SATURDAY 27 JUNE 2009

SAT 00:00 Midnight News (b00l6jd7)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.


SAT 00:30 Book of the Week (b00l9pnn)
The Junior Officer's Reading Club

The Road to Sangin

Patrick Hennessey reads his soldier's tale for the 21st century; an account of his experiences at Sandhurst and then on deployment in the Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan's Helmand Province.

From Iraq to Helmand Province and the road to Sangin. Battle contact, so long anticipated, proves satisfying for Hennessey and Operation Silicon is a success. But they must now fight their way up to Sangin, as the casualties mount.

A Sweet Talk production for BBC Radio 4.


SAT 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00l6jd9)
The latest shipping forecast.


SAT 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00l6jdc)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service. BBC Radio 4 resumes at 5.20am.


SAT 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00l6jdf)
The latest shipping forecast.


SAT 05:30 News Briefing (b00l6jdh)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


SAT 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00l6jdk)
Daily prayer and reflection with Dr Catherine Cowley.


SAT 05:45 iPM (b00l6jdm)
The weekly interactive current affairs magazine featuring online conversation and debate.


SAT 06:00 News and Papers (b00l6jdp)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.


SAT 06:04 Weather (b00l92s9)
The latest weather forecast.


SAT 06:07 Ramblings (b00l92sc)
Series 12

Scotland - Wester Ross

Clare Balding explores walks that are good for the mind, body and soul.

Clare joins polar explorers Caroline Hamilton and Zoe Hudson to walk in Scotland's picturesque Wester Ross. Caroline is a record breaking polar explorer who led the first all-female teams to have trekked to the North and South Pole. Clare walks with Caroline and Zoe in what they both describe as the landscape of their heart, the remote outpost of Lower Diabaig.

Isolated and wild, with sweeping expanses of sky, it is a landscape of extremes - with soaring mountains and deep sea lochs, it is a place of space that begs to be explored. Look north and you can almost taste the cold air of the North Pole, a place that Caroline still longs for.

Walking from the tiny harbour dotted with white cottages, and through the rocky headland towards views of the Isle of Skye, Caroline and Zoe share their memories of polar adventures at minus 50 degrees celsius, self-sufficient living and wearing hats that look like mountains.


SAT 06:30 Farming Today (b00l92sf)
Farming Today This Week

After the death of a woman who was trampled by cows, Charlotte Smith hears from farmers, walkers and a cattle behaviourist about the dangers of a stroll in the countryside, and finds out the best way to act if approached by a herd of cattle.


SAT 06:57 Weather (b00l92sh)
The latest weather forecast.


SAT 07:00 Today (b00l92sk)
Presented by John Humphrys and James Naughtie.

Correspondent Terry Stiasny explains how the government plans to 'build Britain's future'.

An escaped prisoner who strangled a 73-year-old man while on the run has been convicted of murder. Reporter Sally Chidzoy explains the case of 39-year-old Terrence O'Keefe.

Correspondent Mike Thomson talks to a student who has alleged that she and 30 other women were attacked in Darfur.

Correspondent David Willis explains the coroners' initial assessment determining the cause of Michael Jackson's death, which rules out any foul play or trauma.

Peter Hyman, deputy head of Greenford High School in Ealing, London, discusses how he believes the system should be reformed.

Correspondent Will Ross reports from Nairobi on the rich pickings that the country's satirists have had to work from in recent times.

Reporter Colin Patterson looks ahead to the performance of Bruce Springsteen at Glastonbury.

Thought for the Day with Rev Rob Marshall, an Anglican priest.

Celebrations for the UK's first Armed Forces Day - formerly known as Veteran's Day - are to take place. Defence correspondent Caroline Wyatt reports from southern Afghanistan.

Shadow Chancellor George Osborne and Gillian Tett of the Financial Times consider if current government plans are tough enough on the financial sector.

Film lecturer Dr Saaed Zeydabadi-Nejad and critic Sukhdev Sandhu discuss what an Iranian arthouse film reveals about the country.

Chief Secretary to the Treasury Liam Byrne discusses plans to reduce Whitehall targets and extend new rights to the users of public services.

Dan Kildee, treasurer of Genesee County, considers whether some cities need to shrink substantially to cope with their declining fortunes.

Has the death of Michael Jackson been overplayed by the media? David Yelland, former editor of The Sun, considers if there are more deserving stories for the media to focus its attention towards.

Medical correspondent Fergus Walsh reflects on warnings that the UK could soon expect to see a surge of new swine flu cases.

Former education secretaries Estelle Morris and Kenneth Baker discuss whether big decisions about schools should be made locally or nationally.


SAT 09:00 Saturday Live (b00l92sm)
Real life stories in which listeners talk about the issues that matter to them. Rev Richard Coles is joined by Paul Twivy. With poetry from Elvis McGonagall.


SAT 10:00 Excess Baggage (b00l92sp)
Travellers in the ancient Roman Empire made their way both to its outposts and to the heart of it at the Forum in Rome. Sandi Toksvig meets Philip Parker who tells her about his visits to the edges of Roman jurisdiction and what Hadrian's Wall has in common with southern Algeria. Should the ruins be reconstructed or remain as rubble?

At the centre of the Pax Romana was the Forum, a jumble of temples, monuments, shops and public buildings which was a magnet to all visitors to Rome. Over the years as it fell into ruins; it became a cattle market and a public park. But has neglect turned into too much attention from the archaeologists? Sandi discusses the appeal of the Forum to tourists ancient and modern with David Watkin.

Sandi also talks to Ismini Samanidou about her travels from Mexico to Malaysia and from North Carolina to North Vietnam, looking at different kinds of weaving, the fables behind the fabrics and discovering what a pepper pattern can say about your mother-in-law.


SAT 10:30 A Funny Sort of Sound (b00l92sr)
Julian Clary pays tribute to the wit and ingenuity of comedy musical acts. He considers the appeal of acts like TV's Mr Muscle, Tony Holland, who won Opportunity Knocks six times in a row by flexing his biceps to the tune of Wheels Cha Cha, and Bob - AKA Tray - Blackman, whose act consisted of bashing a tea tray on his head while singing Mule Train.

Julian also considers how the genre has evolved from the heyday of music hall theatre, and talks to Ken Dodd and Jim Tavare.

A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.


SAT 11:00 The Week in Westminster (b00l92st)
If anyone thought that the election of John Bercow as commons speaker would end all controversy on that subject they were wrong. His election was not supported by the vast majority of Conservatives, and the Labour side was accused of cocking a snook at the opposition for having got rid of Speaker Martin. So much for grown-up politics.
Frank Dobson, Labour, and Keith Simpson, Conservative, discuss tribal politics.
Apart from the election of the speaker the Parliamentary Standards Bill was introduced in the commons this week establishing an independent authority to oversee and regulate MPs' conduct and expenses.
David Davis, Conservative, Chris Mullin, Labour, Elfyn Llwyd, Plaid Cymru, and Jo Swinson, Liberal Democrat, consider how brave this new world will be.
And as the government succumbed to pressure to revise its terms of reference for the Iraq war inquiry announced last week, Lord Butler, former Cabinet Secretary, and former cabinet minister, Clare Short, discuss what such inquiries can achieve.


SAT 11:30 From Our Own Correspondent (b00l92sw)
BBC foreign correspondents with the stories behind the world's headlines. Introduced by Kate Adie.


SAT 12:00 Money Box (b00l92sy)
Paul Lewis with the latest news from the world of personal finance.

Benefit take-up encouraged: Are you due some of the billions of pounds worth of means-tested benefits not being claimed by older people?

We bring you the latest on bank charges and the shake-up in the way we get financial advice.

Plus Barclaycard cuts minimum repayments, and what should you do if you fear you may face repossession?


SAT 12:30 The Now Show (b00l6fzl)
Series 28

Episode 1

Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis present a satirical review of the week's news, with help from Mitch Benn, Laura Shavin, Jon Holmes and Marcus Brigstocke.


SAT 12:57 Weather (b00l939r)
The latest weather forecast.


SAT 13:00 News (b00l939t)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.


SAT 13:10 Any Questions? (b00l68v7)
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs the topical debate in Birmingham. Panellists are Hilary Benn, the secretary of state for environment, food and rural affairs, Shadow work and pensions secretary Theresa May, writer and historian Sir Max Hastings and Mary Beard, Professor of Classics at Cambridge University and Classics editor of the Times Literary Supplement.


SAT 14:00 Any Answers? (b00l93b0)
Jonathan Dimbleby takes listeners' calls and emails in response to this week's edition of Any Questions?


SAT 14:30 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b00l93z1)
The Host

Part of BBC Radio 4 Extra's tribute to the remarkable talent of writer and producer Charles Chilton, who died on 2 January 2013 at the age of 95.

Toby Stephens plays Jet Morgan in a 21st-century remake of Chilton's mould-breaking series from 1953, which originally won an audience of 6 million and earned him international recognition.

Jet Morgan and his crew get a distress call from an abandoned freighter. Jet and his comrades must find a way to defeat the vastly superior 'Host'. If they fail, they will not only all perish, but mankind will become a dispensable stepping stone to a new chapter in evolution.

From the original cast, David Jacobs, plays The Host.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2009.

Jet ...... Toby Stephens
Doc/Enceladus Control ...... Alan Marriott
Lemmy ...... Jot Davies
Mitch ...... Chris Pavlo
The Host ...... David Jacobs
Edie ...... Jana Carpenter
JJ Andreev ...... Basher Savage

Original music & sound design by David Chilton.

A Goldhawk Essential production for BBC Radio 4.


SAT 15:30 Menotti (b00l59rm)
Music writer Michael White tells the life story of composer Gian Carlo Menotti and assesses why his music has fallen from grace.

Menotti was a star - he partied at the White House with the Kennedys and sailed on yachts with Maria Callas. His music was celebrated, but today has been largely forgotten. This programme tells his story through music, memories, Menotti's own words, interviews with musicologists and singers who worked with him. Michael often visited Menotti in both his Scottish castle and in Italy, and had rare access to the composer's private papers.


SAT 16:00 Woman's Hour (b00l9539)
Weekend Woman's Hour

Highlights of this week's Woman's Hour programmes with Jane Garvey.

Including an interview with the Motown singer Martha Reeves; the risks posed by legal so-called 'party drugs'; the impact of dementia on friendships and relationships; three generations of women speak about life in the airforce; the secrets of Saturn; why the complicated heroine of the classical Medea myth continues to fascinate audiences; is it time to stop shopping?


SAT 17:00 PM (b00l953c)
Saturday PM

Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Carolyn Quinn, plus the sports headlines.


SAT 17:30 The Bottom Line (b00l5nt1)
Evan Davis asks his guests about their personal style of management. Does the TV image of the short-tempered, blunt-speaking boss reflect what goes on in the boardroom? PY Gerbeau, chief executive of X-Leisure and the man who saved Disneyland Paris and the Millennium Dome, admits to shouting sometimes, while David Roche, president of Hotels.com, can't remember the last time he raised his voice. And John McLaren, an investment banker turned thriller writer, recalls how different the Japanese business style is from the UK and US way of doing things.

Also, Evan asks his guests whether discounting really gives people a better deal.


SAT 17:54 Shipping Forecast (b00l953f)
The latest shipping forecast.


SAT 17:57 Weather (b00l953h)
The latest weather forecast.


SAT 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00l953k)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


SAT 18:15 Loose Ends (b00l953m)
Clive Anderson and guests with an eclectic mix of conversation, music and comedy.

Clive is joined by Sir Trevor McDonald, actress Doon Mackichan and the man behind Thunderbirds and Fireball XLV, Gerry Anderson.

Rachael Stirling talks to explorer and presenter Ben Fogle.

With music from the Kenyan Boys Choir and comedy from Janey Godley.


SAT 19:00 Profile (b00l953p)
John Bercow

Jonathan Maitland profiles the newly-elected Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow. Bercow is on a mission to reform the House during one of the most difficult times for Parliament. His own political journey from right to left has attracted accusations of opportunism from foes while, supporters are impressed by his passionate pursuit of political goals. Jonathan Maitland asks if Mr Bercow can win over his doubters.


SAT 19:15 Saturday Review (b00l953r)
New releases An Education and Sunshine Cleaning, and David Hockney: A Bigger Picture

Tom Sutcliffe is joined by novelist Kamila Shamsie, broadcaster and film historian Matthew Sweet, and foreign correspondent Bridget Kendall to discuss the cultural highlights of the week, featuring Lynn Barber's long awaited memoir, a documentary about David Hockney and a new film from the makers of Little Miss Sunshine - Sunshine Cleaning.

Sunshine Cleaning is a similar quirky look at a dysfunctional American family starring Amy Adams, Emily Blunt and Alan Arkin. A single mother enlists the help of her sister in her new business cleaning up crime scenes, a job neither of them knows anything about. Granddad is left looking after the boy, mayhem ensues and finally their triumph over adversity.

Lynn Barber is the winner of five Press Awards. She started her journalistic career writing for Penthouse and now writes for the Observer where her incisive and penetrating interviews have won her the nickname of 'Demon Barber'. Her long awaited memoir, An Education, scrutinizes her own past for the first time, including a formative relationship with a much older man when she was only 15.

The artist David Hockney is followed over three years as he leaves California, his home for the last 25 years, to return to his native Yorkshire to paint a very English countryside. Hockney, who is about to be 70, reflects on the nature of his art and examines his uneasy love affair with photography.

Walking In My Mind at the Hayward Gallery's 2009 Summer Exhibition continues the tradition of inviting high profile and up and coming artists from around the world to transform the Gallery's unique outdoor and indoor exhibition spaces. This year, ten artists have been selected to show works that explore how the inner workings of the mind - emotions, thoughts, memories and dreams - can be represented in three-dimensional spaces.

While in Everything Must Go at the Soho Theatre in London, ten writers come up with their take on the credit crunch. Making a virtue of the 'living on a shoestring' aesthetic, they explore the fear, denial, rage - and the opportunities - the most severe economic downturn since the 1930s may offer us.


SAT 20:00 Archive on 4 (b00l953t)
An Unofficial Iris

Bidisha listens to archive interviews and dramatisations to revisit the life and work of novelist Iris Murdoch.

Debate about Murdoch has continued since her death in 1999. Her legacy as a writer has been overshadowed by the publication of her husband John Bayley's memoir about her decline into Alzheimer's disease and the subsequent film adaptation, starring Judi Dench and Kate Winslet, and directed by Richard Eyre.

Bidisha listens to archive conversations between Murdoch and writers AN Wilson, AS Byatt and Susan Hill, and discovers a renaissance of interest in the writer as her emphasis on morality and goodness in a godless world seems to resonate today.


SAT 21:00 Classic Serial (b00l30sg)
Wilkie Collins - Armadale

Episode 3

Dramatisation by Robin Brooks of the 1866 mystery novel by Wilkie Collins. The machinations of the flame-haired temptress Lydia Gwilt are derailed by the workings of fate and her own lusts and longings.

Lydia Gwilt has found a new and more violent way to secure Allan Armadale's fortune, by impersonating his widow. Her plans now include murder, but will her passion for Allan's companion Midwinter help or hinder her?

Lydia ...... Lucy Robinson
Allan ...... Alex Robertson
Midwinter ...... Ray Fearon
Neelie ...... Perdita Avery
Bashwood ...... Richard Durden
Downward ...... Geoffrey Whitehead
Jemmy ...... Grant Gillespie
Vincent ...... Robin Brooks
Girl ...... Rebeccea Saire

A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4.


SAT 22:00 News and Weather (b00l9563)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.


SAT 22:15 The Reith Lectures (b00l59hf)
Michael Sandel: A New Citizenship: 2009

Genetics and Morality

Professor Michael Sandel delivers four lectures about the prospects of a new politics of the common good. The series is presented and chaired by Sue Lawley.

Recorded at the Centre for Life in Newcastle, Sandel considers how we should use our ever-increasing scientific knowledge. New genetic technologies hold great promise for treating and curing disease, but how far we should go in using them to manipulate muscles, moods and gender?


SAT 23:00 Quote... Unquote (b00l54wn)
Nigel Rees chairs the popular quiz involving the exchange of quotations and anecdotes.

With guests Lucy Mangan, Marcus du Sautoy, Michael Simkins and Paul Bailey.

The reader is Peter Jefferson.


SAT 23:30 Poetry Please (b00l32z3)
Marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of its author and the 150th anniversary of its publication, a celebration of Edward Fitzgerald's The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. Gabriel Woolf reads what has been called 'the most popular verse translation into English ever made'.



SUNDAY 28 JUNE 2009

SUN 00:00 Midnight News (b00l95tn)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.


SUN 00:30 Afternoon Reading (b0085c0h)
Ones to Watch (Volume 2)

You're Dead

A talent showcase of unpublished work from new writers.

By Tom Williams. Read by Samuel Barnett.

The school bully is finally expelled when a summer afternoon is revealed as less than idyllic.

A Watershed production for BBC Radio 4.


SUN 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00l95tq)
The latest shipping forecast.


SUN 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00l95ts)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.


SUN 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00l95tv)
The latest shipping forecast.


SUN 05:30 News Briefing (b00l95tx)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


SUN 05:43 Bells on Sunday (b00l95tz)
The sound of bells from St Peter's Church, Tiverton.


SUN 05:45 Profile (b00l953p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Saturday]


SUN 06:00 News Headlines (b00l95xb)
The latest national and international news.


SUN 06:05 Something Understood (b00l97nq)
Dark Sanctuary

Fergal Keane explores the physical and fairytale world created by the forest.


SUN 06:35 On Your Farm (b00l97nt)
Tom Heap visits the farm of Pat and John Stanley, who breed pedigree Longhorn Cattle, as they prepare their animals for the Royal Show in Warwickshire.

They have been breeding cattle for the past 20 years and have won the Best of Breed championship at the Royal four times. They explain how animals are chosen for the show and why Longhorn meat is so prized by top chefs such as Heston Blumental.

With 2009 due to be the last Royal Show, the Stanleys, like many famers, are concerned by the impact this might have on all those who show pedigree livestock as part of their business.


SUN 06:57 Weather (b00l97nw)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 07:00 News and Papers (b00l97ny)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.


SUN 07:10 Sunday (b00l97z1)
Roger Bolton discusses the religious and ethical news of the week. Moral arguments and perspectives on stories, both familiar and unfamiliar.


SUN 07:55 Radio 4 Appeal (b00l97z3)
Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children

Michael Palin appeals on behalf of the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children.

Donations to The Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children should be sent to FREEPOST BBC Radio 4 Appeal, please mark the back of your envelope The Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children. Credit cards: Freephone 0800 404 8144. If you are a UK tax payer, please provide The Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children with your full name and address so they can claim the Gift Aid on your donation worth another 25 per cent. The online and phone donation facilities are not currently available to listeners without a UK postcode.

Registered Charity No: 801171.


SUN 07:58 Weather (b00l97z5)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 08:00 News and Papers (b00l97z7)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.


SUN 08:10 Sunday Worship (b00l2zbp)
Waiting on God

Bishop Martin Shaw visits Paris and Solesmes and talks to author Sara Maitland as he reflects on the life and writings of philosopher and political thinker Simone Weil, in the centenary year of her birth.


SUN 08:50 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00l6g8s)
Series 1

Giant Birds

Series of talks by Sir David Attenborough on the natural histories of creatures and plants from around the world.

Madagascar, off the eastern coast of Africa, is the largest continental island in the world. It is also the place where the largest egg known to have existed was laid, and the bird that laid it was also a giant.


SUN 09:00 Broadcasting House (b00l97zc)
Broadcasting House examines Western intervention in Iran, going back to American and British foreign policy involving one man called Kermit and another called Monti, and how, in 1953, the countries worked to oust Prime Minister Mussadeq.

The programme goes on the trail of a violin concerto which, having been lost for 70 years, will be performed in public for the first time.

Does anyone take lunch any more and what is the real value of the business lunch? Queen of the business lunch, Robin Jay, gives her opinion.

Reviewing the Sunday papers are actor Sam West, the former Head of BBC Radio and now Chair of the Arts Council, Dame Liz Forgan, and Tetteh Koffi who, having founded the newspaper New Nation, is now a media advisor.


SUN 10:00 The Archers Omnibus (b00l97zf)
The week's events in Ambridge.


SUN 11:15 Desert Island Discs (b00l97zh)
Arlene Phillips

Kirsty Young's castaway is the choreographer, Arlene Phillips. In a career spanning 40 years, she set up the dance group Hot Gossip and has masterminded numerous music videos and West End shows. Already one of the country's leading choreographers, the hit TV show Strictly Come Dancing then turned her into a household name.

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

Favourite track: Smoke Gets in Your Eyes by Dinah Washington
Book: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Luxury: Tweezers.


SUN 12:00 I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue (b00l55xk)
Series 51

Episode 2

The perennial antidote to panel games comes from Her Majesty's Theatre, Haymarket in London, with Stephen Fry the first to take on the chairman's role from the late Humphrey Lyttelton.

Regulars Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden and Tim Brooke-Taylor are joined by Victoria Wood.

With Colin Sell at the piano.


SUN 12:32 The Food Programme (b00l97zk)
The Clink - Prison Fine Dining Restaurant

Sheila Dillon visits Al Crisci's restaurant, The Clink, which is housed inside High Down Prison in Sutton. Al is head chef at the prison, and as well as cooking for inmates using fresh produce - including vegetables and salad crops grown in the prison gardens - he also provides the inmates with NVQ training in kitchen skills.

After winning the Best Dinner Man award at the 2005 Radio 4 Food and Farming Awards, he announced his plans to open a restaurant inside High Down, and he has now achieved his objective. Part staff canteen for the prison employees and part four-star restaurant for the public, The Clink aims to have a standard equal to any West End top hotel or restaurant.

Inmates receive training and hands-on experience of working at the top end of the hospitality sector. Potential employers are invited in to see the restaurant in action, taste the food and hopefully commit to employing its alumni. Ingredients are sourced from local businesses, and Al has searched through the seed catalogues to grow a succession of tasty salad crops and vegetables throughout the summer. His aim is to ensure that the inmates involved are fit to work in such establishments on release, that they have the ability to earn a decent salary and will keep out of crime.

Sheila visits the restaurant to learn about the food, the training and the interface between the restaurant food and that served within the prison. She also asks how the project is to be funded, if there will be jobs for the inmates when they leave, and who will be coming to eat there.


SUN 12:57 Weather (b00l97zm)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 13:00 The World This Weekend (b00l97zp)
A look at events around the world.


SUN 13:30 Moats, Mortgages and Mayhem (b00lh47j)
The BBC's political editor Nick Robinson reflects on the reporting of the MPs' expenses scandal and its dramatic repercussions.


SUN 14:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b00l67zt)
Eric Robson chairs the popular horticultural forum.

Anne Swithinbank, Bob Flowerdew and Chris Beardshaw answer questions posed by gardeners in Wiltshire.

Including Gardening weather forecast.


SUN 14:45 A Guide to Water Birds (b00l97zr)
River Birds

Brett Westwood presents a series of entertaining and practical guides to identifying many of the birds found on or near freshwater, aided by sound recordist Chris Watson.

Brett is joined by keen bird watcher Stephen Moss to look and listen out for birds which you are likely to see or hear near rivers, including Kingfisher, Dipper, Grey Wagtail and Common Sandpiper.


SUN 15:00 Classic Serial (b00l987f)
Confessions of an English Opium-Eater

By Lavinia Murray.

Dramatisation of Thomas De Quincey's 1821 autobiographical account of his consumption of the liquid opiate laudanum, a legal painkiller of the time, and his painful and surreal descent into addiction.

Older Thomas ...... Oliver Cotton
Younger Thomas ...... James Nickerson
Brunnel/Tutor ...... Mark Chatterton
Able Big/Ong ...... Eric Potts
Betsy ...... Lisa Allen
Groaty/Wordsworth ...... David Fleeshman
Edith ...... Gemma Harvey
Ann ...... Sara Bahadori

Directed by Gary Brown.


SUN 16:00 Open Book (b00l99mh)
Adam Thorpe, Machiavelli's The Prince, and the comic talents of Jerome K Jerome

Mariella Frostrup talks to the novelist Adam Thorpe, who uses Robin Hood as the central character of his new novel, Hodd. He explains why his version of Robin Hood is far from the romantic hero of popular legend.

Martin Bell, the journalist and former MP, joins the historian Quentin Skinner to consider a new translation of Machiavelli's The Prince, the manual for would-be rulers everywhere. They discuss what Machiavelli's advice can offer the contemporary politician, and what the Italian writer would have made of recent political scandals.

Kathryn Hughes offers an appreciation of the comic talents of Jerome K Jerome, the author of Three Men in a Boat, 150 years after his birth.


SUN 16:30 South of My Days (b00l99mk)
Greta Scacchi presents a portrait of Australian poet Judith Wright, who died in 2000. She broke new ground in celebrating the beauty of the Australian landscape and brought insight into women's relationships - writing about love, pregnancy and birth. Wright was also a trailblazing conservationist and a campaigner for Aboriginal land rights.

Featuring contributions from Wright's daughter, Meredith McKinney, and friends and colleagues, plus readings by Kerry Fox.


SUN 17:00 File on 4 (b00l5gm4)
Private Finance Initiative

The government's flagship policy for public investment, the Private Finance Initiative, has always relied on big loans from banks. But now, as lenders demand far more for their money, Michael Robinson investigates disturbing increases in the cost of building our schools, hospitals and roads.

In today's economic climate, does PFI represent value for money for hard-pressed taxpayers?


SUN 17:40 Profile (b00l953p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Saturday]


SUN 17:54 Shipping Forecast (b00l99mm)
The latest shipping forecast.


SUN 17:57 Weather (b00l99mp)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00l99mr)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


SUN 18:15 Pick of the Week (b00l99mt)
Liz Barclay introduces her selection of highlights from the past week on BBC radio.

Featured programmes:

Menotti - Radio 4
A Funny Sort of Sound - Radio 4
I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue - Radio 4
Midweek - Radio 4
Learning to Love the Microphone - Radio 4
The Age of Ming - Radio 4
On The Outside It Looked Like An Old-Fashioned Police Box - Radio 4
Book of the Week: The Junior Officer's Reading Club - Radio 4
The Chosen One - Radio 4
Broken Arrow - Radio 4
Off The Page - Radio 4
The Greening of Deserts - Radio 4
Three Rivers - Radio 4
Power Play - Radio 4
A Moment Too Soon - Radio 4
A Life in Limbo - Radio Scotland
Archive on 4: An Unofficial Iris - Radio 4
The Spirit of Grunge - Radio 4
Weather Report (12.58) - Radio 4.


SUN 19:00 The Archers (b00l99mw)
While Usha's staying with her family, Alan does some weeding. Sensing he doesn't really know what he's doing, Clarrie suggests Alan waits till Usha gets back.

Shula gives Alan something else to think about. Why didn't he tell her or Alistair that Jim's going to be renting Blossom Hill Cottage? Alan struggles to convince Shula that he really didn't know anything about it. He's sure there's a good reason why Usha didn't mention it. Shula would be very interested to know what that reason is.

Clarrie delights in telling Susan that her fruit bowl is no longer missing - it's in Susan's cupboard! Susan's bemused to learn that Christopher bought it at the boot sale, sold it on and then Neil bought it, not realising it was Susan's original.

Lilian's barely left her room since Friday but now she's disappeared. Jennifer eventually finds her grooming Spearmint. Lilian can't cope with everyone's kindness. Jennifer tries to encourage Lilian out of her low mood but even a drink by the pool is more than Lilian can bear. Brian's surprised at how tired Lilian looks. Lilian's never been careless with her appearance and Jennifer's afraid she seems to be spiralling into a real depression.

Episode written by Adrian Flynn.


SUN 19:15 Americana (b00l99my)
Kevin Connolly talks to Tina Brown about her website The Daily Beast and the future of the news media.

He takes a trip to Virginia's Shenandoah Valley to find out how the baseball players of the future live with local families for a summer league which may open the door to undreamed of sporting success.

Armistead Maupin reflects on 40 years of Gay Power since the Stonewall riots, and examines gay retirement options.


SUN 19:45 Afternoon Reading (b0082b44)
The Closed Door

Summer Holiday

Series of stories by Dorothy Whipple, an often neglected writer of the interwar years who was described by JB Priestley as 'the Jane Austen of her age'.

A child's innocent remark has devastating consequences for a favourite nursemaid.

Read by Patience Tomlinson.


SUN 20:00 Feedback (b00l63vl)
Roger Bolton airs listeners' views on BBC radio programmes and policy.


SUN 20:30 Last Word (b00l67zw)
Michael Jackson; Farrah Fawcett; Douglas Bunn; Steve Race

Matthew Bannister talks to BBC radio DJ Trevor Nelson and Jonathan Morrish about the life of the self-styled King of Pop Michael Jackson.

He also talks about the founder of the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead Douglas Bunn, to his son Edward, show jumper Harvey Smith and BBC commentator Nick Brooks Ward.

The producer of 'My Music' Richard Edis and panellists Denis Norden and Ian Wallace reflect on musician and broadcaster Steve Race.

Finally journalist Stephen Armstrong chats about actress Farrah Fawcett.


SUN 21:00 Money Box (b00l92sy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:00 on Saturday]


SUN 21:26 Radio 4 Appeal (b00l97z3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:55 today]


SUN 21:30 Analysis (b00l55xp)
Thought Experiments

Studies have shown that if the smell of fresh bread is in the air we are far more generous than otherwise. In the past few years, a fascinating range of experiments has begun to shed light on the moral choices humans make. Philosopher Janet Radcliffe Richards asks whether the results can tell us not just how we tend to behave, but how we should behave.


SUN 21:58 Weather (b00l99tt)
The latest weather forecast.


SUN 22:00 Westminster Hour (b00l99tw)
Britain's future?

As the Prime Minister Gordon Brown unveils his policy blueprint "Building Britain's future" he will be hoping that it will help his Government regain the political initiative and concentrate public attention on policy issues.

Most observers expect that the document will focus on three main areas - public service reform, the economy and cleaning up politics.

It'll be published along with a draft legislative programme for the year ahead .

We spoke to Andrew Grice, Political Editor of the Independent. we started by asking what the format of the announcement would be.


SUN 23:00 The Film Programme (b00l68wx)
Francine Stock dips into The Pool Of London and talks to its star, 91-year-old actor Earl Cameron. The dockland crime drama was one of the first films to tackle the subject of interracial relationships, and Earl discusses the prejudice he faced during the war.

Iain Sinclair and Matthew Sweet chart the history of the postwar crime movie, with help from another star of The Pool Of London, Leslie Phillips.


SUN 23:30 Something Understood (b00l97nq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:05 today]



MONDAY 29 JUNE 2009

MON 00:00 Midnight News (b00l99x8)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.


MON 00:15 Thinking Allowed (b00l5hdz)
Geopolitics and Empire - Romani Culture

'Who rules East Europe commands the Heartland. Who rules the Heartland commands the World-island. Who rules the World Island commands the World'. So decreed Halford Mackinder, one of the pioneers of geography and of the nascent science of geopolitics. He had a huge influence on the strategy of the British Empire and a great impact on the foreign policy of Hitler.

Gerry Kearns, author of Geopolitics and Empire: The Legacy of Halford Mackinder tells Laurie Taylor that, with dwindling resources of gas and oil and the quest for sphere of influence, Mackinder is very much back in vogue.

Also, Laurie speaks to Roma academics Delia Grigore and Ian Hancock about ambivalent feelings towards traditional gypsy or Romani culture and the threats and advantages of assimilation.


MON 00:45 Bells on Sunday (b00l95tz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:43 on Sunday]


MON 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00l9b12)
The latest shipping forecast.


MON 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00l9b2t)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.


MON 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00l9b2h)
The latest shipping forecast.


MON 05:30 News Briefing (b00l9b3s)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


MON 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00l9b6m)
Daily prayer and reflection with Dr Catherine Cowley.


MON 05:45 Farming Today (b00l9b70)
Farmers are calling on the police to do more to put a stop to rural crime. Tractors, sheep and fuel are going missing, and there are concerns that there is not a big enough police presence in rural areas. Charlotte Smith asks the Association of Chief Police Officers what is being done about it.

Also on the programme, we take a look at the current state of agricultural shows, ahead of the last ever Royal Show.


MON 05:57 Weather (b00lb26p)
The latest weather forecast for farmers.


MON 06:00 Today (b00l9b92)
Presented by Evan Davis and James Naughtie.

Keith Vaz, chairman of the Commons Home Affairs Committee, discusses a report by MPs on the policing of the G20 demonstrations in London.

Former NHS trust chairman Roy Lilley and YouGov president Peter Kellner discuss a new government legislative programme that claims to offer more choice for users of public services.

Rajesh Mirchandani reports on the controversy surrounding the pop star Michael Jackson's death.

Middle East editor Jeremy Bowen gives his analysis of where internal Iranian politics and the UK's relationship with the country currently stand.

Is the policy of removing US and UK troops from Iraqi cities helping to bring stability to the country? Jack Izzard reports on what has happened in Basra since the British forces left. New York Times journalist Rod Nordland discusses his findings after investigating the US pullout in the city of Fallujah.

James Naughtie visits Westminster Abbey to find out what proposed structural changes would mean for the historic building.

Thought for the day with Rabbi Lionel Blue.

Business secretary Lord Mandelson outlines the proposed changes to public services being launched under the title Building Britain's Future, which may lead to a delay in the sale of part of Royal Mail.

Jeanette Ervine, widow of unionist leader David Ervine, Rev Chris Hudson, who has acted as a conduit between the UVF and the Irish government, and Independent journalist David McKittrick discuss the importance of Loyalist paramilitary decommissioning.

Rowan Pelling, former editor of the Erotic Review, and writer Philip Hensher discuss whether there is still a place in the modern world for love letters.

Political editor Nick Robinson analyses whether the issue of spending will overshadow what the government want to say about public service reform.

Ben Page, chief executive of Ipsos Mori, and Jonathan Porritt, chairman of the UK Sustainable Development Commission, discuss concerns raised by the Royal Society that not enough is being done to combat climate change.

Keith Best, chief executive of the Immigration Advisory Council, discusses government proposals to give local residents a higher priority on council house waiting lists.

Author Alastair Reynolds and Professor Adam Roberts discuss how space opera is different from other sci-fi genres.

Dr Laleh Khalili of the School of Oriental and African Studies at London University discusses Britain's difficult relationship with Iran following the election.


MON 09:00 Start the Week (b00lb26r)
Andrew Marr sets the cultural agenda for the week. His guests include Edward Gardner, English National Opera's musical director, who discusses the UK premiere of Finnish conductor Kaija Saariaho's L'Amour de loin.

Plus philosopher Susan Neiman on her book Moral Clarity: A Guide for Grown-up Idealists, and Stephen Green, of HSBC, on his book Good Value. Justin Cartwright discusses friendship, loss and renewal in his novel To Heaven by Water.


MON 09:45 Book of the Week (b00l9bvk)
The Last Champion - The Life of Fred Perry

From Small Beginnings

Jamie Bamber reads from Jon Henderson's biography of English tennis great Fred Perry, charting his extraordinary life from his childhood in Stockport to Wimbledon glory, the glamour of Hollywood and the founding of a clothing empire.


MON 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00l9c5r)
Juvenile offenders in Iran, Over-fishing; Sarah Dunant

Juvenile offenders on death row in Iran discussed. Plus, how to cook fish responsibly; and writer Sarah Dunant on 16th century convents and her novel Sacred Hearts.


MON 11:00 Iran: A Revolutionary State (b0077049)
Episode 1

John Tusa presents the first of three programmes chronicling the making of modern Iran. He talks to academics, statesmen and eye-witnesses, revisiting a turbulent century which began with the cultural revolution of 1906.


MON 11:30 Newfangle (b00lb26w)
Sticks and Stones

Sitcom by Adam Rosenthal and Viv Ambrose, set 100,000 years BC among a tribe of proto-humans.

For the first time in years there is peace in swamp. Thanks to Newfangle's invention of language and the development of peace treaties, the tribe has not fought with the Australopithecines for months.

But then Alf upsets the fragile peace by mentioning their funny-shaped heads. Newfangle has to develop some kind of super-weapon to deal with the Aussies' superior technology, but what ideas will the hominid devise?

Newfangle ...... Russell Tovey
Snaggle ...... Pippa Evans
Crag ...... Gabriel Vick
Coco ...... Maureen Lipman
Alf ...... Hugh Bonneville
Lucy ...... Amy Shindler
Chef ...... Lewis MacLeod.


MON 12:00 You and Yours (b00l9clq)
Consumer news and issues with Julian Worricker.


MON 12:57 Weather (b00l9cm5)
The latest weather forecast.


MON 13:00 World at One (b00l9pxl)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.


MON 13:30 Quote... Unquote (b00lb26y)
Nigel Rees chairs the popular quiz involving the exchange of quotations and anecdotes.

With guests Dame Beryl Bainbridge, Ekow Eshun, Anthony Howard and Francesca Simon.

The reader is Peter Jefferson.


MON 14:00 The Archers (b00l99mw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Sunday]


MON 14:15 Drama (b00lbn9t)
Accomplices

Thriller by Simon Passmore. What would you be prepared to do to escape the grind of a life going relentlessly downhill? For former City lawyer Alice, the price is getting higher by the minute.

Alice ..... Claudia Harrison
Hattie ...... Emily Joyce
Patrick ...... Stephen Hogan
Marcy ...... Lizzy Watts
Stone ...... Paul Rider

Directed by Toby Swift.


MON 15:00 Archive on 4 (b00l953t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:00 on Saturday]


MON 15:45 America, Empire of Liberty (b00l9rkk)
The Acting President

Series charting the history of America, written and presented by David Reynolds.

Ronald Reagan, known more for his speechmaking than his work habits, turns his message of economic freedom and small government into resounding electoral victories.


MON 16:00 The Food Programme (b00l97zk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:32 on Sunday]


MON 16:30 Beyond Belief (b00lb270)
To mark the 200th edition of the programme, Ernie Rea and guests AC Grayling, Anthony Carroll and Mona Siddiqui discuss whether Britain is now a post-secular society.

What happened to the perceived wisdom that modernity would see religion wither and die? Why has the post-millennium world seen a rise in interest in all matters religious rather than the expected decline? Does immigration and 9/11 account for this resurgence in religion or are other factors at work? And should faith have a public space in today's complex world; should it have more rights than trade unions and political parties?


MON 17:00 PM (b00l9rrs)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.


MON 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00l9rz7)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


MON 18:30 I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue (b00lb272)
Series 51

Episode 3

The perennial antidote to panel games comes from the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton, with Jack Dee taking on the chairman's role from the late Humphrey Lyttelton.

Regulars Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden and Tim Brooke-Taylor are joined by Jeremy Hardy.

With Colin Sell at the piano.


MON 19:00 The Archers (b00l9r83)
Jennifer won't be going to the Royal Show this year. Jill will - two radio producers have set up their own hive and she wouldn't mind seeing how they're getting on. Phil wants to go every day as it's the last show.

Susan wishes Neil hadn't raised money on the house to pay off his feed bill. She thinks it was lovely of Christopher to buy the fruit bowl to cheer her up, even though he didn't actually give it to her.

Jazzer tells Mike how Alice talked Christopher out of using the bowl to play a practical joke on Susan. Jazzer will cover Mike while he's honeymooning on the Isle of Wight, and will help out during Mike's second honeymoon later in the summer. Jazzer's sure he'll be free. He's not likely to be roadying for the Lies as they've got no gigs.

Vicky's also making wedding plans and has convinced Mike that they should have a traditional present list. The invites are done, and she's finalised arrangements at the Bull. Mike's delighted that Brenda has "volunteered" to help Vicky choose her dress. Although uncertain whose idea it was first, Vicky assures Mike that Brenda couldn't have been happier about it.

Episode written by Adrian Flynn.


MON 19:15 Front Row (b00l9s0x)
Russell T Davies on Torchwood.

Arts news and reviews.

The writer Russell T Davies breathed new life into Doctor Who and created two spin-off series, Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures. Now, a series of Torchwood dramas are to be broadcast on Radio 4. As he prepares to cut his ties with the Doctor and head for the States, he looks back on the success of his creations and ahead to the new five-part TV series of Torchwood.

Speed the Plow, Murmuring Judges, Copenhagen, As You Like It: these are all play titles which reveal little, if anything, about the play itself. Writers including David Edgar and Jez Butterworth reflect on the traditions and oddities in the naming of plays.

Mark Lawson meets Eva Rothschild, the young British sculptor who has been chosen to create the next installation for the The Britain Duveens Commission 2009. Rothschild's sculpture is called Cold Corners and it comprises a sequence of 26 connected triangles filling the entire 80 metres of Tate Britain's neo-classical Duveen Galleries.


MON 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00l9s42)
Sarah Dunant - Sacred Hearts

Novice

Dramatisation of the novel by Sarah Dunant, set in a convent in Renaissance Italy, where a young woman has been placed against her will.

Serafina is locked in the convent of Santa Caterina. Her family declare she has a beautiful voice but she vows that she will never sing.

Abbess ...... Eileen Atkins
Zuana ...... Geraldine James
Serafina ...... Natalie Dormer
Umiliana ...... Sian Thomas
Appolonia ...... Hannah Waddingham

Dramtised by Rachel Joyce.

The music has been specially recorded by Musica Secreta, available on the CD Sacred Hearts, Secret Music.

A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4.


MON 20:00 Moats, Mortgages and Mayhem (b00lh47j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 13:30 on Sunday]


MON 20:30 Analysis (b00l55xp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 21:30 on Sunday]


MON 21:00 Frontiers (b00lb5lv)
Stem Cells

Sue Broom catches up on progress in stem cell research. She talks to leading scientists in the field and finds out when treatments and cures from our own bodies could become a realistic prospect.

Stem cells have long held the promise to cure diseases such as heart disease, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, sickle cell anaemia and type 1 diabetes, as well as repair damaged tissue from injury such as spinal cord damage. But are they ready to be tried in humans?


MON 21:30 Start the Week (b00lb26r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


MON 21:58 Weather (b00l9s82)
The latest weather forecast.


MON 22:00 The World Tonight (b00l9s9p)
News from a global perspective with Ritula Shah.

Iran completes a partial vote recount; is it end of the road for the reformers?

Gordon Brown sets out his vision for public services.

Sweden takes over the EU presidency; will they push for enlargement?


MON 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00l9snr)
Georgina Harding - The Spy Game

Episode 6

Diana Quick reads the novel by Georgina Harding, set in 1960s England.

In the snowy winter of 1962, Peter and Anna continue their investigations into the life and death of their mother. They are convinced that she cannot simply have died in a car crash. The mystery casts a long shadow over Anna's life.

Abridged by Lauris Morgan Griffiths.


MON 23:00 Off the Page (b00l5mhs)
Vegas

Dominic Arkwright, Joe Queenan, Karen Marchbank and Michael Simkins debate the excesses and quirks of Las Vegas. From June 2009.


MON 23:30 Today in Parliament (b00l9sc9)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with Sean Curran.



TUESDAY 30 JUNE 2009

TUE 00:00 Midnight News (b00l99wy)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.


TUE 00:30 Book of the Week (b00l9bvk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:45 on Monday]


TUE 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00l99zs)
The latest shipping forecast.


TUE 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00l9b2k)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.


TUE 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00l9b14)
The latest shipping forecast.


TUE 05:30 News Briefing (b00l9b3j)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


TUE 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00l9b54)
Daily prayer and reflection with Dr Catherine Cowley.


TUE 05:45 Farming Today (b00l9b6p)
Anna Hill reports on last-ditch attempts to save farmers caught up in the collapse of a major dairy cooperative.

We talk to the Milk Link, the company offering farmers a new deal, and a dairy industry analyst who suggests a radical solution to the nation's milk problems.


TUE 06:00 Today (b00l9b8r)
Presented by James Naughtie and Sarah Montague.

Armed Forces Minister Bill Rammell discusses if Britain can afford the defence equipment it intends to buy.

The Guardian Council in Iran declared, after a partial recount of votes, that the election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was fair. BBC Iranian affairs analyst Sadeq Saba considers if this will mean an end to dissident protests.

Former Mayor of London Ken Livingstone discusses government plans to boost the supply of social housing.

The Harlequin ladybird is putting over 1,000 species in the UK in peril, scientists have warned. Dr Helen Roy, of the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, discusses the danger.

Justine Roberts, of the website Mumsnet, and Dr Richard Jarvis discuss doctors' warnings that throwing 'swine flu parties' in an attempt to get immunity against the virus in a fairly mild form could be dangerous.

Andy Murray has reached his second successive grand slam quarter-final. Sports presenter Garry Richardson reflects on the latest ever Wimbledon finish.

Thought for the Day with the Rev Rosemary Lain-Priestly, of the Women's Ministry in London.

Children's Secretary Ed Balls explains the last major education legislation for England before the next general election.

Correspondent Jim Muir and US Foreign Affairs adviser Lawrence Korb reflect on the withdrawal of US troops from Iraqi cities.

Explorer Benedict Allen and Sunand Prasad, President of the Royal Institute of British Architects, explain how to keep cool in temperatures of 32 degrees Celsius.

Lord Ashdown says there is a nine billion pound hole in the UK defence budget each year.

Middle East editor Jeremy Bowen reflects on his time in Iran.

Broadcaster and journalist Ian Hislop explains his view on 'indoor' tennis at the Wimbledon tennis championships.

South African judge Albie Sachs and Roisin McDonough, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, discuss the launch of a digital archive of art from the Troubles.

Shadow Schools Secretary Michael Gove and Independent columnist Steve Richards discuss if the prime minister is being dishonest about future public spending policy.


TUE 09:00 The Reith Lectures (b00lb6bt)
Michael Sandel: A New Citizenship: 2009

A New Politics of the Common Good

Professor Michael Sandel delivers four lectures about the prospects of a new politics of the common good. The series is presented and chaired by Sue Lawley.

Sandel makes the case for a moral and civic renewal in democratic politics. Recorded at George Washington University in Washington DC, he calls for a new politics of the common good and says that we need to think of ourselves as citizens, not just consumers.


TUE 09:45 Book of the Week (b00lf4cn)
The Last Champion - The Life of Fred Perry

First Signs of Greatness

Jamie Bamber reads from Jon Henderson's biography of English tennis great Fred Perry, charting his extraordinary life from his childhood in Stockport to Wimbledon glory, the glamour of Hollywood and the founding of a clothing empire.

Many of the killer shots Perry perfects to win the world table tennis championships in 1929, he adapts and applies to the tennis court.


TUE 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00l9c5f)
Banning the Burkha; Gay icons

Should Britain ban the burkha? Plus, the effect of dementia on friendship, and broadcaster Sandi Toksvig on her gay icons.


TUE 11:00 Iran: A Revolutionary State (b007707y)
Episode 2

John Tusa presents the second of three programmes chronicling the making of modern Iran. The oil crisis of the 1950s led to the overthrow of a democratically elected government, with British and American assistance.


TUE 11:30 Sitting for Fay (b00lb6q7)
Christine Finn discovers a rich seam of literary life in photographer Fay Godwin's work.

Best known for her later landscape work, Godwin spent the 1970s and 80s taking portraits of some of the leading figures of the literary scene. Many iconic book-jacket images were taken by her, including a sultry Ted Hughes with that lock of hair falling over his face, Philip Larkin and the rubber plant, Seamus Heaney and the tree, Desmond Morris in a safari suit, a pensive Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, Keith Waterhouse slumped in a basket chair and Salman Rushdie with a hookah.

Christine gained access to Godwin's home and studio as it was being prepared for sale, and with Godwin's friend, photographic historian Roger Taylor, examined the archive. It shows that many of Godwin's later collaborations on books of landscapes - most notably with Ted Hughes, but also with Richard Ingrams and Philip Larkin - were born in the portrait sittings and the relationships that grew out of them.

The programme also hears from poet Alan Brownjohn about the experience of sitting for Fay, and examines an archive of prints, contact sheets and letters from her sitters, held in the British Library since her death in 2005, with photo critic and editor Sue Steward.


TUE 12:00 You and Yours (b00l9cjd)
Consumer news and issues with Julian Worricker.

Should the Public sector share more the pain in this recession?

The public sector has come in for a fair amount of stick as critics have suggest it’s being protected from the worst effects of the recession but what are the facts and figures here, and would big cuts in the public sector actually help the economy or the country?

It costs the taxpayer an estimated £160 billion to run its bureaucracy and pay its employees wages and pensions; should we take an axe to its bureaucracy and use the savings to reduce debt and invest in our wealth creators?


TUE 12:57 Weather (b00l9cls)
The latest weather forecast.


TUE 13:00 World at One (b00l9pxb)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.


TUE 13:30 Settling the Score (b00lbgqq)
Tim Blackmore examines the complex relationship between composer and commissioner and asks if having boundaries set on the creative process is a help or a hindrance.

The programme follows the progress of writing a new musical, Feather Boy, by film composer Debbie Wiseman. She has been commissioned by the National Theatre to write for this musical which will performed in 'workshop' style in July. Her commissioner is the director Anthony Banks.


TUE 14:00 The Archers (b00l9r83)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Monday]


TUE 14:15 Drama (b00lbt3t)
Dignity

Semi-autobiographical drama by Laura McDaid, based on the direct experience of one young couple. One half of that couple, the writer, gives a raw and unflinching account of the turmoil that led her partner to pursue assisted suicide.

Lauren ...... Niki Doherty
Finn ...... Robert Sheehan
Dr Klaus Steiner ...... Wolf Kahler
Tom ...... Mark Lambert
Liam ...... Luke Griffin
Margaret ...... Julia Dearden
Caller/Doctor ...... Patrick Fitzsymons
Nurse ...... Miche Doherty
Female Volunteer ...... Brigitte Brosit

Directed by John Simpson.


TUE 15:00 Making History (b00lbgqs)
Vanessa Collingridge presents the series exploring ordinary people's links with the past.


TUE 15:30 Sana Krasikov - One More Year (b00lbgqv)
Maia in Yonkers

An immigrant worker eagerly anticipates a visit from the teenage son she left behind in her home country. Read by Sian Thomas.


TUE 15:45 America, Empire of Liberty (b00l9rk9)
Reagan and the 'Evil Empire'

Series charting the history of America, written and presented by David Reynolds.

President Reagan makes progress with a new Cold War strategy, combining tough anti-communist talk with a willingness to negotiate over nuclear arms.


TUE 16:00 Law in Action (b00lbgtc)
Joint Enterprise

How do you solve a murder where a gang is involved, there is no evidence as to who inflicted the fatal blow, and no-one is talking? Clive Coleman examines the powerful legal doctrine of 'joint enterprise', which enables entire groups of people to be prosecuted for murder even though they may have played very different roles in a killing. But is it fair? And could a greater awareness of this complex law actually help to dramatically reduce gang murder?


TUE 16:30 A Good Read (b00lbgtf)
Kate Mosse talks to newsreader Emily Maitlis and the Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan, about their favourite books. They discuss a moving account of dementia, a novel set during the siege of Sarajevo and an engaging portrait of an eccentric judge.

The books featured in this programme:

The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway
Published by Atlantic Books

Still Alice by Lisa Genova
Published by Simon and Schuster

Old Filth by Jane Gardam
Published by Abacus.


TUE 17:00 PM (b00l9rpq)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.


TUE 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00l9rv3)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


TUE 18:30 The Secret World (b011qdpd)
Series 1

Episode 4

From Steve Wright to Ken Dodd, Jon Culshaw explores the bizarre private lives of famous folk. From May 2009.


TUE 19:00 The Archers (b00l9r7d)
After a difficult morning, Hayley's late for work but Elizabeth's got everything ready for her. She understands how difficult it can be to juggle family life. Hayley appreciates Elizabeth's support. Elizabeth reminds Hayley how important she is to them and admits that helping out was easy as she's not sleeping. She's been up since daybreak. Nigel thinks she needs a hobby to stimulate her.

Hayley tells Elizabeth how Vicky called round to ask Phoebe to be ring-bearer at her wedding. Then Brenda dropped in to rant about how Vicky press-ganged her into agreeing to help choose Vicky's dress.

Usha's back. Alan wants to know why she didn't tell him that she'd let Blossom Hill Cottage to Jim Lloyd. Usha insists she's just been too busy. Alan points out how difficult it made things with Shula but Usha assumed Jim would tell Shula and Alistair himself. The discussion gets quite heated.

Lilian's looking a bit better. She's made an effort in the hope that Matt turns up and wants her to go back to him - she wouldn't want him to see her looking rough. The longer she goes without hearing from him, the worse she feels. She's finding life without Matt absolutely unbearable.

Episode written by Adrian Flynn.


TUE 19:15 Front Row (b00l9rz9)
Mark Lawson talks to Johnny Depp, star of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, who plays the charismatic 1930s bank robber John Dillinger in Michael Mann's film, Public Enemies.

We pay tribute to the choreographer Pina Bausch, a leading light of modern dance, who has died at the age of 68.

Tyneside-born conductor and arranger John Wilson talks about his quest to reconstruct the lost orchestrations of the major MGM musicals, including High Society, Singin' In the Rain and the Wizard of Oz.


TUE 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00lb30l)
Sarah Dunant - Sacred Hearts

Songbird

Dramatisation of the novel by Sarah Dunant, set in a convent in Renaissance Italy, where a young woman has been placed against her will.

Serafina reluctantly helps Suora Zuana in the dispensary, but by night her heart exults to the sound of a man's voice singing outside the convent walls.

Abbess ...... Eileen Atkins
Zuana ...... Geraldine James
Serafina ...... Natalie Dormer
Umiliana ...... Sian Thomas
Appolonia ...... Hannah Waddingham

Dramtised by Rachel Joyce.

The music has been specially recorded by Musica Secreta, available on the CD Sacred Hearts, Secret Music.

A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4.


TUE 20:00 File on 4 (b00lbhtk)
No-win, No-fee Lawyers

With payouts in clinical negligence cases expected to reach a record 700 million pounds in 2010, Miriam O'Reilly investigates no-win, no-fee lawyers. Some of them are allowed to charge up to 800 pounds per hour in bringing claims against the NHS, enabling many law firms to earn substantially more in fees than their clients receive in damages.


TUE 20:40 In Touch (b00lbhtp)
It is a statutory requirement that deafblind people receive support to communicate and socialise; so why are so many local authorities failing to identify their needs? Lucy Drescher from the deafblind charity Sense and Ann Bristow from the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services discuss.

Many blind people are unimpressed by the move towards 'shared surfaces', where people and traffic share the same space. We join protesters in the London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor of London's Director of Transport, answers their worries.

Is it fair to take a guide dog on a long haul flight? We want listeners' views.


TUE 21:00 All in the Mind (b00lbhtw)
Mental Health in Prisons

Today there are more people in prison with mental health problems than ever before. In fact nine out of ten prisoners have a mental health problem. Not surprisingly some of them are depressed as a result of being in prison, but for others it was their mental illness or their learning disability which started them on a path towards prison.

In April 2009, the Bradley Report was published recommending that the government takes steps to address the problem.

All In the Mind talks to Sean Duggan, who used to be a mental health nurse and is now Director of Health and Social Care for Criminal Justice at the thinktank the Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health.

Lord Bradley recommends that people's state of mind should be assessed and monitored right the way through the process, from first contact with the police through to prison, and that Diversion Schemes should be more widely available. At the moment many parts of the country are not covered, but these schemes have been around for some time.

But what does diversion really mean? If people are diverted away from prison, what are they being diverted to? Linda Bryant, who manages the Together forensic mental health practitioner service in London, explains.

All In the Mind also visits Peterborough to see one of the pilot Youth Diversion Schemes supported by the Sainsbury Centre and speaks Sharon Bowman. At Peterborough police station they see up to 90 young people a month who have been arrested for suspected assault, burglary and possession of knives and drugs. There are big variations in sentencing across the country. Currently Peterborough sends 12.1 per cent of young offenders to prison, which is twice the national average. In Newcastle-Upon-Tyne it is only one per cent. Sharon's role is to find out about the child's life and to assess their mental state, which can range from learning difficulties to as yet-undiagnosed psychosis.


TUE 21:30 The Accidental Volunteer (b00j5883)
Sian Pari Huws visits Rhayader in Mid Wales which seems to be run entirely by volunteers. Like many communities, it increasingly depends on such people for essential services.


TUE 21:58 Weather (b00l9s6x)
The latest weather forecast.


TUE 22:00 The World Tonight (b00l9s84)
National and international news and analysis with Roger Hearing.

Iraq's oil 'greed' backfires on 'Sovereignty Day'.

Why Britain's defence strategy needs to change.

The NHS is paying smokers to quit.


TUE 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00l9snt)
Georgina Harding - The Spy Game

Episode 7

Diana Quick reads the novel by Georgina Harding, set in 1960s England.

Ten-year-old Anna continues to watch more mysteries unfold. Issues that are simply too difficult to deal with are buried deeply in the harsh winter, but Anna glimpses something out of the corner of her eye that is truly shocking.

Abridged by Lauris Morgan Griffiths.


TUE 23:00 Mark Watson Makes the World Substantially Better (b00dhg7k)
Series 2

Humility

The comedian ponders the virtue of living more modestly. With poetry and songs by Tim Key and Tom Basden. From September 2008.


TUE 23:30 Today in Parliament (b00l9s9r)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with Susan Hulme.



WEDNESDAY 01 JULY 2009

WED 00:00 Midnight News (b00l99x0)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.


WED 00:30 Book of the Week (b00lf4cn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:45 on Tuesday]


WED 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00l99zv)
The latest shipping forecast.


WED 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00l9b2m)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.


WED 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00l9b16)
The latest shipping forecast.


WED 05:30 News Briefing (b00l9b3l)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


WED 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00l9b56)
Daily prayer and reflection with Dr Catherine Cowley.


WED 05:45 Farming Today (b00l9b6r)
Bendy cucumbers and knobbly carrots are now back on our shop shelves; EU rules preventing oddly-sized or misshapen fruit and vegetables being sold are being scrapped. This will apply to 26 products including cauliflowers, mushrooms and melons. At the moment, about 20 per cent of produce is rejected by stores across Europe because it fails to meet the current requirements. Anna Hill investigates the impact this will have on farmers and shoppers.

Also, we examine new proposals for strict controls on the growing of gentically modified crops in Wales.


WED 06:00 Today (b00l9b8t)
Presented by Evan Davis and Sarah Montague.

Peter Kessler, of the UN refugee agency UNHCR, explains why the organisation is assisting hundreds of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in the French port of Calais.

Former Shadow Home Secretary David Davis discusses the government's ID card scheme.

Hugh Robertson, of the Trade Union Congress, discusses a request for employers to be less rigid in their dress code rules.

Douglas Fraser, BBC Radio Scotland's business editor, explains the plans being drawn up for the possible closure of two navy shipyards.

The government will take control of the East Coast Mainline from National Express. Transport Secretary Lord Adonis explains the reasons behind the decision.

A 23-year-old girl explains why she started running away when she was ten.

Author William Boyd, who has written a short story about Green Park next to Buckingham Palace, takes a walk around the park with Evan Davis.

Thought for the Day with Vishvapani, a member of the Western Buddhist Order.

Media lawyer Geoffrey Robertson QC puts forward his argument for freedom of the press.

Tom Symonds and Norman Baker MP reflect on the government taking over the East Coast rail service. Transport expert Professor Stephen Glaister examines previous cases of the government intervening in the railways.

Bob Reitemeier, Chief Executive of the Children's Society, and Kevin Gosden, whose son Andrew ran away from home when he was 14 years old, discuss how those who run away from home can be assisted.

Economics editor Stephanie Flanders and Sir Stuart Rose, Executive Chairman of Marks and Spencer, discuss whether the recession is nearly over or is set to continue.

Journalist Isabel Hilton, who edits chinadialogue.net, discusses internet censorship in China.

The UK is currently in phase six of the swine flu pandemic, is likely to reach level three of a heat wave and the terror threat is 'severe'. Psychologist Professor Susan Michie and columnist Christopher Booker discuss.

Ray O'Toole, the new Chief Operating Officer of National Express, says that the company could continue to run the East Coast line.


WED 09:00 Midweek (b00lbky5)
Lively and diverse conversation with Libby Purves and guests Dan Edwardes, Yussuf Dayo Saqawa, Claire Phillips and Michael Rosen.

Dan Edwardes is a Freerunner. Also known as Parkour, it is the philosophy/physical fitness/urban art form which involves using the urban environment as a kind of gymnasium. A Cambridge graduate, he spent five years in Japan learning Katori Shinto Ryu, the oldest extant fighting art of Japan before training in Parkour in France. He now teaches it and established Parkour Generations and Parkour UK, the national governing body for the discipline in the UK. He is the author of The Parkour and Freerunning Handbook, published by Virgin Books.

Yussuf Dayo Saqawa has been a member of the Kenyan Boys Choir for 11 years. The choir is made up of 40 boys from several different tribes throughout Kenya and they recently sang at President Obama's Inauguration. Dayo has also helped to set up the Musical Arts Academia of Nairobi, an umbrella organisation of the Kenyan Boys Choir and other girls choirs to encourage children's choirs to grow and nuture new talent. Their new CD, Spirit of Africa is available on Universal.

Claire Phillips is a British artist and campaigner. She recently toured Death Rows across America, painting prisoners, their families, jurors and even an executioner in an attempt to humanise the death penalty. The exhibition The Human Face of Death Row is at the Oxo Gallery on London's Southbank, in association with the human rights charity Reprieve.

Michael Rosen is the author of over 140 books, and enjoys a successful and diverse career as a writer, poet and broadcaster. He most recently served as the fifth Children's Poet Laureate from 2007 to 2009. His best-selling 1989 picture book We're Going on a Bear Hunt has been adapted for the stage and runs for a limited season at the West End's Duchess Theatre.


WED 09:45 Book of the Week (b00lf4cr)
The Last Champion - The Life of Fred Perry

Wimbledon Glory

Jamie Bamber reads from Jon Henderson's biography of English tennis great Fred Perry, charting his extraordinary life from his childhood in Stockport to Wimbledon glory, the glamour of Hollywood and the founding of a clothing empire.

Perry dominates the game in the 1930s, winning the Wimbledon championship three times in succession.


WED 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00l9c5h)
Christiane Amanpour; Sex changes

Christiane Amanpour on reporting from conflict zones. Plus, comedy writer Jane Bussmann; and how important is our biology and our experiences in shaping our gender?


WED 11:00 Iran: A Revolutionary State (b00770cs)
Episode 3

John Tusa presents the last of three programmes chronicling the making of modern Iran. The fall of the Shah and the unstoppable rise of Ayatollah Khomeini led to the creation of the world's first Islamic republic. How has the nation adjusted to rule by clerics?


WED 11:30 Spread a Little Happiness (b00lbky7)
Series 1

Episode 6

Comedy by John Godber and Jane Thornton, set in a Yorkshire sandwich bar.

Hope is in great demand. If only all these people wanted to buy a sandwich, apart from the one that does.

Hope ...... Suranne Jones
Jodie ...... Susan Cookson
Dave ...... Neil Dudgeon
Gavin ...... Ralph Brown
Eve ...... Joanne Froggatt
Carrie ...... Elizabeth Godber
Ray ...... Shuan Prendergast

Directed by Chris Wallis.


WED 12:00 You and Yours (b00l9cjg)
Consumer news and issues with Winifred Robinson.


WED 12:57 Weather (b00l9clv)
The latest weather forecast.


WED 13:00 World at One (b00l9pxd)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.


WED 13:30 The Media Show (b00lbn9r)
Steve Hewlett presents a special session recorded live at the Radio Academy's Radio Festival in Nottingham.

All the industry's key players are in attendance, and topics up for discussion include the switchover from analogue radio to digital, BBC executive pay, the future of Radio 1 and 2, competition between the BBC and commercial radio stations, and how audiences will be listening to radio in the future - or possibly watching it. Steve's panel includes BBC Director of Audio and Music Tim Davie and veteran broadcaster Paul Gambaccini.


WED 14:00 The Archers (b00l9r7d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Tuesday]


WED 14:15 Drama (b00lg4c7)
Torchwood

Asylum

When PC Andy arrests a teenager for shoplifting, he thinks it's going to be a routine case. Then he sees the weapon she's carrying and decides to call in Torchwood. Under questioning from Gwen, the girl remembers her name but little else, and when she speaks it's in a strange mix of English and Scandinavian but with a Cardiff accent. Then the girl's blood tests come through and the team is faced with a dilemma.

Jack ... John Barrowman
Gwen ... Eve Myles
Ianto ... Gareth David-Lloyd
PC Andy ... Tom Price
Freda ... Erin Richards
Security Guard ... Matthew Gravelle
Policewoman ... Sara McGaughey
Dog Walker ... Dick Bradnum
Girl ... Isabel Lewis

Writer: Anita Sullivan
Sound Design: Nigel Lewis
Director: Kate McAll
BBC Cymru Wales.


WED 15:00 Money Box Live (b00lbn9w)
Paul Lewis and a panel of guests answer calls on financial issues.


WED 15:30 Sana Krasikov - One More Year (b00lbq2j)
Companion

Ilona Siegal left conflict-riven Georgia in the hopes of a brighter future in America. Read by Sian Thomas.


WED 15:45 America, Empire of Liberty (b00l9rkc)
The Information Revolution

Series charting the history of America, written and presented by David Reynolds.

The personal computer breaks into the mainstream, demonstrating the flexibility and ingenuity of the American economy.


WED 16:00 Thinking Allowed (b00lbn9y)
Medically Unexplained Symptoms - Lesbian Motherhood

From dizziness to chronic pain, the overstretched health service is faced with increasing numbers of patients with symptoms that defy a medical explanation. They are often subject to repeated tests and treatment yet their illness persists. Laurie Taylor is joined by Monica Greco, whose research suggests the practice of patient choice ensures that many such patients get worse rather than better.

Also on the programme, Róisín Ryan-Flood, the author of Lesbian Motherhood: Gender, Families and Sexual Citizenship, talks about the growing numbers of lesbians choosing to have children by donor insemination and the evolution of new definitions of family.


WED 16:30 All in the Mind (b00lbhtw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 21:00 on Tuesday]


WED 17:00 PM (b00l9rps)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.


WED 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00l9rv5)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


WED 18:30 Look Away Now (b00lbnb0)
Series 3

Episode 1

Garry Richardson presents a topical comedy show looking at the week's sporting news, featuring sketches, spoof interviews, highly inexpert analysis and music.

With Laurence Howarth, Richie Webb, Dave Lamb, Miles Jupp, Katherine Jakeways and special guests.

Garry interviews controversial South African rugby coach Peter De Villiers to determine whether the Springboks' tactics are 'illegal'.

He also asks England star Kevin Pietersen how he is preparing for the Ashes and investigates the murky world of match fixing with a betting syndicate's Mr Big.

And correspondent Dave Lamb goes to Wimbledon to meet one of the Championship's unheralded heroes, the Hawkeye system - with disastrous results.


WED 19:00 The Archers (b00l9r7g)
While ringing the young barn owls, Charlie, the bird expert confirms that Pip is appropriately licensed. Pip's pleased they have a good chance of survival.

Neil tells Adam that Mike sees the Dower House lights on when he starts his round. They wouldn't like to speculate on what Matt's up to.

Eddie and Bert will help out while David and Ruth are at the Royal and Phil's happy to help at the show. While halter training the Herefords, Ruth tells Pip that Alan and Usha have just had their first big row. Pip knows only too well that every marriage has its arguments - it's how you get over them that matters.

Neil wonders if Shula would help with the mobile belfry at the fete. Alistair thinks they'll be too busy with Jim once Alistair's been to fetch him on Friday, especially as Jim's sold his car. He wants one that's suitable for the wilds of Ambridge.

Adam's anxious to get on with cricket practice. Alistair feels that Adam keeps undermining him and is considering stepping down as captain. David thinks the prospect of two days driving to collect Jim is bringing Alistair down. Alistair wishes it was just the driving.

Episode written by Adrian Flynn.


WED 19:15 Front Row (b00l9rzc)
Arts news and reviews.

Michael Nyman, the composer of the soundtrack to the Oscar-nominated film The Piano, has been commissioned to write a piece for the 2009 Proms, a festival he has been conspicuously absent from until now. John Wilson talks to him about the long wait for the Proms and what the process of composition involves.

Philip Hoare has been announced as the winner of this year's Samuel Johnson Prize for Non-Fiction for his book Leviathan, or The Whale, about his life-long obsession with whales, inspired by the literary classic Moby Dick. Philip Hoare joins John Wilson live in the studio.

William Boyd, Anthony Horowitz and Georgia Fitch join John Wilson to discuss creating new plays specifically for and about young people as part of the New Connections Festival, run annually by the National Theatre.

Over 200 school and youth theatre groups from all over the UK and Ireland have produced twelve specially commissioned new works by playwrights including David Mamet and Anthony Neilson, each of which will be staged at the National Theatre over seven days.

The curators of a new exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London include Elton John, Billie Jean King, Ian McKellen, Sarah Waters and Sandi Toksvig. Gay Icons explores gay social and cultural history through the personal insights of ten high-profile gay figures, who have selected their historical and modern icons. Philip Hensher reviews the exhibition.


WED 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00lb30n)
Sarah Dunant - Sacred Hearts

Ecstasy

Dramatisation of the novel by Sarah Dunant, set in a convent in Renaissance Italy, where a young woman has been placed against her will.

At The Feast of St Agnes, Serafina sings for the first time and is rewarded by an unexpected voice from the audience.

Abbess ...... Eileen Atkins
Zuana ...... Geraldine James
Serafina ...... Natalie Dormer
Letizia ...... Ayesha Antoine
Magdalene ...... Helen Ryan

Dramtised by Rachel Joyce.

The music has been specially recorded by Musica Secreta, available on the CD Sacred Hearts, Secret Music.

A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4.


WED 20:00 Moral Maze (b00lbnb2)
Michael Buerk chairs a debate on the moral questions behind the week's news. Claire Fox, Melanie Phillips, Clifford Longley and Kenan Malik cross-examine witnesses.

The question of the future of Trident, Britain's nuclear weapons system, is back on the agenda. In straightened times, it seems that people are starting to worry about the 20 billion pound cost. During the debate on the pros and cons, we've heard about the financial, diplomatic, military and political arguments. By contrast we have heard little about the moral arguments for retention or rejection.

In a world where there's a real prospect of Iran and North Korea getting nuclear weapons and with the Taliban making a concerted effort to unseat the Pakistan government, have we come to accept that having a nuclear deterrent is a necessary evil? Does possessing nuclear weapons and threatening their use undermine our moral authority in the world?

And why don't we hear the principled argument that in any and all circumstances, the use of a nuclear weapons would be immoral?

Witnesses:

Rebecca Johnson
Director of the Acronym Institute for Disarmament Diplomacy

Mike Clarke
Commissioner on the Shared Responsibilities report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and the Director of the Royal United Services Institute

Bruce Kent
Honorary Vice-President for the CND, Vice-President for Pax Christi and Veteran campaigner

Professor David Conway
Senior Research Fellow, CIVITAS.


WED 20:45 Dave's Friends in the North (b00lbnb4)
Episode 1

Anne McElvoy examines whether the Conservatives can shake off their southern image in order to win a general election.

As a native north-easterner, Anne remembers the animosity toward the Conservative Party in the north during the Thatcher era. But now the Tories have set their sights on a revival in the north as a means of clinching an election victory.

In this programme, Anne asks why Cameron's Tories need the north. She argues that it goes beyond a blunt electoral need to win back seats held under Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s. Cameron wants to be a One Nation Tory, so this is also a matter of culture and credibility.

But is forging a One Nation party a losing battle, particularly for a leader based firmly in a metropolitan elite? Or could he emulate that other well-heeled public school southerner, Harold Macmillan, who used his Stockton seat as a launchpad to power by identifying with the north?

Interviewees include William Hague, Michael Gove, Alan Duncan, Hazel Blears, Nick Clegg and Professor John Curtice.


WED 21:00 The Greening of the Deserts (b00lbsbq)
Episode 2

Ayisha Yahya explores predictions from some scientists and meteorologists that some deserts, including the Sahara, could get greener in the future and experience more rainfall.

Ayisha visits the Egyptian settlement of Abu Minqar, which is entirely dependent on water from the ancient Nubian aquifer.

Faced with ever-growing population pressure in the fertile Nile delta, and the possibility that, according to some scenarios of global warming, much of the delta may be inundated by rising sea levels, scientists in Egypt are experimenting with high-tech techniques to make the desert bloom.

Satellite and radar imaging have enabled ancient groundwater in the deserts to be identified and tapped. Using water pumped from the aquifer deep below the sand, thousands of acres of the Saharan desert have been cultivated. The Egyptian government is keen to encourage people to move to the desert by pressing ahead with a controversial plan to reclaim millions more acres of desert over the next 10 years. But is such a plan practical or sustainable?


WED 21:30 Midweek (b00lbky5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


WED 21:58 Weather (b00l9s6z)
The latest weather forecast.


WED 22:00 The World Tonight (b00l9s86)
National and international news and analysis with David Eades.

The government takes its east coast train set back; does franchising really work?

Buenos Aires is put under swine flu 'curfew'.

China's filtering software is trashed, to the delight of its 'netizens'.


WED 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00l9snw)
Georgina Harding - The Spy Game

Episode 8

Diana Quick reads the novel by Georgina Harding, set in 1960s England.

After the shocking discovery of Sarah Cahn's suicide, Peter steps up his investigation into the mystery of his mother's disappearance. His actions place him in danger, and Anna, as his unwilling accomplice, is put in a difficult position. Their father is forced to talk about their mother's death, but will the answers that he gives be convincing enough?

Abridged by Lauris Morgan Griffiths.


WED 23:00 Bespoken Word (b00lbsh0)
Performance poetry series. Featuring a reading by Adrian Mitchell, who died in 2008, of an updated version of his poem To Whom It May Concern, recorded in the last year of his life. Plus an appearance by performance poet Mister Gee.


WED 23:15 Strangers on Trains (b00dgjgd)
Episode 4

Lone male travellers share their secret feelings about 'home'. With Nat Segnit and Stewart Wright. From August 2008.


WED 23:30 Today in Parliament (b00l9s9t)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with David Wilby.



THURSDAY 02 JULY 2009

THU 00:00 Midnight News (b00l99x2)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.


THU 00:30 Book of the Week (b00lf4cr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:45 on Wednesday]


THU 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00l99zx)
The latest shipping forecast.


THU 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00l9b2p)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.


THU 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00l9b18)
The latest shipping forecast.


THU 05:30 News Briefing (b00l9b3n)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


THU 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00l9b58)
Daily prayer and reflection with Dr Catherine Cowley.


THU 05:45 Farming Today (b00l9b6t)
Farmers across the country fear they are facing another mapping fiasco. The Rural Payments Agency is in the process of issuing new maps, which are used as part of the calculation as to how much subsidy - the single farm payment - each farmer gets. Last time this happened, in 2005, problems with the maps led to massive delays in payments.

This time, just 10 per cent of the maps have been issued, but hundreds of farmers say there are serious mistakes. Charlotte Smith talks to farmers about their concerns and asks the Rural Payments Agency what they are doing to find a solution.


THU 06:00 Today (b00l9b8w)
Presented by John Humphrys and Sarah Montague.

Foreign Office Minister Chris Bryant discusses whether schools should play a greater preventative role in identifying signs of forced marriages.

Phil Bell, of Classic Cars magazine, discusses the models that could be at risk due to the government's car scrappage scheme.

Correspondent Richard Westcott joins pupils from Gryphon school, a comprehensive in Sherborne, as they complete work on a feature film.

Writer Beryl Bainbridge discusses libraries as librarians from all over the UK meet to discuss how they can make them better.

The 'great train robber' Ronnie Biggs has been refused parole by Justice Secretary Jack Straw. Jeff Edwards, of the Crime Reporters' Association, discusses why Mr Straw has accused Mr Biggs of 'outrageously court[ing] the media'. Ronnie Biggs' son, Michael, explains why he believes his father should be released.

Actress Mollie Sugden has died at the age of 86, her agent has said. The TV star, best known for playing Mrs Slocombe in long-running BBC sitcom Are You Being Served?, died at the Royal Surrey Hospital after a long illness.

Arts correspondent Rebecca Jones visits the exhibition It Felt Like a Kiss by documentary filmmaker Adam Curtis.

Thought for the Day with Reverend Dr Giles Fraser, Vicar of Putney.

Correspondent Jack Izzard reports on the problems of the young unemployed in Swindon. Professor Richard Pring reflects on why nearly one million 16 to 24-year-olds are not in employment, education or training in England.

The partial sell-off of Royal Mail will not proceed in the current circumstances, Lord Mandelson has said. BBC editors Robert Peston and Nick Robinson reflect on the current interpolation between business and politics.

Journalist Kelvin Mackenzie and DAB promoter Tony Moretta discuss if digital radio is better than analogue.

The US army says it has launched a major offensive against the Taliban in southern Afghanistan's Helmand province. Correspondent Martin Patience reports on what events have taken place overnight.

The prime minister's plans to tackle youth unemployment are forming a central part of the launch of the government's 'Building Britain's Future' campaign. Former MPC member Professor Danny Blanchflower discusses.

Children at a school in Exeter have been banned from wearing goggles during their swimming lessons. Olympic gold medallist Duncan Goodhew and Glen Balmont, of the Association for Physical Education, discuss if health and safety has gone too far.

Student maintenance grants and loans in England will be frozen for the academic year 2010-2011. Wes Streeting, of the National Union of Students, discusses the government's decision.

Self-help books have been the big publishing success of the past couple of decades but it is not just a recent phenomenon. Radio 4 documentary maker Kate Williams discusses if people have always looked to literature for assistance.


THU 09:00 In Our Time (b00lbsj3)
Logical Positivism

Melvyn Bragg discusses Logical Positivism, the eye-wateringly radical early 20th century philosophical movement. The Logical Positivists argued that much previous philosophy was built on very shaky foundations, and they wanted to go right back to the drawing board. They insisted that philosophy - and science - had to be much more rigorous before it started making grand claims about the world. The movement began with the Vienna Circle, a group of philosophically-trained scientists and scientifically-trained philosophers, who met on Thursdays, in 'Red Vienna', in the years after the First World War. They were trying to remould philosophy in a world turned upside down not just by war, but by major advances in science. Their hero was not Descartes or Hegel but Albert Einstein. The group's new doctrine rejected great swathes of earlier philosophy, from meditations on the existence of God to declarations on the nature of History, as utterly meaningless. When the Nazis took power, they fled to England and America, where their ideas put down new roots, and went on to have a profound impact.Melvyn is joined by Barry Smith, Professor of Philosophy at the University of London; Nancy Cartwright, Professor of Philosophy at the London School of Economics; and Thomas Uebel, Professor of Philosophy at Manchester University.


THU 09:45 Book of the Week (b00lf4ct)
The Last Champion - The Life of Fred Perry

Hollywood Glamour

Jamie Bamber reads from Jon Henderson's biography of English tennis great Fred Perry, charting his extraordinary life from his childhood in Stockport to Wimbledon glory, the glamour of Hollywood and the founding of a clothing empire.

Perry's off-court encounters attract attention, as he is seen out on the town with the stars of the day, including Bette Davis, Loretta Young and Marlene Dietrich.


THU 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00l9c5k)
Zoe Heller and Esther Freud

Zoe Heller and Esther Freud on unlikeable characters in fiction. Plus, treating headaches; hunger strikes as a political tool; and dressing for hot weather.


THU 11:00 From Our Own Correspondent (b00lbsj5)
Kate Adie introduces reports from BBC foreign correspondents, telling the stories behind the world's headlines.

Featuring the story of a central American president woken at dawn by soldiers and told he is out of a job. Plus dispatches from Italy, Indonesia, and from the road to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain.


THU 11:30 The Grandfather of Self Help (b00lbt3p)
Historian Kate Williams investigates the success and lasting legacy of Samuel Smiles' 1859 book Self Help.

It outsold both Darwin's On the Origin of Species and Mill's On Liberty, also published that year, and gave birth to the idea that we can all achieve greatness through the application of sheer hard work.

Kate finds out if it contains a message for our own times, examines its enduring popularity and meets some of those who have been influenced by its ideas, including former politician Michael Portillo, who also reveals the book's influence on Margaret Thatcher.


THU 12:00 You and Yours (b00l9cjj)
Consumer news and issues with Winifred Robinson.


THU 12:57 Weather (b00l9clx)
The latest weather forecast.


THU 13:00 World at One (b00l9pxg)
National and international news with Martha Kearney.


THU 13:30 Off the Page (b00lbt3r)
Falling on Your Sword

Has something happened to the ideas of honour, dignity, duty and virtue? Are people less willing to fall on their swords than they used to do? Is it admirable, anyway, to admit defeat?

Political journalist Anthony Howard, author and broadcaster Anne Atkins and journalist Toby Young join Dominic Arkwright to explore the subject through their writing.

Producer: Beatrice Fenton.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2009.


THU 14:00 The Archers (b00l9r7g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Wednesday]


THU 14:15 Drama (b00lg4nq)
Torchwood

Golden Age

By James Goss. On the trail of a dangerous energy field, Torchwood are led to Delhi. As the energy field grows once more, they witness the simultaneous disappearance of hundreds of people. Jack discovers that the field centres on an old colonial mansion - Torchwood India. Shocked to find that Torchwood India is still going strong - he shut it down himself over 80 years ago - he's even more surprised to find that its members, including his old flame the Duchess, haven't aged a day.

Jack ..... John Barrowman
Gwen ..... Eve Myles
Ianto ..... Gareth David-Lloyd
The Duchess ..... Jasmine Hyde
Mr Daz ..... Amerjit Dew
Mahajan ..... Ravin J Ganatra
Gissing ..... Richard Mitchley

Writer: James Goss
Sound Design: Nigel Lewis
Director: Kate McAll
BBC Cymru Wales.


THU 15:00 Ramblings (b00l92sc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:07 on Saturday]


THU 15:27 Radio 4 Appeal (b00l97z3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:55 on Sunday]


THU 15:30 Sana Krasikov - One More Year (b00lbq2l)
The Repatriates

After years in America, Grisha and Lera return to Moscow, but find Russia has changed beyond recognition. Read by Sian Thomas.


THU 15:45 America, Empire of Liberty (b00l9rkf)
'Tear Down This Wall'

Series charting the history of America, written and presented by David Reynolds.

The first President Bush responds pragmatically to the dramatic events of 1989, when the Berlin Wall falls and the Chinese government cracks down on student protesters in Tiananmen Square.


THU 16:00 Open Book (b00l99mh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Sunday]


THU 16:30 Material World (b00lbt3w)
Quentin Cooper Reports from the Royal Society's Summer Science Exhibition.

Pupils from the Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys describe some of their experiments: real physics research while studying for A-Levels. Teacher Dr Becky Parker discusses how all 6th form physics departments could be as successful as hers.

Ecologists of the Evolution Megalab appeal for people to go out and count snails to help them with their international investigations into climate change and predation.

The vets of the Royal Veterinary College teach students what to feel for up a cow's rear end - James Herriot style - using advanced virtual-reality computer simulation.

Also, as the summer air starts to get a bit hazy, researchers from Imperial College demonstrate the next generation of small mobile air-quality detectors for monitoring traffic fumes.


THU 17:00 PM (b00l9rpv)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.


THU 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00l9rv7)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


THU 18:30 Mark Thomas: The Manifesto (b00lbt3y)
Series 1

Episode 2

The renowned comedian and activist tries to shape policies, including honesty for politicians and truthful ads. From July 2009.


THU 19:00 The Archers (b00l9r7j)
Kenton congratulates Brenda on getting a 2:1 degree. He wants her thoughts on his plans for Jaxx. Brenda thinks the chilled music, tapas and cocktails sound good but he should also keep his "bellybuster breakfast". Kenton's convinced that Kathy will be pleased when it all works out and Kenton gets a pay rise and better holidays.

Vicky's just put her flat on the market and now she's ready to shop with a vengeance. She tries some outrageous wedding dresses. Brenda tries hard to be tactful but it's clear what Vicky's set her heart on. She chooses the one that draws the most attention to her bust. She's even found a similar style outfit for Brenda, who quickly assures her she's already sorted. Vicky's really touched that Brenda's thinking ahead to the big day and thanks her with a big kiss and hug.

Lilian's shocked to learn that Matt's cutting himself off from everyone, not just her. Brian and Adam think Matt's behaviour seems strange and Brian's still concerned about Matt's talk of ending things in the car. Brian regrets not picking up the signals with Greg and thinks it's time someone found out if Matt's feeling the same way.

Episode written by Adrian Flynn.


THU 19:15 Front Row (b00l9rzf)
Arts news and reviews with Kirsty Lang.

Jo Brand, Vicki Pepperdine and Joanna Scanlan reveal how they researched, devised and performed Getting On, a three-part comedy drama about nursing the elderly for BBC 4's old age season, Grey Expectations.

Beardyman is a beatboxer who combines his vocal skills with a comic approach, performing routines in the guise of everything from a television cook to a nutty professor. He tells Kirsty how he is using pioneering technology to create new ways of beatboxing, and performs live in the studio.

The current pop charts are awash with young British female artists: Little Boots, Florence and the Machine and La Roux are all fronted by women and have albums out now. Kirsty is joined by music critic Alexis Petridis to review the albums and examine the trend for female domination of the top twenty.

Dinosaurs are making a comeback to earth in a new arena spectacular touring Britain, starting in Glasgow. Inspired by the BBC television series 'Walking with Dinosaurs', the show involves fifteen life-size animatronic dinosaurs representing ten different species sharing the stage with a human narrator, who plays a palaeontologist called Huxley. Writer Denise Mina saw the show.


THU 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00lb30q)
Sarah Dunant - Sacred Hearts

Fever

Dramatisation of the novel by Sarah Dunant, set in a convent in Renaissance Italy, where a young woman has been placed against her will.

While the convent is hit by fever, Serafina begins to make her plans for escape.

Abbess ...... Eileen Atkins
Zuana ...... Geraldine James
Serafina ...... Natalie Dormer
Umiliana ...... Sian Thomas
Letizia ...... Ayesha Antoine

Dramtised by Rachel Joyce.

The music has been specially recorded by Musica Secreta, available on the CD Sacred Hearts, Secret Music.

A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4.


THU 20:00 Law in Action (b00lbgtc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Tuesday]


THU 20:30 The Bottom Line (b00lbt40)
You spend your life trying to get to the top in business. Then, when you do, you get driven to meetings, enjoy a wonderful expense account and all the perks of the job. But how do you stay in touch with the people on the shop floor? Evan Davis asks his top-rung guests to divulge how much time they spend with those on the bottom rung, and how important they think it is for the success of their business.

Evan's guests are Carolyn McCall, chief executive of the Guardian Media Group, Patrick Dempsey of Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants and Peter Taylor, managing partner of leading private equity group Duke Street.


THU 21:00 Leading Edge (b00lbt42)
Public Engagement with Science

As international science journalists meet in London for the sixth World Congress of Science Journalists, Geoff Watts examines progress towards greater public engagement with science.

He talks about the issues facing the profession with editor of New Scientist magazine, Roger Highfield, and director of the Science Media Centre, Fiona Fox, who was also one of the organisers of the Congress. Some of the questions they discuss are whether all science journalists should have a science degree, and the role of science journalists in the reporting of controversial issues such as the MMR vaccine debate.

Geoff interviews Fred Kavli, one of the new entrepreneurs who have put much of their wealth back into science and technology. Fred trained as a physicist in his native Norway and is now in his early 80s. He made his money in the US in companies that make sensors. His most recent venture has been to found the Kavli Prizes, which are intended to complement those of his better-known Scandinavian predecessor, Alfred Nobel.

Goeff also talks to a prize-winning science fiction writer, Paul McAuley, who also worked as a scientist for more than a decade. They discuss the role of science fiction in giving the public an image of science fact.


THU 21:30 In Our Time (b00lbsj3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


THU 21:58 Weather (b00l9s73)
The latest weather forecast.


THU 22:00 The World Tonight (b00l9s88)
National and international news and analysis with David Eades in London and Robin Lustig in Mexico City.

The government predicts that swine flu could spread rapidly.

A major US military offensive in Afghanistan.

California goes broke.

The first of Robin Lustig's special reports from Mexico.


THU 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00l9sny)
Georgina Harding - The Spy Game

Episode 9

Diana Quick reads the novel by Georgina Harding, set in 1960s England.

Anna's quest to find the truth about her mother continues into adulthood and she decides to visit her mother's birthplace, Kaliningrad, to seek answers.

Abridged by Lauris Morgan Griffiths.


THU 23:00 Look Away Now (b00lbnb0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:30 on Wednesday]


THU 23:30 Today in Parliament (b00l9s9w)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with David Wilby.



FRIDAY 03 JULY 2009

FRI 00:00 Midnight News (b00l99x4)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.


FRI 00:30 Book of the Week (b00lf4ct)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:45 on Thursday]


FRI 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b00l99zz)
The latest shipping forecast.


FRI 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b00l9b2r)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.


FRI 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b00l9b1b)
The latest shipping forecast.


FRI 05:30 News Briefing (b00l9b3q)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.


FRI 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b00l9b5b)
Daily prayer and reflection with Dr Catherine Cowley.


FRI 05:45 Farming Today (b00l9b6w)
Charlotte Smith finds out more about a possible new threat to beekeeping. As colonies throughout the UK suffer the effects of the varroa mite, another potentially devastating insect may eventually make it to the UK. The small hive beetle has already killed thousands of colonies in Africa, America and Australia, and plans are already underway to prevent this insect spreading in the UK.

Plus, more farmers say that the maps their subsidies are based on are inaccurate. We hear how some landowners say the maps are so out of date they may have been drawn up during WW2.


FRI 06:00 Today (b00l9b8y)
Presented by John Humphrys and James Naughtie.

Labour Chairman of the Health Committee Kevin Barron discusses how ten per cent of people who go into hospital get harmed in some way.

Correspondent Jack Izzard talks to one woman about the effect that giving evidence in court had on her son. NSPCC lawyer Barbara Esan also talks about the effects of the current system on children.

Nick Ravenscroft reports on a modern twist to architecture and music, three centuries apart.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society is warning about the dangers of increasing numbers of us buying Tamiflu online without a prescription. Director of Policy David Pruce says how most Tamiflu on the internet is probably fake and how there is plenty available through GPs.

Lawyer Ayesha Vardag discusses prenuptial agreements and bringing the UK in line with the rest of Europe.

Professor Tim Coulson discusses whether scientists believe that global warming has led sheep to become smaller.

The war memoirs of Spike Milligan are being staged at the Bristol Old Vic. Adolf Hitler: My Part In His Downfall charts the comedy and tragedy of Gunner Milligan's service in WWII. Be warned: it contains barrack room humour. Correspondent Nicola Stanbridge reports from the rehearsals.

Thought for the Day with Catherine Pepinster, editor of The Tablet.

Ian Pannell reports from Afghanistan, where he is embedded with US troops.

A council which was the first to try to prosecute a mother for using a false address to get her son into a popular state school has dropped its case.

Buzz Aldrin was the second man to step foot on the surface of the moon in July 1969. Forty years on from the Apollo 11 mission to the moon we take you back to when President Richard Nixon spoke to Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong. Buzz Aldrin also talks about his new book, 'Magnificent Desolation'.

The Chief Executive of Luton and Dunstable Hospital, Stephen Ramsden discusses the concerns about the quality of patient care and what can be done about it with the Chairman of the Consultants' Committee of the British Medical Association, Jonathan Fielden.

Simon Hoggart of The Guardian discusses the rulings on how far a member of parliament may go in calling another member a liar.

Rajesh Mirchandani reports on how the budget deficit in California has prompted Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to declare a fiscal emergency.

Sarah Rainsford reports on how Iranian people may be increasingly frightened to speak out.

Can superstition help Andy Murray to become the first British player for 71 years to reach a Wimbledon final? Olympic medal-winning canoeist Helen Reeves and sports psychologist Dr Victor Thompson discuss whether superstition can do more harm than good.


FRI 09:00 Desert Island Discs (b00l97zh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 on Sunday]


FRI 09:45 Book of the Week (b00lf4cw)
The Last Champion - The Life of Fred Perry

The Founding of A Clothing Empire

Jamie Bamber reads from Jon Henderson's biography of English tennis great Fred Perry, charting his extraordinary life from his childhood in Stockport to Wimbledon glory, the glamour of Hollywood and the founding of a clothing empire.

Perry faces life after tennis and finds success as a businessman.


FRI 10:00 Woman's Hour (b00l9c5m)
Neonatal intensive care; Tennis mixed doubles

Communication concerns in neonatal intensive care units. Plus, mixed tennis etiquette; Marine Le Pen evaluated; and the enduring appeal of Laura Ashley and the country house look.


FRI 11:00 Three Rivers (b00lc66g)
The Mersey

Hardeep Singh Kohli travels from source to sea of three major rivers that are being regenerated after years of neglect and industrial use.

Hardeep begins his journey along the Mersey beside the River Goyt in the Peak District, the main tributary of the Mersey. He visits Stockport, which is the official beginning of the Mersey, and spots the plaque which announces that fact hidden behind a Sainsbury's store. From there, Hardeep ventures on to the Manchester Ship Canal and eventually reaches Liverpool's Albert Dock.

A Ladbroke Radio production for BBC Radio 4.


FRI 11:30 Electric Ink (b011vmd9)
Series 1

Episode 5

While Freddy introduces buzzwords to the paper, Maddox uncovers a top story about the Prime Minister, will the story be spiked?

Old hacks meet new media in Alistair Beaton’s satire set in the changing world of the newspaper industry.

Maddox ...... Robert Lindsay
Oliver ...... Alex Jennings
Amelia ...... Elizabeth Berrington
Tasneem ...... Zita Sattar
Masha ...... Debbie Chazen
Freddy ...... Ben Willbond
Announcer ...... Matt Addis
PM’s Wife ...... Janice Acquah

With additional material by Tom Mitchelson.

Director: Sally Avens

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2009.


FRI 12:00 You and Yours (b00l9cjl)
Consumer news and issues with Peter White.


FRI 12:57 Weather (b00l9clz)
The latest weather forecast.


FRI 13:00 World at One (b00l9pxj)
National and international news with Shaun Ley.


FRI 13:30 Feedback (b00lc9fc)
Roger Bolton airs listeners' views on BBC radio programmes and policy, including:

Has 5live's coverage of Wimbledon focused too much on the action around the tennis courts, as opposed to on it?

Was the coverage of the death of Michael Jackson too extensive?

And just how fantastic was weather forecaster Tomasz Schafernaker's slip of the tongue when he tried to describe the muddy site of Glastonbury?


FRI 14:00 The Archers (b00l9r7j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Thursday]


FRI 14:15 Drama (b00lg4vz)
Torchwood

The Dead Line

When a Cardiff Hospital is inundated with patients who have fallen into coma-like trances, Torchwood move in to investigate. The trances appear to have been triggered by phone calls, all received on retro phones and made from a number that hasn't been active for over 30 years. Determined to find out who's been calling the unfortunate victims, Jack rings the mysterious number - two, oh, five, nine - nothing. It's a dead line. Until, it calls Jack back.....

Jack ... John Barrowman
Gwen ... Eve Myles
Ianto ... Gareth David-Lloyd
Rhys ... Kai Owen
Stella .... Dona Croll
Jan ... Eiry Thomas
Bob .. Matthew Gravelle
Tyler ... Brendan Charleson

Writer: Phil Ford
Sound Design: Nigel Lewis
Director: Kate McAll
BBC Cymru Wales.


FRI 15:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b00lcksx)
Peter Gibbs chairs the popular horticultural forum.

Anne Swithinbank, John Cushnie and Matthew Wilson answer questions posed by gardeners in East Sussex.

Including Gardening weather forecast.


FRI 15:45 America, Empire of Liberty (b00l9rkh)
'A New World Order'?

Series charting the history of America, written and presented by David Reynolds.

A swift victory in Iraq points to a new international consensus, but the failure to remove Saddam Hussein from power sows the seeds of future conflict.


FRI 16:00 Last Word (b00lcksz)
Matthew Bannister talks to writer Carla Lane, to Trevor Bannister who played the young salesman Mr Lucas and to the creator of Are You Being Served? and writer and actor Jeremy Lloyd about the actress Mollie Sugden; to the wine writer Jancis Robinson about the wine maker Jean (Johnny) Hugel; to regulars at the Sun Inn pub Gary Seymour and Mark Haslam, local representative of the Campaign for Real Ale, and to Jeremy Paxman who remembers visiting the pub owned by landlady Florence (Flossie) Lane; to the doctor of the England Football team Ian Beesley and to the current director of Sports Science at the University Tim Cable about sports scientist Prof Tom Reilly; and to Attila the Stockbroker, who pays tribute to his friend and fellow ranting poet Steven Wells.


FRI 16:30 The Film Programme (b00lclqx)
Director Michael Mann discusses his gangster movie Public Enemies, starring Johnny Depp as John Dillinger. Thelma Schoonmaker talks about the resoration of The Red Shoes, which was directed by her husband Michael Powell. Plus Taxi Driver writer Paul Schrader on the art of screenwriting.


FRI 17:00 PM (b00l9rpx)
Full coverage and analysis of the day's news with Eddie Mair. Plus Weather.


FRI 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b00l9rv9)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by Weather.


FRI 18:30 The Now Show (b00lclwj)
Series 28

Episode 2

Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis present a satirical review of the week's news, with help from Mitch Benn, Laura Shavin, Jon Holmes and Marcus Brigstocke.


FRI 19:00 The Archers (b00l9r7l)
Brian calls on Matt on his way to see Perry Stonehouse, whom Matt knows. When Brian notices the lack of pictures on the walls Matt becomes evasive. Brian wants to know if Matt's going to contact Lilian. But on learning that Perry's no longer with the fine art dealer, Matt just wants Brian to leave.

Elizabeth doesn't think Shula and Alistair will see much of Jim, as he's got his own place. Shula wishes she could believe that. She's helping with the mobile belfry at the fete, to keep out of his way. There are still very few applicants for the plinth. Robert has joked about inviting Anthony Gormley to raise interest.

It was self-evident where everything had to go at Blossom Hill Cottage so Jim can't understand why Shula's had his desk put in the study - it's obvious it should be in the living room.

Jim shares his delight at learning about the minutiae of village life from Susan. Alistair and Shula thought he'd like a quiet night after the journey but Jim's decided he'll join them at the Stables, to celebrate his move. Although it's early days, Jim can feel that Ambridge is going to suit him very well.

Episode written by Adrian Flynn.


FRI 19:15 Front Row (b00l9rzh)
Arts news and reviews with Mark Lawson.

Mark Lawson reports from Manchester at the opening of the city's International Festival.

Singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright talks to Mark during rehearsals for Prima Donna, his debut opera about a troubled soprano attempting to revive her career with a return to the stage. Wainwright considers the lessons he's learned so far from his move into the opera house.

The German electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk opened the Festival at the Manchester Velodrome with a concert which also featured a quartet of British Olympic gold-medal winning cyclists, who rode round the track while the band played their song Tour de France. Andy McCluskey, from the band Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, reviews the event, which also included a new work from composer Steve Reich.

Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller has created a vast parade which will take to the streets of Manchester. Deller's Procession includes a musical celebration of the world's first fish and chip shop and a steel band playing songs by Joy Division and The Buzzcocks, along with cheerleaders, sporting mascots, ramblers and other representatives of the city's culture, past and present.

'This show is not suitable for people of a nervous disposition' warns the publicity for It Felt Like A Kiss, a collaboration between theatre group Punchdrunk, documentary film-maker Adam Curtis and musician Damon Albarn, staged in a deserted office block. Adam Curtis discusses how the show affects its audience and whether it aims to shock.


FRI 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b00lb30s)
Sarah Dunant - Sacred Hearts

Carnival

Dramatisation of the novel by Sarah Dunant, set in a convent in Renaissance Italy, where a young woman has been placed against her will.

The convent celebrates the long-awaited carnival, but where is Serafina?

Abbess ...... Eileen Atkins
Zuana ...... Geraldine James
Serafina ...... Natalie Dormer
Umiliana ...... Sian Thomas
Letizia ...... Ayesha Antoine

Dramtised by Rachel Joyce.

The music has been specially recorded by Musica Secreta, available on the CD Sacred Hearts, Secret Music.

A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4.


FRI 20:00 Any Questions? (b00lcm65)
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs the topical debate in Cranleigh in Surrey. Panellists are historians Linda Colley and Andrew Roberts, columnist Rod Liddle and writer Will Self.


FRI 20:50 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00lcmcq)
Series 1

Songsters

Humans aren't the only species who sing. Many birds do and even another ape.

What messages are conveyed in the syllables, melodies and repeated phrases, and who is listening?

Series of talks by Sir David Attenborough on the natural histories of creatures and plants from around the world.

Produce: Julian Hector

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2009.


FRI 21:00 America, Empire of Liberty Omnibus (b00lcntn)
Revolution and Democracy

Omnibus edition of the series charting the history of America, written and presented by David Reynolds.

America's power rises once again in the 1980s as the Iron Curtain crumbles and technological changes bring the world closer together, ushering in a new phase in international relations.


FRI 21:58 Weather (b00l9s75)
The latest weather forecast.


FRI 22:00 The World Tonight (b00l9s8b)
National and international news and analysis with Ritula Shah

Tensions rise as an Iranian cleric says that British Embassy staff in Tehran may be put on trial.

How serious is Mexico's crimewave?

What will President Obama's trip to Moscow deliver?


FRI 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b00l9sp0)
Georgina Harding - The Spy Game

Episode 10

Diana Quick reads the novel by Georgina Harding, set in 1960s England.

Unlike her brother, Anna has been unable to lay the mystery of their mother's past to rest. She visits her mother's birthplace to gather evidence and look for clues, deploying all the old tricks of the spy game. Will she find the answers to the questions that have haunted her throughout her life?

Abridged by Lauris Morgan Griffiths.


FRI 23:00 A Good Read (b00lbgtf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:30 on Tuesday]


FRI 23:30 Today in Parliament (b00l9s9y)
News, views and features on today's stories in Parliament with Mark D'Arcy.