SATURDAY 22 MARCH 2008

SAT 00:00 News and Weather (b009hksy)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


SAT 00:30 Book of the Week (b009gfbf)
Nothing to Be Frightened Of

Episode 5

Nothing to Be Frightened Of: Julian Barnes's book combines family memoir with reflections on art, religion and death. 5/5: He looks at the memories that are left behind when we die.


SAT 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009gbnv)
The latest shipping forecast.


SAT 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009hkt1)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at 5.20am.


SAT 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009hkt3)
The latest shipping forecast.


SAT 05:30 News Briefing (b009hkt5)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


SAT 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009hkt9)
Daily prayer and reflection with Tina Beattie.


SAT 05:45 Macbeth Remixed (b007vypd)
The Reality of Macbeth's landscape

How does William Shakespeare’s dramatic landscape compare with the real thing?

The real Macbeth comes back to life to take us on a tour of the landscape of the famous play.

But just how far-fetched is the blasted heath, Cawdor, Glamis, Birnam Wood and Dunsinane from the landscape of the real Macbeth's story?

Liam Brennan stars as MacBeth with members of The National Theatre of Scotland.

Producer: Pennie Latin

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2007


SAT 06:00 News and Papers (b009hn4f)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.


SAT 06:04 Weather (b009hn4h)
The latest weather forecast.


SAT 06:07 Open Country (b009hn4k)
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Countryside magazine.

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal, near Wrexham, is the UK's only 2008 nomination for World Heritage Site status. Helen Mark reports.


SAT 06:35 Farming Today This Week (b009hn4m)
Rural magazine programme with Mark Holdstock.


SAT 06:57 Weather (b009hn4p)
The latest weather forecast.


SAT 07:00 Today (b009hn4r)
With James Naughtie and Carolyn Quinn. Including Sports Desk at 7.25am, 8.25am; Thought for the Day at 7.48am; Weather at 7.57am.


SAT 09:00 Saturday Live (b009hn4t)
Listeners talk about the issues that matter to them. Fi Glover is joined by Stella Duffy and a city lawyer talks about the pressures of the job. Featured poet is Elvis McGonagall.


SAT 10:00 Excess Baggage (b009hn4w)
Marrakesh

MARRAKESH
Just before Christmas David Stafford visited Marrakesh in Morocco to report on a travel writing course. While there he became fascinated by the contrast between the traditional old town and the burgeoning developments in the tourist industry in the newer parts of town outside the medina, including man-made beaches, restaurants serving international cuisine and belly dancing nightclubs.

Marrakesh features a lively and exotic town square where traditional entertainers perform as they have for centuries, gardens started by the French artist Majorelle in the early twentieth century, and an eccentric museum in a private house. David discovers how Moroccan culture and art have more to do with sub-Saharan Africa than the Arabic Middle East.


SAT 10:30 Border Blaster: In Search of the Wolf (b009hn4y)
In Search of the Wolf

In Search of the Wolf: Nick Barraclough recalls the first pirate radio stations which sprung up on the US/Mexico border in the 1950s (1/2).


SAT 11:00 The Week in Westminster (b009hn50)
A look behind the scenes at Westminster with Elinor Goodman.


SAT 11:30 From Our Own Correspondent (b009hn52)
BBC foreign correspondents with the stories behind the world's headlines. Introduced by Kate Adie.


SAT 12:00 Money Box (b009hn54)
Paul Lewis with the latest news from the world of personal finance plus advice for those trying to make the most of their money.


SAT 12:30 The Now Show (b009fyng)
Series 23

Episode 3

Comedy sketches and satirical comments from Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis and the team including Marcus Brigstocke, Mitch Benn, Laura Shavin and Jon Holmes.


SAT 12:57 Weather (b009hn56)
The latest weather forecast.


SAT 13:00 News Headlines (b009hn58)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.


SAT 13:10 Any Questions? (b009fynj)
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs the topical debate from Barrington, Somerset. Panellists include Ben Bradshaw, Polly Toynbee, Ruth Lea and Jesse Norman.


SAT 14:00 Any Answers? (b009hn5b)
Listeners' calls and emails in response to this week's edition of Any Questions? Call 08700 100 444 [calls from land lines cost no more than 8p a minute].


SAT 14:30 Saturday Drama (b009hn5d)
The Dark Side

Episode 2

The Dark Side: Comic adventure by David Chapel. 2/2: Can the idealistic James cut it as a lobbyist or will his politics betray him, along with his clients?


SAT 15:30 Ken Clarke's Jazz Greats (b009fwph)
Series 6

Episode 3

Former chancellor Ken Clarke profiles great jazz musicians of the 20th century. 3/4: He is joined by jazz writer Steve Voce to explore the career of alto saxophonist Art Pepper.


SAT 16:00 Weekend Woman's Hour (b009hn5g)
Highlights of this week's Woman's Hour programmes with Jane Garvey. Featuring the Mills-McCartney divorce case, Tibetan unrest and home makeovers.


SAT 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009hn5j)
22nd March 1968

John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.

Prime Minister Harold Wilson faces student protests, the March 22nd Movement is formed in France and heavy fighting continues in Biafra.


SAT 17:00 Saturday PM (b009hp3h)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news, plus the sports headlines. With Ritula Shah.


SAT 17:30 The Bottom Line (b009hp3k)
Evan Davis presents the business magazine. Entrepreneurs and business leaders talk about the issues that matter to their companies and their customers.


SAT 17:54 Shipping Forecast (b009hp3m)
The latest shipping forecast.


SAT 17:57 Weather (b009hp3p)
The latest weather forecast.


SAT 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009hp3r)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


SAT 18:15 Loose Ends (b009hp3t)
Clive Anderson presents an eclectic mix of conversation, comedy and music. He is joined by Barry Cryer, Geoffrey Perkins, journalist Simon Garfield, Robin Ince and actor Greg Hicks.


SAT 19:00 Profile (b009hp3w)
Simba Makoni

Series of profiles of people who are currently making headlines.

BBC Johannesburg correspondent Peter Biles profiles Simba Makoni, Robert Mugabe's former finance minister who is standing against the president in this week's election.


SAT 19:15 Saturday Review (b009hp3y)
Tom Sutcliffe and guests review the cultural highlights of the week.


SAT 20:00 The Archive Hour (b009hp40)
Wunderkind!

Wunderkind! Mark Lawson celebrates the centenary of the great conductor Herbert von Karajan.


SAT 21:00 Classic Serial (b0094zpn)
Mr Standfast

Episode 2

Mr Standfast: Bert Coules's dramatisation of John Buchan's WWI thriller. 2/2: The action moves to France as Richard Hannay and Mary Lamington search for the German spy Moxon Ivery.


SAT 22:00 News and Weather (b009hp42)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


SAT 22:15 Moral Maze (b009fxc8)
Michael Buerk chairs a debate on the moral questions behind the week's news. Michael Portillo, Melanie Phillips, Claire Fox and Ian Hargreaves cross-examine witnesses.


SAT 23:00 The Garden Quiz (b00954dc)
Episode 11

Anna Ford chairs a quiz to find the best all-round amateur garden expert in the country. The grand final comes from the Garden Room at Hampton Court Palace.


SAT 23:30 John Hegley's Poetry in the Gallery (b0095080)
Episode 2

...in the Gallery. Poetry inspired by works of art.



SUNDAY 23 MARCH 2008

SUN 00:00 News and Weather (b009hqqf)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


SUN 00:30 Opening Lines (b0076z2l)
Series 8

The Italian Is Not My Songbird

Series showcasing cutting-edge contemporary writing. 1/5: The Italian Is Not My Songbird, by Tara Bergin. An Italian student introduces his landlady to the beauty of birdsong.


SUN 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009hqqh)
The latest shipping forecast.


SUN 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009hqqk)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at 5.20am.


SUN 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009hqqm)
The latest shipping forecast.


SUN 05:30 News Briefing (b009hqqp)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


SUN 05:43 Bells on Sunday (b009hqqr)
The sound of church bells from Tewkesbury Abbey.


SUN 05:45 Profile (b009hp3w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Saturday]


SUN 06:00 News Headlines (b009hqqt)
The latest national and international news.


SUN 06:05 Something Understood (b009hqqw)
Archbishop Desmond Tutu

In a special edition for Easter Day, Mark Tully talks to Desmond Tutu, the former Archbishop of Cape Town and Nobel Peace Laureate. He talks about about the experiences, practices and convictions which have underpinned his vision and given him the strength to work undeterred to bring that vision into being.


SUN 06:35 Easter Sunrise Service (b009hqqy)
Anthony Hawley, Treasurer of Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, leads a meditation on the mystery of the Resurrection. With Pastor Dr Tani Omideyi and the Love and Joy Gospel Choir.


SUN 06:57 Weather (b009hqr0)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 07:00 News and Papers (b009hqr2)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.


SUN 07:10 Sunday (b009hqr4)
Roger Bolton and guests discuss the religious and ethical news of the week.


SUN 07:55 Radio 4 Appeal (b009hqr6)
Betty Boothroyd appeals on behalf of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. Donations: Freepost BBC Radio 4 Appeal. Credit cards: Freephone 0800 404 8144.


SUN 07:58 Weather (b009hqr8)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 08:00 News and Papers (b009hqrb)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.


SUN 08:10 Sunday Worship (b009hsnm)
The Rt Rev James Jones, Bishop of Liverpool, celebrates Easter with a special Eucharist from Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. Including traditional hymns and Mozart's Spatzen Mass.


SUN 09:00 Broadcasting House (b009hsnp)
News and conversation about the big stories of the week with Paddy O'Connell.


SUN 10:00 The Archers Omnibus (b009hsnr)
The week's events in Ambridge.


SUN 11:15 Desert Island Discs (b009hsnt)
Stanley McMurtry

Kirsty Young's castaway this week is the cartoonist Mac. He's been the Daily Mail's cartoonist for the past 38 years - and it's his job, he says, to make the "dreary news copy of the daily paper brighter, by putting in a laugh". Since he was a child he was always drawing - inventing strip cartoons in his spare time and sketching figures in the margins of his school books. Yet despite his obvious talent, there was scant nurturing of his ambitions at home. His father told him he'd never make the grade and, instead, he should concentrate on finding a proper job.

But Mac says that all the way through, he's been lucky. Whenever he's found himself stuck, he's come across someone who would encourage him to take the next step. Life has, he says, been a series of lucky coincidences.

[Taken from the original programme material for this archive edition of Desert Island Discs]

Favourite track: The Adagio from Bruch's Violin Concerto in G Minor by Bruch
Book: The collected works by John Steinbeck
Luxury: Tenor saxophone.


SUN 12:00 Just a Minute (b009frp6)
Series 52

Episode 11

Nicholas Parsons chairs the devious word game from the Colston Hall, Bristol. Panellists include Paul Merton, Sue Perkins, Tony Hawks and Graham Norton.


SUN 12:32 The Food Programme (b009hsnw)
Oysters

Hardeep Singh Kohli celebrates the oyster, a delicacy dating from Roman times. Once considered food for the poor, years of over-fishing have elevated the oyster to luxury status.


SUN 12:57 Weather (b009hsny)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 13:00 The World This Weekend (b009hsp0)
A look at events around the world.


SUN 13:30 A Dewey Decimal (b00xmljr)
Shaun Wallace investigates Melvil Dewey's book organisation system at his local library and the likely impact of the internet. From October 2007.


SUN 14:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b009hsp2)
Eric Robson chairs the popular horticultural forum. Matthew Biggs, Bunny Guinness and Bob Flowerdew are guests of Sleaford and District Flower Lovers' Club in Lincolnshire.


SUN 14:45 Men Read Maps Women Gossip (b007l3dk)
Episode 3

Vivienne Parry and Quentin Cooper compete in a battle of the sexes. 3/4: Their map-reading skills are tested under the scrutiny of psychobiologist Dr Qazi Rahman.


SUN 15:00 Classic Serial (b009hsp4)
Mr Sponge's Sporting Tour

Episode 1

Mr Sponge's Sporting Tour: Scott Cherry's dramatisation of RS Surtees's picaresque romp. 1/2: Soapey Sponge stands accused of selling the same mad horse to a number of people.


SUN 16:00 Open Book (b009hsp6)
Andrew Grieg, From Columnist to Novelist, and Mrs Gaskell

Andrew Grieg
Scottish poet and author Andrew Greig talks to Mariella about turning his hand to a new genre for his latest novel, that of the thriller; and also explains how the poet in him informs the novelist.

From Columnist to Novelist
Cristina Odone and Anna Blundy discuss whether already being columnists made the transition to novelists easier; and the difference skills involved in writing to a much longer length.

Mrs. Gaskell
In a week where Cranford scoops four Bafta TV nominations biographer Jenny Uglow profiles its author Elizabeth Gaskell.


SUN 16:30 The Muse of Rose Street (b00938p6)
The story of Stella Cartwright, the muse who bewitched a whole generation of Scottish poets and inspired some of the most passionate love poetry of the 20th century.


SUN 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009hsp8)
23rd March 1968

John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.

Yippies take over Grand Central Station in New York, Leeds United beat Manchester City to stay at the top of the first division and France win Rugby's Grand Slam.


SUN 17:00 File on 4 (b009fwpw)
Danny Shaw looks at government proposals to deal with prison overcrowding and asks whether bigger jails will solve the problem.


SUN 17:40 Profile (b009hp3w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Saturday]


SUN 17:54 Shipping Forecast (b009hspb)
The latest shipping forecast.


SUN 17:57 Weather (b009hspd)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009hspg)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


SUN 18:15 Pick of the Week (b009hspj)
Liz Barclay presents a selection of highlights from the past week on BBC radio.


SUN 19:00 The Archers (b009hspl)
Josh's team won the children's Easter quiz at The Bull and Eddie's desperate to win the Easter egg in the adults' quiz - he's got six weeks of food-deprivation to make up for!

Lilian wants to help out in The Bull but Sid insists they're ok, so she joins in the quiz. Lilian teams with David while Matt teams with Eddie and when they don't win, Eddie blames it on harsh marking. David points out their answers were just plain wrong. Eddie's just in despair at not winning the egg!

Matt seems quite disgruntled. Lilian blames it on his argument with Pat over her letter of protest to the council, which David can't believe she's sent. But having listened to Lilian and David reminisce on Easters past, it turns out that Matt's just fed up with the clannishness of Lilian's family.

The Bull's had a successful day. Lilian thinks they make a great team and is especially happy that she's managed to cut back the ivy that was covering her name on the sign above the door. Sid thinks it's a small price to pay for having the pub to themselves again.

Episode written by Joanna Toye.


SUN 19:15 Go4it (b009hspn)
Barney Harwood presents the children's magazine, taking a look at books about horses with author and Black Beauty fan Meg Roscoff.


SUN 19:45 Just William Strikes Again (b00776g1)
Violet Elizabeth Takes Control

Classic stories by Richmal Crompton, adapted by Martin Jarvis. William and the Outlaws are once again pitted against Violet Elizabeth Bott.


SUN 20:00 Feedback (b009fygl)
Roger Bolton airs listeners' views on BBC radio programmes and policy.


SUN 20:30 Last Word (b009fynb)
Matthew Bannister presents the obituary series, analysing and celebrating the life stories of people who have recently died.


SUN 21:00 Money Box (b009hn54)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:00 on Saturday]


SUN 21:26 Radio 4 Appeal (b009hqr6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:55 today]


SUN 21:30 Analysis (b009fycr)
Revealing Religion

Andrew Brown explores how believers and sceptics see the role of religion in thought and action.


SUN 21:58 Weather (b009hspq)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 22:00 Westminster Hour (b009hsps)
Reports from behind the scenes at Westminster. Including at 10.45pm Boom or Bust: Michael White assesses some of the most significant budgets from the past (3/3).


SUN 23:00 1968 Day by Day Omnibus (b00bfdcx)
Week ending 23rd March 1968

Another chance to look back at the events making the news 40 years ago with John Tusa.

Including anti-Vietnam riots in the centre of London, the Duke of Edinburgh's live TV interview and a tough budget in which the Chancellor raises taxes by almost a billion pounds.


SUN 23:30 Something Understood (b009hqqw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:05 today]



MONDAY 24 MARCH 2008

MON 00:00 News and Weather (b009htzv)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


MON 00:15 Thinking Allowed (b009fxc4)
Scottish Independence - Viewing the Recently Dead: Feedback

SCOTLAND INDEPENDENCE
Laurie Taylor is joined by Professor Murray Pittock the author of a new book ‘The Road To Independence? Scotland Since the Sixties’ and Vernon Bogdanor, Professor of Government at Oxford University, to consider the reasons behind the rise of Scottish nationalism since the end of World War Two and to find out if the next step on the road will be a vote for full independence.

VIEWING THE RECENTLY DEAD - FEEDBACK
Anthropologist, Adam Kuper discusses last week’s responses on the cultural differences in the manner in which we choose to view the bodies of the dead.


MON 00:45 Bells on Sunday (b009hqqr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:43 on Sunday]


MON 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009htzx)
The latest shipping forecast.


MON 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009htzz)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at 5.20am.


MON 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009hv01)
The latest shipping forecast.


MON 05:30 News Briefing (b009hv03)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


MON 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009hv05)
Daily prayer and reflection with Tina Beattie.


MON 05:45 Farming Today (b009hv07)
News and issues in rural Britain with Mark Holdstock.


MON 05:57 Weather (b009hv09)
The latest weather forecast for farmers.


MON 06:00 Today (b009hv0c)
With John Humphrys and Sarah Montague. Including Sports Desk at 6.25am, 7.25am, 8.25am; Weather at 6.05am, 6.57am, 7.57am; Thought for the Day at 7.48am.


MON 09:00 Start the Week (b009hv3n)
Andrew Marr sets the cultural agenda for the week. Guests include Andrew Graham-Dixon discussing Michelangelo and John Barrow on cosmic imagery.


MON 09:45 Book of the Week (b009hvd9)
The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession

The Merchant's Tale

The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession. Andrea Wulf's history of the gardening revolution of the 18th century. 1/5: The Merchant's Tale.


MON 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009j288)
Tamsin Greig; Colette; Menopause and Cholesterol

Tamsin Greig on why she seems to be drawn to playing tragically love-struck characters. Plus exploring the link between the menopause and high cholesterol, and the life of Colette.


MON 11:00 The Mystery of the Black Boy (b009j3zk)
Lemn Sissay explores the demise of the Black Boy as a name for a pub. The origins of the term are shrouded in mystery and many stories are in circulation.


MON 11:30 Dixon of Dock Green (b0076sgw)
Series 1

Crawford's First Pinch

Ted Willis's classic TV series, dramatised for radio by Sue Rodwell. 3/6: Crawford's First Pinch. A spate of bicycle thefts makes Andy desperate to notch up his first arrest.


MON 12:00 You and Yours (b009j42g)
Consumer news and issues with Winifred Robinson and Sheila McClennon.


MON 12:57 Weather (b009j42j)
The latest weather forecast.


MON 13:00 World at One (b009j42l)
National and international news with Shaun Ley.


MON 13:30 Counterpoint (b009s09v)
Series 22

2008 Heat 1

Paul Gambaccini takes over as chairman of the long-running music quiz.

With Margaret Eccles from Cheltenham, Martin Kimber from Cheltenham, and Adrian Salter from London.

Producer: Paul Bajoria

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2008.


MON 14:00 The Archers (b009hspl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Sunday]


MON 14:15 Drama (b009j45y)
Baldi (series 5)

Baldi: A Green Murder

Baldi: A series of murder mysteries. 3/4: A Green Murder, by Andrew Martin. Paolo investigates a murder among a community of Dublin environmentalists.


MON 15:00 Money Box Live (b009j460)
Vincent Duggleby and guests answer calls on financial issues. Listeners can call 08700 100 444 from 1.30pm until 3.30pm [calls from land lines cost no more than 8p a minute].


MON 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009j655)
The Reading Group Stories

Ten Years Old

Stories commissioned by readers' groups, recorded at the Birmingham Book Festival. 1/5: Ten Years Old, written and read by Helen Cross. A girl is confused when her home is flooded.


MON 15:45 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's History of Home (b009j657)
Voysey

Laurence Llewelyn Bowen's history of our homes from the 1920s to the present day, beginning with a profile of the 'father of the English suburb', Charles Voysey. From March 2008.


MON 16:00 The Food Programme (b009hsnw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:32 on Sunday]


MON 16:30 Beyond Belief (b009fpq9)
Ernie Rea explores the place of faith in today's world, teasing out the hidden and often contradictory truths behind the experiences, values and traditions of our lives.


MON 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009j8ft)
24th March 1968

John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.

Alistair Cooke broadcasts his 1,000th Letter from America, Harlem senator Adam Clayton Powell warns of racial civil war in the US, the Roman Catholic Church challenges the suppression of students in Poland and London sees a fresh wave of anti-war protests.


MON 17:00 PM (b009j8fw)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Carolyn Quinn. Including Weather at 5.57pm.


MON 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009j8fy)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


MON 18:30 The Write Stuff (b009j9cd)
Series 11

EM Forster

4 Extra Debut. James Walton hosts the literary quiz with John Walsh, Sebastian Faulks, Wendy Holden and John O'Farrell. From March 2008.


MON 19:00 The Archers (b009j9hn)
Kathy's court case is two weeks today, so she's pleased a busy day at Lower Loxley is keeping her mind occupied. Pat tells Kathy about her alternative to the anaerobic digester - a transition community, with ideas like shared bike schemes. Pat's determined to see how far she can get.

Ruth and Jill enjoy the stroll round the Am. Ruth offers to organise the visit to the National Space Centre for Phil and suggests they all chip in for his birthday present and get him the bigger telescope he wants. Jill thinks it would be very welcome but candidly admits that on his actual birthday Phil wants a meal with just their four children.

Usha wishes Alan could relax but once again he's too busy worrying and planning ahead. He promises to make it up to Usha. Usha reassures him that she loves his commitment to his work.

Back at St Stephens, everyone enjoys the refreshments at the end of the walk. When Usha's out of earshot, Lynda tells Alan how terrific she's been, and how lucky he is. Alan tells Lynda that he's planning a special thank you for Usha. He's just got to work out how and when to do it.

Episode written by Joanna Toye.


MON 19:15 Front Row (b009j9hq)
Mark Lawson talks to leading actors including Daniel Radcliffe, Joanna Lumley, Simon Russell Beale, Robert Redford and Timothy Spall about choosing a role, type-casting and ageing.


MON 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009j9hs)
Colette - Cheri

Episode 1

Colette's tale of a love affair between a courtesan and a man half her age, set in Paris before WWI.

1/5. After a six-year affair, Cheri announces to Lea he is about to enter into an arranged marriage.

Narrator ...... Lindsay Duncan
Cheri ...... Joseph Millson
Lea ...... Frances Barber
Madame Peloux ...... Brigit Forsyth

Directed by Pauline Harris.


MON 20:00 The Rise of the Lifestyle Nutritionists (b009jcvh)
Episode 1

Ben Goldacre explores our past and present fascination with nutrition and lifestyle. 1/2: Obtaining facts about the relationship between diet and health is far from easy.


MON 20:30 Crossing Continents (b009fycf)
Egypt

Egypt: A UN report in 2005 declared that the gender equality issue threatened the creation of viable civil societies in the Arab world. Bill Law asks what progress has been made.


MON 21:00 The Simulated Patient (b009jcvk)
Documentary looking at an unusual aspect of medical training. Medical schools hire actors to play the roles of patients in order to allow trainee doctors to practise the art of breaking bad news. Some older doctors are sceptical about the value of such education.


MON 21:30 Start the Week (b009hv3n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


MON 21:58 Weather (b009jd7m)
The latest weather forecast.


MON 22:00 The World Tonight (b009jd7p)
News and analysis with Robin Lustig. The latest on Pakistan's new Prime Minister's showdown with Musharraf and what Taiwan can teach China about democracy.


MON 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009jd7r)
Sadie Jones - The Outcast

Rehabilitation

After two years in prison, 19-year-old Lewis is home and keen to make amends, but what will his father do? Read by Emma Fielding.


MON 23:00 A Charles Paris Mystery (b00tb9qk)
Sicken and So Die

Episode 4

Can the actor-cum-amateur sleuth unmask the murderer who has been poisoning the cast of Twelfth Night? Stars Bill Nighy.


MON 23:30 One of the Three Great Plots of All Literature (b00804hn)
300 years after the author's birth, Kate Adie dissects the plot of Henry Fielding's Tom Jones, with readings and discussion of the foundling motif. Contributors include Hugh Cunningham, Marina Warner, Jenny Uglow and Andy McNab.



TUESDAY 25 MARCH 2008

TUE 00:00 News and Weather (b009hv0f)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


TUE 00:30 Book of the Week (b009hvd9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:45 on Monday]


TUE 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009hv0h)
The latest shipping forecast.


TUE 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009hv0k)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at 5.20am.


TUE 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009hv0m)
The latest shipping forecast.


TUE 05:30 News Briefing (b009hv0p)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


TUE 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009hv0r)
Daily prayer and reflection with Tina Beattie.


TUE 05:45 Farming Today (b009hv0t)
News and issues in rural Britain with Mark Holdstock.


TUE 06:00 Today (b009hv0w)
With John Humphrys and Sarah Montague. Including Sports Desk at 6.25am, 7.25am, 8.25am; Weather at 6.05am, 6.57am, 7.57am; Thought for the Day at 7.48am.


TUE 09:00 What's the Point of...? (b009jf94)
Series 1

The Arts Council

3/4: The Arts Council. Quentin Letts takes a witty but thought-provoking look at some great British institutions.


TUE 09:30 Team Spirit (b009jf96)
Episode 2

The Jockey Morris Men deploy team dynamics to dance around Birmingham's city centre. Presented by Claudia Hammond. From March 2008.


TUE 09:45 Book of the Week (b009kjgy)
The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession

The Peckham Prototype

The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession. Andrea Wulf's history of the gardening revolution of the 18th century. 2/5: The Peckham Prototype.


TUE 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009j28b)
Married Love; Bright Girls Learning To Fail; Sara Paretsky

June Rose discusses Marie Stopes' ground-breaking and explicit sex guide. Plus, author Sara Paretsky on outsiders, and are high achieving teenage girls able to cope with failure?


TUE 11:00 World On The Move: Great Animal Migrations (b009jffg)
Great Animal Migrations: Philippa Forrester and Brett Westwood present the series following the movement and migration of animals across the planet.


TUE 11:30 Love Death and the Lady: The Life and Music of Shirley Collins (b009n26f)
As part of the Decemberists' Easter Folk curation on 6 Music, Colin Meloy selects Verity Sharp's 2008 profile of the great English folk singer, Shirley Collins.

Born in 1935 in Hastings in an artistic working class family, Shirley came to London where she met and worked with Joan Littlewood and Ewan MacColl. She fell in love with Alan Lomax and in 1959 they journeyed together through the deep south of the United States, collecting songs and music. The material they gathered is now considered crucial to American musical culture. But, while a good deal of attention has been paid to Lomax, Collins's contribution has scarcely been acknowledged. She wrote a fine and funny book about this, 'America over the Water', (described by David Attenborough as 'very touching indeed') and speaks about this time very well.

On her return, she made a series of extraordinary records of English traditional song such as 'Anthems in Eden' and 'Love Death and The Lady'. These connected traditional song with early classical music, but she also worked with jazz guitarist Davey Graham. Joe Boyd produced, John Peel was a great supporter - and Radio 2 broadcast 'Anthems in Eden' in its entirety, as a suite. These recordings are re-released, and seized on by each new generation.

Verity Sharp talks to Shirley Collins and woven into this substantial interview are, as well as her classic recordings, reflections by those with whom she has worked or has influenced, such as the classical singer Catherine Bott and the young folksinger Lisa Knapp.

And, from the archives, there is John Peel, Joan Littlewood, music she collected with Alan Lomax, and some of her own early performances.

Produced by Julian May and first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2008.


TUE 12:00 Call You and Yours (b009j42n)
Consumer news and issues with Winifred Robinson and Peter White.


TUE 12:57 Weather (b009j42q)
The latest weather forecast.


TUE 13:00 World at One (b009j42s)
National and international news with Shaun Ley.


TUE 13:30 Ken Clarke's Jazz Greats (b009jny1)
Series 6

Episode 4

Former chancellor Ken Clarke profiles great jazz musicians of the 20th century. 4/4: He is joined by Brian Priestley to explore the career of bebop pianist Bud Powell.


TUE 14:00 The Archers (b009j9hn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Monday]


TUE 14:15 Drama (b009jqrt)
Lost in Plain Sight

Lost in Plain Sight: Dark comedy by Donna Franceschild. A teenager struggling to stay sane turns a corner when emails promising to change his life get mysteriously personal.


TUE 15:00 Home Planet (b009jny3)
Richard Daniel and the team discuss listeners' questions about the natural world and our impact on it.


TUE 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009j659)
The Reading Group Stories

The Card Shop

Stories recorded at the Birmingham Book Festival. 2/5: The Card Shop, by Nicola Monaghan. An elderly man is surprised to find he has something in common with a young card collector.


TUE 15:45 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's History of Home (b009j65c)
Modernism

The modernist social experiment came close to being realised with the blocks of flats built in the early 1930s. From March 2008.


TUE 16:00 Law in Action (b009jny5)
The Law on Defamation

Clive Coleman takes his weekly look at the legal issues in the news. He explores the law on defamation.


TUE 16:30 A Good Read (b009jny7)
Stella Rimington and Terence Blacker

Kate Mosse and her guests - former MI5 chief, Stella Rimington and writer, Terence Blacker - discuss their favourite books by Italo Calvino, John Banville and Hanif Kureishi.

The Castle of Crossed Destinies by Italo Calvino, trans. William Weaver
Publisher: Vintage

The Untouchable by John Banville
Publisher: Picador

Intimacy by Hanif Kureishi
Publisher: Faber

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2008.


TUE 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009j8g0)
25th March 1968

John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.

Aer Lingus flight 712 crashes in the Irish Sea killing 61 people, The Monkees TV series comes to an end, bubonic plague breaks out in Vietnam, and the river Ouse breaks its banks in a shock flood.


TUE 17:00 PM (b009j8g2)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including at 5.57pm Weather.


TUE 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009j8g4)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


TUE 18:30 Ed Reardon's Week (b0088vy7)
Series 4

January 31

With his tax return looming, the curmudgeonly author surprises his agent. Stars Christopher Douglas. From November 2007.


TUE 19:00 The Archers (b009j9hv)
Ed and Oliver's hard work pays off. The Environmental Health man confirms that the dairy, their milking procedures and the pasteurisation trace are fine. They can continue delivering milk but still can't sell cheese until the post mortem results are in, unless they source unpasteurised milk from another Guernsey herd.

Nic's planning a spring-clean until she and Will bump into Hayley. When Hayley suggests they visit Abbie in hospital, that's all Nic can think of - and she could get some practice by driving to the hospital. They arrive to find Hayley in tears but fortunately it's good news - Abbie's out of the incubator and at last they can really hold her. Will realises this is a special moment, and insists that they leave Roy and Hayley alone with Abbie for a bit.

Roy's still taking one day at a time, and realises that the TB situation might have an impact on Mike's house plans. Nic's sure Mike will go ahead for Abbie's sake. Hayley suggests Will and Nic might soon have some baby news of their own but Nic quickly dispels such a thought and Will agrees. Three's more than enough to be going on with!

Episode written by Joanna Toye.


TUE 19:15 Front Row (b009j9hx)
Arts news and reviews with John Wilson. Including an interview with writer William Boyd, who has just published a new collection of short stories.


TUE 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009j9hz)
Colette - Cheri

Episode 2

Colette's tale of a love affair between a Parisian courtesan and a man half her age, set in Paris before WWI.

2/5. Lea has to face the harsh reality of her young lover Cheri's marriage to another woman.

Narrator ...... Lindsay Duncan
Cheri ...... Joseph Millson
Lea ...... Frances Barber
Madame Peloux ...... Brigit Forsyth
Old Lili ...... Judith Davis

Directed by Pauline Harris.


TUE 20:00 File on 4 (b009jny9)
Angus Stickler investigates the market for platinum and the rush by mining companies to exploit South Africa's reserves.


TUE 20:40 In Touch (b009jnyc)
Peter White with news and information for the blind and partially sighted.


TUE 21:00 Am I Normal? (b009jnyf)
Series 4

Sleep

Vivienne Parry continues her quest to find out what is normal.

She asks what is the right amount of sleep and when disturbed sleep becomes insomnia.


TUE 21:30 What's the Point of...? (b009jf94)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


TUE 21:58 Weather (b009jd7w)
The latest weather forecast.


TUE 22:00 The World Tonight (b009jd7y)
News and analysis with Robin Lustig. Including Gordon Brown's offer of a free vote to MPs on amendments to the Embryology Bill, plus a crackdown on Al Sadr's militants in Basra.


TUE 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009jd80)
Sadie Jones - The Outcast

Sunday

Any hopes of a brave new beginning for Lewis have been dashed. Tensions at home are mounting. Read by Emma Fielding.


TUE 23:00 The Arts and How They Was Done (b00776tk)
The Taj Mahal and How It Was Done

The National Theatre of Brent recreates 17th-century India's greatest love story. Stars Patrick Barlow. From April 2007.


TUE 23:30 Today in Parliament (b009jd7t)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with David Wilby.



WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH 2008

WED 00:00 News and Weather (b009hv0y)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


WED 00:30 Book of the Week (b009kjgy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:45 on Tuesday]


WED 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009hv10)
The latest shipping forecast.


WED 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009hv12)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at 5.20am.


WED 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009hv14)
The latest shipping forecast.


WED 05:30 News Briefing (b009hv16)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


WED 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009hv18)
Daily prayer and reflection with Tina Beattie.


WED 05:45 Farming Today (b009hv1b)
News and issues in rural Britain with Charlotte Smith.


WED 06:00 Today (b009hv1d)
With John Humphrys and Carolyn Quinn. Sports Desk at 6.25am, 7.25am, 8.25am; Yesterday in Parliament at 6.45am; Weather at 6.05am, 6.57am, 7.57am; Thought for the Day at 7.48am.


WED 09:00 Midweek (b009js8j)
Lively and diverse conversation with Francine Stock and guests.


WED 09:45 Book of the Week (b009hvdf)
The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession

The Merchant's Tale

The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession. Andrea Wulf's history of the gardening revolution of the 18th century. 3/5: The Naming of Plants.


WED 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009j28d)
Acid Attacks; Sophie Milman; Polly Toynbee Political Writers

Why are vicious acid attacks on the rise? Plus, jazz singer Sophie Milman performs live, and Polly Toynbee on why women aren't writing political books.


WED 11:00 In Living Memory (b009js8l)
Series 7

The 1974 Lions

Contemporary history series. 4/4: The 1974 Lions. Chris Ledgard recalls the controversial 1974 British Lions rugby tour to apartheid South Africa.


WED 11:30 Potting On (b00lblps)
Flab

Noticing both their waistlines are getting bigger, Pam challenges Gordon to a dieting competition.

Sitcom about a couple at odds over running a garden centre and growing older.

Starring Pam Ayres as Pam and Geoffrey Whitehead as Gordon.

Written by Chris Thompson and Peter Reynolds with Pam Ayres.

With Trevor Bannister, Karl Theobald and Alex Tregear.

Sitcom by Chris Thompson and Peter Reynolds.

Producer Claire Jones

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2008.


WED 12:00 You and Yours (b009j42v)
Consumer news and issues with Winifred Robinson and Sheila McClennon.


WED 12:57 Weather (b009j42x)
The latest weather forecast.


WED 13:00 World at One (b009j42z)
National and international news with Shaun Ley.


WED 13:30 Britain in a Box (b009nqsg)
Series 3

Shameless

Paul Jackson explores the stories behind the making of programmes which have become part of TV history. He analyses the success of the off-beat comedy drama, Shameless.


WED 14:00 The Archers (b009j9hv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Tuesday]


WED 14:15 Drama (b009js8s)
The Fall

The Fall, by Clare Duffy. When 21-year-old Angela falls pregnant, she decides to track down her mother who abandoned her when she was 12.


WED 15:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b009hsp2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Sunday]


WED 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009j65f)
The Reading Group Stories

The Philosopher

Stories recorded at the Birmingham Book Festival. 3/5: The Philosopher, by Will Buckingham. A stressed office worker pops out for lunch and meets a man who changes his life.


WED 15:45 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's History of Home (b009j65h)
Utility

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen visits a pre-fab and considers ways in which the post-war government urged a reluctant public to embrace 'good design'. From March 2008.


WED 16:00 Thinking Allowed (b009js8v)
Marseille

MARSEILLE
Marseille is France’s major port and over centuries has been defined by the waves of immigrants that have settled in the city – Tunisians, Moroccans, Algerians, Italians, Armenians, Jewish communities, and now Eastern Europeans and Indian Ocean immigrants too. When burning cars and race riots tore at the fabric of France in 2005, and again in 2007, Marseille was expected to explode, but it did not. How did its most diverse city manage to escape unscathed? Laurie Taylor explores Marseille’s unique racial geography to find out what kept the peace.


WED 16:30 Am I Normal? (b009jnyf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 21:00 on Tuesday]


WED 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009j8g7)
26th March 1968

John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.

Paul McCartney returns from meditating in the Himalayas, Joan Baez marries draft resistance leader David Harris, the Americans unleash the F111 plane in Vietnam and Czechoslovakia reveals new democratic reforms.


WED 17:00 PM (b009j8g9)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including Weather at 5.57pm.


WED 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009j8gc)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


WED 18:30 The Museum of Curiosity (b009js8x)
Series 1

Episode 6

John Lloyd and Bill Bailey host a panel show in which guests donate fascinating exhibits to a vast imaginary museum. With Alan Davies, Martha Reeves and John Gribbin.


WED 19:00 The Archers (b009j9j1)
Alice comes home from South Africa with a great attitude and has bought presents for everyone - including Ruairi. Jennifer's pleased and Brian is amazed that Alice seems to have put everything behind her.

Brenda admits she was being selfish over Willow Farm but Hayley understands. Brenda's relieved when Hayley once again assures her she doesn't blame her for Abbie being premature.

Alan's disappointed he and Usha can't eat at their favourite restaurant. Usha insists he doesn't need to do anything special - he's always telling her how much he appreciates her. Alan's determined to show her but he even turns a romantic walk along the Am into a chance to talk about him and his work.

They're back at the car park before Alan finally says what he's been wanting to say all along. To Usha's amazement and delight he proposes. He can't believe he chose such an unromantic place but Usha thinks it's ideal - it's the car park where it all began, when he rescued her in her chicken outfit. When Alan looks upward and loudly thanks God, Usha tells him to stop, but Alan just wants to share his happiness with everyone, and delights in telling the onlookers that she's agreed to marry him.

Episode written by Joanna Toye.


WED 19:15 Front Row (b009j9j3)
Arts news and reviews with John Wilson, who reports from the opening night of The God of Carnage by Yasmina Reza, best known for her long-running play Art.


WED 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009kjh2)
Colette - Cheri

Episode 3

Colette's tale of a love affair between a Parisian courtesan and a man half her age, set in Paris before WWI.

3/5. Cheri returns from honeymoon dissatisfied, yearning to know where Lea has fled.

Narrator ...... Lindsay Duncan
Cheri ...... Joseph Millson
Madame Peloux ...... Brigit Forsyth
Edmee ...... Laura Harding
Desmond/Ernest ...... Conrad Nelson

Directed by Pauline Harris.


WED 20:00 Moral Maze (b009js8z)
Michael Buerk chairs a debate on the moral questions behind the week's news. Melanie Phillips, Claire Fox, Clifford Longley and Michael Portillo cross-examine witnesses.


WED 20:45 Boom or Bust (b009js91)
Michael White assesses some of the most significant budgets from the past. 3/3: He assesses the political impact of Norman Lamont's 1992 pre-election budget.


WED 21:00 World On The Move: Great Animal Migrations (b009jffg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 on Tuesday]


WED 21:30 Midweek (b009js8j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


WED 21:58 Weather (b009jd82)
The latest weather forecast.


WED 22:00 The World Tonight (b009jd84)
National and international news and analysis with Robin Lustig.


WED 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009jd86)
Sadie Jones - The Outcast

Temptation

As Lewis struggles to work out exactly what Tamsin wants, their relationship reaches a crisis. Read by Emma Fielding.


WED 23:00 Terry Pratchett (b010v5f8)
Night Watch

Episode 5

Commander Sam Vimes of the City Watch, thrown back into his own past, has little time left there to undo the harm done by his arch-enemy Carcer, before coming back to his present...

The conclusion of Terry Pratchett's Discworld novel dramatised by Robin Brooks.

Stars Philip Jackson as Sam Vimes, Carl Prekopp as Young Sam, Paul Ritter as Carcer, Clare Corbett as Rosie, Sam Dale as Colon, Ben Onwukwe as Dr Lawn, Joseph Kloska as Reg Shoe, Peter Marinker as Major Clive and Rachel Atkins as Lady Mesarole.

Director: Claire Grove

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2008.


WED 23:30 Today in Parliament (b009jd88)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with Sean Curran.



THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2008

THU 00:00 News and Weather (b009hv1g)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


THU 00:30 Book of the Week (b009hvdf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:45 on Wednesday]


THU 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009hv1j)
The latest shipping forecast.


THU 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009hv1l)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at 5.20am.


THU 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009hv1n)
The latest shipping forecast.


THU 05:30 News Briefing (b009hv1q)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


THU 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009hv1s)
Daily prayer and reflection with Tina Beattie.


THU 05:45 Farming Today (b009hv1v)
News and issues in rural Britain.


THU 06:00 Today (b009hv1x)
With James Naughtie and Edward Stourton. Sports Desk at 6.25am, 7.25am, 8.25am; Yesterday in Parliament at 6.45am; Weather at 6.05am, 6.57am, 7.57am; Thought for the Day at 7.48am.


THU 09:00 In Our Time (b009jtq1)
The Dissolution of the Monasteries

Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Henry VIII and the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Was Henry’s decision to destroy monastic culture in this country a tyrannical act of grand larceny or the pious destruction of a corrupt institution? When he was an old man, Michael Sherbrook remembered the momentous events of his youth: “All things of price were either spoiled, plucked away or defaced to the uttermost…it seemed that every person bent himself to filch and spoil what he could. Nothing was spared but the ox-houses and swincotes…” He was talking about the destruction of Roche Abbey, but it could have been Lewes or Fountains, Glastonbury, Tintern or Walsingham, names that haunt the religious past as their ruins haunt the landscape. These were the monasteries, suddenly and for many shockingly, destroyed during the reign of Henry VIII.The conflict was played out with a mix of violence, heroism, political manoeuvring and genuine theological disputation. But what was lost in terms of architecture, painting, treasure and in the religious habits of the monasteries themselves and of the common people who lived with them?With Diarmaid MacCulloch, Professor of the History of the Church at Oxford University; Diane Purkiss, Fellow and Tutor at Keble College, Oxford; George Bernard, Professor of Early Modern History at the University of Southampton


THU 09:45 Book of the Week (b009hvdh)
The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession

Ye who o'er Southern Oceans Wander

The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession. Andrea Wulf's history of the gardening revolution of the 18th century. 4/5: Ye who o'er Southern Oceans Wander.


THU 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009j28g)
Child Prostitution; Great-Grandparents; Dame Laura Knight

What can be done to protect children forced into prostitution by gangs? Plus, Tim Wilcox on impressionist artist Dame Laura Knight, and how important are great-grandparents?


THU 11:00 Crossing Continents (b009jtq3)
Korean Missionaries

Korean Missionaries: Ulli Schauen visits Korea to find out why Koreans are such fervent evangelists. 16,000 work abroad as Christian missionaries, a total surpassed only by the US.


THU 11:30 The Reading Group Commissions (b009jtq5)
Documentary following the commissioning process of this week's Afternoon Readings, from the first meeting to the final performance of the stories at the Birmingham Book Festival.


THU 12:00 You and Yours (b009j431)
Consumer news and issues with Liz Barclay and John Waite.


THU 12:57 Weather (b009j433)
The latest weather forecast.


THU 13:00 World at One (b009j435)
National and international news with Shaun Ley.


THU 13:30 Open Country (b009hn4k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:07 on Saturday]


THU 14:00 The Archers (b009j9j1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Wednesday]


THU 14:15 Drama (b009jtq7)
The Death of Magnus Sweet

The Death of Magnus Sweet, by Alastair Jessiman. At a remote Scottish public school in the late 1960s, two boys invent a fictitious fellow classmate.


THU 15:00 Check Up (b009jtq9)
Sleep

Many of us have difficulties getting to sleep, or find ourselves regularly waking up during the night.

A lack of sleep leaves us tired and irritable, and unable to perform at our best during the day.

Do you find it hard getting to sleep? Or can you drop off easily but then wake up in the middle of the night? Maybe your sleeping patterns have changed as you’ve got older and you’re not sure what to do about it.

Barbara Myers' guest in studio is Professor Kevin Morgan, who runs the Clinical Sleep Research Unit at Loughborough University, who gives advice on overcoming insomnia..


THU 15:27 Radio 4 Appeal (b009hqr6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:55 on Sunday]


THU 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009j65n)
The Reading Group Stories

Twice Tried, Twice Hung, Twice Buried

Stories recorded at the Birmingham Book Festival. 4/5: Twice Tried, Twice Hung, Twice Buried, written and read by Lindsey Davies. A period tale about a local forger.


THU 15:45 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's History of Home (b009j65q)
DIY

Laurence Llewelyn Bowen explores the history of our homes from the 1920s to the present day.

Skills were in short supply after World War II and DIY was presented as an essential and democratic component of every marriage.


THU 16:00 Open Book (b009hsp6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Sunday]


THU 16:30 Material World (b009jtqc)
HECToR The Supercomputer - Skin Cancer

HECToR The Supercomputer
What’s the size of 60 wardrobes standing side by side, can perform 63 million million calculations a second and answers to the name Hector? Answer: the UK’s new supercomputer based at Edinburgh University. Quentin Cooper is at Edinburgh’s International Science festival and is joined by Professor Arthur Trew, Director of Edinburgh Parallel Computing Centre and Professor Richard Kenway, Mathematical Physics, Edinburgh University to find out how Hector can help develop life saving drugs, model climate change and help us better understand the behaviour of the smallest fundamental particles.

Skin Cancer
Between 2000 and 2004, 1000 people in Scotland were diagnosed with malignant melanoma. Quentin Cooper meets two researchers who are looking at the genetics of skin cancer: Dr Elizabeth Patton, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, The University of Edinburgh and Professor Ian J. Jackson Senior Scientist, MRC Human Genetics Unit, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh.

They are looking at how the gene for red hair – found in mammoths, red setters, birds and humans is helping to understand skin cancer and the way the body might be able to fight it.


THU 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009j8gf)
27th March 1968

John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago.

Celebrations and protests mark 50 years of female suffrage in the UK, campaigning takes place for tomorrow's by-elections, the US lifts travel restrictions to some Communist countries, and Yuri Gagarin dies.


THU 17:00 PM (b009j8gh)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including Weather at 5.57pm.


THU 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009j8gk)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


THU 18:30 28 Acts in 28 Minutes (b009ly1p)
Series 2

Episode 3

28 performers have just 60 seconds in which to entertain the audience in this traditional variety show, featuring established stand-ups, and some newer talent

The whole thing is presided over by John Humphrys, who sits at the side of the stage with a stopwatch, ready to cut the microphone when the time is up.

And hey - if there's an act you don't like, well, there's another one along in 55 seconds or so...

Phil Cornwell
Francesca Beard
The Bearded Ladies
Matt Morisroe
James Sherwood
John Richardson
Tom McRae
Geoffrey McGivern
Liam Mullone
Danielle Ward
John Finnemore
Greedy
Ian Stone
Gwyn Herbert
Kerry Godliman and David Lane
Lee Bannard
Simon Jones
Terry Saunders
Ginger & Black
Simon Evans
Nathan Penlington
Tim Fitzhigham
Carol Smith
Alex Lowe

Producers: Rohan Acharya and Ed Morrish

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2008.


THU 19:00 The Archers (b009j9j7)
Caroline's full of enthusiasm for a team chase at Lower Loxley but Oliver's mind is still on TB - waiting for the results of the post mortem. He can't get hold of any surplus Guernsey milk, and the future of Sterling Gold and Grange Farm is looking grim. He's also worried for Mike and Ed. When he does hear, it's good news - the TB hasn't progressed far, and with Ruth offering some unpasteurised milk, things start to look brighter.

Ruth's delighted at Usha's news of Alan's proposal, especially when she learns that Amy's pleased and Rachel is supportive. It's just Mabel and Satya that Usha's worried about.

Kathy's liaison officer offers her advice ahead of the court case. Kathy's taken aback to learn that the prosecution can't actually mention that Taylor breached bail and assaulted Kathy. They have to rely on this coming out during questioning. Kathy tells Kenton that it's something else that's loaded on her. Just when she thinks she knows what she's up against, she's got to start all over again.

Episode written by Joanna Toye.


THU 19:15 Front Row (b009j9j9)
Arts news and reviews with John Wilson.


THU 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009j9jc)
Colette - Cheri

Episode 4

Colette's tale of a love affair between a Parisian courtesan and a man half her age, set in Paris before WWI.

4/5. Lea has returned to Paris, lonely and yearning for her young lover Cheri. Mme Peloux, Cheri's mother, brings news of him.

Narrator ...... Lindsay Duncan
Cheri ...... Joseph Millson
Madame Peloux ...... Brigit Forsyth

Directed by Pauline Harris.


THU 20:00 Investigation (b009jtqf)
Series 4

Episode 1

Simon Cox searches for the facts about Polish workers in the UK. New evidence suggests that Poles are leaving Britain and that the British economy may suffer as a consequence.


THU 20:30 Analysis (b009jtqh)
Can We Kick the Habit?

Can We Kick the Habit? Social historian Richard Weight asks why the problem of drug addiction has proved so intractable to a range of public policy approaches.


THU 21:00 Leading Edge (b009jtqk)
The Brain's Calorie Counter

The Brain's Calorie Counter
The current obesity epidemic has galvanised scientists into working out the biological ways in which we control our food intake. Geoff Watts examines new research into a so-called “calorie counting” area of the brain. Could this, rather than the taste of food, be the main reason why over the long term we get satisfaction from high calorie foods and why so may diets fail after just a few weeks?

The Able Prize for Maths
Mathematician Marcus Du Sautoy reports from Oslo on the announcement of this year's winner of the mathematical equivalent of the Nobel prize.

Shark Tagging
Tagging great white sharks is providing new insights into their elusive routes round the globe – knowledge that could help tighten conservation regulations of one of the ocean’s most endangered animals.

Transplanting Hearts
And a new approach to repairing hearts - Roger Laham at Harvard Medical School is pioneering a new technique; transplanting healthy heart tissue to the site of the attack in the same heart, which could transform long term outcomes for heart attack patients.


THU 21:30 In Our Time (b009jtq1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


THU 21:58 Weather (b009jd8b)
The latest weather forecast.


THU 22:00 The World Tonight (b009jd8d)
National and international news and analysis with Ritula Shah.


THU 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009jd8g)
Sadie Jones - The Outcast

Revelations

Fleeing from her brutal father, Kit confronts Lewis and they both learn the other's dark secret. Read by Emma Fielding.


THU 23:00 One (b009jtqm)
Series 2

Episode 6

Sketch show written by David Quantick, featuring Dan Maier, Graeme Garden, Deborah Norton, Lizzie Roper, Katie Davies, Andrew Crawford and Michael Lerner.


THU 23:15 All Bar Luke (b007cp1v)
Series 2

The Nightclub

Poignant comedy series by Tim Key. 6/6: The Nightclub. Luke gets stuck outside a club while his friends and Hayley party inside.


THU 23:30 Today in Parliament (b009jd8j)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with Sean Curran.



FRIDAY 28 MARCH 2008

FRI 00:00 News and Weather (b009hv1z)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


FRI 00:30 Book of the Week (b009hvdh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:45 on Thursday]


FRI 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b009hv21)
The latest shipping forecast.


FRI 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b009hv23)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service for a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes. BBC Radio 4 resumes at 5.20am.


FRI 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b009hv25)
The latest shipping forecast.


FRI 05:30 News Briefing (b009lhy7)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


FRI 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b009hv29)
Daily prayer and reflection with Tina Beattie.


FRI 05:45 Farming Today (b009hv2c)
News and issues in rural Britain with Charlotte Smith.


FRI 06:00 Today (b009hv2f)
With James Naughtie and Edward Stourton. Sports Desk at 6.25am, 7.25am, 8.25am; Yesterday in Parliament at 6.45am; Weather at 6.05am, 6.57am, 7.57am; Thought for the Day at 7.48am.


FRI 09:00 Desert Island Discs (b009hsnt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 on Sunday]


FRI 09:45 Book of the Week (b009hvdk)
The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession

Loves of the Plants

The Brother Gardeners: Botany, Empire and the Birth of Obsession. Andrea Wulf's history of the gardening revolution of the 18th century. 5/5: Loves of the Plants.


FRI 10:00 Woman's Hour (b009j28j)
Jo Caulfield on Bridesmaids; Alcohol and Pregnancy

Jo Caulfield explores the appeal of being a bridesmaid. Plus, Christina Lamb on the Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe, and how much alcohol should a pregnant woman drink?


FRI 11:00 The Oxford Mutiny (b00776c5)
Olympic champion oarsman James Cracknell recalls the extraordinary events leading up to the 1987 Boat Race, when half of the Oxford squad walked out six weeks before the race.


FRI 11:30 The Cavity Within (b00770ns)
Episode 4

Dentist Marty has high hopes for a relationship. The zoo brings out the animal in Pete.

Written by Jim Poyser.

Starring Chris O'Dowd as Marty, Jeff Rawle as Pete, Mark Straker as Tim, Christine Kavanagh as Anna, Sarah Crowe as Daisy, Mark Straker as Tim, John Rowe as Mr Holmes. Other parts played by Tracy Wiles, Bethan Walker and Emma Noakes.

Director: Peter Kavanagh

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2006.


FRI 12:00 You and Yours (b009j437)
Consumer news and issues with Liz Barclay and John Waite.


FRI 12:57 Weather (b009j439)
The latest weather forecast.


FRI 13:00 World at One (b009j43c)
National and international news with Shaun Ley.


FRI 13:30 Feedback (b009jv71)
Roger Bolton airs listeners' views on BBC radio programmes and policy.


FRI 14:00 The Archers (b009j9j7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Thursday]


FRI 14:15 Drama (b009jv73)
Cavalry

Cavalry, by Dan Rebellato. Four men are waxing saddles, cleaning spurs, polishing bridles and weapons. They are preparing for battle, but which one? And which century are we in?


FRI 15:00 Ramblings (b009lhym)
Walking through Time

Episode 1

Walking through Time: Clare Balding explores routes with connections to the past. 1/5: She walks the Ridgeway in the company of comedian and activist Mark Thomas......


FRI 15:30 Afternoon Reading (b009j65s)
The Reading Group Stories

Catherine

Stories recorded at the Birmingham Book Festival. 5/5: Catherine, written and read by Mil Millington. A comic tale about the desire for sleep which affects all new parents.


FRI 15:45 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's History of Home (b009j65v)
David Hicks

Laurence looks at the career of a flamboyant and influential decorator, who became a superstar of the 1960s. From March 2008.


FRI 16:00 Last Word (b009jv77)
Matthew Bannister presents the obituary series, analysing and celebrating the life stories of people who have recently died.


FRI 16:30 The Film Programme (b009jv79)
Naomi Watts talks about the experience of starring in Michael Haneke's shot-for-shot American remake of his own harrowing Austrian movie Funny Games.


FRI 16:56 1968 Day by Day (b009j8gm)
John Tusa looks back at the events making the news 40 years ago. Martin Luther King leads a protest in Memphis that ends in disaster and an F111 plane goes missing in Vietnam.


FRI 17:00 PM (b009j8gp)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Including Weather at 5.57pm.


FRI 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b009j8gr)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


FRI 18:30 The Now Show (b009lhz0)
Series 23

Episode 4

Comedy sketches and satirical comments from Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis and the team including Marcus Brigstocke, Mitch Benn, Laura Shavin and Jon Holmes.


FRI 19:00 The Archers (b009j9jf)
To Adam's amazement, the new mature Alice has even come to terms with the Brian and Ruairi situation. She's even made up with Amy and they've agreed to disagree over the RAF. She plans to help the orphanage by getting things together to send them. Lucas's parents know a church in Bristol that sends out a container-load from time to time.

Brian tells David that he's making Adam and Debbie bosses of their own units. David thinks this is a big concession but Brian's just relieved that the situation is sorted and Ruairi's interests are protected.

Will resists Emma's instructions that George shouldn't be left alone with Nic but in fact Will plans to test Nic and tells her he needs to go into work. Nic's not happy that work's taking priority again. Hating himself for lying, Will tells Nic he won't be home till after the children have gone to bed but he sneaks back early to find the place in darkness.

Hearing George call out, Will bounds upstairs to see what's going on, and walks in on an idyllic sight. Everyone's curled up in bed together with Nic reading a story. Will's so relieved. Feeling guilty he kisses her and apologises for earlier, telling her she's brilliant.

Episode written by Joanna Toye.


FRI 19:15 Front Row (b009j9jh)
Arts news and reviews.


FRI 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b009j9jk)
Colette - Cheri

Episode 5

Colette's tale of a love affair between a Parisian courtesan and a man half her age, set in Paris before WWI.

5/5. Cheri has returned to Lea, but can their love affair survive?

Narrator ...... Lindsay Duncan
Cheri ...... Joseph Millson
Lea ...... Frances Barber

Directed by Pauline Harris.


FRI 20:00 Any Questions? (b009jv7f)
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs the topical debate from Lambeth. Panellists include Brian Paddick, Keith Vaz, Dominic Grieve and Kathy Sykes.


FRI 20:50 A Point of View (b009jv7h)
Pedal Power

Clive James ponders David Cameron’s latest faux-pas: cycling the wrong way up a one way street and pedalling through a red light. He sets Mr Cameron’s wrong-doing in a rather unexpected historical context.


FRI 21:00 Friday Drama (b009jv7k)
Forgiving

Forgiving: Tina Pepler's story of a family torn apart by one act of violence explores the journey from grief, shock and anger to the possibility of forgiveness and reconciliation.


FRI 21:58 Weather (b009jd8l)
The latest weather forecast.


FRI 22:00 The World Tonight (b009jd8n)
News and analysis with Peter Dobbie. Including reports on the fiasco at Heathrow's Terminal 5, preparations for Saturday's elections in Zimbabwe and the revival of Spitting Image.


FRI 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b009jd8q)
Sadie Jones - The Outcast

Resolution

Lewis has hidden in the woods for two days, determined to save Kit from further brutality. Concluded by Emma Fielding.


FRI 23:00 A Good Read (b009jny7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:30 on Tuesday]


FRI 23:30 Today in Parliament (b009jd8s)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with Mark D'Arcy.