestrade . . . . . James Fleet
Loveday . . . . . Honeysuckle Weeks
Lucy . . . . . Alex Tregear
Winter . . . . . Brian Bowles
Simkins . . . . . Stuart McLoughlin
Alex . . . . . Daniel Rabin
Director: Sasha Yevtushenko.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
FRI 07:00 The Older Woman (b039wqbg)
Series 2
Episode 5
Roy Hitchcock has, surprisingly, managed to interest TV in his video diary.
Should he now become celibate in order to be an artist of integrity?
Meanwhile, Jane resolves to remain celibate - at least as far as Colin's romantic intentions are concerned...
Starring Geraldine James and Martin Clunes.
Tony Bagley's romantic comedy drama serial with a twist.
Roy …. Martin Clunes
Jane …. Geraldine James
Chad …. Nicky Henson
Colin …. David Troughton
Marina …. Tilly Vosburgh
Wynn.......Sue Roderick
Other parts played by:
Melanie Hudson
Peter Serafinowcz
Alistair McGowan
Music composed by Julian Wostall
Theme sung by Toyah Willcox
Producer: Paul Schlesinger
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1994.
FRI 07:30 The Burkiss Way (b007jshz)
Series 5
Love Big Brother the Burkiss Way
It's Big Brother with a twist as the team spoof George Orwell's '1984'.
Starring Fred Harris, Jo Kendall, Nigel Rees and Chris Emmett.
Cult sketch comedy series which originally ran from 1976 to 1980.
Written by Andrew Marshall and David Renwick.
Producer: David Hatch
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1980.
FRI 08:00 To Hull and Back (b09rx3vt)
Series 3
Last Chance Salon
On her way back from Hull station following a failed attempt to get onto the Vidal Sassoon hairdressing course in London, Sophie is knocked over by a car.
By way of compensation the driver, Alison, a frequent church-goer, offers Sophie a disused hair salon that she has access to thanks to her church's outreach work.
Sophie accepts Alison's offer. But with only a week to make it a going concern, will she manage to make a success of it?
Starring Lucy Beaumont and Maureen Lipman.
Lucy Beaumont’s warm-hearted sitcom about Sophie's efforts to escape her overbearing mother, Sheila.
Sophie ...... Lucy Beaumont
Sheila ...... Maureen Lipman
Jean ...... Kerrie Marsh
Ernie ...... Norman Lovett
Alison ...... Annie Sawle
Trish ...... Debra Baker
Producer: Sam Michell
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in February 2018.
FRI 08:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m097)
5. Vesper Flights
Helen Macdonald reads from her collection of essays about "love for the glittering world of non-human life around us."
In this episode, swifts - finding them 'magical in the manner of all things that exist just a little beyond understanding.
Vesper Flights is the hotly anticipated essay collection by Helen Macdonald - her first book since the publication of her award-winning and best-selling H is for Hawk. Each essay by the acclaimed nature writer explores humanity’s connection with the natural world, our curiosity about it and our love for it, as well as its increasingly urgent fragility. The essays are also a reminder that we inhabit a beautiful world and they celebrate its “quality of wonder".
Helen Macdonald is a writer, poet, naturalist and historian of science. H is for Hawk won several prestigious prizes, including the Samuel Johnson and the Prix du Meilleur Livre Etranger in France.
Abridged by Julian Wilkinson.
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2020.
FRI 08:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmmy)
5. The Truth
The Mayor of Montreuil Sur Mer makes an astonishing declaration in the courtroom at Arras.
Victor Hugo's epic story of social injustice.
Dramatised by Sebastian Baczkiewicz
Jean Valjean .... Roger Allam
Victor Hugo .... Joss Ackland
Inspector Javert .... David Schofield
Fantine .... Emily Bruni
Sister Simplice .... Carolyn Pickles
Judge .... Christopher Godwin
Prosecutor .... Peter Darney
Defence Lawyer .... Jonathan Forbes
Clerk .... Carl Prekopp
Printanier.... Sean Baker
Chapmathieu .... Ewan Bailey
Cochepaille .... Struan Rodger
Director: Jeremy Mortimer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2001.
FRI 09:00 Tudur Owen - Where on Earth is Anglesey? (m0001f1l)
Episode 2
Despite being the largest island in the Irish Sea and the largest island of Wales, Anglesey remains a mystery to most.
Local host Tudur Owen continues his quest to put it firmly back on the map.
Concluding his series, Tudur introduces us to the people of Anglesey and asks if it's fair to call them a rather unique bunch.
Written by Tudur Owen
Additional material by Gareth Gwynn.
With:
Gareth Pierce
Lisa-Jên Brown
Recorded at Canolfan Beaumaris on Anglesey.
Producer: Richard Morris
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in November 2018.
FRI 09:30 His Master's Voices (b06r3slv)
5. The First Superstars
Singer Cerys Matthews and music expert Tristram Penna conclude their investigation into the very earliest days of the recording industry in the UK.
1902 was the year that changed everything for the Gramophone Company and was the real starting point for the record industry of the 20th Century. Fred Gaisberg was on his way to Rome to record the Pope when he stopped in Milan to hear an acclaimed new tenor. His name was Caruso.
He wanted Caruso to record ten songs, but he asked for a payment of £100 - an exorbitant sum. The Company Chairman telegraphed back forbidding Gaisberg to go ahead, but Fred decided that this new tenor was too good to miss. The tenor voice was uniquely well suited to early disc recording machines and one of earliest records of Caruso was the first to sell over a million copies. The success of Caruso as a recording artist led directly to bookings at the New York Met and London's Covent Garden - the first time that being a recording artist had a major impact on a singer's career.
Another popular classical singer was Nellie Melba, the Queen of Song, who negotiated and popularised the idea of a royalty being paid to the artist for each disc sold.
Over the next few decades, recording innovations and the invention of the electric microphone meant that tenor and strident voices no longer held the upper hand, as singers of both sexes could purr and be heard.
We also hear from manager Simon Napier-Bell and music journalist Peter Doggett. The early recordings are courtesy of the EMI Archive Trust.
A Sue Clark Production, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2015.
FRI 09:45 Daily Service (m0023gp5)
Therefore with angels - Angel voices
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Therefore with angels - Angel voices
Presenter: Chris Edmondson
Reading: Luke 2: 8-15
Producer: Andrew Earis
Music:
Angel Voices ever singing (Angel Voices) - Daily Service Singers
Rejoice greatly (Handel) - Carolyn Sampson (trim so first and last part)
Songs of Praise the Angels Sang (Northampton) - Sheffield Celebration Choir
FRI 10:00 Soul Music (m0017k0j)
Purple Rain
"I never meant to cause you any sorrow, I never meant to cause you any pain..."
True stories of what Prince's epic ballad means to different people around the world, from the very first jam in 1983 to the global hit that reigns over us today.
Bobby Z, the drummer from Prince and The Revolution, remembers the buzz of the first ever performance of Purple Rain, and how the recording from that night lives on.
Susan Rogers, Prince's recording engineer, tells stories from the Purple Rain tour, when the crew took bets on how long Prince's guitar solos would last.
Comedian Sindhu Vee first heard the song as a teenager growing up in India and was knocked sideways by it.
Weather reporter Judith Ralston describes the beautiful and rare weather phenomenon of purple rain.
Social historian Zaheer Ali sees the song as a cry out for change, bringing audiences from different backgrounds together in cross-genre harmony.
And finally, an intensive care hospital nurse played Purple Rain to Kevin Clarke while he was in a coma, because his sister knew he loved the song and hoped it might pull him through.
Produced by Becky Ripley.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2022.
FRI 10:30 The Chalet School (b014pzzs)
Crime writer Val McDermid reflects on her love of the Chalet School boarding school novels.
She credits them with inspiring her to go to Oxford and becoming a writer. So what did they have that the other boarding school books did not?
Nearly 60 Chalet School novels were published between 1925 and 1970, written by the South Shields novelist, Elinor Brent-Dyer. The school was initially located in Austria, but moved to Guernsey following the Anschluss. It relocated again after the Nazi invasion of The Channel Islands.
The books centred on Madge Bettany, the founder of the school, and her young sister Joey, its first pupil. The books dealt with financial hardship, illness and politics, which Val argues, is absent from most other boarding school novels of the period.
Produced at BBC Manchester by Nicola Swords.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2011.
FRI 11:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nvrb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 11:30 The Rivals (b016x22y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 12:00 The Older Woman (b039wqbg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 12:30 The Burkiss Way (b007jshz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 13:00 To Hull and Back (b09rx3vt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 13:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m097)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 13:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmmy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
FRI 14:00 Foul Play (b00zshr5)
Series 4
Dead as a Parrot
Crime writers Ian Rankin and Stella Duffy try to solve a mystery case of a killing involving footballers and models.
Simon Brett hosts the murder mystery panel game.
Witnesses played by:
Maria McErlane
Lee Simpson
Producer: Liz Anstee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1998.
FRI 14:30 Lucky Heather (b0075rz9)
2. Wild Bunch
Heather helps a neighbour who is being harassed on the estate and also tries line dancing.
Just this side of nosey, Heather is western movie-mad. She's also the Sherlock Holmes of the rundown Sutter Estate.
Starring Lindsey Coulson.
Sitcom by Sue Teddern.
Heather ...... Lindsey Coulson
Natalie ...... Abigail Hart
Ryan ...... Ben Crowe
Emma ...... Kelly Wright
Chloe ...... Gemma Saunders
Olive ...... Elizabeth Kelly
Tommy ...... Harry Myers
Maev ...... Dearbhla Molloy
Director: David Hunter
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2000.
FRI 15:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007k2m0)
4. Flora's Rights Again
As the wedding draws near, Flora Poste wrestles with Aunt Ada Doom. Will she get her rights at last?
Starring Patricia Gallimore and Elizabeth Proud.
Conclusion of Stella Gibbons' tale of early-20th-century rural England.
Dramatised by Elizabeth Proud.
Flora Poste ..... Patricia Gallimore
Stella Gibbons ..... Elizabeth Proud
Reader ..... John Westbrook
Reuben Starkadder ..... Trevor Martin
Judith Starkadder Margaret Robertson
Adam Lambsbreath ..... Cyril Shaps
Seth Starkadder ..... Sion Probert
Amos Starkadder ..... John Hollis
Micah Starkadder ..... Alexander John
Richard Hawk-Monitor ..... Stephen Garlick
The Abbé Fausse-Maigre ..... Malcolm Hayes
Aunt Ada Doom ..... Fabia Drake
Mrs Beetle ..... Miriam Margolyes
Mr Mybug ..... Michael Spice
Harkaway Starkadder ..... David Timson
Urk Starkadder ..... Christopher Scott
Rennett Starkadder ..... Christine Absalom
Mrs Hawk-Monitor ..... Margot Boyd
Elfine Starkadder ..... Jane Knowles
Charles Fairford ..... David McAlister
Earl P Neck ..... Nigel Anthony
Dr Mudel ..... John Rye
Letty ..... Pauline Letts
Susan ..... Diana Bishop
Music: Terence Allbright
Director: Ian Cotterell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1981
FRI 16:00 Soul Music (m0017k0j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
FRI 16:30 The Chalet School (b014pzzs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
FRI 17:00 Curlew in Autumn (m000nvrb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 17:30 The Rivals (b016x22y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 18:00 The Older Woman (b039wqbg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 18:30 The Burkiss Way (b007jshz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 19:00 To Hull and Back (b09rx3vt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 19:30 Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald (m000m097)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 19:45 Victor Hugo - Les Miserables (b007jmmy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
FRI 20:00 Foul Play (b00zshr5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
FRI 20:30 Lucky Heather (b0075rz9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
FRI 21:00 Stella Gibbons - Cold Comfort Farm (b007k2m0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
FRI 22:00 Randy Feltface's Destruction Manual (m0023fpt)
2. Fire
Randy Feltface is burning to tell you just how much we’re burning ourselves into oblivion. Coming from a hemisphere where deadly fires are an ever-present threat, it’s just so great to see us in the north take a leaf out of that book, roll it up and smoke it. Plus we hear from a Siberian Brown Bear discussing the effect of wildfires on habitat destruction & smoke particles on the Earth’s albedo through the medium of statistics, charts and growling.
This head-on charge into possibly the most important subject facing humanity comes to you via a show where you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll learn, you’ll laugh again between the learny bits and most of all, you’ll be able to say “I was there when Radio 4 decided to have show hosted by a puppet”
Randy Feltface has been seen on Netflix, ABC, NBC, and has a huge & devoted following across the globe (1m+ social media followers, 1.6m TikTok followers, 833k subscribers, 79m YouTube views). His hour-long specials are YouTube cult classics, his world tours are sold out sensations, and he's the only Radio 4 presenter to be entirely made of felt.
With Margaret Cabourn-Smith & William Hartley
Produced & directed by David Tyler
A Pozzitive production for BBC Radio 4
FRI 22:30 The Million Pound Radio Show (b007k0sb)
Series 2
Episode 5
Danger sports - and chicken terrorists.
Sharp-edged topical humour in the most expensive show on radio.
Written by and starring Andy Hamilton and Nick Revell.
With:
Felicity Montagu
Harry Enfield
Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1986.
FRI 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m0023qqr)
Ed Patrick 3/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, The Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. And tonight, Stephen Bailey interviews the doctor and comedian Ed Patrick.
FRI 23:00 Absolute Power (b007wwf1)
Series 3
Episode 1
Prentiss McCabe’s government retainer is under threat from a difficult and complicated task, which Martin so decorously puts it as “poking one right up the prime minister”.
Whilst Martin is enthused with the challenge, Charles is torn and admits to quite liking the PM.
Stephen Fry and John Bird star in Mark Tavener's biting satire.
Charles Prentiss and Martin McCabe return as spin masters in the world of government and media relations.
Charles Prentiss …. Stephen Fry
Martin McCabe …. John Bird
With:
Tony Gardner
Siobhan Hayes
Tom George
David Timpson
Music by Matthew Scott
Producer: Dawn Ellis
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2002.
FRI 23:30 Elvenquest (b00k49s9)
Series 1
Episode 2
Lord Darkness has kidnapped Amis and wants the sword.
With a search underway, can Sam stop him?
More comic adventures set in lower Earth where fantasy writer Sam has been coerced into joining a band of intrepid heroes as they battle the dread forces of evil in search of the legendary sword of Asnagar!
Fantasy sitcom written by Anil Gupta and Richard Pinto.
Elf Lord, Vidar ...... Darren Boyd
Dean The Dwarf ...... Kevin Eldon
Amis, The Chosen One ...... Dave Lamb
Sam ...... Stephen Mangan
Lord Darkness ...... Alistair McGowan
Amazon Princess, Penthiselea ...... Sophie Winkleman
Producers: Anil Gupta & Paul Schlesinger
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2009.