SATURDAY 02 AUGUST 2025

SAT 00:00 Midnight News (m002gd9f)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


SAT 00:30 Speed of Light by Laura Cumming (m002gd7z)
5. Nadar - The Psychological Side of Photography

An exhilarating series written and read by Laura Cumming explores the 19th century revolution in photography. Today, Nadar's talent for capturing the inner worlds of his subjects and his innovative approaches which point to photography's future and the moving image.

Links to photographs taken by Nadar:

Sarah Bernhardt by Nadar - https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a7/Sarah_Bernhardt%2C_par_Nadar%2C_1864%2C_sepia.jpg
The Banker’s Hand - https://expositions.bnf.fr/les-nadar/grand_en/nad_207.php
The Revolving Potrait and other photos taken by Nadar - https://expositions.bnf.fr/les-nadar/albums/nadar/index.php?lang=en
Nadar and Chevreul - https://wellcomecollection.org/works/qbqhp84p/images?id=ksbgu7xa

In Speed of Light, Cumming takes us on an exhilarating journey through the early years of photography, a revolutionary technology that changed the way we see ourselves forever. From Daguerre’s first patent, in 1839, this art hurtles forward at unbelievable speed - from close-up to collage, snapshot to montage, mugshot, news photography and more, all within two or three decades. To tell the story, Cumming delves into the lives of five ground-breaking photographers whose innovations transformed the medium, leaving us with some of the most affecting images ever made.

The series opens with Alexander Gardner, the Scottish photographer who became an eyewitness to the American Civil War. Gardner's haunting images, including his iconic photograph of Abraham Lincoln just days before his assassination - "the moment when the President became a legend’ as Cumming puts it - offer a deeply human insight into living history. Another Scot, William Notman, sails from Glasgow to Canada to open the nation’s most celebrated studio. Here he invents ingenious ways to depict hundreds of people – together - in the snow and ice, and to bring the outside, as it were, indoors. In London, John Jabez Mayall takes the only known photograph of the painter, JMW Turner, as well as the first and most significant photographs of Charles Dickens and Karl Marx. Mayall also captures the spirit of democracy with his carte de visites – pocket sized photographs - that anyone could buy of the stars of the day, from Wilkie Collins to Queen Victoria. And in Paris the meticulous police officer Alphonse Bertillon invents the front-and-profile mugshot that is still used in the solving of crime today. Last comes Nadar, renowned for capturing the innermost thoughts of his Parisian sitters, who took the first aerial shots, and the first revolving shots, and put interviews with images for the first time, reaching forward to the advent of film and television.

Laura Cumming is Chief Art Critic of The Observer. Thunderclap, her memoir of art, life and sudden death, was shortlisted for The Women’s Prize and won The Writer’s Prize and The Saltire Book of the Year Award in 2024. The Vanishing Man: In Pursuit of Velazquez won the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for Biography in 2017. On Chapel Sands: My Mother and Other Missing Person was a Sunday Times bestseller and Radio 4 Book of the Week.

Produced by Elizabeth Allard


SAT 00:48 Shipping Forecast (m002gd9h)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for UK shipping


SAT 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (m002gd9k)
BBC Radio 4 presents a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes from the BBC World Service.


SAT 05:30 News Summary (m002gd9m)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


SAT 05:34 Shipping Forecast (m002gd9p)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for UK shipping


SAT 05:43 Prayer for the Day (m002gd9r)
The wonder of Wonderland

A spiritual comment and prayer to start the day with The Reverend Canon Grace Thomas.

Good morning.

A young girl tumbles down a hole, and into an extraordinary adventure, where she meets a grinning cat, encounters a rabbit who is late, joins a very unusual tea party, and even plays croquet with the Queen! With each step, she gets curiouser and curiouser. Many may recognise this as the story of Alice in Wonderland, written by Lewis Carroll, and published for the first time 160 years ago today.

When I was growing up, I was captivated by this story. I watched an animated version of it numerous times, and I would imagine myself stepping into a scene, full of colour and surprise. Stories like this, have the ability to bring joy, and evoke images of new worlds, drawing us into a place of wonder. There in the realm of story, we can look on, and think about our own position. I love getting lost in a good story now as much as ever, and look back with fondness, at the way with which I was enthralled by the story of Alice and her adventures.

For me, the greatest storyteller was Jesus. He taught many complex and important lessons through story, as it gave his followers a chance to draw deeper into the meaning of his words, and place themselves within his teaching. Jesus’s parables have stood the test of time, and today people will be familiar with phrases like a ‘good Samaritan’, for example.

So today I pray with gratitude for the gift of story, and for all whose words invite us into new worlds. I give special thanks to Jesus, whose storytelling enables me to understand more about God, my faith and my life.

Amen.


SAT 05:45 Uncharted with Hannah Fry (m0022syl)
13. The Grain of Truth

Amid the desperation of war-starved Netherlands a doctor finds a way of curing a group of gravely ill children. His finding challenges accepted medical wisdom, and provokes opposition from Catholics. But why had the rest of the world missed this miracle treatment?

Producer: Ilan Goodman
Sound Designer: Jon Nicholls
Story Editor: John Yorke


SAT 06:00 News and Papers (m002gqj1)
The news headlines, including a look at the newspapers.


SAT 06:07 This Natural Life (m002gg7h)
Angela Harding

Martha Kearney travels to one of Britain's most isolated islands where the illustrator of books by the likes of Simon Armitage and Isabella Tree seeks her inspiration among the seabird colonies of Fair Isle.

Angela Harding's lino-cut prints are an integral part of the recent boom in nature writing. Dynamic birds or mammals dominate the foreground while abstract interpretations of landscape set them in the context of wild shores and woodlands. Martha catches up with Angela as she searches for fresh inspiration on an artist's retreat on Fair Isle, a tiny island halfway between Orkney and Shetland.

They take a walk along the steep cliffs of the island's southside, meeting puffins, kittiwakes and fulmars and discuss Angela's determination to make her career as an artist.

Producer: Alasdair Cross


SAT 06:30 Farming Today (m002gqj3)
02/08/25: Coping With Downpour And Drought, Inheritance Tax

Farmers are having to cope with too much water, or too little, more and more often due to the effects of climate change. This week Charlotte Smith explores how farmers can strike a balance on their land, with competing pressures for water including crops, homes, and wildlife. And, campaigners against Government plans to reintroduce Inheritance Tax on farms worth over £1 million found an unlikely ally in President Trump this week. But with the Government showing no sign of changing course, how feasible is a backbench rebellion on which farm lobby groups are now pinning their hopes?

Presenter: Charlotte Smith
Producer: Sarah Swadling


SAT 06:57 Weather (m002gqj5)
The latest weather reports and forecast


SAT 07:00 Today (m002gqj7)
Today (Saturday)


SAT 09:00 What's Up Docs? (m002gfxc)
Should you say 'no' more often?

Why is it so hard to say no? Whether it’s at work, with family, or in everyday social situations, many of us find ourselves saying yes when we really want to say no, then paying the price later in stress, burnout, or resentment.

In this programme, the doctors explore the psychology behind our reluctance to turn things down, and how we can become more comfortable protecting our boundaries.

They’re joined by behavioural scientist and physician Dr Sunita Sah from Cornell University , whose research reveals how social pressure, guilt, and even professionalism can get in the way of a simple two-letter word. Together, they explore why we struggle to say no, and offer practical strategies to help us do it more often, and with confidence.

If you want to get in touch, you can email us at whatsupdocs@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08000 665 123.

Presenters: Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken
Guest: Dr Sunita Sah
Producer: Emily Bird
Executive Producers: Rami Tzabar and Jo Rowntree
Editor: Kirsten Lass
Assistant Producer: Maia Miller-Lewis
Tech Lead: Reuben Huxtable
Social Media: Leon Gower
Digital Lead: Richard Berry
Composer: Phoebe McFarlane
Sound Design: Melvin Rickarby

At the BBC:
Assistant Commissioner: Greg Smith
Commissioning Editor: Rhian Roberts

A Loftus Media production for BBC Radio 4


SAT 09:30 Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics (m002gfwd)
Alexandria: The Library

Natalie is joined by Professors Islam Issa and Edith Hall to tell the story of the great library of Alexandria. It was included in Alexander the Great's original design for his city, located in the Nile Delta. Alexandria was to be a city of knowledge.

The founders of the library were ambitious: they wanted nothing less than to collect all the books in the world. They were willing to pay huge sums, but they were also ruthless and unscrupulous. The Ptolemies would write to fellow rulers and wealthy friends and ask to borrow their priceless texts. Then the library would copy the scrolls, and return the copies. Or alternatively they'd just steal them.

Handily, papyrus, the principal reading material of the era, grew in great abundance around Alexandria. So there was plenty of it for those copies. Less fortunately, it's extremely flammable. So in 48 BCE, when Julius Caesar's besieged army set fire to ships in the harbour in order to block the invading fleet, the fire spread and destroyed a significant part of the library.

'Rockstar mythologist' Natalie Haynes is the best-selling author of 'Divine Might', 'Stone Blind', and 'A Thousand Ships' as well as a reformed comedian who is a little bit obsessive about Ancient Greek and Rome.

Islam Issa is Professor of Literature and History at Birmingham City University. His book 'Alexandria, the City that Changed the World' is the Winner of the Runciman Award and The Times, Sunday Times, TLS, Booklist, Epoch Times and Waterstones Book of the Year.

Edith Hall is Professor of Classics at Durham University, specialising in ancient Greek literature. She has written over thirty books and is a Fellow of the British Academy.

Producer...Mary Ward-Lowery


SAT 10:00 You're Dead to Me (m002gqgj)
Viking Women: wives, weavers and warriors

Greg Jenner is joined in medieval Scandinavia by historian Dr Eleanor Barraclough and comedian Chloe Petts to learn about the fascinating women of the Viking age. The popular stereotype of the Vikings is pretty macho: bearded men on boats, heading out to raid, pillage and burn down monasteries. There are some famous images of Viking warrior women: shieldmaidens, Valkyries and various goddesses. But what about the lives led by ordinary women in medieval Scandinavia and across the Viking world? In this episode we look at the real history behind the myths and stereotypes, exploring daily life for Viking women: their roles as wives and mothers, the work they did as weavers and healers, the gods they prayed to, the archaeological traces they left behind, as well as the sad reality that many women in the Viking world were enslaved. We also look at women who lived lives out of the ordinary – as queens, sorceresses, and warriors.

If you’re a fan of feminist history, the intimate details of daily life in the past, and fantastical myths and legends, you’ll love our episode on Viking Women.

If you want to know more about the Vikings, check out our episodes on Leif Erikson and Old Norse Literature. And for more fearsome warrior women, there’s our episode on Njinga of Ndongo and Matamba.

You’re Dead To Me is the comedy podcast that takes history seriously. Every episode, Greg Jenner brings together the best names in history and comedy to learn and laugh about the past.

Hosted by: Greg Jenner
Research by: Clara Chamberlain
Written by: Clara Chamberlain, Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow, Emma Nagouse, and Greg Jenner
Produced by: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow and Greg Jenner
Audio Producer: Steve Hankey
Production Coordinator: Gill Huggett
Senior Producer: Emma Nagouse
Executive Editor: Philip Sellars


SAT 10:30 Artworks (m0029zbl)
Art that Conquered the World

The Scream

It's one of the most famous, reproduced and pastiched images of all time. Edvard Munch's The Scream is a celebrity, one of a small number of artworks known the world over. But how and why did The Scream hit the big time?

In this series, art historian Dr James Fox traces the twists of fate and happy accidents that pushed a handful of artworks to the forefront of global pop culture. The story of The Scream is an unlikely one - over the decades it has been an obscure, experimental artwork, a national treasure, a stolen masterpiece, an inflatable, an emoji , the most expensive painting in the world and a gift to cartoonists.

Both a profound expression of human suffering and an icon of kitsch, The Scream has somehow conquered the world.

In conversation with James are the art historian Noah Charney, designer Angela Guzman, mural-painter and businessman Robert Fishbone and The Times political cartoonist Morten Morland.

Producer: Julia Johnson
Executive Producer: Laurence Bassett
A TBI Media production for BBC Radio 4


SAT 11:00 Radical with Amol Rajan (m002gg82)
Britain’s New Right: Could Reform Replace The Tories? (James Orr)

Ever since Labour won a landslide victory at the general election, Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party and Kemi Badenoch’s Conservatives have been fighting for the soul of the political right in Britain.

Now a new right-wing think tank is putting together a suite of potential policies for a future Reform government.

Dr James Orr, an associate professor of the philosophy of religion at Cambridge University and friend of US Vice President JD Vance, chairs the advisory board of that new think tank - the Centre for a Better Britain (CBB).

Amol asks him whether the CBB is modelled on American organisations like the Heritage Foundation, which wrote a policy wish list called ‘Project 2025’ that set out a vision for how Donald Trump might govern during his second term in the White House.

They also discuss who is funding the CBB, the politics of national preference, and how James was radicalised by Brexit and the culture wars.

GET IN TOUCH

* WhatsApp: 0330 123 9480

* Email: radical@bbc.co.uk

Amol Rajan is a presenter of the Today programme on BBC Radio 4. He is also the host of University Challenge on BBC One. Before that, Amol was media editor at the BBC and editor at The Independent. Radical with Amol Rajan is a Today Podcast.

It was made by Lewis Vickers with Izzy Rowley. Digital production was by Gabriel Purcell-Davis. Technical production was by Rohan Madison. The editor is Sam Bonham. The executive producer is Owenna Griffiths.


SAT 11:30 From Our Own Correspondent (m002gq97)
Gaza: a turning point?

Kate Adie presents stories from Gaza and Israel, the US, Lesotho, Taiwan and Peru.

This week the British government pledged to recognise a Palestinian state, unless Israel meets certain conditions, including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza and reviving the prospect of a two-state solution. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the decision rewarded 'Hamas's monstrous terrorism.' Jeremy Bowen reflects on this latest chapter in Britain’s long-standing influence in the region.

At the UN, Saudi Arabia and France co-hosted a summit to rekindle plans for a two-state solution as a means to find peace between Israel and the Palestinians. Dozens of countries were in attendance - others were notable by their absence. Tom Bateman reports from New York.

Donald Trump once claimed Lesotho was a country ‘nobody has heard of’ – but it has been feeling the pinch of his trade policy. While the White House rowed back on its threat of imposing 50 per cent tariffs, the uncertainty has already led to many job losses, finds Shingai Nyoka.

Taiwan's president William Lai suffered a major setback last weekend, in a recall vote that had been aimed at removing twenty-four opposition lawmakers - yet failed to unseat any of them. James Crabtree reflects on how Taiwan’s characteristically flamboyant campaigning style was markedly absent in this latest vote.

And finally, many of our staple foods are at risk because of increasingly frequent extreme weather - including the humble potato. But some farmers are tracing the crop’s ancient roots in search of solutions to help mitigate the risks, as Beth Timmins has been finding out in the Peruvian Andes.

Series Producer: Serena Tarling
Production Coordinators: Sophie Hill & Katie Morrison
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith


SAT 12:00 News Summary (m002gqj9)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.


SAT 12:04 Sliced Bread (m002d1bv)
Toast - Freeserve

Freeserve rapidly became the UK's number one internet service provider within months of its launch in 1998, yet the brand disappeared almost as quickly. So, what happened?

The BBC Business journalist, Sean Farrington, investigates.

Alongside him is the entrepreneur, Sam White, who at the end of the show has to reach her own conclusions, based only on what she has heard and her own business acumen.

Sean and Sam hear from expert guests including:

- Rory Cellan-Jones OBE - the BBC's former technology correspondent who covered Freeserve's rise and later dedicated a chapter to it in his book 'Dot Bomb - the Rise and Fall of Dot Com Britain'.

- Ajaz Ahmed - a 'Freeserve founder' who badgered bosses to start an ISP while working as a store manager at PC World in Leeds. He later became Freeserve's Business Development Manager.

- Mark Danby - a former Chief Operating Officer at Freeserve.

Produced by Jon Douglas, Toast is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

You can email the programme at toast@bbc.co.uk

Feel free to suggest topics which could be covered in future episodes.


SAT 12:30 Too Long; Didn't Read (m002gd8w)
Series 2

It's a taxing subject

Wealth tax - no brainer or non starter? Catherine Bohart unpicks the arguments raging about the mooted solution to Britain's infamous financial black hole with plenty of silliness thrown in. With Baroness Ayesha Hazarika MBE, Sunil Patel and tax expert Dr Emma Chamberlain OBE.

Written by Catherine Bohart, with Madeleine Brettingham, Tom Neenan and Pravanya Pillay.

Producer: Alison Vernon Smith
Executive Producers: Lyndsay Fenner & Victoria Lloyd
Sound Design: David Thomas
Production Co-ordinator: Katie Sayer

A Mighty Bunny production for BBC Radio 4


SAT 12:57 Weather (m002gqjc)
The latest weather forecast


SAT 13:00 News (m002gqjf)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


SAT 13:10 Any Questions? (m002gd92)
Stephen Atkinson, Sarah Champion MP, Lord Parkinson, Prof Mona Siddiqui

Alex Forsyth presents political debate from Ilkley Playhouse in West Yorkshire, with the Reform UK councillor and leader of Lancashire County Council, Stephen Atkinson; Labour MP for Rotherham and chair of the international development committee, Sarah Champion; the shadow culture minister and Conservative peer, Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay; and the academic and broadcaster Professor Mona Siddiqui.

Producer: Paul Martin
Lead broadcast engineer: Jonathan Esp


SAT 14:05 Any Answers? (m002gqjh)
Listeners respond to the issues raised in the preceding edition of Any Questions?


SAT 14:45 The Archers (m002gd8y)
During a break in the Board meeting Brian and Annabelle rail against Justin’s duplicity and Martyn’s apparent capitulation, intimating they might even contemplate resignation. But when Justin later suggests his opponents should resign, Brian hits the roof. Martyn offers the compromise of a feasibility report, then closes the meeting. Later at The Bull, Martyn claims this as a result, brushing off Brian and Annabelle’s accusations that he has reneged on his previous position. Justin joins them, playing the innocent to their accusations of treachery, before arguing the case for his suggested food storage facility and vertical farming. When Brian lashes out Martyn suggests Brian’s in danger of losing the BL contract altogether. But Brian doesn’t give a damn – they can get someone else to do their wheat harvest!

Neil and Susan pick their way through the stock piled high at Ambridge View, worried about the effect the chaos is having on Martha. Susan admits to feeling sorry for herself too, so when Chris takes them out for dinner at The Bull later, Neil explains that it’s not just the shop getting Susan down, but also the business of Amber and Nana Ivy’s ring. Chris sympathises, but when he supposes it might be better for Martha to stay with Alice, Neil is quick to say that having Martha at Ambridge View is what’s keeping Susan going. But it’s Susan who then suggests Chris and Martha could find somewhere else to stay, if they want. Chris readily agrees and heads to the bar while Susan reasons to Neil that there’ll be more space to put the stock if Chris vacates his room.


SAT 15:00 Drama on 4 (m000vpxw)
South on the Great North Road

"Many have gone before us now Many have tried and failed somehow Many souls on the Queen's highway Where many a tail light glowed With the promise of a better life Heading South on the Great North Road South on the Great North Road."

The drama is inspired by the song Going South On The Great North Road from Sting's 2016 album 57th and 9th. Sting says both the road and the journey to London have resonances for him: 'It's about my journey from Newcastle in to make my fortune. In my young life I covered enough road miles to recall that relentless gravitational pull, the promise of a different kind of life down that road'.

Down the centuries, countless young people from the North and other points of the compass have made similar journeys. The central character in this play is one of them, and the drama reveals how that journey threatens to tear Peggy Charlton apart. In her 30s, Peggy (a long-standing name for the Charlton family girls) has the Great North Road in her blood and bones.

Sting's haunting song, which he has performed acapella for the production, is the counterpoint to this drama written by Michael Chaplin.

Cast:
PEGGY ..... Jessica Johnson
STEVE ..... Stephen Tompkinson
KELLY ..... Laura Jane Matthewson
JOE ..... Tom Glenister
JEAN ..... Judi Earl
The Singer ..... Sting

Directed by Eoin O’Callaghan
Produced by Marilyn Imrie
A Big Fish Radio production for BBC Radio 4


SAT 16:00 Woman's Hour (m002gqjk)
Weekend Woman’s Hour: Lionesses' win & Diane Bronze, Child sex abuse gangs, Michelle Collins, Sara Pascoe, Nicola Benedetti

The Lionesses have made history by becoming the first England football squad to win a major trophy on foreign soil, they successfully defended their European title in Basel last night. The match went to extra time and penalties - Clare McDonnell got reaction and reflection from guests including 5Live commentator Vicki Sparks, BBC Sport correspondent Katie Gornall, chief executive of the Women's Professional League Nikki Doucet and star player Lucy Bronze's mum Diane.

The BBC has found that five women who were exploited by so-called grooming gangs in Rotherham as children say they were also abused by police officers in the town at the time. One woman says she was raped repeatedly in a marked police car, and threatened with being handed back to the gang if she didn't comply. The BBC's Ed Thomas brings us the story and Clare hears from Professor Alexis Jay who is the author of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse and Zoë Billingham, former His Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary.

Actor Michelle Collins, best known as Cindy Beale in the BBC’s EastEnders, makes her Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut in Motorhome Marilyn, a dark comedy inspired by Michelle's real-life encounter with a woman Cindy saw in LA. The play reveals the toll of living in the shadow of an icon, exploring failure, ageing and the heartbreaking cost of unattained dreams. Michelle joined Datshiane from Edinburgh to talk about her debut.

Hattie Williams lost her mother when she was 18 years old leaving her feeling anchorless and needing to embark on a self-exploratory journey to recover some stability. When she experienced motherhood, she felt that she had achieved that. She told Anita Rani how these experiences inspired her first novel, Bitter Sweet, which she wrote on her maternity leave.

Sara Pascoe is a comedian, and her children don’t sleep, her kitchen won’t clean itself and her husband “doesn’t want to be in it”. Sara’s new show - I am a Strange Gloop – is on a UK tour. She stumbles stunned to the stage from the soft play area, with battle-hardened tales to tell on the front line of motherhood.

Nicola Benedetti is a Grammy award winning violinist and ambassador for classical music. She is also director of the Edinburgh International Festival, which begins on Friday. In October she’s due to embark on her first solo tour in more than ten years. She joined Clare to discuss the repertoire, and how she will combine solo performances with storytelling, and share a selection of shorter works.

Presenter: Anita Rani
Producer: Annette Wells
Editor: Corinna Jones


SAT 17:00 PM (m002gqjm)
Full coverage of the day's news


SAT 17:30 Sliced Bread (m002gg75)
Standing Desks

Greg Foot gathers the experts, to find out which claims "stand up" to scrutiny for listener Bede.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM
PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT


SAT 17:54 Shipping Forecast (m002gqjp)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for UK shipping


SAT 17:57 Weather (m002gqjr)
The latest weather reports and forecast


SAT 18:00 Six O'Clock News (m002gqjt)
A man is accused of lacing sweets with sedatives

A man has appeared in court accused of lacing sweets with sedatives and causing children to fall ill at a summer camp.

Hamas has rejected US claims that it's ready to lay downs its weapons as part of a peace deal with Israel.

India set England a huge victory target in the final test at the Oval.


SAT 18:15 Loose Ends (m002gqjw)
Bertie Carvel; Jo Wood; Lost Chimes; Tori Allen-Martin; Rajiv Karia; RIYA

Listen up as Nihal unfolds the Beyoncé/Destiny's Child theme he's spotted in this weeks' Loose Ends. He's humming "Irreplaceable" for the heroine of author Jo Wood’s debut novel - The Resurrection of Flo - who's left her cheating husband Max (“To the left, to the left”). It's "I'm a Survivor" for the actor Bertie Carvel who is playing King Leontes in Shakespeare's intense psychological drama The Winter's Tale at the RSC. Newlywed comedian Rajiv Karia gets a blast of Crazy In Love on his way to performing at the Edinburgh Festival. And the actor and writer Tori Allen-Martin, who plays Cherry in the BBC sitcom Here We Go, won celebrity mastermind with the specialist subject of.....Beyoncé and Destiny's Child!
All this with music from the classically trained, Bollywood influenced pop artist RIYA and from Indie folk duo Lost Chimes.

Presented by Nihal Arthanayake
Produced in Salford by Olive Clancy


SAT 19:00 The Bottom Line (m002gq8j)
The Decisions That Made Me

Sonnaz Nooranvary (House of Sonnaz, upholsterer)

Sonnaz Nooranvary thought she’d have to be a doctor or a lawyer to please her parents but struggled academically thanks to a combination of dyslexia and ADHD. Everything changed when she spotted an advert for an upholstery apprenticeship. She dropped out of college to build yachts from scratch. The upholsterer talks to Evan Davis about how she went against her family’s expectations to follow her instincts.

Production team:
Producer: Bob Howard, Georgiana Tudor
Editor: Matt Willis
Sound: John Scott
Production co-ordinator: Katie Morrison
Photo credit: Luke David


SAT 19:15 The Infinite Monkey Cage (m002fxn7)
Series 33

The Mighty Spud - Sandy Knapp, Glenn Bryan and Susan Calman

Robin Ince and Brian Cox get out the ketchup and peel back the layers of one of the most versatile and beloved foods - potatoes. From the science of starch to the surprising role potatoes have played in history, we’re digging deep to uncover the truth behind the mighty spud.
Chipping into the conversation are botanist Sandy Knapp, geneticist Glenn Bryan and potato passionate comedian Susan Calman.
Susan is astonished to learn that the potatoes lining our supermarket shelves all belong to a single species and once she discovered the rich diversity of wild potato species in South America, she’s already planning her next holiday to visit them! Plus we end the episode on a tuber-powered musical note as Helen Anahita-Wilson plays the monkey cage theme song on none other than a potato keyboard!

Producer: Melanie Brown
Assistant Producer: Olivia Jani
Executive Producer: Alexandra Feachem

BBC Studios Audio Production


SAT 20:00 Archive on 4 (m002gqjy)
Exposing Hiroshima

Eighty years ago the Japanese city of Hiroshima was devastated by the first ever use of an atomic bomb. Dropping such a terrifyingly powerful and experimental weapon on a largely civilian target presented the US authorities with a dilemma – what story to tell the world?

Initial US announcements of the attack claimed the bomb had been used on a military target, and there was no mention of the scale of the civilian casualties, or the deadly and lasting impacts of radiation.

But a month later – before Japan had even officially surrendered - Australian journalist Wilfred Burchett made a daring and unauthorised trip to Hiroshima, and in what has been described as the ‘scoop of the century’ became the first Western journalist to publish an uncensored eye-witness account from Ground Zero. He was the first to highlight the unimaginable suffering of the city’s population, and revealed the existence of a mysterious ‘Atomic Plague’ that even a month later was still killing hundreds of survivors daily.

The resulting front-page splash on the UK’s Daily Express reverberated around the world and presented a serious challenge to the US narrative that there was no lingering harmful radiation. The US authorities responded with a PR campaign to supress the truth. Front-page articles denied any deadly fallout, and dismissed reports such as Burchett’s as ‘Japanese propaganda’.

But the truth was too powerful to contain, and eventually the world came to know the realities of nuclear fallout and radiation sickness.

Filmmaker and journalist Steve O’Hagan tells the story of one an epic feat of investigative reporting, of the resulting struggle to control the narrative surrounding nuclear weapons, and of one of the most fascinating – and controversial – journalists of the 20th century.

Producer: Steve O’Hagan
Executive Producer: Robert Nicholson
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4


SAT 21:00 Artworks (m002900z)
Orchestras of Auschwitz

Prisoner orchestras were an ever-present accompaniment to the horrors of Auschwitz - from enslavement marching tunes to cryptic compositions. Jewish musicians sent to the camps by the Nazis had to perform to try and stay alive. Young conductor and composer Leo Geyer has - for more than 7 years - collaborated with the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum to study the orchestras and decode their arrangements.

He also discovered ripped and burned remnants of scores - 210 pieces of music, all incomplete - which he has painstakingly worked on to understand and restore. In 2025, Leo and his company Constella will perform an 80-minute Opera-Ballet of those salvaged compositional fragments, in tribute to the murdered musicians of Auschwitz.

By telling the story of Leo Geyer's engagement with the history and the manuscripts, this programme asks what more we can learn and understand about the experience and legacy of the Holocaust by listening to the music.

Presenter: Leo Geyer
Producer: Eva Krysiak
Executive Producer: Jack Howson

A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 4


SAT 21:30 Artworks (m00298p4)
Talk Talk: Living in Another World

Elbow frontman Guy Garvey explores the mystery surrounding Talk Talk, their reclusive leader Mark Hollis, and the album that saw him eschew fame and fortune in favour of something radically new.

Recorded over a brutal nine months, Spirit of Eden was a critical and commercial flop at the time – but is now lauded as a masterpiece. Garvey speaks to the musicians who witnessed its troubled birth, the friends who understood Mark best, and the new generation of artists who have taken inspiration from his dogged pursuit of true creative freedom.

Featuring contributions from legendary producer Nigel Godrich and Phill Brown, as well as Radiohead’s Ed O’Brien.

A Cup and Nuzzle production for BBC Radio 4


SAT 22:00 News (m002gqk0)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


SAT 22:15 The Food Programme (m002gd7x)
Food and the Elements

Dan Saladino explores stories of food and 'the elements', the theme of this year's Oxford Food Symposium.

Expect surprising insights on earth, fire, air, water and much more.

For more than forty years the Symposium has celebrated, explored and shared research by scholars, enthusiastic amateurs, writers, and chefs from around the world, all united in the belief that food deserves to be treated as a serious, as well as a joyful, subject.

Hundreds of 'symposiasts' gather at St Catherine's College each year, to submit papers, deliver presentations, discuss ideas and to dine - all based around a theme.

Dan talks to some of the presenters about their interpretation of 'food and the elements'. Some took inspiration from the classical world (earth, air, fire and water), others explored food and the periodic table or climate and weather.

In this 'mix-tape edition', stories range from the use of fire and ashes in food cultures around the world to the Trump administration's plan to remove 'chemical elements' from the diets of Americans.

For more information about the symposium and this year's papers, go to: https://www.oxfordsymposium.org.uk/

Produced and presented by Dan Saladino.


SAT 23:00 Crybabies Present... (m002gm50)
Series 1

Yours Fatally

Jeremy Moleskine is the biggest writer in bawdy greetings cards. So when his car veers off the road, his number one fan is on hand to nurse him back to health. But when R&R turns into B&B (belittling and bludgeoning), Jeremy’s agent must track him down with the help of incarcerated lunatic, Clinton Scards.

Brace yourself for a psychological thriller as Crybabies bring the big screen to your normal sized radio.

Written and performed by Michael Clarke, James Gault & Ed Jones.

Featuring Chiara Goldsmith

Production Co-ordinator - Laura Shaw

Sound Design by David Thomas and Victoria Freund

Producer - Benjamin Sutton

Executive Producer - Joe Nunnery

A Boffola Pictures production for BBC Radio 4


SAT 23:30 Round Britain Quiz (m002gd08)
Programme 12 - Scotland vs Wales

(12/12)

Teams from all over the UK will face Kirsty Lang's cryptic questions across the series, with Kirsty offering support and the odd hint where it might be needed.

Scotland take on Wales in the final contest, with Kirsty revealing the overall scores and announcing the series winner.

You can follow the questions in each edition on the Round Britain Quiz webpages. Each week's questions will be posted on the day before the Sunday transmission.

Teams:
Val McDermid and Alan McCredie - Scotland
Myfanwy Alexander and Cariad Lloyd - Wales

Questions in today's edition:

Q1
Can you find a hidden Cole in a radio pirate
A beeping Baker in a faraway land
And a Celtic King in An (historic) field
And what familiar call unites them all?

Q2
In the end, what lingers in a stringed companion to the raga
A rugged strait
A Mesopotamian goddess of war and love
An Eastern blade
And a franchise of ‘blue’ films-
All leading to a sticky, fictional cinematic conductor?

Q3 Music:
Identify what might link them in an Italian restaurant (and it doesn’t grow on trees)

Q4
Why might you expect these people to give you a break?
A writer who unveiled Secret Gardens
A voodoo priest who met his end in a coffin full of snakes
An opera singer who duetted with John Denver.

Q5
In which arena would the following all meet? And why might it be in the wrong place?
The Crown’s Princess Margaret
Michael and his band of brothers
A cinematic Joker
One Prime Minister who fathered another
And The Iron Chancellor

Q6
Music: What do all these songs lead your eyes to?

Q7
What links all of these to where we are right now? And which is the odd one out?
Sheila Hancock in a short-lived ITV comedy
Eric Lidell’s nickname
John Coltrane’s 1958 album
An Agatha Christie murder mystery
And a A Wes Anderson film

Q8
You’ll be answering clues in 6 categories, each represented by a different colour. You may recognise the different categories from a popular trivia game… which should help you. After answering all the clues you have to identify the common thread that links them all.

So, who are we Pursuing?
In blue you'll find... The linoleum capital where the story began.
In pink you'll find... not quite a singing detective but close enough.
In yellow you'll find... 18th-century tattoos in a peat bog
In purple you'll find... the answer to this very question and a familiar face
In green you'll find... the science behind the stories
In orange you will find... not quite singing detectives, but again, close enough

BONUS END OF SERIES TEASER
Final challenge. Find five hidden curiosities across the series.

If you’ve listened to all 12 programmes in this series, you’ll know we’ve heard many voices and sounds... some expected, some a little different. Among them, five names didn’t quite fit the tune.

Your challenge is to find these five voices and figure out where they’ve been hiding.

Here’s a clue to get you started:
One flows, one mends, one weaves, one unlocks, and one stands tall.

Host: Kirsty Lang
Recorded by: Phil Booth
Sound Design: Chris Maclean
Production Coordinator: Caroline Barlow
Producer: Carl Cooper

Questions set by:
Lucy Porter, Alan Poulton, and public contributors.

SUNDAY 03 AUGUST 2025

SUN 00:00 Midnight News (m002gqk2)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


SUN 00:15 Take Four Books (m002gd06)
Denise Mina

Multi-award-winning writer Denise Mina discusses her twentieth novel, The Good Liar, which follows blood-spatter forensics expert Claudia O’Sheil as she faces a profound moral dilemma.

Denise also shares the three key influences that inspired the novel’s creation: Dorothy Thompson’s Who Goes Nazi?, Stanley Milgram’s Obedience to Authority, and George Orwell’s 1984.

The supporting contributor is award-winning author, James Bond novelist, and lecturer in Creative Writing at the University of Edinburgh, Kim Sherwood.

Producer: Rachael O’Neill
Editor: Gillian Wheelan
This was a BBC Audio Scotland production.


SUN 00:48 Shipping Forecast (m002gqk4)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for UK shipping


SUN 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (m002gqk6)
BBC Radio 4 presents a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes from the BBC World Service.


SUN 05:30 News Summary (m002gqk8)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


SUN 05:34 Shipping Forecast (m002gqkb)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for UK shipping


SUN 05:43 Bells on Sunday (m002gq9f)
The parish church of St Mary Redcliffe in Bristol

Bells on Sunday comes from the parish church of St Mary Redcliffe in Bristol. The church is considered to be one of the country's finest and largest parish churches as well as an outstanding example of English Gothic architecture. The imposing 274 foot tall tower and spire houses a peal of twelve bells with a tenor bell weighing fifty and one half hundredweight and tuned to the note of B.St Mary’s recently hosted the National twelve-bell ringing competition and we now hear the winning team, from Bristol, ringing Stedman Cinques.


SUN 05:45 In Touch (m002gfxt)
It Could Be You; All Things Dotty

How do you deal with a life changing disability? Penny Melville-Brown was a naval officer when she started to lose her sight. Now, decades later, she has used her experience as well as that of other disabled people to write her new book "It Could Be You". Penny joins us to explain, (among other things) what prompted her to write it, who might benefit from reading it and what its key messages are.

Also joining us is Brandon Hulcoop, a blind entrepreneur from Devon. Brandon tells us how his business "All Things Dotty" is helping visually impaired people to "see the world with their fingers" and how his work has been royally recognised!

Presenter: Peter White
Producer: Fern Lulham
Production Coordinator: Liz Poole

Website image description: Peter White sits smiling in the centre of the image, wearing a dark green jumper. Above Peter's head is the BBC logo (three individual white squares house each of the three letters). Bottom centre and overlaying the image are the words "In Touch"; and the Radio 4 logo (the word Radio in a bold white font, with the number 4 inside a white circle). The background is a bright mid-blue with two rectangles angled diagonally to
the right. Both are behind Peter, one of a darker blue and the other is a lighter blue.’


SUN 06:00 News Summary (m002gq7p)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4


SUN 06:05 Heart and Soul (w3ct6vnz)
Praise You: A forgotten love letter to black men

DJ Fatboy Slim’s Praise You is a song you might have heard in a Hollywood movie or danced to in a club - to this day, it is still his biggest hit. But there is something you won’t know - the singer behind it or the true meaning of the lyrics.

Civil rights activist Camille Yarbrough first released Take Yo’ Praise 50 years ago. It was written as a love letter to African-American men, inspired by a moment of spiritual awakening and family secret. After its release, radio stations refused to play it and she felt she was labelled a “troublemaker”.

When Fatboy Slim picked up an old copy of Camille’s song, he turned it into a hit. But there is an irony - it is now played by radio stations around the world, but the true meaning of the music has been lost.

Reporter Emily Webb goes to meet Camille in her New York apartment.

This programme includes discussion of sexual violence against a child.

Producer/presenter: Emily Webb
Executive producer: Rajeev Gupta
Editor: Chloe Walker
Production co-ordinator: Mica Nepomuceno

(Photo: Carmille Yarbrough. Credit: Emily Webb)


SUN 06:35 On Your Farm (m002gq7r)
Restoring Rainforest

When Merlin Hanbury-Tenison took over the reins of his family's farm, on the edge of Bodmin Moor, it was making a loss. An ancient woodland, a rare Temperate Rainforest, inspired a new vision for the farm. The rainforest also became a place of healing for Merlin and his family, as they began restoring the farm's habitats. Merlin had been an Army officer, and suffered PTSD following a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. His wife, Lizzie, found solace in the woods following a difficult journey into parenthood and Post Natal Anxiety. Meanwhile, Merlin's father, the explorer Robin Hanbury-Tenison, used walks among the trees to rebuild his strength after Covid bought him close to death in 2020. He tells Antonia there's a certain irony that he led expeditions to tropical rainforests in Borneo, which helped kickstart the movement to save them, whilst all along he had a rainforest on his doorstep without realising.


SUN 06:57 Weather (m002gq7t)
The latest weather reports and forecast


SUN 07:00 News and Papers (m002gq7w)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


SUN 07:10 Sunday (m002gq7y)
Israel-Gaza, Shaolin Scandals, Axe Murder Priest

The Board of Deputies of British Jews hosted an emergency meeting this week in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. A statement followed, which called for, “a rapid, uninhibited, and sustained increase in aid through all available channels”. It goes on to say, “food must not be used as a weapon of war, by any side in this conflict.” We get the latest on the conflict from a correspondent and speak to Phil Rosenberg – President of The Board of Deputies of British Jews.

This week, it’s been announced that Shi Yongxin, the abbot of the world-renowned Shaolin Temple, is being investigated by multiple agencies for embezzlement, "improper relationships with multiple women" and "fathering illegitimate children". Emily Buchanan speaks to BBC China correspondent Stephen McDonell about the religious significance of the Shaolin temple in China & the reaction on the ground to news of the latest scandal.

The archbishop of Warsaw, Poland, has asked the Vatican to defrock a priest charged with the killing of a 68-year-old homeless man who was beaten with an axe and set on fire. The priest, identified only as Miroslaw M in line with Polish privacy rules, is believed to have had an argument with the victim over housing. The priest admitted the crime after being arrested. Emily Buchanan speaks to Jonathan Luxmoore – a journalist and author who specialises in Catholic Church affairs in Europe and who was based in Poland for more than a decade.



Presenter: Emily Buchanan
Producers: Bara'atu Ibrahim & Katy Davis
Production Coordinator: Liz Poole
Studio Managers: Kelly Young & Grant Cassidy
Editor: Tim Pemberton


SUN 07:54 Radio 4 Appeal (m002gq80)
Hospice UK

Comedian Jo Brand makes the Radio 4 Appeal on behalf of Hospice UK. The charity works with around two hundred hospices around the UK to improve facilities and train staff.

To Give:
- Freephone 0800 404 8144
- Freepost BBC Radio 4 Appeal. (That’s the whole address. Please do not write anything else on the front of the envelope). Mark the back of the envelope ‘Hospice UK’.
- Cheques should be made payable to ‘Hospice UK’.
- You can donate online at bbc.co.uk/appeal/radio4

Registered Charity Number: 1014851. If you’d like to find out more about the charity’s work visit *https://www.hospiceuk.org
*The BBC is not responsible for content on external websites

Producer: Katy Takatsuki


SUN 07:57 Weather (m002gq82)
The latest weather reports and forecast


SUN 08:00 News and Papers (m002gq84)
The news headlines, including a look at the newspapers.


SUN 08:10 Sunday Worship (m002gq86)
From Nicaea to Now: The Living Legacy of the Creed

A service commemorating the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed, led by Rev Dr Mark Smith, Dean of Clare College, Cambridge, bringing together a rich diversity of church traditions to reflect on some enduring questions: how does the Nicene Creed unite us as a communities of faith, and how does it shape our shared beliefs? The service includes reflections from Bishop Mike Royal, General Secretary of Churches Together in England, and Archbishop Angaelos, Coptic Orthodox Archbishop of London

Through scripture, prayer, music, and reflection, the service celebrates the lasting legacy of the Creed and its power to connect Christians across centuries and denominations.

Producer: Andrew Earis


SUN 08:48 Witness History (w3ct74mf)
The Reichstag fire

On 27 February 1933, the Reichstag building in Berlin, which was home to the German Parliament, was burned down.

This was a key event in the establishment of the Nazi dictatorship.

Berlin-born journalist, Sefton Delmer, told his story to the BBC World Service in 1967.

He grew up in the city so knew people involved with the Nazi party. This meant he was able to get close to the main people on the night.

Delmer walked around the burning building with Hitler and Goring. He recalls their conversations and describes the scene in this fascinating account.

Produced and presented by Gill Kearsley.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: The Reichstag fire in 1933. Credit: Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)


SUN 08:58 Tweet of the Day (m002gq88)
Paul Farley on the Reed Bunting

In poet Paul Farley's house the reed bunting is known as The Vicar. For Paul, the way it finds a high place on the tip of a reed from which to call gives off a pulpit vibe, and the contrast between the jet-black head and the brilliant white collar beneath makes it like a bird of the cloth. Whenever he sees a reed bunting in the reedbeds at the Leighton Moss nature reserve in Lancashire, a poem always writes itself.

Presented by Paul Farley and produced by Sophie Anton for BBC Audio Production in Bristol

Featuring a recording from Xeno-Canto by Simon Elliott: Common Reed Bunting - XC787452.


SUN 09:00 Broadcasting House (m002gq8b)
The Sunday morning news magazine programme. Presented by Paddy O'Connell


SUN 10:00 Desert Island Discs (m002gq8d)
Harry Hill, comedian

Harry Hill is a comedian, writer and broadcaster best known for presenting popular television shows including You’ve Been Framed, Junior Bake Off and the multi award-winning TV Burp.

He was born Matthew Hall in Surrey and brought up in Kent. He became a Cub Scout and got a taste for performing when he was nine after playing Widow Twankey in the Christmas pantomime.

In 1983 he started studying medicine at St George’s Medical School in London and began work as a trainee doctor in 1988. He wrote and performed in medical revues during this time and comedy became his true passion. In 1990 he made the decision to follow his heart and leave medicine to try his luck as a stand-up.

In 1993 Harry got his first show on BBC Radio 4 – Harry Hill’s Fruit Corner. Four years later he starred in his own television series on Channel 4 which allowed him to channel his off-the-wall humour in a series of wildly unpredictable comedy sketches.

In 2001 he started writing and presenting Harry Hill’s TV Burp on ITV which looked back at the week’s television output in a series of comedy sketches and inventive parodies. The show won three BAFTAs, three Royal Television Society awards, a Rose d’Or and Seven British Comedy Awards.

Harry lives in London with his wife Magda. They have three children.

DISC ONE: Ernie (The Fastest Milkman in the West) - Benny Hill
DISC TWO: Have I The Right - The Honeycombs
DISC THREE: Grandad’s Flannelette Nightshirt - George Formby
DISC FOUR: Gay Bar - Electric Six
DISC FIVE: Life During Wartime - Talking Heads
DISC SIX: Hey Bulldog - The Beatles
DISC SEVEN: Never Give Up on Love - Steve Brown
DISC EIGHT: Life Is The Name Of The Game - Bruce Forsyth

BOOK CHOICE: Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes
LUXURY ITEM: A bucket and spade
CASTAWAY'S FAVOURITE: Never Give Up on Love - Steve Brown

Presenter Lauren Laverne
Producer Paula McGinley


SUN 11:00 The Archers Omnibus (m002gq8g)
Writer: Sarah McDonald Hughes
Director: Helen Aitken & Kim Greengrass
Editor: Jeremy Howe

Brian Aldridge…. Charles Collingwood
David Archer…. Timothy Bentinck
Jolene Archer…. Buffy Davis
Alice Carter…. Hollie Chapman
Chris Carter…. Wilf Scolding
Susan Carter…. Charlotte Martin
Neil Carter…. Brian Hewlett
Justin Elliott…. Simon Williams
Martyn Gibson…. Jon Glover
Ed Grundy…. Barry Farrimond
Emma Grundy…. Emerald O’Hanrahan
George Grundy…. Angus Stobie
Mia Grundy…. Molly Pipe
Brad Horrobin…. Taylor Uttley
Joy Horville…. Jackie Lye
Adam Macy…. Andrew Wincott
Kate Madikane…. Perdita Avery
Akram Malik…. Asif Khan
Kirsty Miller…. Annabelle Dowler
Stella Pryor…. Lucy Speed
Annabelle Scrivener… Julia Hills
Terry…. Lloyd Thomas


SUN 12:15 The Bottom Line (m002gq8j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Saturday]


SUN 12:30 I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue (m002gfzs)
Series 83

4. Cricketers' Songbook

The godfather of all panel shows returns to the Butterworth Hall in Warwick. On the panel are Harry Enfield, Lucy Porter, Miles Jupp and Marcus Brigstocke, with Jack Dee in the umpire’s chair. Regular listeners will know to expect inspired nonsense, pointless revelry and Colin Sell at the piano.

Producer: Jon Naismith
A Random production for BBC Radio 4


SUN 12:57 Weather (m002gq8l)
The latest weather forecast


SUN 13:00 The World This Weekend (m002gq8n)
What next for the conflict in Ukraine?

As Donald Trump increases the pressure on Russia, we'll speak to ordinary Ukrainians on the front lines of this war and hear from former CIA Director David Petraeus on how the US could move the conflict closer to a conclusion.


SUN 13:30 Currently (m002gd02)
Turn Right for Wales

In early June this year Nigel Farage held a press conference in the South Wales steel town of Port Talbot. He announced Reform UK’s commitment to the re-industrialisation of Wales, including the re-opening of Port Talbot’s blast furnaces and a return to coal mining in the South Wales Valleys.

His controversial announcement was the opening shot in Reform UK’s campaign for the Welsh Senedd elections in May next year. Those elections could be a watershed moment for British politics. In a startling and far-reaching “perfect storm” of circumstances, Reform UK may become the largest party in Wales and could even, conceivably, end up forming the government.

Whatever the outcome, a substantial Reform presence in the Senedd would be a major step forward for a party which didn’t even exist just a few years ago. It could also be a significant indication of what could happen across the UK as we look ahead to the next general election in 2029.

Political journalist Will Hayward has been watching and reporting on Reform’s rise in Wales. Now he explores how Wales could become the setting for their biggest breakthrough yet.

Current polls show Reform neck-and-neck with the Welsh nationalist party Plaid Cymru and the Labour party currently in a distant third place. This is potentially a seismic shift in Welsh politics. Labour have dominated Wales not just in the last 26 years since devolution began, but for over a century. From the general election of 1922 onwards, Wales has always returned a majority of Labour MPs, making it the most successful democratic party in history. Yet this run of success could be about to come to a crashing halt.

To understand how next year’s elections might play out, Will speaks to politicians from across the spectrum in Wales, including current and former Welsh party leaders, and to Reform’s man in Wales, Llŷr Powell. Will explores Reform's ambitions and policies for Wales; he considers whether this is really a right-turn politically for a nation that’s famously left-leaning; and he asks what a Reform victory in the Senedd elections could mean for the rest of the UK.

Presenter: Will Hayward
Producer: Jeremy Grange
Executive Producer: Michael Surcombe
An Overcoat Media production for BBC Radio 4

Photo credit: Rob Norman


SUN 14:00 Gardeners' Question Time (m002gd8k)
Postbag Edition: Finsbury Circus Gardens

Are there any indoor plants that give out more moisture than others? How long does an average “short-lived” perennial live? What plants are resistant to shot hole disease?

This week, Peter Gibbs and a panel of gardening experts visit the beautifully restored Finsbury Circus Gardens – a green oasis in the heart of London, with roots stretching back to Roman times and now reopened to the public.

Joining Peter are garden designer Bunny Guinness, botanist Dr Chris Thorogood, and grow-your-own guru Bob Flowerdew. They're also joined by members of the City Gardens Management Team – Jake Tibbetts, Jessica Beatty, and Ed Freeman – to explore the newly renovated grounds and celebrate the space’s rich horticultural history.

The panel tackles a thorny crop of questions from the GQT postbag, offering expert tips on topics including how to prevent shot hole disease, successful techniques for growing Pak Choi, and the fascinating science behind a fern’s life cycle.

Senior Producer: Matthew Smith
Junior Producer: Rahnee Prescod
Executive Producer: Carly Maile

A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4

Plant List
Questions and timecodes are below. Where applicable, plant names have been provided.

Q – What plants are resistant to shot hole disease? (04’09”)

Jake Tibbetts –
Pinus parviflora 'Zelkova'
Zelkova serrata, japanese zelkova
Toona sinensis, chinese cedar

Chris Thorogood –
Styphnolobium
Aesculus parviflora, bottlebrush buckeye
Stewartia

Q –    Can you recommend plants to go under and around the tree which has very dry soil? (07’25”)

Ed Freeman –
Pachysandra
Polystichum, shield fern
Polypodium, polypody
Asperula, woodruff
Brunnera macrophylla, Siberian bugloss
Asplenium scolopendrium, hart’s tongue fern

Bunny Guinness –
Daphne laureola, spurge laurel
Crinum × powellii, swamp lily

Q – Could the panel recommend fruit trees that are resilient and adaptable to the changing climate? (12’54”)

Bob Flowerdew –
Prunus armeniaca, apricot

Bunny Guinness –
Amelanchier alnifolia, alder-leaved serviceberry
Apples

Jake Tibbetts –
Mulberries
Pears
Pyrus communis (F), common pear

Q – How do you encourage ferns to germinate? (17’55”)

Q – How long does an average “short-lived” perennial live? (20’52”)

Dr Chris Thorogood –
Arum italicum marmoratum, Italian arum 'Marmoratum'

Bunny Guinness –
Matthiola incana, brompton stock

Q – Could you advise on how to fill a big dip in our lawn and some ideas on something more interesting? (23’13”)

Q – Why have the 50 bulbs I’ve planted failed to sprout any buds? (27’53”)

Dr Chris Thorogood –
Angelica gigas, purple angelica

Jessica Beatty –
Hyacinthoides non-scripta, bluebell
Narcissus, daffodils
Galanthus nivalis, snowdrops
Crocus

Bunny Guiness –
Allium 'Globemaster', allium 'Globemaster'

Q – How do I stop Pak Choi going to seed before they have hearted up? (33’06”)

Q – Are there any indoor plants that give out more moisture than others? (34’58”)

Bunny Guinness –
Ficus pumila, creeping fig
Rosa Basanti ('Ruicl0062a'PBR)

Bob Flowerdew –
Plumbago, leadwort

Dr Chris Thorogood –
Bromeliads

Q – Why haven’t my healthy 4-year-old bird of paradise hasn't flowered yet? (37’49”)


SUN 14:45 Why Do We Do That? (p0kv9xck)
Series 2

10. Why do we dance?

Dance seems like such a natural thing, a good beat comes on and you can’t help it, you might find yourself bobbing, even the rhythmically impaired might find themselves tapping their fingers along to the music and it starts early - one study has shown that babies as young as 5 months engage in rhythmic movements.
Every culture on earth dances and yet look around at the rest of the animal kingdom… besides birds, can we say that other animals dance? Paleoanthropologist Ella Al-Shamahi asks why do we dance?


SUN 15:00 Drama on 4 (m002gq8q)
Acqua Alta - Part 2

Brett Lynch is in danger again, as an increasingly unhinged collector craves her reassurance. The question is how long can she play out an elaborate game of cat and mouse with her kidnapper before Brunetti and his colourful side-kick Vianello can locate her and drag her through the flood waters of the acqua alta to a place of safety.

Though art theft and a vastly wealthy criminal class seem endemic in a rain-lashed Venice where the rising tides match the ooze of deadly corruption, this is mercifully contrasted by what Brunetti perceives as moments of extreme beauty, kindness and social awareness – as if an essential goodness in the people will in the end hold the toxic waters at bay – enduring the worst, in the knowledge that the water will recede and that common decency and equilibrium will be restored.

CAST
COMMISSARIO GUIDO BRUNETTI - Julian Rhind-Tutt
PAOLA BRUNETTI - Jeany Spark
SERGEANT LORENZO VIANELLO - Tayla Kovacevic-Ebong
BRETT LYNCH - Jane Slavin
CONTESSA FALIER - Siobhan Redmond
VICE-QUESTORE GIUSEPPE PATTA - David Horovitch
ELETTRA - Emily Bruni
CARMELLO LA CAPRA/GIORGIO - Richard Elfyn
SALVATORE - .Elliot Barnes-Worrell

Dramatised by D J Britton from the novel by Donna Leon
Music by Julie Cooper
Produced and directed by Eoin O'Callaghan
A Big Fish Radio production for BBC Radio 4


SUN 16:00 Bookclub (m002gq8s)
Kit de Waal

Presented by James Naughtie, BBC Radio 4's Bookclub, speaks to the award-winning writer Kit de Waal about her heart-rending debut novel, My Name Is Leon. Published in 2016 by Penguin it's the story of two brothers separated after one is adopted. The book, now taught on the curriculum in English schools, takes us back to 1980s Birmingham, and while brothers Leon and Jake share the same mother, Carol, their futures look very different. Jake is adopted, while Leon remains in foster care. The story follows Leon over the course of one difficult year in his life, and when he's given a bike it opens up his horizons. He often goes to the local allotments, where he meets the characters of Mr Devlin and Tufty, and sees a different slice of life.

This recording takes place at the Rare Birds Bookshop in Edinburgh.

Producer: Dominic Howell
Editor: Gillian Wheelan
This was a BBC Audio Scotland production.


SUN 16:30 Nature Table (m001fm83)
Series 3

Episode 1

Celebrating the natural world and all it’s funny eccentricities.

Taking the simple format of a ‘Show & Tell’, in each episode Sue Perkins is joined by celebrity guests from the worlds of comedy and natural history.

Nature Table has a simple clear brief: to positively celebrate and promote the importance of all our planet’s wonderfully wild flora and fauna in a fun and easily grasped way... whilst at the same time having a giggle.

Recorded at The Eden Project, this week Sue Perkins is joined by special guests: Billy Heaney (Zoologist), Holly Smith-Baedorf (RSPB & Ecologist) and comedian Anna Keirle.

In this episode, Sue welcomes:

* Zoologist Bill Heaney
* RSPB and ecologist Holly Smith-Baedorf
* Comedian Anna Keirle

Written by Catherine Brinkworth, Jon Hunter, Jenny Laville and Nicky Roberts.

Producer: Simon Nicholls

A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4.


SUN 17:00 Witness History (w3ct74j3)
Ten countries join the EU in one night

On 1 May 2004, the European Union went through its biggest ever enlargement. 10 countries joined including eight from the former Soviet Union’s sphere of influence. For some, it was the moment the Eastern Bloc threw off the shackles of the Cold War and embraced a prosperous future in the EU. For others, it was the moment European countries lost control of their borders, leading to mass migration. Twice Italian Prime Minister, Prof Romano Prodi, was President of the European Commission at the time. He speaks to Ben Henderson.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.

(Photo: People celebrate the Czech Republic joining the EU. Credit: Sean Gallup via Getty Images)


SUN 17:10 The Invention Of... (m002d9rs)
Hungary

Hungary and Mohacs 500

Misha Glenny and producer Miles Warde travel from Vienna to Budapest and beyond to find out how Hungarian hardman Viktor Orban stays in power. With an election coming up next year, now seemed a good time to find out how he uses history in his campaigns, beginning with a battle his country lost to the Ottomans back in 1526.

"There are going to be three dates that matter in our series - 1526 and the battle of Mohacs; 1848, when the Hungarians rebelled against their Austrian overlords; and 1956, when anti Soviet protestors stood up to the Russian Bear … and were crushed. Three dates, three defeats, powerful moments in any nation’s history for politicians to exploit."

This is the thirteenth in the international How to Invent a Country series that asks where countries come from, and what are the stories people tell themselves about their past. Misha Glenny is the award-winning author of McMafia and currently head of the IWM in Vienna. With contributions from Paul Lendvai. Reka Kinga Papp, Simon Winder, Kamilla Marosi, Tibor Fischer and Nick Thorpe, plus Norbert Papp on location near Mohacs.

"The actual events of the battle don't matter - history is just raw material for politicians," Papp says.

The producer for BBC Studios Audio is Miles Warde.


SUN 17:54 Shipping Forecast (m002gq8v)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for UK shipping


SUN 17:57 Weather (m002gq8x)
The latest weather reports and forecast


SUN 18:00 Six O'Clock News (m002gq8z)
Details of a compensation scheme for victims of mis-sold car finance

The financial regulator has said a compensation scheme for drivers over the mis-selling of car loans will likely cost between nine and 18 billion pounds.


SUN 18:15 Pick of the Week (m002gq91)
Myfanwy Alexander

This week, we’ve been surfing the airwaves for the strange, the true, the funny and the fabulous. From frosty tigers to cartoon fawns, from lingering love in station waiting room, to the infinity of the night sky, and streets where music pours from every door - this Pick is a mix of wonders!

Presenter: Myfanwy Alexander
Producer: Elizabeth Ann Duffy
Production Coordinator: Caroline Peddle

A BBC Audio Northern Ireland production for BBC Radio 4.


SUN 19:00 The Archers (m002gq93)
Kate’s ears prick up when she finds out Kirsty’s on the hunt for a lodger. She thinks she may know just the person. She suggests Chris Carter might need to take back Rookery Cottage while he’s out of the flat, leaving Jakob without a home. She volunteers him for a look round Willow Farm, while admitting to a crestfallen Kirsty that he can be annoyingly fussy.

Brian’s determined to stick to his plan of refusing to harvest the BL wheat. Kate insists this is not a good idea – it’s bound to get messy if solicitors get involved. Brian doesn’t want to hear it. Stella also gets on Brian’s case, to no avail. She then suggests a meeting with Justin to try and iron things out, to which Brian grudgingly agrees. Having worked her persuasive magic on Justin by pointing out the awkwardness of her situation, he too accedes to her request to meet. Justin declares that Home Farm is contracted to harvest the wheat, and there’s a stalemate as Brian points out that any legal proceedings against him would take so long that the crop would be spoiled anyway. All Justin needs to do is drop his controversial plans and the harvest can start tomorrow. Despairing Stella gets them to meet on common ground – their mutual trust in her. But any hope of a rapprochement is lost when Justin brings up the poisoning of the Am, and mentions Jennifer. Brian leaves, spitting his parting shot: Justin’s wheat can rot in the dirt.


SUN 19:15 Illuminated (m002gq95)
A Taste of Home

Care packages are a universal love language and a way for families to stay connected across distances. We unbox four from China, India, Ireland and the Philippines, each filled with the tastes, textures and memories of home.

In Newton-le-Willows, content creator Aurora unwraps a parcel from her mother in China revealing fragrant spices, dried mushrooms and handmade gifts as a reminder of her native traditions. In Cardiff, dancer Ishika shares a tightly sealed batch of homemade bori, sun-dried lentil dumplings prepared and packed by her cousins in India. Over in Liverpool, full-time mum Sarah introduces us to a selection of snacks pulled from her Nanny's cabinet in Ireland for a mix of nostalgia, sweetness and comfort that bridges generations. In Norwich, multidisciplinary artist Sha opens a package from her mum in the Philippines filled with dried mangoes and polvoron, a crumbly, sugary treat that melts in your mouth and warms the heart.

Each of them shares how these packages, sent with care and packed with love, offer more than just food. They’re a connection to family, culture, belonging and the best remedy for homesickness.

Presented and produced by Jay Behrouzi
Executive Producer Richard McIlroy

A BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4


SUN 19:45 Just One Thing - with Michael Mosley (m001jkq4)
Nibble Some Nuts

Nuts are a rich source of fibre and polyphenols. They are also very high in fats and calories, but studies have shown that eating these bite-sized snacks won’t add to your waistline. These nutrient powerhouses could also help slow-down the ageing process. Research has found that walnut eaters live, on average, over a year longer than those who don’t. What’s more, adding nuts to your diet can help your brain! Michael Mosley is joined by Dr Sze-Yen Tan from Deakin University in Australia who reveals how eating nuts can benefit the brain, and why eating moderate amounts of nuts won’t add to your waistline. A recent study of his found that people who ate nuts performed better in cognitive tests and had improved short-term memory. Meanwhile, our volunteer Emma swaps out her usual snack for a handful of mixed nuts!


SUN 20:00 Feedback (m002gg7k)
Nick Robinson's interview with David Mencer. Reaction to BBC App overseas

With news of starvation in Gaza making headlines, Today presenter Nick Robinson conducted an interview with Israeli Government Spokesperson David Mencer that divided listeners and lit up our inbox. We hear what you had to say.

Andrea Catherwood talks to radio futurologist James Cridland about BBC.com and the BBC app, the two platforms offered as alternatives to overseas listeners after the closure of BBC Sounds outside of the UK. Listeners from around the world give their honest reviews of the website and app as they get to grips with them. And we get some answers to some of your more specific questions - including the whereabouts of The Archers Podcast.

Also, we hear another nomination for Interview of the Year - this time it's for Jonathan Agnew's recent interview with young registered blind cricketer Ravi, on Test Match Special.

Presenter: Andrea Catherwood
Producer: Pauline Moore
Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie

A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4


SUN 20:30 Last Word (m002gd8p)
Dame Cleo Laine, Hulk Hogan, Margaret Boden, Tom Lehrer

Matthew Bannister on

Dame Cleo Laine, whose glorious voice was equally at home singing jazz, pop and classical music. Her daughter Jacqui Dankworth shares her memories.

Hulk Hogan, who spearheaded the transformation of American wrestling from niche activity to global phenomenon.

Professor Margaret Boden, whose expertise in cognitive science helped to shape the future of artificial intelligence.

Tom Lehrer, the American satirical songwriter and mathematician. We have a tribute from Sir Cameron Mackintosh.

Producer: Ed Prendeville

Archive used
First Lady of Jazz – Cleo Laine, BBC Radio 4 Extra, 30/10/2022; Front Row, BBC Radio 4, 28/05/2018; Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 05/09/1997; Jonathan Ross Presents: Hulk Hogan, BBC One, 14/04/1994; Is Wrestling Fake? – Hulk Hogan, Pebble Mill, BBC One, 31/03/1993; WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event – Hulk Hogan vs. Big Boss Man (Steel Cage Match), 1989; Hulk Hogan B-Roll, Including Strongest Slam and Hall of Fame Speech, provided by WWE; The Life Scientific – Margaret Boden, BBC Radio 4; Kaleidoscope, BBC Radio 4, 02/06/1980; Parkinson, BBC One, 04/10/1980; Desert Island Discs: Tom Lehrer, BBC Radio 4, 12/07/1980


SUN 21:00 Sliced Bread (m002d1bv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:04 on Saturday]


SUN 21:25 Radio 4 Appeal (m002gq80)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:54 today]


SUN 21:30 From Our Own Correspondent (m002gq97)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:30 on Saturday]


SUN 22:00 Westminster Hour (m002gq99)
Helen Catt and guests discuss latest political developments

Helen Catt is joined by the Labour peer and former education union leader, Mary Bousted; Shadow Work and Pensions Minister, Danny Kruger; and Jill Rutter - expert on the workings of Whitehall at the Institute of Government. They discuss the latest Home Office announcements on dealing with illegal migration, and its impact on social cohesion. Lizzy Buchan - political editor of the Daily Mirror - brings additional insight and analysis. Helen also speaks to the Labour MP for Southport, Patrick Hurley, about the town's recovery from last year's tragedy and the unrest which followed. And the panel suggest books for summer reading, after hearing recommendations from the President of the Publishers Association, Mandy Hill and James Marriott - columnist on culture and ideas for The Times.


SUN 23:00 Artworks (m002gg6v)
New York 1925

4. Autumn

In 1925 New York became the biggest, most populous city in the world, overtaking London, and was the launchpad for an extraordinary range of writing, music, culture and politics which still resonate 100 years later - from the publication of F Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and the launch of The New Yorker, to the rise of the Harlem Renaissance and the first success for the composer Richard Rodgers.

This is the story of that momentous year, season by season, told over four episodes, with contributors including novelist Jay McInerney, the writer and academic Margo Jefferson and the editor of the New Yorker David Remnick. The series is presented by the saxophonist and broadcaster Soweto Kinch, with an original soundtrack played by the composer and jazz clarinettist Giacomo Smith and his band.

Episode 4: Autumn

It was election time for mayor of the biggest city on earth, and the fun-loving, fast-living Jimmy Walker was up against the establishment in the form of pen millionaire, Frank Waterman. But who ever won, Jimmy had changed politics in New York forever.

The New Yorker magazine was finally turning a corner, with its first edition that sold out – thanks to a celebrity debutante.

November saw two publications that showcased the city in different ways – the kaleidoscopic, impressionistic novel Manhattan Transfer by John Dos Passos, and The New Negro: An Interpretation, edited by Alain Locke, which was the nearest thing to a mission statement for the Harlem Renaissance.

Presenter Soweto Kinch
Producer Katy Hickman
Band: Giacomo Smith clarinet; Laura Judd trumpet; Daniel Higham trombone; Alexander Boulton banjo; Joe Webb piano; Corrie Dick drums; Soweto Kinch saxophone


SUN 23:30 The History Podcast (m0024bg3)
The Lucan Obsession

4. Searching for Lady Lucan

The press portrayed Lady Lucan as a perfect victim: a tiny, fragile woman, attacked by a cruel and vengeful man. Lord Lucan’s friends said she was a volatile, difficult snob.

She is certainly enigmatic and intriguing.

With access to never before broadcast tapes, Alex von Tunzlemann looks for the truth behind the stories of the Countess and explores how her image emerged.

Producer: Sarah Bowen


SUN 23:45 Short Works (m002gd8m)
Flyology by Alison MacLeod

The acclaimed writer Alison MacLeod's new and specially commissioned story sees the brilliant Ada Lovelace take a liberating flight of fancy where a vision of the future unfurls. Phoebe Campbell reads.

In Alison MacLeod's beautifully written and sharply observed story, we travel back to the Victorian era where we encounter a young woman and her formidable intellect. Ada Lovelace well known as the daughter of Byron and an early contributor the forerunner to the computer and AI, the 'Analytical Machine' was a mathematical genius. Less well known is that she once wanted to fly, and in her desire to be airborne her fierce imagination led her into the unseen worlds of science and discovery.

Alison MacLeod is a novelist, short story writer and senior academic. Her most recent novel, Tenderness, was a New York Times ‘Best Book’ of the year and a ‘Best Paperback’ of the year for The Sunday Times. Her novel Unexploded was nominated for the Man-Booker Prize and adapted for BBC Radio 4. Her collection All the Beloved Ghosts was shortlisted for Canada’s Governor General’s Award for Fiction and for the UK's Edge Hill Short Story Prize. She has also been shortlisted for the BBC National Short Story Award, and her stories have often been broadcast on Radio 3 and 4. She is a Fellow of the Royal Literary Fund, Visiting Professor at the University of Chichester, a Writers' Award recipient of the British Library, and currently lectures on a part-time basis at Anglia Ruskin University, where she contributes to the Cambridge Writing Centre.

Phoebe Campbell is best known for playing Rhaena Targaryen in the fantasy series House of the Dragon. Campbell's played Susanna in the RSC West End production of Hamnet, and Nikki in Alma Mater at the Almeida.

The producer is Elizabeth Allard.

MONDAY 04 AUGUST 2025

MON 00:00 Midnight News (m002gq9c)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


MON 00:15 Artworks (m002gfx9)
Depeche Mode: Reach Out and Touch Faith

In 1981, four teenagers from Basildon released ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’ - a bright, synth-pop single that announced the arrival of Depeche Mode. Over the next four decades, that same band would evolve into something far darker, stranger, and more monumental. This documentary explores how Depeche Mode became one of the most beloved bands in the world - everywhere before the country they came from.

They’ve sold over 100 million records, filled stadiums from Mexico City to Moscow, and become a source of near-religious devotion for fans around the world. And yet, back home in Britain, they’ve often been misunderstood - too weird, too pop, too synthetic, too uncool.

Writer, critic and musician Sasha Frere-Jones leads a journey through class, coolness, eyeliner, bondage, synthesizers and the Cold War. Along the way, he meets the fans who followed the band across continents, critics and the artists who owe them so much.

Featuring exclusive interviews and extraordinary archive from behind the Iron Curtain to Los Angeles riot scenes, this is the untold story of how Depeche Mode conquered the world - by accident, by design, and by sheer persistence.

Contributors:

Gary Numan, musician
Daniel Miller, founder of Mute Records
Alexis Petridis, music critic
Jeremy Deller, artist and filmmaker
Suzie Stapleton, musician
Paul Gidley, Depeche Mode fan

Presenter: Sasha Frere-Jones
Producer: Richard Power
Executive Producer: Kellie While

A huge thank you to Jacqueline Edenbrow, Jeremy Deller and Nick Abrahams for use of the clips from the 2006 film My Hobby is Depeche Mode.

'Our Hobby is Depeche Mode’
Directed by Jeremy Deller and Nick Abrahams
Produced by Jacqui Edenbrow
Courtesy of Mute Records

A Pomona Audio production for BBC Radio 4


MON 00:45 Bells on Sunday (m002gq9f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:43 on Sunday]


MON 00:48 Shipping Forecast (m002gq9h)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for UK shipping


MON 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (m002gq9k)
BBC Radio 4 presents a selection of news and current affairs, arts and science programmes from the BBC World Service.


MON 05:00 News Summary (m002gq9m)
National and international news from BBC Radio 4


MON 05:04 Last Word (m002gd8p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 20:30 on Sunday]


MON 05:34 Shipping Forecast (m002gq9p)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for UK shipping


MON 05:43 Prayer for the Day (m002gq9r)
A splash of joy

A spiritual comment and prayer to start the day with The Reverend Canon Grace Thomas.

Good morning.

Often, as I walk up to the cathedral here in Manchester, I pass children laughing and playing, in the sculptured streams of water that we have in cathedral gardens. There is something about the flow of fresh water, that brings joy. It speaks of life and possibility.

Rivers wind their way throughout scripture, from the four rivers in Genesis that emerge from Eden and flow around various lands, to the river Jordan, to Revelation, where the "river of the water of life" flows from the throne of God, into the city. Rivers are places where people converge, for life-giving properties, they are places of encounter and of transformation, and they mirror the life and flow of the Holy spirit in creation.

The problem we have though, is that our rivers are dying. A recent report stated that just 15% of English rivers, reach good ecological health standards. This is repeated throughout the world. My father’s home city of Chennai has three rivers, all considered toxic and devoid of most life. If we kill off these life giving entities of creation, we limit all creations ability to flourish, including our own.

This is why my prayer today, is for the rivers that flow in our lands. Rivers that have been places of encounter and transformation since creation began. Rivers that gush through the landscapes, as signs of vitality and freshness.

I pray that I may treasure, and care for the rivers in my midst. That I might be like a child, in my joyful excitement, at the sound and sight of fresh flowing rivers. That rivers may give life, and may live, and that they may continue to be places of joy and hope.

Amen.


MON 05:45 Farming Today (m002gq9t)
04/08/25 Harvest and the impact of this year's dry weather on crops

It's been a tricky year for many farmers this year with extremes of drought and rain at various times - usually the wrong times. All week we'll see how harvest 2025 is shaping up. We start with barley in East Anglia and a dairy farm in Wiltshire, and find out from a cereals analyst how crops are looking across the board.

Presenter = Charlotte Smith
Producer = Rebecca Rooney


MON 05:57 Weather (m002gq9w)
The latest weather reports and forecasts for farmers


MON 06:00 Today (m002gqfh)
News and current affairs, including Sports Desk, Weather and Thought for the Day.


MON 09:00 Rory Stewart: The Long History of... (m002gjfv)
Heroism

1. The Classical Hero

Rory Stewart explores ideas of what it means to be a hero from the ancient world to the present day. How have these ideas changed? Why do heroes matter? Who are the heroes we need today?

With the help of leading historians, psychologists, philosophers and theologians, he examines how heroism is continually questioned and re-invented in every age, and how these contrasting visions of the hero might speak to us in our own time. What does it mean for our moral life? How should we perceive and pursue human excellence?

In this episode, Rory explores ideas of the hero from the classical world to the middle ages.

Presenter: Rory Stewart
Producer and sound design: Dan Tierney
Editor: Tim Pemberton
Commissioning Editor: Dan Clarke


MON 09:30 Fool's Gold (p0l4tp44)
6. History on Trial

George and Layton are jailed, but where are all the missing coins? Gareth Williams helps police bust a new coin-selling operation in Durham. Could these coins be from the Herefordshire hoard?

The mystery of the missing hoard is far from over.

Narrator: Aimee-Ffion Edwards

Contributors: Holly Morgan, Simon Wicks, Dr Gareth Williams

Sound Design: Peregrine Andrews

Production Co-ordinator: Dan Marchini

Additional Research: Holly Morgan

Associate Producer: David James Smith

Producer: Aron Keller

Exec Producer: James Robinson

A BBC Studios Audio Production


MON 10:00 Woman's Hour (m002gqfp)
Listener Week: Seatbelts and busts, Recruitment and AI, Married but living apart

To kick this week off, we heard from listener Melanie Williams. Melanie is forever having to adjust her seatbelt because of her bust size. She worries if she were to be in an accident she would end up choking or being strangled by her seatbelt rather than protected by it. Melanie joins Nuala McGovern to discuss, along with motoring journalist Maria McCarthy who has been looking into the issue.

How might the use of AI in recruitment be negatively impacting women's chances of finding work? Listener Valerie joins Nuala to talk about the challenges of being shortlisted for jobs. They are also joined by Judy Wajcman, Emeritus Professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science, she has written extensively on the relationship between gender, science and technology, and Lauren Spearman who is a careers content creator and brand consultant.

After 30 years of marriage, Margaret Murphy moved from the family home in Australia to the UK—alone. Fifteen years later, she and her husband are still married, despite living on opposite sides of the world. She believes her later-life choices reflect a freer, more modern way to look at traditional married life—one that may appeal to listeners.

Amy Ennion is a 32-year-old engineer from Surrey, who in her spare time, is an ultra-marathon swimmer. She has swum the English Channel, the length of Lake Windermere twice, she has swum Lac Leman in Geneva for 28 hours straight and just a few weeks ago she swam the length of Loch Ness! After her mother and partner wrote into Woman's Hour about her, Amy tells us what it’s like to swim for such an extreme period of time.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stand in front of a room full of strangers and make them laugh? Listener Susan Warlock wanted to explore older women taking up stand-up comedy. At 66, she decided to try it herself – and after just one gig, she was completely hooked. She joins Nuala along with writer, performer & stand-up comedy teacher Rach Sambrooks.

Presenter: Nuala McGovern
Producer: Dianne McGregor


MON 11:00 En-Gulfed (m002gqft)
Culture Capture?

BAFTA winning activist and satirist Heydon Prowse gives a personal take on how and why the Gulf States are so interested in British culture.

From cash-strapped theatres and museums to huge infrastructure projects, Gulf money is a key ingredient across our cultural landscape. What does this mean to us and what’s in it for them? Critics cry ‘culture washing’ but is this really what’s on and should we care?

Written and presented by Heydon Prowse
Producer: Alison Vernon-Smith


MON 11:45 The Autism Curve (m002bszl)
1. The Data

What do the data showing a steep rise in autism diagnoses reveal - and hide?

A 20-year study in the UK showed an astonishing eightfold rise in new autism diagnoses on an exponential curve. We hear from the study’s author Ginny Russell and ask how the numbers compare in other parts of the world. And Professor Joshua Stott explains how a surprising discovery at a dementia clinic led him to calculate that that enormous rise in diagnoses may still undercount the country’s autistic population by as much as 1.2 million.

Archive: BBC; CSPAN; Fox News; CNN.

Presenter: Michael Blastland
Series Producer: Simon Maybin
Editor: Clare Fordham
Sound mix: Neil Churchill
Production Co-ordinator: Gemma Ashman


MON 12:00 News Summary (m002gqfy)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.


MON 12:04 You and Yours (m002gqg1)
Conditional Selling, Car Finance, Couples Counselling

In the housing market, conditional selling is when an estate agent refuses to pass an offer on to a seller unless the buyer meets certain criteria. Often, this will be an attempt to ensure that the buyer lists their property with the same estate agent – doubling their business. It is illegal, yet a recent Panorama documentary demonstrated just how widespread it is. We hear from someone impacted and discuss how you can spot it.

Attending couples counselling was once considered a taboo. However, changing social attitudes have seen it not only become more popular, but a more open topic of discussion. It’s causing significant growth in the sector.

Buying a park home has long been an accessible way of entering the housing market. Whilst many of them have low upfront costs to buy, some owners are frustrated that they must pay 10% of any sale value back to the site it sits in.

It’s been a bumper year for wasp numbers, with some pest control companies reporting upwards of 40% increases in callouts compared to last year. As climate change alters conditions in the UK, will this continue to increase? We hear from wasp expert Professor Seirian Sumner, who is asking the public to help monitor this: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeev-nj4sNsfL9HQArvy0Vi0xW522w-5vjTA17p1tOo2a_83A/viewform

Following Friday's decision in the Supreme Court, the Financial Conduct Authority is planning a consultation that might see large numbers of consumers receive at least some form of compensation. We'll discuss who is eligible and what you need to do to claim.

PRESENTER: WINIFRED ROBINSON

PRODUCER: CHARLIE FILMER-COURT


MON 12:57 Weather (m002gqg5)
The latest weather forecast


MON 13:00 World at One (m002gqg8)
Immigration tops the political agenda

We explore how an extra £100 million might help curb the numbers. And, as Storm Floris batters these isles, we speak to people sheltering from the storm. Plus, we kick off our 60th birthday celebrations.


MON 13:45 Understand (m002gqgb)
The Trip

1. Altered States

During the early weeks of the pandemic, Tim Hayward spent 14 days in a coma. He remembers this time vividly – his days and nights filled with strange, incandescent visions and hallucinations. That experience is something he would never choose to revisit but, around the world, large numbers of people are deliberately seeking out powerfully altered states.

In this ten-part series, Tim sets out to better understand a group of substances that induce altered states: psychedelics.

There’s been a surge of interest in their therapeutic potential for various mental health conditions - as well as a range of other clinical possibilities. As research around the world ramps up after years of taboo and prohibition he tries to get to grips with - or at least get a clearer sense of - how science, culture, politics and business might all interact in this changing psychedelic landscape, and what it all might mean.

He also explores what might be happening in the brain during a trip and whether, by studying psychedelics, we might uncover more about consciousness, imagination and even the mysteries of reality itself.

In this first episode he discovers where psychedelics come from, gets terrified about ergot poisoning, and hears from a scientist at the forefront of clinical
research looking at psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for treatment resistant depression.

Contributors:
Lucie Berkovitch, psychiatrist and neuroscientist, GHU Paris Psychiatrie et Neurosciences
Erika Dyck, historian of psychedelics, University of Saskatchewan
Mike Jay, author and cultural historian
David Luke, psychologist and psychedelic researcher, University of Greenwich

Presenter: Tim Hayward
Series Producer: Richard Ward
Executive Producer: Rosamund Jones
Editor: Kirsten Lass
Written by Tim Hayward and Richard Ward
Sound Design and Mixing: Richard Ward
Researcher: Grace Revill
Voiceover Artist: Sandra-Mae Lux
Commissioning Editor: Daniel Clarke
A Loftus Media production for BBC Radio 4


MON 14:00 The Archers (m002gq93)
[Repeat of broadcast at 19:00 on Sunday]


MON 14:15 Ed Reardon's Week (m002gqgd)
Series 16

6. Blocked!

Ed has finally decided that enough is enough and has decided to stop writing. For good. Unless Zadie Smith can convince him otherwise.

Series 16 not only marks 20 years of Ed Reardon broadcasting on Radio 4, but this final episode in the series is the 100th episode. Ed still manages to fail at reaching the heady heights of successful, rich author, but he still succeeds in scraping by with various schemes and writing projects.

Ed Reardon - Christopher Douglas
Eli - Lisa Coleman
Maggie - Pippa Haywood
Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson
Ping - Barunka O’Shaughnessy
Kate - Robin Weaver
Petroc Trelawny as himself

Written by Christopher Douglas

Produced by Dawn Ellis

Production Co-ordinator: Katie Baum

Sound: Jon Calver & Alison McKenzie


MON 14:45 Death of a Naturalist by Seamus Heaney (m001q13b)
Episode 5

A new reading of the debut poetry collection by the Nobel Prize in Literature recipient Seamus Heaney, specially commissioned by BBC Radio 4 to commemorate the tenth anniversary of his death.

As read by Bríd Brennan, Adrian Dunbar and Stephen Rea.

Music composed and performed by Neil Martin.

Seamus Heaney was a poet, translator, teacher and critic. During a career spanning fifty years, he became one of the most celebrated poets of his generation. While often rooted in the landscape of his homeland, Heaney’s poetry has a universal appeal that was to find a worldwide readership. During his lifetime he was the recipient of many honours, including the 1995 Nobel Prize in Literature, and his work has been translated into 27 languages. His legacy lives on, as readers continue to enjoy and engage with his poetry, prose, drama and translations.

Readers: Bríd Brennan, Adrian Dunbar and Stephen Rea.
Author: Seamus Heaney
Music: Neil Martin
Producer: Michael Shannon
Editor: Andy Martin

A BBC Northern Ireland production.


MON 15:00 A Good Read (m002gqgg)
Rob Rinder and Juno Dawson

RUNNING WITH SCISSORS by Augusten Burroughs, chosen by Rob Rinder
THE ODD WOMAN AND THE CITY by Vivian Gornick, chosen by Harriett Gilbert
EARTHLINGS by Sayaka Murata, chosen by Juno Dawson

The barrister, television presenter and writer Rob Rinder and author Juno Dawson talk books with Harriett Gilbert. Juno Dawson selects Sayaka Murata's Earthlings, the follow-up to her cult hit Convenience Store Woman. Rob Rinder advocates for Running with Scissors, Augusten Burroughs' memoir of a deeply bizarre childhood, and Harriett has gone for The Odd Woman and the City, Vivian Gornick's essays celebrating New York.

Producer for BBC Audio Bristol: Sally Heaven

Join the conversation on Instagram: agoodreadbbc

Photo credit: Ollie Rosser


MON 15:30 You're Dead to Me (m002gqgj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]


MON 16:00 Currently (m002gd02)
[Repeat of broadcast at 13:30 on Sunday]


MON 16:30 Soul Music (m001fm2r)
Chervona Kalyna

Powerful stories linked to this beautiful and stirring Ukrainian folk song which inspired Pink Floyd to reform so they could release their own version, 'Hey Hey Rise Up', alongside Andriy Khlyvnyuk of Boombox.

Chervona Kalyna is a clarion call with roots stretching back to 17th century Cossack history; as meaningful now as then, this episode of Soul Music reflects how music can be a unifying force in the most dangerous and difficult of times.

Anti-Russian, it was banned prior to Ukrainian independence in 1991 with one of its lyrics calling to 'free our brothers Ukrainian from Muscovites shackles'. Its full title 'Oi u luzi chervona kalyna' translates as 'Oh the red viburnum in the meadow': red viburnum is a common plant in Ukraine and in the song it's a metaphor for the country itself.

Telling their stories on Soul Music: Taras Ratushnyy, journalist turned soldier, discusses his beloved son, Roman, and the heroic role he played in Ukrainian society both before after the war began.

Elizaveta Izmalkova is a young Ukrainian singer who now lives in Lithuania. She performed Chervona Kalyna as part of a flash-mob co-organised by Egle Plytnikaite who describes why she and other Lithuanians wanted to demonstrate their support for Ukraine.

Nadia Morykvas wrote a book about the cultural polymath, Stepan Charnetskyi, who - in the early 20th century - adapted Chervona Kalyna for one of his plays. (Volodymyr Oleyko translates for Nadia Morykvas).

Andrij Halushka is a Ukrainian who now lives in London. He describes how his family history, down multiple generations, connects with the song.

Julia and Kateryna came to England under the 'Homes for Ukraine' scheme when the war began. Under the name 'Dvi Doli' they raise money for Ukraine by staging concerts where they perform traditional songs on the Bandura.

Taras Filenko is a pianist and ethno-musicologist. Originally from Zaporizhzhia in Ukraine, he now lives in Pennsylvania, USA. He discusses the musicology of the song, and recalls a neighbour from his childhood who was imprisoned for performing Chervona Kalyna in the 1940s.

Myroslava Hartmond is a British-Ukrainian cultural diplomacy expert. She explains how the current popularity of Chervona Kalyna began when Andriy Khlyvnyuk, the lead singer of Boombox, recorded an a capella version in the centre of Kyiv. This inspired Pink Floyd to collaborate with Khlyvnyuk and release their own version.

Please scroll down to the 'Related Links' box on the Radio 4 Soul Music webpage for further information about some of the interviewees and the different versions of the song used in the programme. The programme image is of Taras and Roman Ratushnyy.

Producer for BBC Audio in Bristol: Karen Gregor


MON 17:00 PM (m002gqgl)
Hostage family reacts to Hamas captivity video

We'll bring you the latest from the conflict in Gaza and hear from the cousin of Evyatar David one of two hostages in a video released by Hamas. As storm Floris makes landfall across the UK we hear how it has been impacting people, and we remember the life of the first female head of MI5, Stella Rimington as her family announces her passing.


MON 18:00 Six O'Clock News (m002gqgn)
Israel to consider Gaza war goals as reports say escalation planned

Hundreds of retired senior Israeli security and military officials have written to President Trump urging him to intervene to end the war in Gaza. The main hostage support group in Israel has accused Benjamin Netanyahu of leading Israel and the remaining captives being held by Hamas to doom. Also: Ukraine says it has stolen and published classified material about a new Russian nuclear submarine. And England and India draw their dramatic Test series in a cliff-hanger finish at the Oval.


MON 18:30 I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue (m002gqgq)
Series 83

5. On the Buzzer

The godfather of all panel shows pays a visit to the Bristol Beacon. On the panel are Adrian Edmondson, Rachel Parris, Miles Jupp and Henning Wehn, with Jack Dee in the umpire’s chair. Regular listeners will know to expect inspired nonsense, pointless revelry and Colin Sell at the piano.

Producer: Jon Naismith
A Random production for BBC Radio 4


MON 19:00 The Archers (m002gqgs)
Kate informs Stella that Brian’s gone away with Miranda for the week. Stella didn’t know this, but acknowledged it was unlikely she’d have changed his mind about the stand he was taking against the harvest anyway.

Jakob takes a dim view of having to view Willow Farm as a rental option, but goes along with it. He presents what at first appears to be a negative impression, with Kate attempting valiantly to turn all his downsides into positives. Relieved Kirsty’s fine with the potential outcome, but Jakob stops her in her tracks by declaring the room ideal. He’ll take it. Kate assures nonplussed Kirsty that Jakob won’t hide away in his room, but will spend lots of his time downstairs socialising. Isn’t it wonderful? Kirsty agrees that it is.

It's the final week of Ben’s nursing course and he’s struggling to find a job. David asserts he can always come back to farming, but when Ben gets a soaking from a dirty water pipe he’s not impressed. David gives him an admin task instead, and asks him to gather information on the Grey Gables tug of war team when he goes to the Health Club on Wednesday. Stella arrives to enlist their support with a plan. With Brian away she intends to get the BL harvest in without his knowledge. Will David help her? David has to refuse; Brian is family and he can’t go against his wishes. Ben wonders if Stella might ask Ruth instead.


MON 19:15 Front Row (m002gqgv)
Freakier Friday

Freakier Friday is an update on the 2003 hit body-swap movie, and it features the return of the original stars - Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsey Lohan. Samira, with film critic Larushka Ivan-Zedah and Jesse Green, the chief New York Times' theatre critic, look at the legacy and impact of the book on which the films were based.
Auction house Sotheby's is returning a set of sacred jewels believed to be linked to the Buddha's remains, to India - William Dalrymple joins Front Row to discuss the gems' remarkable history.
The BFI is launching a season of films starring an Italian screen icon. Sophia Loren: Hollywood Style, Neapolitan Spirit. Now 90 years old, she has 7 decades of film work under her belt. How and why did she become such an astonishing global cinema titan.

Presenter: Samira Ahmed


MON 20:00 The Briefing Room (m002gg7m)
Why don't we have ID cards in the UK?

For years there has been an argument, sometimes loud, sometimes subdued, on whether Britain needs an ID card system. One big reason given for wanting them is simply to know who is here legally. With illegal and irregular migration never far from the headlines these days and with President Macron, during his recent visit describing the “pull factor” of illegal migrants being able to work in Britain, the debate is being resurrected. So, what is the history of ID cards in the UK, what form might they take if we have a system and would they work?

Presenter: David Aaronovitch

Guests:

Jon Agar, author of The Government Machine
Rainer Kattel, Professor of Innovation and Public Governance, UCL
Edgar Whitley, Professor of Information Systems in the Department of Management, LSE
Rachel Coldicutt, technology specialist and executive director of the research consultancy, Careful Industries.

Producers: Caroline Bayley, Kirsteen Knight and Sally Abrahams
Productions co-ordinator: Maria Ogundele
Sound engineers: James Beard and Neil Churchill
Editors: Sam Bonham and Bridget Harney


MON 20:30 BBC Inside Science (m002gg7p)
Why wasn’t the Russia mega earthquake as damaging as previous ones?

A massive 8.8 magnitude mega earthquake off Russia's east coast sent tsunami waves into Japan, Hawaii and the US west coast this week. While more than two million people across the Pacific were ordered to evacuate, there were no immediate reports of any fatalities.

After recent devastating tsunamis like the ones that hit Fukushima in 2011 and the Boxing Day disaster of 2004, we speak to Environmental Seismology lecturer at University College London, Dr Stephen Hicks, to ask why this quake didn’t cause anywhere near the same amount of harm.

After the Lionesses successfully defended their UEFA European Women’s Championship, Marnie Chesterton is joined by Professor of Sports Engineering at Sheffield Hallam University, Steve Haake, to looks at the role data analysis and Artificial Intelligence is now playing in football and other sports.

We hear about fascinating new research from primatologist Professor Cat Hobaiter at the University of St Andrews into what we can learn about our evolution by studying how apes eat alcoholic fermented fruit.

And Marnie is joined by technology broadcaster Gareth Mitchell to hear about the week’s brand new scientific discovery news, and for a musical homage to the satirical songwriter and mathematician Tom Lehrer, who died this week at the age of 97.

Presenter: Marnie Chesterton
Producers: Clare Salisbury, Dan Welsh, Jonathan Blackwell
Editor: Martin Smith
Production Co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth


MON 21:00 Changing the Odds (m00298h5)
Episode 2: Gibraltar - Online betting's birthplace

When you place a bet online, the chances are it will be processed in Gibraltar - the tiny British overseas territory on the tip of Spain.

Gibraltar is a major hub for gambling firms, and not just because it offers tax breaks. In the 90s the major British betting brands started moving over to Gibraltar, and thanks to low tax, the rise of football and innovations in online betting - Gibraltar is now the centre of innovation and tech in the industry.

In the second episode of Changing the Odds, Lydia Thomas who's reported on the industry for a decade travels to Gibraltar to meet gambling industry innovators and find out how British companies like Skybet, Bet365, Betfred, William Hill and Ladbrokes led the charge in developing online gambling platforms.

Alongside her is Stewart Kenny, who founded Paddy Power in the 80s, he explains how his business saw the potential in online gambling but he started to worry about the impact it might be having on people who had gambling addictions.

British companies led the way in developing online gambling after the 2005 Gambling Act liberalised betting - but what have been the consequences of that Act? Lydia and Stewart investigate the treasure trove of data companies hold on its customers, and how it's used to keep players spending. But, could it have been used to spot potential problem gamblers? Stewart thinks so.

Presenter: Lydia Thomas
Producer: Lydia Thomas and Richard McIlroy
Main Contributor: Stewart Kenny
Assistant Producer: Emma Smith
Technical Producer: Michael Smith


MON 21:45 Untaxing (m0029hw8)
5. The £10 Billion Fridge

A fruit and veg supplier installs a fridge. A tax advisor claims it’s a scientific breakthrough, and urges a claim for R&D tax relief.

That fridge is just the tip of a £10 billion scandal. How did HMRC let it happen? And why is no one talking about it?

Producer: Tom Pooley
A Tempo+Talker production for BBC Radio 4


MON 22:00 The World Tonight (m002gqgx)
Israeli sources say expansion of Gaza operation being planned

Reports out of Israel suggest Benjamin Netanyahu is considering expanding military operations in Gaza, despite growing opposition to the war. Hundreds of Israeli security officials have signed a letter to US President Trump urging him to intervene and stop the war. We speak to one of them, former head of the Israeli Secret Service Shin Bet.

Nigel Farage has called on the police to release the immigration status of suspects charged with crimes following the arrest of two men in connection with the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl in Warwickshire.

And after a spell-binding last test match, we'll ask where this summer's series between England and India sit in the cricketing pantheon.


MON 22:45 An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro (m002gqgz)
1: 'War damage.'

As part of BBC BBC Radio 4's commemoration of the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, Tim McInnerny reads Nobel Prize-winner Kazuo Ishiguro's classic novel, set in post-WWII Japan.

It is 1948. Japan is rebuilding after the horrors of the war, its people putting defeat behind them and looking to the future. The celebrated artist Masuji Ono fills his days in his garden with his two grown daughters and grandson, and his evenings drinking with old associates in the quiet lantern-lit bars of the old pleasure district. His should be a tranquil retirement. But as his memories continually return to the past, a dark shadow begins to grow over his serenity.

Today: On a visit from his daughter, artist Masuji Ono's quiet retirement is shaken by questions about his past...

Reader: Tim McInnerny

Writer: Kazuo Ishiguro is one of the world's most acclaimed contemporary writers. His novels have earned him many honours, including the Nobel Prize in Literature and the Booker Prize. His work has been translated into over fifty languages and The Remains of the Day and Never Let Me Go have both been made into acclaimed films. He was awarded a knighthood in 2018 for Services to Literature and made Companion of Honour in 2025. He also holds the decorations of Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from France and the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star from Japan. He was born in Nagasaki, Japan, in 1954 and moved to Britain at the age of five.

Abridger: Richard Hamilton
Producer: Justine Willett


MON 23:00 Limelight (m001k83s)
Who Killed Aldrich Kemp?

1. Funeral In London

Our heroine Clara Page (Phoebe Fox) returns. And this time the question’s deadly serious - Who Killed Aldrich Kemp?

Prepare for another rollercoaster ride from the pen of Julian Simpson, flying us from the Italian Riviera to the Malaysian jungle - via afternoon tea at Themis House.

Chapter One - and there’s trouble in London …

Cast:
Clara Page - Phoebe Fox
Aldrich Kemp – Ferdinand Kingsley
Mrs Boone – Nicola Walker
Sebastian Harcourt – Kyle Soller
Nakesha Kemp – Karla Crome
Aunt Lily – Susan Jameson
The Underwood Sisters – Jana Carpenter.
Sabine Seah – Rebecca Boey
Mrs Bartholomew – Kate Isitt
Blue 2/Novak - Ben Crowe
Winslow/Blue 1 - James Joyce.

Created and written by Julian Simpson

Recorded on location in Hove and at the Brighton Conference Centre.

Music composed by Tim Elsenburg.
Sound Design: David Thomas
Director: Julian Simpson
Producer: Sarah Tombling
Executive Producer: Karen Rose

A Sweet Talk production for BBC Radio 4


MON 23:30 What's Funny About... (m0027cr1)
Series 4

2. After Life

Peter Fincham and Jon Plowman are joined by Ricky Gervais to hear the inside story of how he made his hit sitcom, After Life.

Ricky talks about the decision to set a comedy against the backdrop of grief and loss, and how lucky he feels that audiences trust him to tell these difficult and complex stories. He tells us about the huge importance of music in After Life (and the equally huge line that was required in the budget to licence it all!). And he explains his decision to break with a habit of a lifetime and write a third series of one of his shows.

Producer: Owen Braben
An Expectation Entertainment production for BBC Radio 4