SATURDAY 28 JANUARY 2012
SAT 00:00 Midnight News (b01b1k88)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
SAT 00:30 Book of the Week (b01bbz1y)
Marcus Berkmann - A Shed of One's Own: Midlife Without the Crisis
Episode 5
For many men, middle age arrives too fast and without due warning. One day you are young, free and single; the next you are bald, fat and washed-up, with weird tendrils of hair growing out of your ears. None of it seems fair. With age should come dignity and respect, but instead everyone makes tired jokes about buying a motorbike.
Marcus Berkmann isn't having it. Having marked his fiftieth birthday by hiding under the duvet for six weeks, he is determined to find some light in the all-consuming darkness.
'We may have lost our hair, our waistline or our way completely. But we have also gained a certain amount of guile and what some might call "gravitas" (and others would call "weight").'
Musing over birth, death and all the messy stuff in between, he concludes that however dreadful you look in the mirror today, it will be much worse in ten years' time. His brutally candid dispatch from the front line is essential listening for anyone over thirty-five - as well as all those who want to prepare for what lies ahead...
Marcus Berkmann has spent more than thirty years sitting in front of various television screens swearing at incompetent England batsmen. In his leisure time he has written columns on sport for Punch, the Independent on Sunday and the Daily Express. He is a regular contributor to Private Eye and has been the Spectator's pop music critic for over twenty years. His books include Rain Men: The Madness of Cricket, Zimmer Men: The Trials and Tribulations of the Ageing Cricketer, Fatherhood: The Truth and A Matter of Facts: The Insider's Guide to Quizzing
Read by Toby Longworth
Producer/Abridger: Joanna Green
A Pier Production for BBC Radio 4.
SAT 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b01b1k8b)
The latest shipping forecast.
SAT 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b01b1k8d)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service. BBC Radio 4 resumes at
5.20am.
SAT 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b01b1k8g)
The latest shipping forecast.
SAT 05:30 News Briefing (b01b1k8j)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
SAT 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01b1pq9)
A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with The Revd Dr Mark Beach, Team Rector of Rugby.
SAT 05:45 iPM (b01b1pqc)
The programme that starts with its listeners.
SAT 06:00 News and Papers (b01b1k8l)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.
SAT 06:04 Weather (b01b1k8n)
The latest weather forecast.
SAT 06:07 Open Country (b01b1lk4)
Deep in the countryside of eastern England, British troops train in a mock Afghan village designed to look, feel, and sound like the real thing. The 30,000-acre training complex allows soldiers to prepare themselves for the cultural and tactical challenges operating in Afghanistan. The facility, built in 2008, is meant to replicate a typical village in Helmand, with houses, shops and open markets, and the exiles playing the role of villagers.
In July 1942 about a thousand men, women and children were compulsorily evacuated from the site north of Thetford. It is an area of heath forming a large part of the unique Norfolk- Suffolk Breckland landscape which was cleared to make way for an army training area where troops could manoeuvre using live ammunition.
On today's Open Country, Jules Hudson visits the site to investigate how important the village is in preparing the troops for Afghanistan and finds out how those displaced from their villages in 1942 feel about the evacuation 70 years on.
SAT 06:30 Farming Today (b01b8w5x)
Farming Today This Week
This winter's warm weather is affecting wildlife, plants, crops and livestock across the UK. January has been two degrees celsius warmer on average, and follows a similarly warm December. Charlotte Smith visits Ragley Hall Estate in Warwickshire to discover how this alters woodlands, confuses crops and improves lambing.
The mild weather means that there are plenty of berries for birds to eat and many species are thriving. Angela Frain visits Lower Smite Farm which is owned by the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust. She joins Steve Bloomfield and Caroline Corsie to search for birds, bugs and worms.
The warm temperatures also means that there is more food for farmland pests. Clare Freeman joins Peter Crowther from Rutland Pest Control to visit a mice infested farm in Northamptonshire. At the other end of the country, John Picken who farms near St Andrews tells Charlotte that they are struggling from too much rain.
Farmers are even changing the way that they care for their livestock because of the warm weather. Emma Weatherill visits Shropshire farmer Malcolm Roberts who is keeping his cows outside to calf.
Presented by Charlotte Smith. Produced by Emma Weatherill.
SAT 06:57 Weather (b01b1k8q)
The latest weather forecast.
SAT 07:00 Today (b01b8w5z)
Presented by John Humphrys and Sarah Montague. Including Yesterday in Parliament, Sports Desk, Weather and Thought for the Day.
SAT 09:00 Saturday Live (b01b8w61)
Alain de Botton. Aoife Mannix, killer brother, undertaker windfall, oldest diabetic, Smokie at the Kremlin, Ani DiFranco
Richard Coles with philosopher Alain de Botton, poet Aoife Mannix, the 70's pop star who was summoned to play at the Kremlin, the woman who tracked down her long lost brother only to find him serving 99 years for murder in an American jail, one of the UK's oldest diabetics who was treated by the man who invented insulin, the vicar's son who got a windfall from the local undertaker and the Inheritance Tracks of singer Ani DiFranco.
Producer: Lisa Jenkinson.
SAT 10:00 Excess Baggage (b01b8w63)
Overland To Mongolia - Wild West - The Calgary Stampede
John McCarthy discusses the 'Wild West' with former documentary film-maker Tim Slessor who has just written a book called 'More than Cowboys'. He is also joined by travel writer, Kieran Meeke, who, as a keen horse-rider, also loves the cowboy culture and has a passion for the Calgary Stampede, in Alberta, Canada, currently marking its centenary. John is also joined by Nick Hewer (Lord Sugar's right-hand man on BBC TV's 'The Apprentice') who recounts his solo journey driving from London to Ulan Bator in Mongolia in an old Renault 4L to raise money for charity.
Producer: Margaret Collins.
SAT 10:30 Phil Collins - King Of The Wild Frontier (b01b8w65)
The largest private collection of Alamo memorabilia resides in an impressive Geneva home in Switzerland. Also resident is singer songwriter and Genesis drummer - Phil Collins.
Davy Crockett and The Alamo are his very private passion and Collins invites presenter Patrick Humphries into his home to talk us through his impressive collection. We discover how he began collecting, where he secures his artefacts and how he has organised excavations through the profits of a gift shop at the famous Alamo battle site.
Why does the battle of The Alamo on March 6th 1836, when 180 Texans fought an army of 6,000 Mexicans still resonate? Collins is very knowledgeable about this particular period of American history and talks impressively about the framed documents and letters, the dozens of rifles and swords, authentic uniforms and the many artefacts he has amassed over three decades. His comments, complemented by historian Bill Chemerka and film buff, Lee Pfeiffer, take us through films and TV series which have enshrined The Alamo over the years.
The programme also features a living relative of Davy Crockett, his great great great grandson also called Davy! He reveals how the family see his famous ancestor's legend and the events at The Alamo.
Producer: John Sugar
A Sugar production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in January 2012.
SAT 11:00 The Week in Westminster (b01b8w67)
Fraser Nelson of The Spectator looks behind the scenes at Westminster.
The economy shrank at the end of last year. The disclosure this week was deemed 'disappointing' by David Cameron. But critics used much stronger language. Here, the Conservative Kwarsi Kwarteng and Labour's Pat McFadden search for growth..
The Bishop of Ripon and Leeds has been standing up for children who'll be hit by welfare cuts. He explains why he led a rebellion on the issue in the House of Lords.
Who wants to be a police commissioner? Former Labour minister Jane Kennedy has put her name forward while the former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe declined. .
The result of the next election for Mayor of London will have implications for national politics. The London Conservative MP Mark Field and the Labour coIumnist and blogger Paul Richards spell them out.
The editor is Peter Mulligan.
SAT 11:30 From Our Own Correspondent (b01b8w69)
From our own curmudgeon. Hugh Schofield finds reasons to be dyspeptic in Paris. Jeremy Paxman on why he says: let's hear it for the Chinese Communist party. Mary Harper visits the Ethiopian town at the centre of the world qat trade. Mark Doyle investigates the link between corruption and crisis in Nigeria while Gabriel Gatehouse explains how the job of uniting the divided factions in the new Libya becomes harder by the day.
SAT 12:00 Money Box (b01b8w6c)
On Money Box with Paul Lewis:
Britain's biggest banking group, Lloyds, has announced it is to scrap its charity credit cards which have allowed customers to donate millions of pounds to good causes. Halifax and Bank of Scotland says it is no longer "cost effective" to offer the cards which help Cancer Research UK, the NSPCC and the SCPCA in Scotland. The programme hears from Baroness Finlay of Lladaff from the All Party Parliamentary group on cancer.
People claiming compensation for mis-sold payment protection insurance are being warned this week not to pay for help from claims handling companies. They can take a quarter or more of the compensation awarded. But the Financial Services Compensation Scheme says they make no difference to the chance of winning. But it says three quarters of all those claiming compensation do get help from a firm that charges them. Mark Neale of the FSCS tells the programme about his concerns.
If your car is badly damaged in an accident that clearly wasn't your fault and you had been paying your insurance premium, you would expect your motor insurer to pay out. But Money Box has spoken to one listener who has been told not only will his firm not act for him, but his premium will not be returned either. Bob Howard reports. The programme also speaks to Graeme Trudgill from the British Insurance Brokers' Association and also to Malcolm Tarling from the Association of British Insurers.
Share prices on the London stock markets tumbled last year though they are recovering now. So should people concentrate their investment strategy on firms that pay out regular dividends instead? Last year total gross dividends rose 19.4% - the first annual increase since 2008, the start of the financial crisis. Oil giant BP returned to the dividend list last year after suspending payments following the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. So what factors should investors bear in mind when focusing on dividends? Hugo Shaw from Bestinvest will explain all.
National Savings & Investments has cut the interest rate on its direct saver account from
1.75% to 1.5%, saying it has been getting too much money paid into it recently. NS&I has a financing target set each year by HM Treasury. It says it expects to exceed the target with £4.5bn. of money deposited by savers. Will the plan by NS&I to attempt to discourage wealthy savers depositing large amounts work? Jane Platt from NS&I joins the programme.
SAT 12:30 The News Quiz (b01b1nkr)
Series 76
Episode 6
Drugs, Debt and Delicious Dinners: Sandi Toksvig hosts Radio 4's long running panel game in the week that National Debt reached £1Trillion, Richard Branson called for a softer approach to narcotics, and schoolchildren were asked to create a new dish for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Rebecca Front, Hugo Rifkind and Steve Punt join series regular Jeremy Hardy, and Carolyn Brown reads the news.
Produced by Lyndsay Fenner.
SAT 12:57 Weather (b01b1k8s)
The latest weather forecast.
SAT 13:00 News (b01b1k8v)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
SAT 13:10 Any Questions? (b01b1nky)
Lichfield
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs a live discussion of news and politics from Lichfield Cathedral with former Labour Cabinet minister, David Blunkett; Parliamentary Private Secretary at the Department of Health, Anna Soubry; Director of newly established think tank British Future, Sunder Katwala; and Times columnist, Danny Finkelstein.
Producer: Victoria Wakely.
SAT 14:00 Any Answers? (b01b8w6f)
Call Jonathan Dimbleby on 03700 100 444 or email any.answers@bbc.co.uk or tweet #bbcaq. Topics this week include: RBS bank bonus, benefit cap, Tax free allowance, High Speed Rail, Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics.
SAT 14:30 Saturday Drama (b00rv6nd)
The Believers
The Believers.
Liverpool, 1963. The Merseybeat boom is about to take off. And with it, The Believers, a Christian pop band determined to spread the Word. If only they were all singing from the same hymn sheet. Comedy drama by acclaimed screenwriter Frank Cottrell Boyce.
James..................................Ray Quinn
Debbie.................................Samantha Robinson
Billy.....................................Kieran Lynn
Warren..............................John Biggins
Reverend Michaels.............Rufus Wright
Elder Wardle......................Gary Bleasdale
Jenny................................Alison Pettitt
Other parts played by Joanna Monro, David Seddon, Laura Molyneux, Jill Cardo and Keely Beresford.
Original music by Carl Hunter and Mel Bowen
Directed by Toby Swift
***************************
Frank Cottrell Boyce is probably best known for films like '24 Hour Party People', 'A Cock & Bull Story', 'Hilary & Jackie', 'Welcome to Sarajevo' and 'Butterfly Kiss'. He won the CILIP Carnegie Medal in 2004 for 'Millions', his first novel, which was subsequently filmed by British director Danny Boyle. Another novel, 'Framed', was shortlisted for the Whitbread Book of the Year, the Carnegie Medal and then adapted by Frank for BBC Television. His first theatre play, 'Proper Clever', was written for the Liverpool Playhouse as part of the 2008 European Capital of Culture Year. That year Frank also wrote a series of 5 radio dramas, 'One Chord Wonders', about the punk generation 30 years on.
The music for the production was written by Carl Hunter (bass player of The Farm) and Mel Bowen. It was performed by Dave Lovelady (drums/backing vocals), Billy Kinsley (bass/backing vocals), Dave Morgan (lead guitar/backing vocals), Chay Heney (rhythm guitar) and Beverley Keenan (backing vocals) with additional guitars from Carl Hunter and Mel Bowen. Billy and Dave were in The Merseybeats and The Fourmost respectively, two of the most significant bands that emerged as part of the Merseybeat scene.
SAT 15:30 A Last Excuse Me Dance (b019rm1j)
The ever-popular children's writer and illustrator Shirley Hughes recently published a magazine article recalling the dances she attended as a teenager growing up in wartime West Kirby. Readers responded with their own memories of similar dances in other parts of the country. Amongst them was the writer and journalist, Philip Purser. But he didn't just remember similar dances: he remembered exactly the same ones.
Now, over seventy years after Shirley and Philip danced the foxtrot and joined in a Paul Jones or an Excuse-Me dance together, they are reunited for the very first time, not only in recalling these Saturday night dances but with the promise of taking to the dance-floor one last time.
Felicity Finch, herself a keen dancer, hears from Philip and from Shirley about their memories of the dances and the music, the clothes and shoes, and about the heated atmosphere of teenage courtship in West Kirby as nearby Liverpool blazed in the Blitz. She tracks down the girl whom Shirley envied above all others and whom Philip most desired - Joan Brotherton, now also in her late 80s - and hears her side of the story.
Finally, she reunites Philip and Shirley for what may be a last Excuse Me Dance.
Producer: Beaty Rubens.
SAT 16:00 Woman's Hour (b01b8wrk)
Ed Miliband - attractive to women voters?
How could Labour Party strategists sell Ed Miliband to women? Why Lord Leveson needs to examine the portrayal of women in the media . Plus what would you say if your partner asked you to commit to a schedule which stipulated how often you had sex and is it time we dropped any title which indicates whether we're married or single. Plus lots lots more as Jane Garvey presents the highlights of this week's Woman's Hour.
Presented by Jane Garvey.
Produced by Laura Northedge.
SAT 17:00 PM (b01b8wrm)
Saturday PM
A fresh perspective on the day's news with sports headlines.
SAT 17:30 The Bottom Line (b01b1lnm)
Capitalism
The view from the top of business. Presented by Evan Davis, The Bottom Line cuts through confusion, statistics and spin to present a clearer view of the business world, through discussion with people running leading and emerging companies. The programme is broadcast first on BBC Radio 4 and later on BBC World Service Radio, BBC World News TV and BBC News Channel TV.
Evan and his panel debate the big issue of the moment: capitalism, its virtues and vices. Across the media it's associated with negative words like 'crisis' and 'crony'. So how would Evan's executive guests redesign and rebrand capitalism? They also discuss peaking - just when do you reach your prime in business?
Joining Evan in the studio are Keith Clarke, former Chief Executive and now Director of Sustainability at civil engineering and design consultancy Atkins; entrepreneur and investor Deborah Meaden; Heather Killen, co-founder of private equity and corporate finance advisory boutique Hemisphere Capital.
Producer: Ben Crighton
Editor: Stephen Chilcott.
SAT 17:54 Shipping Forecast (b01b1k8x)
The latest shipping forecast.
SAT 17:57 Weather (b01b1k8z)
The latest weather forecast.
SAT 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b01b1k91)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
SAT 18:15 Loose Ends (b01b8wrp)
Clive Anderson and guests with an eclectic mix of conversation, music and comedy.
Calendar Girl Celia Imrie will be baring all about her hugely successful career, from St Trinian's to Shakespeare, and, of course, having to strip off in front of a plate of cherry bakewells. Celia's new black comedy 'Acts of Godfrey' is a humorous modern twist on Shakespeare and the first feature film to be written entirely in verse. It's showing now at selected cinema's across the UK.
There'll always be a place at the table for 'The Very Hungry Frenchman', chef Raymond Blanc. His new BBC Two series explores the distinctive produce and cuisine of France, from world famous Burgundy to his home region of Franche Comte (where his 90 year old mother still lives). 'The Very Hungry Frenchman' starts on Thursday 2nd February at
20.00. Bon Appetit!
Nikki Bedi tumbles between the sheets with Russell Tovey who tells us about his role alongside Jaime Winstone in the play 'Sex With A Stranger' at London's Trafalgar Studios from 1st to 25th February.
Charismatic crooner Curtis Stigers talks to Clive about his musical career as a pop star, jazz singer and saxophonist. And we also get to hear him perform 'Everyone Loves Lovers' from his new album 'Let's Go Out Tonight'.
And the second instalment of great music has a country twist from the big city of Seattle. Zoe Muth and the Lost High Rollers play 'I've Been Gone' from their album 'Starlight Hotel'.
SAT 19:00 From Fact to Fiction (b01b8wrr)
Series 11
Mongrel
In his tale, Mongrel, the novelist Adam Thorpe takes as his starting point the story of two dogs that have shot to prominence this last week. One dog is bound for international stardom and one is on a decidedly different course, aided and abetted by his hopeful owner, Fay. Then, in the world at large, men and women in suits gather in Switzerland to discuss our current economic hardships...
The reader is Hannah Waterman
Producer Duncan Minshull
To complement Radio Four's News and Current Affairs output, our weekly series presents a dramatic response to a major story from the week's news. The form and content are entirely lead by the news topic - so drama can come in many guises, as well as poetry and prose.
It's uniquely radio - an instant reaction to the mood of the moment - a concept impossible to imagine in any other medium.
This is the 12th series and the sheer breadth of approach is reflected in the range of writers who have participated so far. They include: Lionel Shriver, David Baddiel, David Edgar, Amelia Bulmore, Mark Lawson, Bonnie Greer, Laura Solon, Will Self, Alistair Beaton, Lemn Sissay, April de Angelis, Rebecca Lenkiewicz, Adrian Mitchell, Stewart Lee, John Sergeant, Jo Shapcott, Ian McMillan, Kwame Kwei-Armah, Kate Mosse, Marina Warner, Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti, A.L.Kennedy and Lyn Coghlan.
From Fact to Fiction presents writers with the creative opportunity to work in a bold and instinctive way as they respond to events in the news, beginning on a Monday when an idea is selected through to Friday when the programme is recorded and edited.
SAT 19:15 Saturday Review (b01b8wrt)
Tom Sutcliffe and his guests writer Ekow Eshun, creative director of the Royal Opera House Deborah Bull and literary critic John Carey review the week's cultural highlights including Alexander Payne's film The Descendants.
The Descendants - directed and written by Alexander Payne - stars George Clooney as a Honolulu lawyer and land-owner forced to take a more hands-on role parental role when a power-boat accident leaves his wife in a coma.
Gillian Slovo's novel An Honourable Man is set in Khartoum in 1884 where General Gordon is trying to organise the defence of the besieged city. An idealistic young doctor has volunteered to accompany the expedition sent to rescue Gordon and, in his absence, his wife grapples with her growing addiction to laudanum.
In Lucy Bailey's production of The Taming of the Shrew at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, Lisa Dillon plays the strong-headed Kate, while David Caves is Petruchio - the young man who believes he has what it takes to woo her and subdue her.
The annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca is the subject of the British Museum's exhibition Hajj: A Journey to the Heart of Islam. The exhibition is concerned both with the treasures of the Hajj - illuminated manuscripts, hangings and ceremonial palanquins - and the experience of ordinary pilgrims.
Inside Men is a new BBC crime drama written by Tony Basgallop. Stephen Mackintosh plays John - the manager at a cash-counting depot. When he discovers that two of his employees - Marcus (Warren Brown) and Chris (Ashley Walters) - have been dipping their hands in the till, rather than turning them over to the police, he encourages them to think bigger.
SAT 20:00 Archive on 4 (b01b8wrw)
Castaway: 70 Years of Desert Island Discs
Kirsty Young tells the story of the long-running programme as it celebrates its 70th anniversary and investigates what has made it such an enduring part of the radio schedule. In addition to hearing some classic clips from some amazing castaways, Kirsty talks to BBC historian Professor Jean Seaton, former castaway Mary Portas and is also joined by her predecessors, Sue Lawley and Sir Michael Parkinson and, from the archives, by Roy Plomley himself.
Producer: Isabel Sargent.
SAT 21:00 James Fenimore Cooper - The Spy (b019rgnv)
Episode 1
New York State, 1778. Henry Wharton, a young soldier for the British in the American War of Independence, creeps into no-man's land to spend an evening with his family.
But the happy reunion is cut short when American troops surround the house. Can the mysterious peddler Harvey Birch provide Henry with a means of escape?
Published in 1821, James Fenimore Cooper's tale of espionage and divided loyalties during the American War of Independence
The first commercially successful American work of popular fiction, The Spy is also generally regarded as the world's first espionage novel. Fennimore’s double agent Harvey Birch, began the tradition of spy-as-hero, leading to the great genre novels of the late 19th and 20th centuries.
Dramatised in two parts by DJ Britton.
Harvey Birch . . . . . Burn Gorman
Frances . . . . . Rose Leslie
Henry . . . . . Alex Waldmann
Mr Wharton . . . . . James Lailey
Sarah . . . . . Francine Chamberlain
Mr Harper . . . . . Timothy Watson
Caesar . . . . . Richard Pepple
Peyton Dunwoodie . . . . . Simon Bubb
Captain Lawton . . . . . Gerard McDermott
Colonel Wellmere . . . . . Adam Billington
Isabella Singleton . . . . . Victoria Inez Hardy
Director: Sasha Yevtushenko.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
SAT 22:00 News and Weather (b01b1k93)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4, followed by weather.
SAT 22:15 Decision Time (b01b1g9j)
Nick Robinson goes behind the closed doors of Whitehall and inside Westminster to explore how controversial decisions are reached. Each week, he asks people with experience of government and politics how a government, of whatever political colour, would approach a looming decision. Producer, Rob Shepherd.
SAT 23:00 Brain of Britain (b019rjng)
(11/17)
The 2012 contest reaches the penultimate heat, from Salford, with Russell Davies in the chair. This week's competitors come from Hull, Glasgow, Bristol and Leeds.
Among the questions they face will be: What's the usual title given to the poem by Robert Browning that begins 'Oh, to be in England, now that April's there'?
And: Which physicist gave his name to zones of highly energised charged particles trapped at high altitude in the earth's magnetic field?
The winner today takes one of the last remaining places in the semi-finals, and takes a crucial step closer to the coveted title of Brain of Britain 2012.
Producer: Paul Bajoria.
SAT 23:30 Poetry Please (b019rgt5)
Roger McGough with poetry requests read by Catherine Cusack and Patrick Romer. Kathryn Simmonds also reads her own work.
Conformity and subversion are among the themes that pop up today with Edna St Vincent Millay being merry on a ferry and William Carlos Williams prancing around naked, singing to himself. Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin's poem Fireman's Lift recalls the experience of seeing Coreggio's frescoes in the dome of Parma Cathedral, and the vagabond poet W.H. Davies also makes the case for staring in his famous poem 'Leisure'.
Producer: Sarah Langan.
SUNDAY 29 JANUARY 2012
SUN 00:00 Midnight News (b01b8tbv)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
SUN 00:30 Deep Country (b01b8xcb)
Episode 1
Neil Ansell is in search of solitude. He takes up home in a dilapidated cottage in a very remote part of the Welsh countryside, on his own, with no electricity, gas or water. He has only wildlife around him for company as he makes the cottage habitable. Read by Matthew Gravelle.
Abridged by Willa King
Directed by Emma Bodger
A BBC Cymru Wales Production.
SUN 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tbx)
The latest shipping forecast.
SUN 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b01b8tbz)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
SUN 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tc1)
The latest shipping forecast.
SUN 05:30 News Briefing (b01b8tc3)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
SUN 05:43 Bells on Sunday (b01b8xcd)
The bells of St Bartholomew's Church, Sutton-Cum-Lound, Nottinghamshire.
SUN 05:45 Four Thought (b01b1g9l)
Series 2
Gerard Darby: Science and Creativity
Creativity is just as vital in science and engineering as it is in art and drama, argues Gerard Darby.
Yet the present education system is undermining young people's natural creativity, he says, and is in urgent need of reform. He highlights some novel approaches, and explains why this matters both for the individuals, and for our wider society and economy.
Four Thought is a series of talks which combine thought provoking ideas and engaging storytelling.
Recorded in front of an audience at the RSA in London, speakers take to the stage to air their latest thinking on the trends, ideas, interests and passions that affect our culture and society.
Producer: Giles Edwards.
SUN 06:00 News Headlines (b01b8tc5)
The latest national and international news.
SUN 06:05 Something Understood (b01b8yxk)
Postcards
Sarah Cuddon explores the pleasure of the postcard. With reference to authors, such as the Chilean novelist Robert Bolano, composers including Edward Elgar and poets (among them, Charles Simic) who have found inspiration and comfort in the writing, drawing and sending of cards, she celebrates a rare medium.
And we hear the story and the correspondence of two friends, Laura Eades and Retta Bowen, who dedicated themselves to writing a postcard to each other every day for a month.
Producer: Alan Hall
A Falling Tree production for BBC Radio 4.
SUN 06:35 Living World (b01b8yxm)
Jackdaw Roost
For this week's Living World, Joanna Pinnock heads to a site in Cambridgeshire which is currently part of a long term study into jackdaw behaviour. Here she meets Dr Alex Thornton on a blustery morning before dawn. As first light begins to creep silently over the horizon the first chattering's of a jackdaw roost can be heard. With increasing light, this chatter becomes louder until at some given signal, the jackdaws simultaneously leave their night roost in a cacophony of sound. It is a winter spectacle often overlooked but rivalling any in the natural world. So what is actually going on here?
Some corvid roosts are recorded in the Domesday Book and throughout history they have associated themselves with humans, and even have a sinister reputation as robbers of rare and precious gems. Corvids are known for their intelligence, in fact some scientists refer to members of the crow family, as the Feathered Apes. Science understands the biology of these birds, they pair for life, and a strong social cohesion exists, but as Dr Thornton expands, these familiar birds are deeply mysterious. There is a lot more to jackdaws than meets the eye. In fact the jackdaw eye is unusual in the animal kingdom in that it is similar to a human eye and will gaze at an object inquisitively. As the birds head out into the fields to feed, Joanna herself goes in search of them, asking why jackdaws are often in mixed flocks with rooks.
All too soon the light begins to fade, and so the pair head back to find pre roost birds in trees around the village. As night gathers, jackdaws in their thousands provide an aerial dance over the Cambridgeshire countryside, before in a role reversal of the morning, a given signal returns them to the roost once more.
Producer Andrew Dawes
SUN 06:57 Weather (b01b8tc7)
The latest weather forecast.
SUN 07:00 News and Papers (b01b8tc9)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.
SUN 07:10 Sunday (b01b8yxp)
Edward Stourton with the religious and ethical news of the week. Moral arguments and perspectives on stories familiar and unfamiliar.
It's the 40th anniversary of the Bloody Sunday killings which marked a turning point in the Northern Ireland Troubles. Mary Colwell looks back at testimonies from some of the victims' families and Eamonn McCann talks about today's commemorations by Catholics and Protestants.
The General Synod debates the issue of women Bishops at its February meeting - Kevin Bocquet reports.
Egypt marks the first anniversary of the uprising which toppled President Hosni Mubarak this week. But the power struggle between Islamists, young revolutionaries and the military continues - so what will be the shape of the political and religious landscape in the future? Edward talks to middle East expert Dr Omar Ashour.
Are religious freedoms being ignored by the courts? Philosophy Professor Roger Trigg says judges are giving them lower priority than other issues such as equality cases. He joins Edward and legal commentator Joshua Rozenberg to discuss.
Inayat Bunglawala appeared at the Leveson Inquiry to present evidence on representations of Islam and Muslims in the British media this week. His ENGAGE group is the only Muslim organisation to date have been invited to the inquiry on this subject. He discusses how Muslims are portrayed in the media with Edward and Trevor Kavanagh of The Sun newspaper.
SUN 07:55 Radio 4 Appeal (b01b8yxr)
Peace Direct
John le Carré presents the Radio 4 Appeal on behalf of the charity Peace Direct.
Reg Charity:1123241
To Give:
- Freephone 0800 404 8144
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Give Online www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/appeal.
SUN 07:57 Weather (b01b8tcc)
The latest weather forecast.
SUN 08:00 News and Papers (b01b8tcf)
The latest news headlines. Including a look at the papers.
SUN 08:10 Sunday Worship (b01b8yxt)
'Speak Up, Speak Out' is a theme being taken by many communities across the UK during this Holocaust Memorial season. Live from The Lighthouse Christian Centre, a multi cultural community church near Media City in Salford. Leader, Pastor Alex Robertson, Preacher Pastor Paul Hallam. Producer: Philip Billson.
SUN 08:50 A Point of View (b01b1nl0)
The Thatcher Story
The historian Lisa Jardine reflects on the week's events.
Producer: Sheila Cook.
SUN 08:57 Weather (b01b8tch)
The latest weather forecast.
SUN 09:00 Broadcasting House (b01b8yxw)
Paddy O'Connell presents news and conversation about the big stories of the week.
SUN 10:00 The Archers Omnibus (b01b8yxy)
For detailed synopsis, see daily epidodes.
Writer ..... Mary Cutler
Director ..... Rosemary Watts
Editor ..... Vanessa Whitburn
David Archer ..... Timothy Bentinck
Pip Archer ..... Helen Monks
Tony Archer ..... Colin Skipp
Pat Archer ..... Patricia Gallimore
Helen Archer ..... Louiza Patikas
Tom Archer ..... Tom Graham
Brian Aldridge ..... Charles Collingwood
Jennifer Aldridge ..... Angela Piper
Adam Macy ..... Andrew Wincott
Ian Craig ..... Stephen Kennedy
Debbie Aldridge ..... Tamsin Greig
Jolene Perks ..... Buffy Davis
Joe Grundy ..... Edward Kelsey
Clarrie Grundy ..... Rosalind Adams
Edward Grundy ..... Barry Farrimond
Neil Carter ..... Brian Hewlett
Susan Carter ..... Charlotte Martin
Mike Tucker ..... Terry Molloy
Oliver Sterling ..... Michael Cochrane
Jim Lloyd ..... John Rowe
Tracy Horrobin ..... Susie Riddell.
SUN 11:15 Desert Island Discs (b01b8yy0)
Sir David Attenborough
Kirsty Young's castaway for the 70th anniversary edition of Desert Island Discs is Sir David Attenborough.
He has seen more of the world than anyone else who has ever lived - he's visited the north and south poles and witnessed most of the life in-between - from the birds in the canopies of tropical rainforests to giant earthworms in Australia.
But despite his extraordinary travels, there is one part of the globe that's eluded him. As a young man and a keen rock-climber, he yearned to conquer the highest peak in the world. "I won't make it now - I won't make it to base camp now - but as a teenager, I thought that the only thing a red-blooded Englishman really should do was to climb Everest."
Producer: Leanne Buckle.
SUN 12:00 The Unbelievable Truth (b019rlnl)
Series 8
Episode 5
David Mitchell hosts the panel game in which four comedians are encouraged to tell lies and compete against one another to see how many items of truth they're able to smuggle past their opponents. Mark Watson, Henning Wehn, Roisin Conaty and Alex Horne are the panellists obliged to talk with deliberate inaccuracy on subjects as varied as: Competitions, Chickens, Sweets and The Romans.
The show is devised by Graeme Garden and Jon Naismith, the team behind Radio 4's I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue.
Producer: Jon Naismith
A Random Entertainment Production for BBC Radio 4.
SUN 12:32 The Food Programme (b01b8yy2)
The Trouble with Chocolate
The trouble with chocolate. Sheila Dillon explains why supplies of cocoa around the world are facing a challenging future.
Producer: Maggie Ayre.
SUN 12:57 Weather (b01b8tck)
The latest weather forecast.
SUN 13:00 The World This Weekend (b01b8yy4)
The latest national and international news, including an in-depth look at events around the world, with James Robbins. Email: wato@bbc.co.uk; twitter: #theworldthisweekend.
SUN 13:30 Europe's Choice (b01b8yy6)
1989: Reshaping Europe
Allan Little looks at key moments and issues which brought the EU to the current crisis. In this episode he focuses on 1989 and its consequences.
By the early 1980s the major players in the European project were already committed to some sort of monetary union. But the fall of the Berlin Wall, which happened much sooner than anticipated, propelled the project forward with a new urgency. France - and others - feared a resurgent Germany would pull the axis of Europe east. Germany too wanted to send a message that it continued to see its future anchored at the heart of the EU: it would give up its cherished deutschmark and embrace the euro. Civil servants and politicians describe the bargaining that took place to close the deal. Compromises were made that would come back to haunt the union as early as 1992 when the Exchange Rate Mechanism - which precipitated one the UK's most serious financial crises - showed the difficulties of maintaining a single currency across very different economies.
Producer: Jane Beresford.
SUN 14:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b01bs90w)
Postbag Edition
Peter Gibbs chairs a postbag programme from the GQT potting shed in Sparsholt College.
Bob Flowerdew, Matthew Biggs and Pippa Greenwood answer the questions you've sent in by post and email. In addition, is green manure compatible with 'no dig'? And how does long-term seed storage affect plant health?
Questions answered in the programme:
I bought bare-rooted blackcurrant bushes that eventually turned out to be redcurrant bushes.
What is the best to tell the difference early on?
How can I encourage my lemon tree to flower earlier?
Can the panel suggest annuals/perennials to suit a Queen's Diamond Jubilee motif?
Plant suggestions included: Petunias, Lobelia, & bedding Salvias.
The lawn beneath our conifers is damaged. Which lawn seeds do you recommend for the affected area?
Is green manure compatible with 'no dig' gardening?
How does long-term seed storage affect plant health?
If over-watering tomatoes reduces their flavour, does that make hydroponic cultivation a bad idea?
Could I grow an espaliered Bramley in free ground, unsupported?
How can I create a lavender garden from my north-facing gravel garden?
Why doesn't my Garrya eliptica have tassels?
What can I plant as a wind-breaking hedge beside 4 tennis courts?
Suggestions included: Leylandii and Thuja.
Produced by Howard Shannon
A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4.
SUN 14:45 Welsh's Scottish Journey (b01b8yy8)
Highlands
In 1934 the Orcadian poet Edwin Muir embarked on his iconic 'Scottish Journey' a set of travels round depression-era Scotland where he tried to get to grips with Scottish identity and to consider what the future held for a country whose industries were being devastated by a recession
'. . . a silent clearance is going on in industrial Scotland, a clearance not of human beings, but of what they depend upon for life'
As a man very much of his time, of the 1930s, he wavered between socialism and nationalism as cures for Scotland's ills, but in-between reflected on the nature of work, poverty, Scottishness, tourism, the ideal way of living, the highland and the lowland character and the possible existence of a best of all possible worlds on his native Orkney.
In the summer of 2011, crime writer Louise Welsh decided to embark on a mini whistle-stop version of Muir's journey, taking to the roads in an open-top car, just as he did, and trying to get a flavour now of a country also in the grip of austerity and flirting with nationalism. This week we hit the A9 from Dunkeld to Aviemore, stopping to meet poet Kenneth Steven and the Grant family - Seumas, Alison and Mairi. How do you make a living in the modern day Highlands? And we take a peek into the Gaelic and Scots speaking Highland world, the real one that we don't bottle and sell to the tourists.
SUN 15:00 James Fenimore Cooper - The Spy (b01b8yyb)
Episode 2
New York State, 1778. Henry Wharton, a young soldier for the British, has been captured by American forces while wearing a disguise in no-man's land.
He must stand trial as a spy, and if found guilty, he will hang. Can General Washington be found in time to issue a pardon?
The conclusion of James Fenimore Cooper's tale of espionage and divided loyalties during the American War of Independence
Harvey Birch . . . . . Burn Gorman
Frances . . . . . Rose Leslie
Henry . . . . . Alex Waldmann
Mr Wharton . . . . . James Lailey
Sarah . . . . . Francine Chamberlain
Mr Harper . . . . . Timothy Watson
Caesar . . . . . Richard Pepple
Peyton Dunwoodie . . . . . Simon Bubb
Captain Lawton . . . . . Gerard McDermott
Skinner . . . . . Adam Billington
Isabella Singleton . . . . . Victoria Inez Hardy
Colonel Martin . . . . . Paul Moriarty
Dramatised by DJ Britton.
Director: Sasha Yevtushenko
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
SUN 16:00 Open Book (b01b8zvv)
Depictions of students in literature and Catherine Fletcher on Our Man in Rome
Mariella Frostrup speaks to Catherine Fletcher who discusses her non fiction book Our Man In Rome: Henry VIII and His Italian Ambassador. Based on hundreds of previously undiscovered Italian archives, it documents Gregorio Casali's role in Rome during the six years of negotiations over Henry VIII's divorce from Catherine of Aragon.
Over the years many of us have been terrified by the dripping blood of the Hammer horror films. Now six new novellas with a twist are being published this year in the new Hammer imprint, all written by established literary authors. Novelist and poet Helen Dunmore explains why she wanted to be part of this genre and the inspiration behind her novel The Greatcoat.
Students have been in the headlines - from the last years heated protests to the imminent rise in tuition fees - and its been suggested these events have politicised a whole new generation of youth. So how have authors' changing relationship with university been reflected in the depiction of students and have we moved on from toffs, geeks, rebellion and beer. Ben Masters, author of new book Noughties and Prof John Bowen discuss.
SUN 16:30 Poetry Please (b01b8zvx)
Music and Lyrics
Roger McGough presents poetry requests based on the themes of music and lyrics, featuring work by Yeats, Maya Angelou, Joanna Newsom, Louis MacNeice, and Patti Smith.
There are musical interpretations by the likes of The Waterboys, The Wraiths, Cantamus Girls' Choir, and Natalie Merchant.
There's also a chance to hear Scroobius Pip read his inventive Mr Otis Regrets, a response to Miss Otis Regrets, and Kenneth Patchen delivering Lonesome Boy Blues against a gritty jazz soundtrack.
The readers are Peter Marinker, Pippa Haywood, Mark Meadows and Nadia Williams.
Producer: Toby Field.
SUN 17:00 File on 4 (b019rqcl)
Carers in Conflict
Jenny Cuffe talks to foster parents who find themselves battling with local authorities over the children in their care. They describe a Kafkaesque nightmare where doors are shut, telephone calls and emails unanswered, even court orders are ignored. Meanwhile, vulnerable children are treated as pawns as social workers move them from one place to another.
In one case investigated by File on 4, foster parents who offered to care for four siblings were denied the financial and practical support they needed from the council. Their official complaints were upheld yet key recommendations continued to be ignored and, as a consequence, the children have now been split up. After giving up their jobs to care for the children, the couple are now in debt and have to sell their home. The local MP describes the council's treatment of the family as outrageous. He says the case is extreme but not unusual and he's called for an enquiry.
In another case, a teenager with complex mental and physical needs was unlawfully removed from the foster home where he'd grown up. His sister told File on 4: "When he was in his foster mum's care he was always clean, always happy and he looked well but when I saw him he was dishevelled. It was as if someone took him away from himself. I felt his personality had gone." When his foster mother went to court to get him back, she was vilified by the council who used public funds to defend their actions to the bitter end but lost in court.
A recent report identified a shortage of foster carers in the UK but are some councils driving away the people who should be their best resource?
Producer: Sally Chesworth.
SUN 17:40 From Fact to Fiction (b01b8wrr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Saturday]
SUN 17:54 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tcm)
The latest shipping forecast.
SUN 17:57 Weather (b01b8tcp)
The latest weather forecast.
SUN 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b01b8tcr)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
SUN 18:15 Pick of the Week (b01b8zvz)
On the programme this week, why the Swedes are bothered by badgers and a train passenger by unnecessary public announcements. There's the extraordinarily brave and articulate 14 year old girl who's spoken out about the brutality of the Taliban, and the 21st century technology that is revealing the horrors of Treblinka. If you like music, there's the Czech cellist Milos Sadlo and the Madagascan girl singers whose name means bringing joy. Which is what writer Shirley Hughes did for many of you this week, when she took to the floor once more with a teenage beau.
That's all in Pick of the Week with Sheila McClennon
Ol' Blue Eyes of Bayswater - Radio 2
A Last Excuse Me Dance - Radio 4
The Essay - Radio 3
Deep Country - Radio 4
Viva Sweden - 6music
Short Cuts - Radio 4
Between the Ears - Radio 3
Things Might Change or Cease - Radio 3
With Great Pleasure - Radio 4
The Cellists That Time Forgot - Radio 3
Outlook - BBC World Service
Hidden Graves of The Holocaust - Radio 4
Birkett and the Naked Toreador - Radio 4
World Routes - Radio 3
Email: potw@bbc.co.uk or www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/potw
Producer: Cecile Wright.
SUN 19:00 The Archers (b01b8zw1)
Pat thanks Susan for coming into work on a Sunday. Susan's happy to help. Pat's been too busy to prepare lunch and Tony feels that he's the only person running the farm. Pat reminds him that the launch, and all the work that Tom is doing, is for the good of the farm. Tony thinks it's all too much.
Jennifer wishes Brian and Adam could sort things out. She defends Adam's comments on the mega dairy to the reporter but Brian's not having any of it, despite Debbie feeling sorry for Adam. Jennifer wants Brian to come to the Ambridge Organics launch but he won't go.
However, Brian is keen to attend the open event at the green burial ground. Jennifer warns him not to hijack the event. Brian insists he's just going to be networking. After all, they gave the land to put something back into the community.
SUN 19:15 It's Your Round (b01b8zw3)
Series 2
Episode 6
Angus Deayton presides over the show where the format is, there isn't one.
Instead, each of the four panellists has brought their own round for the other panellists to play. How will each round play out? And, more importantly, who will be beaten at their own game?
Featured rounds in this episode:
Alex Horne's "Font, Fighter or Fragrance" in which panellists are given a word and they must guess whether that word refers to a typographical font, the name of a Gladiator from ITV's show "Gladiators" or a "Lynx deodorant" fragrance.
Roisin Conaty's "Four Second Pitch" in which panellists have but four seconds to pitch Angus the elements of an idea for a blockbuster film and a new religion.
Paul Sinha's "World Record Recall" in which panellists have to fill in the missing details from the description of a real record from the Guinness Book of World Records.
And Rufus Hound's "Which Lady Done Say That Thing" in which panellists must guess which audience member said a certain phrase. As the title suggests.
Producer: Sam Michell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
SUN 19:45 Kenneth Cranham on the Water (b01b8zw5)
Broad Reach, by Roy Apps
Written by Roy Apps.
Today's story - Broad Reach by Roy Apps - is the second in a series of specially commissioned stories which take boats and boating as their theme.
Nick has lost both legs in a car crash - and all his confidence as well. With the help of Jamie, his son, he starts sailing again - and manages to get the better of a pompous Yacht Club Commodore into the bargain....
A series of specially commissioned tales inspired by rivers and boats.
Producer: David Blount
A Pier Production for BBC Radio 4.
SUN 20:00 Feedback (b01b1nkm)
The decision to end Radio 4's Home Planet has dismayed many listeners. The programme has been answering listeners' environmental science questions for the last 10 years. This week two listeners meet commissioning editor Mohit Bakaya to ask - what on earth is going on? They also talk to the newly appointed science editor David Shukman about his plans for science on BBC radio.
And Happy 70th Birthday Desert Island Discs. Executive producer Cathy Drysdale tells Roger how this weekend - each BBC local radio station as well as BBC Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales are running special programmes dedicated to the music choices and personal stories of hundreds of listeners.
We also hear your reactions to news that the BBC Trust has ordered BBC managers to rethink cuts to local radio budgets.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.
SUN 20:30 Last Word (b01b1nkk)
Nicol Williamson, Gustav Leonhardt, Manuel Fraga and Hugh Carless
Matthew Bannister on
The actor Nicol Williamson, praised for his passionate performances in Shakespeare and Osborne, notorious for his erratic and sometimes violent behaviour
The harpsichordist and conductor Gustav Leonhardt, a leading figure in the early music movement.
The Spanish politician Manuel Fraga, who founded the current centre right governing party and once shot Franco's daughter in the bottom during a hunting trip.
And Hugh Carless, the diplomat who went with the travel writer Eric Newby on his celebrated "Short Walk In the Hindu Kush".
SUN 21:00 Money Box (b01b8w6c)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:00 on Saturday]
SUN 21:26 Radio 4 Appeal (b01b8yxr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:55 today]
SUN 21:30 Analysis (b019rlnv)
Capitalists Against the Super Rich
Are the champions of the capitalist system now turning against the super-rich? And if they are, what will they now do about it? In this week's Analysis, we meet leading figures of the centre right who suddenly seem to have something in common with the political left: a moral aversion to the an era of high finance that saw huge payouts to a few, and bailouts funded by the rest. Prime Minster David Cameron opened 2011 with a speech criticising a system where "a few at the top get rewards that seem to have nothing to do with the risks they take or the effort they put in." He promises change, but how can that be achieved without undermining the logic of capitalism? Edward Stourton meets influential defenders of market forces who say they can keep the best of free trade but exclude the undeserving rich.
Interviewees:
Jesse Norman MP
Matthew Hancock MP
Nadhim Zahawi MP
Charles Moore, former editor of The Daily Telegraph, The Sunday Telegraph and The Spectator
Donald Winch, Emeritus Professor of Intellectual History at Sussex University
Raghuram Rajan, Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business
Producer: Mukul Devichand.
SUN 22:00 Westminster Hour (b01b8zw7)
The Chief Political Correspondent of the New Statesman, Rafael Behr, previews the big political stories of the week with Carolyn Quinn. The subjects include the bonus for the chief executive of RBS, Stephen Hester, the government's plan to cap welfare benefits and theh EU summit in Brussels.
The weekly panel of MPs debates the decision of Stephen Hester to waive his bonus. They also discuss the planned welfare benefit cap. The two MPs on the panel are the Conservative Jake Berry and Labour's Chris Bryant.
The Liberal Democrat MP Stephen Williams explains the party's attitude to the welfare cap and the call by the Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, to increase the tax threshold to £10,000.
The former Cabinet Secretary, Gus O'Donnell discusses his fear about the impact of Freedom of Information legislation on good government. Lord O'Donnell says he wants policy advice to ministers by civil servants to be excluded from FoI.
Programme Editor: Terry Dignan.
SUN 22:45 What the Papers Say (b01b8zw9)
Episode 88
John Kampfner analyses how the newspapers are covering the biggest stories in Westminster and beyond.
SUN 23:00 The Film Programme (b01b1lk6)
Francine Stock talks to three Oscar-nominated directors - Martin Scorsese, Michel Hazanavicius and Woody Allen.
Uggie, the Jack Russell from The Artist, has been snubbed by the Academy despite an online campaign to have him receive a best actor nod. But should animals receive Academy Awards? Susan Orlean, author of a new biography of Rin Tin Tin, believes so. She explains why.
Director Volker Schlöndorff discusses his Oscar winning film from 1979, The Tim Drum, an adaptation of Gunter Grass's celebrated novel of the same name.
And former cast member of Radio 4's The Archers Felicity Jones discusses her new film, Like Crazy.
Producer: Craig Smith.
SUN 23:30 Something Understood (b01b8yxk)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:05 today]
MONDAY 30 JANUARY 2012
MON 00:00 Midnight News (b01b8tdd)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
MON 00:15 Thinking Allowed (b01b1g96)
Conspiracy theories - International suffering
Do you remember the moon landings? Up to 20% of American believe they never happened. When it comes to 9/11 the public suspicion is even greater. Polls consistently show that between 30% and 40% of Americans think the official account is a cover up, that the US establishment was directly involved in planting explosives in the towers or was guilty of deliberately looking the other way as the attacks were planned. In this country we are scarcely more trusting. Why has suspicion of conspiracy become so widespread? Laurie discusses the lure of the conspiracy theory with David Aaronovitch and Jovan Byford.
Also on the programme, the suffering of strangers: What is it that makes us care for people we have never met and have very different lives from our own? A sense of justice or an impulse for charity? Laurie talks to Kate Nash
Producer: Charlie Taylor.
MON 00:45 Bells on Sunday (b01b8xcd)
[Repeat of broadcast at
05:43 on Sunday]
MON 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tdg)
The latest shipping forecast.
MON 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b01b8tdj)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
MON 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tdl)
The latest shipping forecast.
MON 05:30 News Briefing (b01b8tdn)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
MON 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01b90bk)
A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with The Revd Dr Mark Beach, Team Rector of Rugby.
MON 05:45 Farming Today (b01b90bm)
Farmland has doubled in value over the last 5 years, this week we explore the consequences for food and farming. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors' chief economist explains what's driving up the price of the land. And, over 90% of red meat's carbon footprint comes from the farm and less than 10% from processing, transport, and refrigeration. A new report from EBLEX says that packaging plays a bigger part in greenhouse gas emissions from lamb and beef production than supermarket lorries. Also in the programme, Charlotte Smith finds out what's entailed in the complicated business of moving house if you run a farm.
Presenter: Charlotte Smith
Producer: Sarah Swadling.
MON 05:57 Weather (b01b8tdq)
The latest weather forecast for farmers.
MON 06:00 Today (b01b90bp)
Morning news and current affairs, presented by Sarah Montague and Evan Davis, with Foreign Secretary William Hague on EU negotiations (
08:15) and debating why RBS boss Stephen Hester turned down his bonus (
08:10) and the rising international influence of Qatar (
08:30).
MON 09:00 Start the Week (b01b90br)
Revolution: Wael Ghonim, Paul Mason and Mary King
On Start the Week Andrew Marr talks revolution. Wael Ghonim explains how social networks played a vital role in the Arab Spring. His Facebook page,'We Are All Khaled Said', which featured the death of a young Egyptian, inspired a new generation to fight oppression. Mary King, Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies looks back to earlier struggles in eastern Europe, and the journalist Paul Mason explores how far the worldwide economic crisis and growing inequality lie behind the new revolutions.
Producer: Katy Hickman.
MON 09:45 Book of the Week (b01b90bt)
The Train in the Night: A Story of Music and Loss
Episode 1
Nick Coleman's account of how he struggled to overcome losing his hearing in one ear, and how he reinvented his relationship to music, his great passion in life. Today, the ability to hear is music is altered irrevocably, and the process of readjustment begins.
The Train in the Night is the new memoir by Nick Coleman and recounts how he lost his hearing in one ear, and how he struggled to overcome losing his inability to hear music by rethinking the complex relationship we all have with music from psalms and symphonies, to love songs, ballads and punk.
Nick Coleman grew up in the Fens. He has written about music throughout his career as a journalist for titles including NME, Time Out, the Independent and Independent on Sunday, The Times and The Wire.
Reader: Sean Foley, actor and comedian, is currently directing the West End production of The Ladykillers.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
MON 10:00 Woman's Hour (b01b9b7q)
Child protection; Marine le Pen; could a woman lead the BBC?
Could a woman lead the BBC - and what impact might that have on programmes? Child protection: how difficult decisions get made. Marine Le Pen: a serious contender for the French Presidency? How to resolve conflict with friends. Presented by Jane Garvey.
MON 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b9b7s)
The Diary of Samuel Pepys: Series 3
Episode 1
Kris Marshall and Katherine Jakeways return as Mr and Mrs Pepys in Hattie Naylor's dramatisation of the diary for 1662 - a year which begins badly when Sam accidentally whacks Elizabeth in the eye with his elbow as he's waking up. On Twelfth Night they enjoy a feast, including eighteen mince pies, with their neighbours, Lord and Lady Batten, who are also celebrating their 18th wedding anniversary on that day. There's more entertainment on a night out at the theatre when they see Romeo and Juliet - but decide it's the worst play - and the worst acted - they've ever seen.
Cast
Samuel Pepys . . . Kris Marshall
Elizabeth Pepys . . . Katherine Jakeways
Captain Holmes . . . Andrew Wincott
Sir William Batten . . . Richard Mitchley
Lady Batten . . . Marilyn le Conte
Will . . . John Biddle
Captain Cook/Mr Saville . . . Matthew Gravelle
Jane . . . Rebecca Newman
Theme music: Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May, words by Robert Herrick and music by William Lawes, sung by Bethany Hughes. Lute, baroque guitar and theorbo played by David Miller. Violin and viol by Annika Gray, and recorders by Alice Baxter.
Historical consultant: Liza Picard
Sound by Nigel Lewis
A BBC/Cymru Wales production, directed by Kate McAll.
MON 11:00 The Secret Catacombs of Paris (b01b9h73)
Take a trip into the underground maze of Paris, revealing a mysterious and intriguing history.
Famously known as the City of Light, Paris is a diverse metropolis rich in architecture and steeped in history. But it has a dark alter ego that lies 30 metres under the ground, mirroring centuries of bloody wars, revolutions and riots on the surface.
For Paris is porous - built on 177 miles of tunnels that were formed when limestone and gypsum were quarried to build the capital. Most people are only aware of just a tiny fraction of these tunnels - the world famous ossuary known as The Catacombs. The authorities have tried to keep a lid on the full extent of the labyrinthine remainder for hundreds of years. But there are little known entry points everywhere - in basements, in train stations, cellars and sewers.
Throughout history, invaders have always found a way in, whether they were fighting Prussian soldiers, fleeing royalty of the French Revolution, the Nazis or The Resistance. Today they're home to the cataphiles - urban explorers who use the tunnels as an art space, a music venue or even a clandestine meeting point for secret societies.
Architecture and design writer, Jonathan Glancey investigates.
Producer: James Hale
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 January 2012.
MON 11:30 Agatha Christie (b01b9h75)
Sparkling Cyanide
Rosemary
by Agatha Christie
adapted by Joy Wilkinson.
Part 1: Rosemary
21 year old Rosemary dies at her birthday party after drinking from a glass of cyanide-laced champagne. The small group of friends and family who were present struggle to understand - was it suicide, or could one of them possibly have murdered her? An ex-lover, a younger sister who stood to inherit, a jealous husband? It seems almost all the guests had a motive.
IRIS ..... Naomi Frederick
ROSEMARY ..... Jasmine Hyde
GEORGE ..... Peter Wight
ANTHONY ..... Colin Tierney
RUTH ..... Amanda Drew
STEPHEN ..... James Lailey
SANDRA ..... Tracy Wiles
VICTOR ..... Simon Bubb
directed by Mary Peate.
MON 12:00 You and Yours (b01b9h77)
Why high street pharmacies are still running short of vital drugs
We look at why high street pharmacists are still running short of vital drugs, a year after the government admitted the system wasn't working.
Also, could rear-facing car seats be the next big thing for nine-month to four-year-olds? Some say they're safer than the traditional forward facing seats.
And have you been "brandwashed"? We'll be finding out the secret tricks that big brands and shops use to manipulate us into buying what they want - and how to resist them.
Presented by Winifred Robinson
Produced by Paul Waters.
MON 12:57 Weather (b01b8tds)
The latest weather forecast.
MON 13:00 World at One (b01b9h79)
Shaun Ley presents national and international news. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
MON 13:45 Sport and the British (b01b9h7c)
The Rise of Olympism
CLARE BALDING charts how Britain has shaped sport and sport has shaped the British.Apart from the English language itself, the invention of modern sport has been our major cultural legacy to the rest of the world.In this thirty part narrative history series with the help of the academic team from the International Centre for Sport History and Culture at De Montfort University, Clare looks at the unique and vital role sport has played, and continues to play, in our national life. As we gear up for the 2012 games, in this first programme she looks at the birth of the modern olympics movement. While it was inspired by the Greeks and revived by the French nobleman, Pierre de Coubertin, his motivation came from a provincial English public school. It was while visiting Rugby and contemplating the work of its visionary headmaster, Thomas Arnold, that de Coubertin came to the conclusion that inferior physical fitness in young Frenchmen had played a part in their defeat by the Germans in the Franco-Prussian war of 1870. If they played more sport at school, he thought, the outcome might have been different. With Richard Holt and Tony Collins, Professors at the International Centre for Sport History and Culture at De Montfort University, Clare discusses what lessons can be drawn from the games since 1896, in order to achieve success when they return to us this year.
The reader is Stuart McLoughlin.
Producer: Lucy Lunt.
MON 14:00 The Archers (b01b8zw1)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Sunday]
MON 14:15 Drama (b010t6h0)
Katie Hims - Lost Property
The Wrong Label
by Katie Hims. London, 1941, and Alice knows that to stop your children from being evacuated is to tantamount to siding with Hitler.
Cast
Narrator ..... Rosie Cavaliero
Alice ..... Alex Tregear
Queenie ..... Katie Angelou
Ray ..... Daniel Cooper
Jim ..... Daniel Rabin
Mr Nightingale ..... Stuart McLoughlin
Miss Pearl ..... Bethan Walker
Miss Stanwyck ..... Sally Orrock
Mr Jones ..... Sean Baker
Mrs Jones ..... Joanna Monro
Directed by Jessica Dromgoole
The Wrong Label is part one of a trilogy of plays by acclaimed radio dramatist Katie Hims charting one family's tragi-comic history of heartbreak and redemption. The trilogy won the 2011 BBC Audio Drama Award for Best Drama, where Rosie Cavaliero also picked up the Best Actress award.
MON 15:00 Brain of Britain (b01b9h7f)
(12/12)
The 2012 general knowledge contest reaches its twelfth and final heat, with one automatic place remaining in the semi-finals which begin next week. Which of today's four competitors will win through?
Russell Davies is in the chair, at the BBC's Maida Vale studios.
Producer: Paul Bajoria.
MON 15:30 The Food Programme (b01b8yy2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:32 on Sunday]
MON 16:00 With Great Pleasure (b01b9h7h)
Gervase Phinn
The popular writer and educationalist Gervase Phinn presents his selection of favourite literary extracts to a home crowd in Yorkshire, with Oscar Wilde, Seamus Heaney and Trollope among his chosen pieces. Recorded at The Red Shed, Wakefield's Labour Club, he shares his indebtedness to his parents for encouraging a love of reading from an early age - whilst also acknowledging their sense of humour. There they were, living in a red brick semi in Rotherham, his father a steelworker - and they saw fit to name him Gervase.
Gervase Phinn is a tremendous anecdotalist, with a profound love of children and their unique experience of an unfolding world. This is very much reflected in his choice of extracts - from Jim Hawkins in 'Treasure Island' to a telling evocation of an Edwardian schooling by Robert Roberts. Gervase warmly recalls key teachers and figures from his own childhood, honouring the importance of the work that teachers do today, many of them being - in his own words - 'fair rigwelted' by the constant changes.
The readers are Jane Godber and Jonathan Keeble.
Producer: Mark Smalley.
MON 16:30 Beyond Belief (b01b9hjd)
Pilgrimage
Every year more than 100 million people around the world go on pilgrimage, the biggest mass migration of people on the planet. Two and a half million Muslims visited Mecca for last year's Hajj and over 600,000 visited Graceland to worship at the shrine of Elvis Presley. Tourist companies specialising in pilgrimage tours are expanding - it's big business. Ernie & his guests discuss whether there is something in the human psyche which seeks fulfilment from a physical journey, but one that has a spiritual motive, and also consider the growing phenomenon of cyber pilgrimage. Can a "virtual" journey in any way be seen as comparable?
Joining Ernie Rea to discuss pilgrimage are Dr Marion Bowman, Head of the Department of Religious Studies at the Open University; Martin Palmer, Secretary General of the Alliance of Religions & Conservation, and Connie Hill-Smith who is writing her doctoral thesis on cyber pilgrimage at the University of Wales, Trinity & St. David's.
MON 17:00 PM (b01b9hjg)
Eddie Mair presents the day's top stories. Including Weather.
MON 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b01b8tdv)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
MON 18:30 The Unbelievable Truth (b01b9hjj)
Series 8
Episode 6
David Mitchell hosts the panel game in which four comedians are encouraged to tell lies and compete against one another to see how many items of truth they're able to smuggle past their opponents. Tony Hawks, Alan Davies, Tom Wrigglesworth and John Finnemore are the panellists obliged to talk with deliberate inaccuracy on subjects as varied as: Wool, Flowers, The Radio and Pasta.
The show is devised by Graeme Garden and Jon Naismith, the team behind Radio 4's I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue.
Producer: Jon Naismith.
A Random Entertainment Production for BBC Radio 4.
MON 19:00 The Archers (b01b9hjl)
Brian's pleased with the promotional leaflet for the dairy, which will start to be mailed out today.
Mike and Jim are pleased with the turnout for the opening of the green burial ground, until Joe turns up with Bartleby, intending to give out leaflets for a 'bespoke transportation service for a loved one'. Jim's annoyed to learn that official gravedigger Eddie is also involved. Jim sends Joe home. Jennifer takes photos for the website. Brian chats to journalists from the Borchester Echo and Radio Borchester and is confident he's got his side of things across.
Upstairs at The Bull afterwards, Mike tells Jim he's unhappy with his record of hours worked at the orchard. Jim insists it's the best he can do. Joe turns up and accepts a drink from Brian but states that he can't be bought. Brian wouldn't insult him - he's sure Joe will make an informed decision about the dairy based on the evidence. Jim thought he made things clear to Joe earlier but Joe insists he said nothing about leafleting at The Bull.
It looks to Kenton as if the day's been a roaring success. As one of the undertakers said to him, all that's needed now is a body.
MON 19:15 Front Row (b01b9hjn)
Kate Winslet and Jodie Foster in Polanski's film, Carnage
Kate Winslet and Jodie Foster star in Roman Polanski's film Carnage, an adaptation of Yasmina Reza's play about two couples who meet to discuss their sons, one of whom has knocked out the other's front teeth. Although things start out cordially, cracks soon begin to show. Novelist Julie Myerson gives her verdict.
Director Sacha Mirzoeff discusses the years of negotiation behind his three part TV documentary series Protecting Our Children. Given unprecedented access to social workers and families in Bristol, Mirzoeff reveals the pressures of filming the complex dilemmas faced by child protection teams.
The first-ever British production of Samuel Beckett's Waiting For Godot with a cast of black actors is about to open at the West Yorkshire Playhouse. Actors Jeffery Kissoon and Patrick Robinson and director Ian Brown reflect on how this casting changes the play.
Migrations, a new exhibition at Tate Britain, explores how British art has been shaped by artists from abroad over the last five centuries. The show moves from works by the Dutch artists van Dyck and Maurice Gheeraerts to contemporary artists such as Steve McQueen and Mona Hatoum. Jackie Wullschlager reviews.
Producer Nicki Paxman.
MON 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b9b7s)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
MON 20:00 What Are the Police For? (b01b9hjq)
Episode 1
With policing top of the political agenda, and major change on the way, Mark Easton asks what we want from our police.
Mark spends time with police officers doing jobs as diverse as roads policing, neighbourhood policing and monitoring sex offenders to paint a picture of how we are policed in 2012 and examine whether the daily reality matches the political rhetoric. And he speaks to politicians, academics and the public to assess whether what we are getting is what we want.
In this first programme, he digs into the origins of the current political debate over policing, and asks what the huge political changes lined up for policing in 2012 - including budget cuts and major changes to working practices - will mean for the service.
Producer: Giles Edwards.
MON 20:30 Analysis (b01b9hjs)
Do Schools Make a Difference?
The government's brought in new style league tables to help parents choose schools. But do we really know what makes a good school? And how far can schools really transform lives? Researchers have long believed in a so-called 'school effect' that counters, at least in part, factors such as social and family background. But how easy is it to measure this kind of effect, and can parents really be given a clear guide as to which school is best for their child? Or has too much emphasis on factors such as social background made schools complacent about what they can achieve?
Fran Abrams talks to head teachers, educational experts, the schools minister and the new head of Ofsted as she investigates what difference schools can really make.
MON 21:00 Material World (b01b1lk8)
Do the health and bio-security risks of influenza research justify its benefits in preparing for the next pandemic? Could a fresh water bulge in the Arctic Ocean upset the British climate? Does the shape of someone's face affect the tone of their voice? And will the widening of the Panama Canal bring environmental benefits? Quentin Cooper questions the scientists involved.
Producer: Martin Redfern.
MON 21:30 Start the Week (b01b90br)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
MON 21:58 Weather (b01b8tdx)
The latest weather forecast.
MON 22:00 The World Tonight (b01b9hjv)
As European leaders meet at their latest summit, is there a new mood of optimism?
Is Newt Gingrich's campaign to be the Republican Presidential candidate waning?
And how did the bonus culture in banking emerge?
With Ritula Shah.
MON 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b01b9hjx)
Care of Wooden Floors
Episode 1
A starkly minimalist flat drives a writer to the edge in Will Wiles' darkly comic tale.
'Thanks so much for this; you're a real friend for helping me out. I don't feel comfortable leaving the flat for so long, not with the cats... You'll like it, it's a nice flat.'
When an unnamed writer finds himself entrusted with looking after a disturbingly minimalist apartment in a nameless Mittel European city, he looks forward to a chance to write, relax and recuperate. But all too soon, and all too inevitably, things begin to go wrong. The flat is owned by his old friend, Oskar, a minimalist composer, best known for his piece, 'Variations on Tram Timetables', who turns out to be quite the perfectionist...
Will Wiles' absurdist comic debut is the story of an unlikely friendship between two very different men, of alienation in a foreign city, of the quest for perfection - and of how to take care of wooden floors.
Reader: Bertie Carvel. Bertie Carvel is currently playing Miss Trunchbull in the RSC's production of Roald Dahl's 'Matilda' in the West End.
Abridger: Sally Marmion
Producer: Justine Willett
Original music: Kirsten Morrison.
MON 23:00 Word of Mouth (b019rpvw)
Teens and TV
Michael Rosen explores the portrayal of teens on TV, and speaks to Phil Redmond, creator of Grange Hill about how approaches have changed over the years, and the battle Grange Hill faced to stay on the air.
He visits Albert Square and speaks to writer/cast-members of E20, Emer Kenny and Arinze Kene. Together with senior writer Jeff Povey they discuss how they developed the character of Fatboy to parody people who over-use slang, and Emer talks collecting words on buses.
What programme about young people and TV would be complete without mention of Skins? Writer Laura Hunter and cast talk about how they coined the phrase "Amazeballs."
We also hear from Paul Parry, the self-styled "literally tsar" about the way the use of the word has changed. Why is it, like, literally everywhere?
Producer: Toby Field.
MON 23:30 Today in Parliament (b01b9hjz)
The Justice Secretary, Kenneth Clarke, has outlined plans to stop most convicted criminals from claiming compensation if they are injured during a crime.
But British victims of terrorism abroad will be able to gain compensation in the same way as those injured in terrorist attacks at home.
Senior figures at the Financial Services Authority answer MPs' questions about the near collapse of Royal Bank of Scotland.
While in the Lords, the Government defends its plan to halve the subsidies given to home owners who use solar panels to generate energy.
Sean Curran and team report on today's events in Parliament.
TUESDAY 31 JANUARY 2012
TUE 00:00 Midnight News (b01b8tfh)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
TUE 00:30 Book of the Week (b01b90bt)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Monday]
TUE 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tfk)
The latest shipping forecast.
TUE 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b01b8tfm)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
TUE 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tfp)
The latest shipping forecast.
TUE 05:30 News Briefing (b01b8tfr)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
TUE 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01bf78t)
A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with The Revd Dr Mark Beach, Team Rector of Rugby.
TUE 05:45 Farming Today (b01b9jnk)
Vets says it is possible that thousands of animals could be infected with Schmallenberg's disease, which causes birth defects in lambs and calves. The Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) says it is expecting to confirm more cases as the lambing season continues. On the programme today, Anna Hill talks to one of the vets who diagnosed the disease in Norfolk.
The cost of land in some parts of the UK is reaching around £10 thousand per acre. The strong market is great news if you are selling but for the young farmers wanting to get into the industry it means their choices of where, how and what they farm shrink dramatically. 18 year old Matthew Sharp is new to farming and studying Agricultural Business at Newcastle University. He talks to Anna about what his options are for the future.
Also in the programme, the National Farmers' Union in Wales says it's fed up of waiting for an announcement on a proposed badger cull. A similar pilot cull has been given the go ahead in two parts of England. The Welsh Environment Minister is reviewing a report on the science behind the idea and is expected to make an announcement soon.
This programme is presented by Anna Hill and produced in Birmingham by Angela Frain.
TUE 06:00 Today (b01b9jnm)
Including Sports Desk, Yesterday in Parliament, Weather, Thought for the Day.
TUE 09:00 The Long View (b01b9jnp)
Sovereign Debt and Default
Jonathan Freedland explores a moment in history which illuminates a current debate. The agony of Greece's journey towards default holds Europe & the markets in thrall. If not now, when? The Long View takes a giant leap backwards some 670 years to explore another moment of financial crisis. There is unrest at home and Europe is in turmoil. Only this time it is 1340. Welcome to sovereign debt and default, medieval style. The King, Edward III, is in the counting house, counting out the money and there isn't enough. He has narrowly avoided being a prisoner of debt on the continent, his expensive foreign alliance has hit the buffers and his grand plans for the crown of France must wait. His coming default will help bring down the banks, in this case the Florentine houses of Perruzzi and Bardi. The 'haircut' then is severe. Jail and ruin for some and little chance of recovering losses for their creditors. Historians Adrian Bell and James Macdonald, the writer Maria Margaronis and Newsnight's Economics editor Paul Mason discuss the then and now of sovereign debt and default.
TUE 09:30 Musical Migrants (b015ztll)
Series 3
Norway
Five portraits of people who relocated to other countries, influenced by music.
Daniel Sanden-Warg grew up in Sweden listening to rock giants. As a teenager, he appeared on Swedish television playing the guitar a la Jimi Hendrix (including behind his back and with his teeth). Then a new boy arrived at his school and through him, Daniel discovered folk music, specifically the hardanger fiddle tradition of Norway's Setesdal Valley. Of hearing this music for the first time, he says "it was life-changing for me. I was sure at once that this is what I want to do. This is the music I want to play. I have to get good at it, and if I'm going to be poor, I don't care, that's going to be my life, that's it."
Daniel's dream was to study with the man who'd played on the first recording he heard - Hallvard Bjorgum. After practising for hours each day for months, he sent Hallvard a demo tape and waited anxiously for a response. On Christmas Eve, Hallvard called him. He told Daniel that his playing reminded him of his father and that he could come and study with him any time.
So Daniel moved to the extraordinary Setesdal valley in the south of Norway - an area famed for centuries for its fiddlers and where folklife is cherished. He became fully absorbed into the culture. He played side by side with Hallvard, built his own traditional log cabin, and learned the ancient art of silver-smithing - a craft typically practised by Setesdal fiddlers because it is gentler on their fingers than, for example, logging. Daniel, whom Hallvard describes as a genius, is now one of the most sought-after hardanger fiddle players in the world.
Producer: Rachel Hopkin
A Falling Tree Production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 09:45 Book of the Week (b01b9jnr)
The Train in the Night: A Story of Music and Loss
Episode 2
Nick Coleman's account of how he struggled to overcome losing his hearing in one ear, and how he reinvented his relationship to music, his great passion in life. Today, teenage recollections of his first seven records.
Nick Coleman grew up in the Fens. He has written about music throughout his career as a journalist for titles including NME, Time Out, the Independent and Independent on Sunday, The Times and The Wire.
Reader: Sean Foley, actor and comedian, is currently directing the West End production of The Ladykillers.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
TUE 10:00 Woman's Hour (b01b9jnt)
Joanna Trollope
Why is our relationship to food so complicated? Eating disorders, the 'obesity epidemic', malnutrition in the elderly, endless column inches devoted to the efficacy of this diet or that. Over the next four weeks we'll be looking at our often distorted relationship to food. Today - obesity in the young. With a fifth of children either overweight or obese when they start school what's being done to help combat the problem.
Joanna Trollope talks to Jane Garvey about her latest book 'The Soldier's Wife' which explores the pressures on army marriages and asks whether marrying a soldier means you also marry the Army?
And as we gear up for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee year, we look back at the Silver Jubilee in 1977 and celebrate all things Punk with Toyah. Leather, piercings, spiky hair and torn clothing and confrontational music blew away any trace of the early 70s Flower Power era. What did punk mean for women and what's its legacy?
Producer Lucinda Montefiore.
TUE 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b9jnw)
The Diary of Samuel Pepys: Series 3
Episode 2
In Hattie Naylor's dramatisation of Pepys' diary for 1662, Sam wants to go on a jaunt to Portsmouth with Captain Cook - a trip combining navy business with pleasure. But Elizabeth is not so keen on him going without her, especially as he insists on sending her away from London to the country where she'll get no visitors. On Sam's return they see a puppet show at Covent Garden, and catch up on court gossip with Lord Sandwich - the new Queen is about to arrive from Portugal but the King is still spending most nights with his mistress, Lady Castlemaine.
CAST
Samuel Pepys . . . Kris Marshall
Elizabeth Pepys . . . Katherine Jakeways
Sir William Batten . . . Richard Mitchley
Sir William Coventry . . . Andrew Wincott
Jane . . . Rebecca Newman
Captain Cook . . . Matthew Gravelle
Mr Hollier . . . Gareth Pierce
Lord Sandwich . . . Blake Ritson
Will . . . John Biddle
Theme music: Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May, words by Robert Herrick and music by William Lawes, sung by Bethany Hughes. Lute, baroque guitar and theorbo played by David Miller. Violin and viol by Annika Gray, and recorders by Alice Baxter.
Historical consultant: Liza Picard
Sound by Nigel Lewis
A BBC/Cymru Wales production, directed by Kate McAll.
TUE 11:00 Nature (b01b9jny)
Series 5
In search of the Tiger’s Roar
Wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson travels to India, to capture the sounds of the forest and the spine tingling roar of a Bengal Tiger.
Chris is leading a team of wildlife sound recordists on this quest. They travel to Corbett National Park which was established in 1936 as Asia's first National Park. It stretches over some 1300 sq km. in the foothills of the Himalayas in the state of Uttarakhand.
The park is named after the legendary hunter, naturalist and author Edward James Corbett, better known as 'Jim Corbett'. Author of 'Man-Eaters of Kumaon', Corbett spent many years killing tigers and leopards before concern about their future and that of their habitat, led him to playing a key role in establishing the National Park.
Today the Park is home to a rich and diverse range of wildlife including over 100 Bengal tigers. To help them, the team have several local guides; who are not only skilled in the art of tracking tigers; knowing what signs to look for; like scats on the ground, scratch marks on the trees, and perhaps most importantly, knowing how to listen to the forest and use the alarm calls of other animals such as the peacocks and samba deer to help track the tigers. It might sound easy enough but as Chris and the team discover, it's far more difficult than it sounds.
In their search for tigers, they play a game of 'Grandmother's footsteps' with a pair of elephants, encounter crocodiles in a river, are puzzled by something that sounds like rain but isn't, and record the unusual barks of Hanaman Langurs in the forest. As for recording the roar of a tiger, they need skill, patience and, a bit of good luck.
Producer Sarah Blunt.
TUE 11:30 Soul Music (b01b9jp0)
Series 13
Baker Street
Gerry Rafferty's glorious and instantly recognisable hit, Baker Street is the subject of this week's Soul Music.
Rafferty died last year (on January 4th 2011) at the age of 63, leaving behind a widely respected musical legacy. The most popular of his tracks is, arguably, Baker Street:
His daughter Martha Rafferty recalls hearing her father develop the melody in the attic of their Glasgow home; the sound of him picking-out the tune on his acoustic guitar would drift through the push-up attic-door, filling the rest of the house with what would become his biggest hit. She describes the inspiration for the lyrics: a book called 'The Outsider' by Colin Wilson which Rafferty was reading at the time. It's about the sense of disconnection from the world that artists often feel. Martha regards Baker Street as the lyrical version of that book.
Other contributors include:
Musician and founder member of Stealer's Wheel, Rab Noakes. He describes how the legal wrangling which followed the break-up of Stealer's Wheel inspired the creation of Baker Street. "Winding your way down on Baker Street, light in your head and dead on your feet, well another crazy day, you'll drink the night away and forget about everything". Although Rafferty was living in Scotland at the time, he had to endure long meetings at his lawyers, and Baker Street was where he'd meet friends and drink, and sing, and talk the night away. The lyrics explore the conflicting thoughts and pressures Rafferty faced: he wanted to continue with his music, but - as Martha says - he had a young family to support and there was pressure to get a 'normal job'.
Singer-songwriter Betsy Cook whose former husband, the late Hugh Murphy, produced Baker Street, plays through the melody on her keyboard and describes what makes the song work musically. She also recalls the emotional impact of hearing it played at Hugh Murphy's funeral.
For poet, Ian McMillan, Baker Street provided the sound track to his student years; and busker Gavin Randle plays it often on Brighton pier with a backdrop of murmurating starlings, a setting sun, and passers-by dancing arm in arm.
Martha Rafferty's interview at the start of the programme is illustrated by an acoustic version of the track played especially for Soul Music by the guitarist Hugh Burns. He played on the original recording, and explains how he achieved the stirring guitar solo at the end of the record.
Also included in the programme is the original demo version of Baker Street, on which Gerry Rafferty plays the famous sax solo on guitar. It was released late last year on a Collector's Edition of the City to City album.
Producer: Karen Gregor (whose first decision when starting work on the programme was not to mention the Bob Holness/saxophone riff urban myth... so there is no word of it anywhere in the programme...!).
TUE 12:00 You and Yours (b01b9kd2)
Call You and Yours: What are our police for?
The police force has been described as the last unreformed public service. But with sweeping changes planned to the pay of police officers, reform is well and truly underway. Police numbers are already at their lowest level for a decade and forces are facing 20% cuts across the next four years.
There are also government plans to place a greater focus on the police's role in reducing anti-social behaviour. How do you feel the police will cope with this new role? Do you want our police to concentrate on catching criminals or should they be social workers too? If the core mission of the police remains to cut crime, will this be compromised? What do you think the police should be doing in your community? What role do you want our police to play?
03700 100 400 is the phone number, or you can e-mail via bbc.co.uk/radio 4/youandyours or text us on 84844 and we might call you back.
Presented by Peter White
Produced by Alex Lewis.
TUE 12:57 Weather (b01b8tft)
The latest weather forecast.
TUE 13:00 World at One (b01b9kd4)
Shaun Ley presents national and international news. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
TUE 13:45 Sport and the British (b01b9kd6)
A Level Playing Field
CLARE BALDING explores how the British shaped sport and sport shaped Britain. If the French had played cricket, would they have prevented the revolution? Clare visits Broadhalfpenny Down in Hampshire, the original home of Hambledon Cricket Club, that's widely regarded as the birthplace of modern cricket. The origins of the game go back to the sixteenth century, it was a farm game, played on landed estates. Highly competitive aristocratic landowners, with money and time to spend, would employ men on their estates who were the best cricketers, so they could use them on their team. Cricket brought together landowners and their agricultural workers, they played together on the same pitch, in the same team - on a level playing field. Professor Richard Holt of the International Centre for Sports history and culture at De Montfort University explains that while we shouldn't confuse social mixing with social harmony, this picture of cricket as a village game, played on summer afternoon, everyone knowing their place on the field, has become the image of Englishness.
Producer: Sara Conkey.
TUE 14:00 The Archers (b01b9hjl)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Monday]
TUE 14:15 Drama (b010xzzm)
Katie Hims - Lost Property
The Year My Mother Went Missing
It's 1979, and it's not the first time that Ruthie's mother Queenie has gone missing, but usually she leaves a note. The second in Katie Hims' trilogy of plays.
Cast
Narrator ..... Rosie Cavaliero
Ruthie ..... Shannon Flynn
Vincent ..... Ceallach Spellman
Marcus ..... Elliot Griffiths
Dad ..... Ralph Ineson
Ray ..... Daniel Rabin
Alice ..... Jane Whittenshaw
Queenie ..... Sally Orrock
PC O'Hara ..... Stuart McLoughlin
DI Driscoll ..... Sean Baker
Directed by Jessica Dromgoole
The Year My Mother Went Missing is the second in a trilogy of plays by acclaimed radio dramatist Katie Hims charting one family's tragi-comic history of heartbreak and redemption. The trilogy won the 2011 BBC Audio Drama Award for Best Drama, where Rosie Cavaliero also picked up the Best Actress award.
TUE 15:00 Short Cuts (b01b9kd8)
Series 1
Lost for Words
A selection of brief encounters, true stories and found sound find a home in this new series for BBC Radio 4.
Nina Garthwaite, the founder of the public listening phenomenon In the Dark, presents a showcase for delightful and adventurous short documentaries.
In the final edition of the series we find ourselves 'Lost for Words' as Nina explores our difficulty expressing ourselves. In 'The True Language', the sound artist John Wynne examines our attachment to the first language we learn - and what happens when it starts to disappear. We discover how simple geographical terms can become politically charged as the Irish novelist Glenn Patterson struggles to find the right word to describe his home. And the singer and broadcaster Cerys Matthews reflects on the musicality of language.
Produced by Eleanor McDowall
A Falling Tree Production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 15:30 Costing the Earth (b01b9kdb)
Bottle Bank Wars
Since goldrush days San Francisco has been a magnet for those on the make. But the latest moneymakers aren't interested in striking gold, they're in search of cans and bottles. The city's efforts to boost recycling rates have been so successful that the value of rubbish has spiralled, leading to battles between official, unofficial and downright criminal garbage collectors.
San Francisco now recycles 78% of it's trash: paper, bottles, cans, plastics and even food gets recycled or composted. This is partly due to the California Bottle Bill of 1987 that introduced legislation to ensure a deposit was repaid on bottles and cans that were sold in the state. The amount recyclers get depends on the package they return.
The city has also made it extremely easy for residents to recycle. They now have three bins. A brown bin for food waste, a black bin for general waste and a blue bin for recycling.
It's these now iconic blue bins that scavengers target, pillaging the bottles and cans before Recology, the city's official garbage collectors, can get to them. They then take the booty to recycling centers and collect a few bucks.
The fear is that now small time pilfering by a handful of scavengers is becoming more organised with criminal gangs getting in on the act.
Tom Heap hits the streets of San Francisco to meet those making cash from trash.
Producer: Martin Poyntz-Roberts.
TUE 16:00 Europe's Choice (b01b8yy6)
[Repeat of broadcast at
13:30 on Sunday]
TUE 16:30 Great Lives (b01b9kdd)
Series 26
Razia Sultana
Co-chairman of the Conservative party, Baroness Warsi recalls her Pakistani-born father during her Yorkshire childhood telling her about the heroic martial deeds conducted by a thirteenth century Indian princess, Razia Sultana.
Descended from humble stock, the much mythologized Sultana ruled for less than four years in the 1230s, but has long been celebrated as the first female Indian Muslim leader. Sayeeda Warsi explains why she's fascinated by this character whose reign was abruptly brought to an end by the jealous rivalries of the male nobility around her who could not tolerate the fact that she had been chosen by her father above the heads of her brothers. We'll hear whether Sayeeda draws inspiration from Razia's model of bold leadership, and whether she finds parallels with her own experience of British politics today within the senior ranks of the Conservative Party.
Writer and expert on India, William Dalrymple sets the scene, explaining how and why Turkish Muslims had an empire that reached as far as the Himalayas, at a time when northern India was having to withstand the Mongol incursions of Genghis Khan.
Producer: Mark Smalley.
TUE 17:00 PM (b01b9kdg)
Eddie Mair presents the day's top stories. Including Weather.
TUE 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b01b8tfw)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
TUE 18:30 Mr and Mrs Smith (b01b9kdj)
Sally's Birthday
Will and Annabelle attend her mum's 60th Birthday Party. Will makes an effort to get on with his straight talking father-in-law John.
Will Smith's sitcom about a couple in marriage counselling,
Counsellor Guy must mediate another dispute between Will and Annabelle, with flashbacks to the events that spawned the argument, and by the end, the couple find marital equilibrium once more. Sort of.
Will Smith ..... Will Smith
Annabelle Smith ..... Sarah Hadland
Guy ..... Paterson Joseph
John ..... Geoffrey Whitehead
Sally ..... Susie Blake
Shop Assistant ..... Tracy Wiles
Producer: Tilusha Ghelani
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
TUE 19:00 The Archers (b01b9kdl)
Hassett Hills wants to take up some of Pip's ideas - including 'Hassle' the celebrity lamb. They'll even pay her a bit of money to develop the idea. Pip's enthusiastic. She's going to make it work, so maybe the sheep can keep them going until the dairy comes good again. With Pip out of earshot, David rings Oliver and asks if they can chat tomorrow - about something he can't discuss with Ruth.
Susan and Neil enjoy a quiet evening. Susan feels for Tracy. She ended up with Den, whereas Susan's so lucky to be with Neil. Susan's cleaned up the dolls' house for Keira but Neil thinks it still needs painting and decorating. He'll do it once he's finished at Bert's.
Joe tells Bert Horrobin that Jim's finally agreed to issue timesheets to log hours worked on the orchard. Bert's on his own, so Joe offers to keep him company. After a fair bit of cider, Bert shows Joe the shower room. Joe reckons they could do Neil a favour and finish the tiling. After contemplating which way the borders should go, they get the job done and reckon Neil's going to be well pleased.
TUE 19:15 Front Row (b01bb701)
Charlize Theron in Young Adult; Kate Grenville
With Mark Lawson.
Charlize Theron plays a writer of teen literature who returns to her small hometown to reclaim her happily married high school sweetheart, in her new film Young Adult. But things don't go according to plan. The film is directed by Jason Reitman, who also brought us Juno and Up in the Air. Ryan Gilbey reviews.
The Orange Prize-winning novelist Kate Grenville discusses her novel Sarah Thornhill in which she returns to early Australia and the story of the Thornhill family, whose story she told in her novel The Secret River.
The Singing Detective, the TV drama series written by Dennis Potter and starring Michael Gambon, returns to our screens 26 years after it was first shown. Chris Dunkley and Rebecca Nicholson re-assess this TV classic.
And writer Joanne Harris visits a new exhibition in Sheffield with a focus on the family, with artists ranging from William Hogarth to Rachel Whiteread.
Producer Jerome Weatherald.
TUE 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01b9jnw)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
TUE 20:00 File on 4 (b01bb703)
Police Restraint
Inquests in England are increasingly hearing a new term to explain deaths in police custody: Excited Delirium. It's a diagnosis with origins in the United States, where it has been associated with consumption of massive doses of cocaine. People with ED are said to possess super-human strength and to be largely impervious to pain. They behave bizarrely, sometimes destructively.They often seem paranoid and frequently resist arrest. As police struggle to restrain them they overheat and die.
But critics -- including some British Pathologists -- point out that Excited Delirium is not recognised by the World Health Organisation and that there is a lack of valid research. Civil liberties organisations fear that the diagnosis might be employed to excuse improper use of restraint techniques by police.
For 'File on 4' Angus Stickler has travelled to the cocaine capital of the United States, Miami, where police and scientists are attempting to define and deal with the controversial condition.
And in England he speaks to families whose loved ones have died after being restrained by the police. Is Excited Delirium well-enough understood to be used by courts? And just how many people are dying while being restrained -- either in custody or while being arrested? Are the official figures reliable?
Producer: Andy Denwood.
TUE 20:40 In Touch (b01bb705)
Inaccessible airline websites - 31/01/2012
Bmibaby are being sued by RNIB for having an inaccessible website. The airline say they are taking steps to improve the situation and are offering customers the option of a low cost phone number until it's fixed. Hugh Huddy from the Royal National Institute of Blind People wants website designers to make sites accessible from the start so that blind and partially-sighted people are not excluded from booking flights as and when they choose.
Bristol's new museum M Shed has recently won a Jodi award for its Penfriend audio information project.
Cheryl Gabriel went to the launch and met Paul Sullivan who had the idea of using this labelling device to provide information about the exhibits for its blind visitors.
Presented by Peter White
Produced by Cheryl Gabriel.
TUE 21:00 Inside Health (b01bb707)
Pseudomonas, anti-coags, alcohol, pres drugs, high heels
On Inside Health this week, the bacteria Pseudomonas that's been responsible for a number of deaths in special care baby units in Northern Ireland.
Mark Porter asks Prof Richard James, Director of Healthcare Associated Infection at the University of Nottingham, why the outbreak occurred and how the Department of Health is likely to try to prevent future occurrence..
We look at a new class of drugs that could transform the lives of tens of thousands of people on warfarin. Recently approved by NICE, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, these drugs overcome many of the drawbacks of taking warfarin. Mark Porter explores just who is likely to benefit if the drug gets its final endorsement from NICE next week.
Mark also explores which prescription drugs are addictive, and how wearing high heels can damage your calves but might improve your sex life.
Presenter: Dr Mark Porter
Producer: Beth Eastwood.
TUE 21:30 The Long View (b01b9jnp)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
TUE 21:58 Weather (b01b8tfy)
The latest weather forecast.
TUE 22:00 The World Tonight (b01bb709)
The Arab League asks the UN Security Council to call for President Assad of Syria to stand down.
Sir Fred Goodwin has his knighthood shredded. What about the other city bigwigs?
Greece's health system buckles under the weight of EU directed austerity measures
with Ritula Shah.
TUE 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b01bb70c)
Care of Wooden Floors
Episode 2
A starkly minimalist flat drives a writer to the edge in Will Wiles' darkly comic tale.
'Thanks so much for this; you're a real friend for helping me out. I don't feel comfortable leaving the flat for so long, not with the cats... You'll like it, it's a nice flat.'
When an unnamed writer finds himself entrusted with looking after a disturbingly perfect minimalist apartment for his friend, Oskar, he looks forward to a chance to write, relax and recuperate. But all too soon, and all too inevitably, things begin to go wrong. The flat is owned by his old university friend, Oskar, an avant-garde composer, best known for his piece, 'Variations on Tram Timetables' , who turns out to be quite the perfectionist...
Will Wiles' absurdist comic debut is the story of an unlikely friendship between two very different men, about alienation in a foreign city, the quest for perfection - and how to take care of wooden floors.
Today: it's Day Two in the flat, and time to explore the city. But already there's a wine stain on Oskar's pristine wooden floor.
Reader: Bertie Carvel
Abridger: Sally Marmion
Producer: Justine Willett.
TUE 23:00 I, Regress (b01bb70f)
Series 1
Episode 5
A dark, David Lynch-ian comedy, ideally suited for an unsettling and surreal late night listen. 'I, Regress' sees Matt Berry (The IT Crowd, Garth Marenghi's Dark Place, Snuff Box) playing a corrupt and bizarre hypnotherapist taking unsuspecting clients on twisted, misleading journeys through their subconscious.
Each episode sees the doctor dealing with a different client who has come to him for a different problem (quitting smoking, fear of water, etc). As the patient is put under hypnosis, we 'enter' their mind, and all the various situations the hypnotherapist takes them through are played out for us to hear. The result is a dream- (or nightmare-) like trip through the patient's mind, as funny as it is disturbing.
Ep 5: Dr Berry's latest patient, Christian Parcel (Nick Lucas) finds himself in the worst place on the planet thanks to some 'experimental hypnotherapy'. But events take a twist that even Dr Berry himself finds hard to control, thanks to a football pitch, a nightclub and a very unusual tattoo...
The cast across the series include Katherine Parkinson (IT Crowd), Morgana Robinson (The Morgana Show), Simon Greenall (I'm Alan Partridge), Jack Klaff (Star Wars, For Your Eyes Only), Tara Flynn (The Impressions Show, Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle), Alex Lowe (Barry From Watford, The Peter Serafinowicz Show), and Derek Griffiths (Playschool, Bod, and The Royal Exchange).
A compelling late night listen: tune in and occupy someone else's head!
Produced by Sam Bryant.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
TUE 23:15 Continuity (b00tq0p2)
Episode 5
A Continuity Announcer's booth can be a lonely place - especially on the late shift, when you've barely seen your wife and children for a week. Still, this Radio 4 Continuity Announcer is nothing, if not a consummate professional and he's not going to let his own insignificant little problems get in the way of your listening pleasure. Especially when there are so many exciting programmes coming up in the next week, which he's got to tell you about. At least some of them are exciting. Some of them aren't quite his cup of tea, if he's honest, but that's not really the point, is it? They may be right up your street. It's not really his place to express an opinion. Even if it is tempting. This may be a come-down from heady days spent announcing on the Today programme, but he's got a job to do. Though sometimes it is rather difficult to concentrate .....
Alistair McGowan stars in a new subversive sitcom about a Continuity Announcer brooding on the escalating disasters of his private and professional life; at the same time as attempting to give us a preview of the programmes on offer in the coming week on Radio 4. Or what might be Radio 4 in a parallel universe. Trails for 'The Ethical Enigma', 'Britain's Favourite Sound' and 'The History of Britain One Year at a Time' are just some of the strange delights on offer in the world of this 'radio professional', who harbours a slightly inappropriate relationship with his audience.
Written by Hugh Rycroft a stalwart of 'The News Quiz' and co-creator of 'Parliamentary Questions' and 'Life, Death and Sex with Mike and Sue', the series also features the voices of Lewis Macleod, Sally Grace, Charlotte Page and David Holt.
Produced by David Spicer and Frank Stirling.
A Unique Production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 23:30 Today in Parliament (b01bb70h)
Susan Hulme reports as David Cameron faces some sceptical questions on Europe; peers land another blow on the government's welfare reforms; and a message to Argentina from MPs: hands off the Falklands.
Editor: Peter Mulligan.
WEDNESDAY 01 FEBRUARY 2012
WED 00:00 Midnight News (b01b8tgj)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
WED 00:30 Book of the Week (b01b9jnr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Tuesday]
WED 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tgl)
The latest shipping forecast.
WED 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b01b8tgn)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
WED 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tgq)
The latest shipping forecast.
WED 05:30 News Briefing (b01b8tgs)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
WED 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01bf87m)
A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with The Revd Dr Mark Beach, Team Rector of Rugby.
WED 05:45 Farming Today (b01bb7j1)
The price of an acre of UK farmland varies from just £50 to £10,000. Anna Hill hears what makes the difference between one of the most expensive, in the grasslands of Cheshire, to one of the cheapest areas in the uplands near Inverness.
And farmers are being asked to report cases of sheep worrying and attacks by dogs to build up an picture of the scale of the problem. Attacks can leave the livestock not only with severe injuries but, at this time of the year, can lead to aborted lambs. After an attack on her farm which meant four sheep had to be destroyed, Anita Perry from Somerset talks about the decision made by her partner to shoot the aggressive dog.
This programme was presented by Anna Hill and Produced in Birmingham by Angela Frain.
WED 06:00 Today (b01bb7j3)
Including Sports Desk, Yesterday in Parliament, Weather, Thought for the Day.
WED 09:00 Midweek (b01bb7j5)
Libby Purves is joined by Lord Kenneth Baker; charity worker Rudi Richardson; playwright Ishy Din and columnist and author Michele Hanson.
Lord Kenneth Baker, former Home Secretary and a former Chairman of the Conservative Party, is a cartoon enthusiast. He talks about an exhibition at London's Cartoon Museum - HER MAJ: 60 Years of Unofficial Portraits of the Queen - which celebrates the Queen's reign through cartoons by some of our greatest caricaturists including Ralph Steadman and Steve Bell.
Rudi Richardson is the founder of Streetlytes, a charity for the homeless, which he set up after 33 years drifting in and out of addiction, prison and life on the streets. He was born in a women's prison in post-war Germany to a German Jewish mother and black American father. Adopted by an African American couple, he was brought up in California but, as he explains on the programme, he was deported back to Europe in his late forties. Rudi ended up on the streets in London but in a remarkable turnaround he set up the Streetlytes charity. His mission he says is "to rescue those who stand in the shoes I stood in - the addicts, the homeless, the broken."
Ishy Din describes himself as a taxi-driver from Middlesbrough who now writes plays. His new production Snookered is about young Asian men struggling to find their identity in modern Britain.
Michele Hanson is a columnist and writer. She discusses her memoir which recounts her youth in 1950s Ruislip. Michele laments the agony of being the only Jewish girl in her group of school friends and her comic but overbearing mother.
Producer: Paula McGinley.
WED 09:45 Book of the Week (b01bb7j7)
The Train in the Night: A Story of Music and Loss
Episode 3
The story of Nick Coleman's struggle to overcome suddenly losing music from his life, and to adjust to a new way of perceiving the world. Today, an unpleasant treatment for hearing loss, and how music defines who we are, are among the themes taken up.
Reader: Sean Foley, actor and comedian, is currently directing the West End production of The Ladykillers.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
WED 10:00 Woman's Hour (b01bb7j9)
What we will be putting on our faces in the next few years to hide those wrinkles: in recent months, new products have come on the market which are the result of nanotechnology and advances in glycobiology - but what exactly are nanoparticles and glycans? And do they really make us look younger? With cosmetic surgery in confusion over breast implants and an ASA ruling against one of the world's leading cosmetic companies, we ask what we can believe when it comes to claims made for beauty products.
One of our Women in Business Jo Pateman is up to her knees in mud as we find out how she and her pond clearing business are getting on. We've been following Women with Waders for the last 12 months while Jo's mentor, Nikki King the Managing Director of Isuzu Trucks UK Ltd has given her advice on business plans, HR, and health and safety policies.
"The years after being 60 have, no question, been the happiest years of my life" - so says Virginia Ironside. She joins Jenni to discuss her one woman show and explain why boring for Britain, fun funerals, grandchildren and sex - or, even better, no sex - make the sixties the best and funniest time of your life.
WED 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01bb7jc)
The Diary of Samuel Pepys: Series 3
Episode 3
In Hattie Naylor's dramatisation of 1662, Samuel witnesses the death of Henry Vane, a Puritan executed after an unfair trial. At home he tends to his appearance, by having Jane comb out his hair which is 'foul with powdering and other troubles', and bathe his feet in herbs. There is much discussion of the new Queen's poor fashion sense - she wears old fashioned farthingales and has a hairstyle not seen in England for years. Elizabeth, meanwhile, appears to be going deaf - until Mr Hollier, the doctor, comes to the rescue.
CAST
Samuel Pepys . . . Kris Marshall
Elizabeth Pepys . . . Katherine Jakeways
Henry Vane/Swan . . . Matthew Gravelle
Lord Sandwich . . . Blake Ritson
Jane . . . Rebecca Newman
Mr Hollier . . . Gareth Pierce
Theme music: Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May, words by Robert Herrick and music by William Lawes, sung by Bethany Hughes. Lute, baroque guitar and theorbo played by David Miller. Violin and viol by Annika Gray, and recorders by Alice Baxter.
Historical consultant: Liza Picard
Sound by Nigel Lewis
A BBC Cymru Wales Production, directed by Kate McAll.
WED 11:00 In Living Memory (b01bb7jf)
Series 15
Operation Julie
In 1977, police forces from across England and Wales closed down a multi-million pound LSD manufacturing ring, in "Operation Julie". The police thought they were greedy criminals - and the courts agreed, handing down stiff jail sentences.
Since the programme was broadcast the production team has found out that they were misinformed about one of the key protagonists Mr Richard Lee - known, at the time, as Detective Inspector Dick Lee of Thames Valley Police. They were led to believe that Mr Lee had passed away. This is not the case.
Radio 4 has issued an on-air apology. The programme has also been removed from the iPlayer. We would like to apologise for the error and any embarrassment or distress caused by our programme to Richard Lee, his family and friends.
WED 11:30 HR (b01bb7jh)
Series 3
Naked
Jonathan Pryce and Nicholas le Prevost star as two 60-something chums enjoying a comfortable retirement. Until, that is, in this opening episode they get a chilly warning about an imminent danger to their pensions.
Will they soon be joining the army of dispossessed older folk?
Series three of Nigel Williams' comedy.
Peter ..... Jonathan Pryce
Sam ..... Nicholas le Prevost
Man ..... James Lailey
Director: Peter Kavanagh.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2012.
WED 12:00 You and Yours (b01bb7jk)
Is compensation culture a myth?
This week the Lords are discussing removal of 'no win no fee legislation'. This legislation was introduced so that middle income families, small businesses and charities could still afford to take a case through the courts. Now the government wants to remove this mechanism as its worried about the perceived 'compensation culture' it says has emerged. But how will this affect people who don't have the money to pursue a claim?
The care minister Paul Burstow has said that there should be an online rating system for care homes. But how easy is it to set up a reliable and accurate system?
Declaration of Trust sometimes called Trust Deeds are becoming common as more friends buy a property together. A "deed of trust", outlines exactly what should happen if one of the owners wanted to leave or there were major changes in their lives.
And as nail polish sales rise we ask why the nail bars are bucking the recession.
WED 12:57 Weather (b01b8tgv)
The latest weather forecast.
WED 13:00 World at One (b01bb7jm)
Shaun Ley presents national and international news. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
WED 13:45 Sport and the British (b01bb7jp)
The Bare Fists of Boxing
Clare Balding explores the way the British have shaped sport and sport has shaped Britain.
An ability to box defined the 19th century alpha male. No gloves or weapons, pugilism was pure, painful and deeply patriotic.Even though prize fighting was technically illegal, it thrived under the support and protection of the aristocracy, notably Prince William, Duke of Cumberland, a son of George II. His nephew, the Prince of Wales - who later became George III was also passionate about pugilism and where royalty led, the rest followed. Dr Neil Carter of the International Centre for Sport History and culture at De Montfort University explains how the subculture of boxing was led by a group of wealthy influential backers known as 'The Fancy' a group of thrill seekers for whom gambling on a bout was part of the risk.Boxing was an underground, cultish fashion until the birth of sports journalism when Sunday newspapers, such as 'Bell's Life' and 'Weekly Dispatch' started to cover it.
Readers, Nyasha Hatendi, Brian Bowles and Stuart McLoughlin
Producer: Garth Brameld.
WED 14:00 The Archers (b01b9kdl)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Tuesday]
WED 14:15 Drama (b0112flb)
Katie Hims - Lost Property
A Telegram From the Queen
For Alice's 100th birthday present, her granddaughter Ruthie sets out to put her family back together again. The final play in Katie Hims' trilogy of heartbreak and redemption.
Cast
Ruthie ..... Rosie Cavaliero
Alice ..... Edna Doré
Ted ..... Gary Beadle
Vincent ..... Daniel Rabin
Marcus ..... Stuart McLoughlin
Ray ..... Sean Baker
Queenie ..... Jane Whittenshaw
Roseanna ..... Alex Tregear
Ella May ..... Joanna Monro
Receptionist ..... Sally Orrock
Directed by Jessica Dromgoole
Edna Doré stars in A Telegram from the Queen, the final play in this trilogy by acclaimed radio dramatist Katie Hims charting one family's tragi-comic history of heartbreak and redemption. The trilogy won the 2011 BBC Audio Drama Award for Best Drama, where Rosie Cavaliero also picked up the Best Actress award.
WED 15:00 Money Box Live (b01bb7jr)
Vincent Duggleby and guests take your calls on renting and Letting
Rents are continuing to rise, as demand outstrips supply. The shortage of housing is partly caused by would-be buyers forced to rent because they can't raise a deposit or get a mortgage.
And, as the economy continues to stagnate, and unemployment rises, the number of tenants struggling to pay their rent has also increased.
And, from this month, more people needing help with their rent will be affected by big changes in local housing allowance that came into force last April.
If you're one of them, can you still afford the same property or do you have to move to a cheaper place? Will you get any extra help to cover the costs?
If you're looking to rent, how can you be sure you're not paying too much?
Perhaps you're planning to rent out your property because you can't sell it. One of the so-called 'reluctant landlords'. So what must you do before you putting it on the rental market?
When a deposit is paid at the start of a let, how will new rules affect both tenants and landlords?
And who's responsible for burst pipes or a faulty boiler?
Vincent Duggleby is joined by:
John Gallagher, principal solicitor at Shelter
David Salusbury, Chairman, National Landlords Association
Marveen Smith, Partner of Solicitors Pain Smith
The number to ring. Lines open at
1pm. The number to ring - 03 700 100 444.
WED 15:30 Inside Health (b01bb707)
[Repeat of broadcast at
21:00 on Tuesday]
WED 16:00 Thinking Allowed (b01bb7jt)
The Politics of Alcohol - Cooperation
'Sprezzatura' is an Italian word describing a nonchalant effortless style which conceals the skill and artistry involved in doing something. It is a quality which the sociologist Richard Sennett claims embodies the gentlemanly characteristics of cooperation and modesty which came to the fore in Europe during the Renaissance. However, sprezzatura is under siege from the aggressive and competitive tendencies of finance capitalism, and we are losing the art of working together. That is one contention from his new study of cooperation, and what we can do to operate in closer harmony. He joins Laurie and the philosopher John Gray to discuss the meaning of cooperation.
Also on the programme, James Nicholls discusses what it is about the British and booze.
Producer: Charlie Taylor.
WED 16:30 The Media Show (b01bb7jw)
Last week the Chairman of the BBC Trust, Lord Patten, announced he's started looking for a successor for the current Director General, Mark Thompson. The following day Thompson reportedly confirmed he'll step down after the Olympics. Is he going voluntarily or is he being pushed? And what qualities will his replacement need to have? Steve discusses BBC Director General succession with former DG Greg Dyke.
The Sunday Times magazine is celebrating its 50th anniversary this weekend. Steve looks back on half a century of iconic photojournalism with the current editor Sarah Baxter and photographers Stuart Franklin and Chris Floyd.
Lord Hunt of Wirral, the new chairman of the Press Complaint Commission, took the stand at the Leveson Inquiry on Tuesday. He used the opportunity to set out his plans for a reformed 'PCC 2'. But are they any good, and will they satisfy victims of press misbehaviour? Charlotte Harris is a lawyer who's represented several victims of phone hacking and had her phone hacked herself. She joins Steve and Media Editor at The Guardian, Dan Sabbagh, to discuss Lord Hunt's proposals.
And in a week which has seen four people from The Sun arrested as part of an ongoing police investigation into corruption, Dan stays on to discuss the prospects for the launch of a Sun on Sunday.
The producer is Simon Tillotson.
WED 17:00 PM (b01bb7jy)
Eddie Mair presents the day's top stories. Including Weather.
WED 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b01b8tgx)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
WED 18:30 Everyone Quite Likes Justin (b012fqnb)
Series 1
Episode 3
An untimely death causes a lifestyle rethink for the Manchester DJ.
Starring Justin Moorhouse, Anne Reid and Paul Copley.
Sitcom written by Justin Moorhouse and Jim Poyser.
Despite his messy life, Justin always remains positive. Every new day is a new opportunity, "When life throws you lemons, make lemonade".
Recorded in front of an audience in Manchester.
Anne Reid ..... Gran
Bernard Wrigley ..... Sven
Christine Bottomley ..... Lisa
Jim Poyser ..... Vicar
Justin Moorhouse ..... Justin
Lloyd Langford ..... Bryn
Paul Copley ..... Ray
Rachel Austin ..... Receptionist
Susan Cookson ..... Tanya
Producer ..... Steven Canny
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2011.
WED 19:00 The Archers (b01bb7k0)
Mike buys Darrell a drink, in return for his help last week. Darrell's grateful for the work, and wishes his daughter Rosa could find some too.
Having discovered the state of the shower room tiling after Joe and Bert's drunken efforts, Neil's in need of a drink. Mike and Darrell go round to see the devastation. Neil is grateful when Darrell offers to help Neil put it right - as a neighbourly gesture without payment. Mike offers Darrell some part time work for Rosa at the dairy.
David confides in Oliver that he's looking into selling the herd. He's sought advice elsewhere without Ruth's knowledge because she's so against the idea, but wants Oliver's clear, objective view. Seeing the figures, Oliver agrees it's a dilemma. He appreciates the pressure David's under, but doesn't think he should drive himself into the ground over a promise he made to Phil to keep Brookfield a mixed family farm. Oliver doesn't have the solution but advises David to keep talking to Ruth.
As the new sign goes up at Ambridge Organics, Tom worries about the launch. He's relived when Brenda confirms that celebrity chef Shelly Brazil will be coming. She's bringing a Borsetshire Life photographer too. That's wonderful publicity.
WED 19:15 Front Row (b01bb7k2)
Actor Ashley Walters; Howard Hodgkin's Indian art; Katherine Kelly
With John Wilson.
Ashley Walters made his name in the urban music collective So Solid Crew, before starting a successful acting career, including an award-winning performance in British film Bullet Boy. He's now starring in a new BBC drama, Inside Men. He reflects on how a prison sentence helped to get his acting career back on track.
Katherine Kelly from Coronation Street stars as Kate Hardcastle in a new production of She Stoops To Conquer, Oliver Goldsmith's classic comedy of manners. This new National Theatre staging also features Steve Pemberton and Sophie Thompson. Rachel Cooke reviews.
Howard Hodgkin owns one of the most important collections of historical Indian art in the world. As the complete collection goes on display for the first time at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, John Wilson talks to Hodgkin and to the curator Andrew Topsfield.
In Man On A Ledge, a new film out this week, the majority of the action takes place high up on the outside of a Manhattan hotel. Film historian Ian Christie and critic Adam Smith consider the enduring appeal to film-makers of the vertiginous setting of the high-rise building, from Harold Lloyd in the '20s to Tom Cruise clinging on to the windows of the world's tallest building in Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.
Producer Philippa Ritchie.
WED 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01bb7jc)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
WED 20:00 Decision Time (b01bb7k4)
Nick Robinson goes behind the closed doors of Whitehall and inside Westminster to explore how controversial decisions are reached. Each week, he asks people with experience of government and politics how a government, of whatever political colour, would approach a looming decision. Producer, Rob Shepherd.
WED 20:45 Four Thought (b01bb7k6)
Series 2
Bali Rai: Stop Talking About Race
Author Bali Rai says that stopping talking about race is the best way to stop racism, and sees pride in our own racial identity as part of the problem.
Four Thought is a series of talks which combine thought provoking ideas and engaging storytelling.
Recorded live in front of an audience at the RSA in London, speakers air their latest thinking on the trends, ideas, interests and passions that affect our culture and society.
Producer: Sheila Cook.
WED 21:00 Costing the Earth (b01b9kdb)
[Repeat of broadcast at
15:30 on Tuesday]
WED 21:30 Midweek (b01bb7j5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
WED 21:58 Weather (b01b8tgz)
The latest weather forecast.
WED 22:00 The World Tonight (b01bb7qc)
The Commons debates changes to the welfare bill. Will the Lords back down in their opposition to key reforms?
The Taliban are poised to retake Afghanistan when foreign forces leave in 2014, a leaked Nato report says. Has the US-led military operation failed?
And a glimpse into the lives of Brazil's super-rich.
WED 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b01bb7qf)
Care of Wooden Floors
Episode 3
A starkly minimalist flat drives a writer to the edge in Will Wiles' darkly comic tale.
'Thanks so much for this; you're a real friend for helping me out. I don't feel comfortable leaving the flat for so long, not with the cats... You'll like it, it's a nice flat.'
When an unnamed writer finds himself entrusted with looking after a disturbingly perfect minimalist apartment for his friend, Oskar, he looks forward to a chance to write, relax and recuperate. But all too soon, and all too inevitably, things begin to go wrong. The flat is owned by his old university friend, Oskar, an avant-garde composer, best known for his piece, 'Variations on Tram Timetables' , who turns out to be quite the perfectionist...
Today: the minimalist apartment fails to inspire work, while the intrusion of an inexplicably angry cleaner does nothing to improve the situation.
Reader: Bertie Carvel
Abridger: Sally Marmion
Producer: Justine Willett.
WED 23:00 Tina C (b01bb7qh)
Tina C's Global Depression Tour
Europe
Country legend Tina C challenges the Secretary for the US Treasury, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve and the former CEO of Goldman Sachs.
Where they have failed, she can come up with a solution to the Global Recession.
So Tina has set off on a six country tour to prove it - and her next stop is Europe.
Tina C ...... Christopher Green
With:
Paul Mason
Victoria Inez Hard
Musical arrangements by Duncan Walsh Atkins and Christopher Green
Director: Jeremy Mortimer.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2012.
WED 23:15 What to Do If You're Not Like Everybody Else (b014610b)
Series 2
Special Occasions
Andrew Lawrence explores the peculiar ways in which we choose to celebrate special occasions like weddings, birthdays, anniveraries, and religious holidays.
Series two of short comedic monologues taking a light-hearted look at various aspects of conventional living and the pressure we feel to conform to social norms and ideals.
Written by Andrew Lawrence.
Producer: Jane Berthoud
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2011
WED 23:30 Today in Parliament (b01bb7qk)
Sean Curran with the day's top news stories from Westminster .
Tonight: The best from Prime Minister's Questions, as David Cameron and Ed Miliband argue over the future of England's NHS, proposed benefit changes and the rates of top people's pay.
Also on the programme, the government seeks to overturn a series of defeats inflicted on its Welfare Bill by Peers in the House of Lords.
THURSDAY 02 FEBRUARY 2012
THU 00:00 Midnight News (b01b8thk)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
THU 00:30 Book of the Week (b01bb7j7)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Wednesday]
THU 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b01b8thm)
The latest shipping forecast.
THU 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b01b8thp)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
THU 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b01b8thr)
The latest shipping forecast.
THU 05:30 News Briefing (b01b8tht)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
THU 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01bfd9z)
A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with The Revd Dr Mark Beach, Team Rector of Rugby.
THU 05:45 Farming Today (b01bb9c5)
Charlotte Smith hears how trees are being planted to save salmon from climate change. Summer temperatures in the river Dee are nearing lethal levels for the fish, so 50 miles of its banks will be planted to help cool the water and allow the salmon to thrive.
As the cost of farmland continues to rise Farming Today speaks to a hedge fund which is now targeting British farmland for investment.
And Farming Today hears that Russia is to ban live animal exports from the UK as Schmallenberg disease hits British farms.
Presenter: Charlotte Smith Producer: Melvin Rickarby.
THU 06:00 Today (b01bb9c7)
Including Sports Desk, Yesterday in Parliament, Weather, Thought for the Day.
THU 09:00 In Our Time (b01bb9c9)
The Kama Sutra
Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Kama Sutra, one of the most celebrated and often misunderstood texts of Indian literature. Probably composed during the reign of the Gupta dynasty around 1800 years ago, the work is a collection of writings about the art of love and sensual pleasure. Although it is best known today for a single chapter devoted to sexual pleasure, this important Sanksrit collection contains much besides. In particular it teaches the attainment of Kama (pleasure), one of the central goals of Hinduism. The Kama Sutra is a manual to a life of fulfilment, offering advice on such subjects as finding a spouse and how to behave in marriage; it has had a profound influence on Indian culture and thought. With:Julius LipnerProfessor of Hinduism and the Comparative Study of Religion at the University of CambridgeJessica FrazierLecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and Research Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Hindu StudiesDavid SmithReader in South Asian Religions at the University of Lancaster.Producer: Thomas Morris.
THU 09:45 Book of the Week (b01bb9cc)
The Train in the Night: A Story of Music and Loss
Episode 4
Nick Coleman's account of struggling to overcome losing his ability to hear music and how he has reconsidered the complex relationship we all have with music. Today, the soundtrack to his first teenage crush is revisited.
Nick Coleman grew up in the Fens. He has written about music throughout his career as a journalist for titles including NME, Time Out, the Independent and Independent on Sunday, The Times and The Wire.
Reader: Sean Foley, actor and comedian, is currently directing the West End production of The Ladykillers.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
THU 10:00 Woman's Hour (b01bb9cf)
Woman's Hour and cooking; Angela Carter; young people in custody
Diana Henry and Miranda Sawyer discuss whether Woman's Hour should be doing cooking. A personal portrait of Angela Carter by her friend and literary executor Susannah Clapp. As the Republican primaries are now well underway: why are women candidates falling by the wayside? In recent weeks two young men, aged 15 and 17, took their own lives whilst in custody. Do we need to re-examine the way we treat children in conflict with the law?
THU 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01bb9ch)
The Diary of Samuel Pepys: Series 3
Episode 4
In Hattie Naylor's dramatisation of the diary for 1662, Sir William Batten is having a storey added to his house - so Sam decides to keep up with the neighbours and do the same. Sir William is becoming tiresome in more ways than one - he's untidy in the office, and pays too much for materials. In August the Queen comes to town by barge and Samuel goes to watch - it's so busy and crowded he can't get a boat, even for 8 shillings. Then some scaffolding collapses and people are injured. Sam notes that the only person of 'quality' who tries to help is the King's mistress, Lady Castlemaine, who tends to an injured child. Sam is also worried about his new neighbour, Sir John Minnes, who keeps questioning him over their shared boundaries.
CAST
Samuel Pepys . . . Kris Marshall
Elizabeth Pepys . . Katherine Jakeways
Jane . . . Rebecca Newman
Sir William Batten . . . Richard Mitchley
Sir John Minnes . . . Alun Raglan
Captain Cook . . . Matthew Gravelle
Lord Sandwich . . . Blake Ritson
Theme music: Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May, words by Robert Herrick and music by William Lawes, sung by Bethany Hughes. Lute, baroque guitar and theorbo played by David Miller. Violin and viol by Annika Gray, and recorders by Alice Baxter.
Historical consultant: Liza Picard
Sound by Nigel Lewis
A BBC Cymru Wales production directed by Kate McAll.
THU 11:00 From Our Own Correspondent (b01bb9ck)
A rich seam of frustration -- over poverty, bad leadership and corruption -- is being mined by the Nigerian militants Boko Haram, according to Andrew Harding.The fall of Colonel Gaddafi, says David Willey in Rome, has given Italy an opportunity to breathe new life into its long relationship with Libya. Chris Bockman meets some of those who worked for the French in what was then Indo-China who are now living quietly by the River Lot in south west France. Hamilton Wende took a luxury train through six southern African countries -- the passengers soon noted life outside their gilded carriages was a lot less comfortable. And UNESCO reckons the Viennese cafe's worth adding to its list of intangible items of cultural heritage. Bethany Bell's been trying to find out why while eating the odd apple strudel along the way.
THU 11:30 Frank Dickens: Holy Mackerel - It's My Life! (b01bb9cm)
The extraordinary life and career of Frank Dickens - the cartoonist behind "Bristow", the world's longest running daily strip.
Narrated by Bernard Cribbins with Ralph Steadman and the Daily Mail's MAC.
Producer: Neil Cargill
Made for BBC Radio 4 by Pier Productions
First broadcast in 2012.
THU 12:00 You and Yours (b01bb9cp)
Spending confiscated drug money, and telehealth pilots
Spending confiscated drugs money - what happens to the money recovered from criminals? Winifred Robinson talks to the nun hoping her convent will make good use of ill gotten gains.
Nissan this year broke its own production records in the UK. We visit a factory, and find out what technology will drive future car sales.
How a pilot to remotely monitor people's health in Cornwall is saving lives.
And the brewers planning to reduce the amount of alcohol in our lager - thinking of our health, or their profits?
Presenter: Winifred Robinson
Producer: Rebecca Moore.
THU 12:57 Weather (b01b8thw)
The latest weather forecast.
THU 13:00 World at One (b01bb9cr)
Shaun Ley presents national and international news. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
THU 13:45 Sport and the British (b01bb9ct)
The Unsporting Side of Sport
Clare Balding watches all sections of society gather on Epsom Downs to watch the Derby, the biggest day of the flat racing year. In her exploration of the way Britain has shaped sport and sport has shaped the British, Clare looks at the socially unifying power of the race course and the way sport and gambling have become inextricably linked. As Professor Richard Holt from the International Centre for Sport History and Culture at De Montfort University explains, the British have always loved a flutter. Gambling is in the DNA of sport. Having a bet not only gives an incentive to the thrill of sporting competitions but also pushed early sports to have clear and enforceable rules. The extravagant losses of the eighteenth century aristocracy caused a moral backlash in the Victorian era that led to a crackdown in betting legislation.
Producer: Sara Conkey.
THU 14:00 The Archers (b01bb7k0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Wednesday]
THU 14:15 Drama (b01bb9cw)
Pilgrim - Series 3
Sookey Hill
By Sebastian Baczkiewicz.
2 of 4
When Pilgrim investigates a story about a man being turned into a hare, he meets a dangerous new enemy. The second in a new series of dark fantasy adventures.
CAST
William Palmer ..... Paul Hilton
Colonel Coburn ..... Ralph Ineson
Birdie ..... Kate Fleetwood
Barry ..... Carl Prekopp
Nathan ..... Gerard McDermott
Mary ..... Alex Tregear
Dale ..... Simon Bubb
Directed by Marc Beeby.
THU 15:00 Open Country (b01bb9cy)
Jules Hudson discovers an ancient landscape buried deep beneath the East Anglian fens which gives, possibly, the best idea yet of what life was like here thousands of years ago. Several wooden boats, spears, swords and other items have been found on the site of a brick quarry, preserved in silt and peat, and researchers say that this is one of the most important Bronze Age sites ever to be found in Britain
Jules hears from David Gibson and Mark Knight of Cambridge University's Archaeological Unit about the history of the Fenland environment and what the discovery of the six boats tells them about the utilisation of the landscape's river system. Amongst the objects that have been found are ancient eel traps, used by some of the first fishermen, and Jules meets Peter Carter who is possibly Fenland's last eel fisherman. Peter takes Jules out on the fens to explain how the the eel traps that have been unearthed at the dig site were made and used and how little this ancient technology has changed over the years. And Maisie Taylor, an expert in prehistoric wood, explains the technology of the boats that have been found and her excitement at the fact that six have been discovered so close to each other. Could there be more?!
Presenter: Jules Hudson
Producer: Helen Chetwynd.
THU 15:27 Radio 4 Appeal (b01b8yxr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:55 on Sunday]
THU 15:30 Open Book (b01b8zvv)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:00 on Sunday]
THU 16:00 The Film Programme (b01bb9d0)
Francine Stock and Alexander Payne discuss his Oscar-nominated film The Descendants, starring George Clooney as a Hawaiian land owner with family troubles.
Journalist Jane Graham reports from Glasgow, the UK city proving to be a hit with Hollywood filmmakers.
Director Sean Durkin on his debut Martha Marcy May Marlene, a cult film in more ways than one.
And as BAFTA honour John Hurt, the actor reflects on over 50 years in cinema.
Producer: Craig Smith.
THU 16:30 Material World (b01bb9d4)
Quentin Cooper discusses a survey of ethical attitudes to sharing genome information; why having many friends calls for a bigger brain; how the last of our So You Want to Be a Scientist finalists plans to study emotional responses to art; and how volcanic eruptions triggered a little ice age.
Producer: Martin Redfern.
THU 17:00 PM (b01bb9d6)
Eddie Mair presents full coverage and analysis of the day's news.
THU 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b01b8thy)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
THU 18:30 Clare in the Community (b015pbhd)
Series 7
Debt of Honour
Episode Four - Debt of Honour
Clare is being plagued by Brian's marriage proposals. Her driving lessons lead to an unexpected encounter and there is an unveiling of a piece of public art at the Sparrowhawk Family Centre.
Sally Phillips is Clare Barker the social worker who has all the right jargon but never a practical solution.
A control freak, Clare likes nothing better than interfering in other people's lives on both a professional and personal basis. Clare is in her thirties, white, middle class and heterosexual, all of which are occasional causes of discomfort to her.
Each week we join Clare in her continued struggle to control both her professional and private life
In today's Big Society there are plenty of challenges out there for an involved, caring social worker. Or even Clare.
Episode Four - Debt of Honour - Cast
Clare: SALLY PHILLIPS
Brian: ALEX LOWE
Megan / Nali: NINA CONTI
Ray / Nick Powell: RICHARD LUMSDEN
Helen/ Lady Mayoress/Carol Morley: LIZA TARBUCK
Simon / Frankie 'The Fruitcake' Finnigan: ANDREW WINCOTT
Libby: SARAH KENDALL
Spartacus /'James Naughtie': GERARD McDERMOT
Written by Harry Venning and David Ramsden
Producer Katie Tyrrell.
THU 19:00 The Archers (b01bb9d8)
Brian's disappointed that his PR efforts on Monday didn't get a mention in the Echo. Jennifer shows him an anti-dairy campaign website and Brian storms off to confront Pat. Pat insists it's not her doing but suggest he should expect more of its kind.
Lilian's happy to be Jennifer's chaperone for the launch of Ambridge Organics. The evening starts well, and Tom's pleased to see Shelly Brazil arrive. Helen welcomes everyone, and hands over to Pat, who gives a rousing speech.
Jennifer thinks Tony's ignoring her, and wants to leave early. Lilian points out he's hardly talking to anyone, and is looking tired. They agree there's been a lot of work to get ready for tonight. They chat about the promises auction, and Lilian suggests Jennifer should bid for Harry. It would cheer her up.
With the last guest gone, the place looks like a bomb's hit it. Helen's happy to finish off the cleaning in the morning. Tony doesn't want to think about tomorrow - Tom's informed him he's going to have to milk. Tom and Tony agree that Pat's speech was great. Pat insists it was easy to find the words for something that she really cares about.
THU 19:15 Front Row (b01bb9db)
Martha Marcy May Marlene and author Anne Rice
Martha Marcy May Marlene has received very good reviews in the States, and the film's director - first-timer Sean Durkin - won Best Director for it at Sundance last year. The psychological thriller focuses on Martha, played by Elizabeth Olsen - sister of the twins - who escapes from an abusive rural hippie-like cult after two years but has trouble erasing the haunting memories of her past. Jason Solomons reviews.
The Aylesbury and Heygate estates in South London have served as the backdrop for countless films and TV dramas over the years, including Spooks, The Bill and Harry Brown. But now residents have had enough and all filming has been banned. John visited the estates to find out more.
Best-selling author Anne Rice redefined the vampire genre with her Vampire Chronicles. Now in her new book The Wolf Gift she has turned to werewolves. She explains why the hero of her new book is a werewolf with a difference: he has a sense of morality.
Howard Hodgkin owns one of the most important collections of historical Indian art in the world. As the complete collection goes on display for the first time at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, John Wilson talks to the artist.
Producer Claire Bartleet.
THU 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01bb9ch)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
THU 20:00 The Report (b01bb9dd)
Costa Concordia
At least 17 people died when the cruise ship Costa Concordia ran aground off the Tuscan island of Giglio on 13 January. Simon Cox investigates exactly what happened and asks whether warning signs about cruise ship safety should have been acted on sooner.
THU 20:30 The Bottom Line (b01bb9dg)
Automotive
The view from the top of business. Presented by Evan Davis, The Bottom Line cuts through confusion, statistics and spin to present a clearer view of the business world, through discussion with people running leading and emerging companies. The programme is broadcast first on BBC Radio 4 and later on BBC World Service Radio, BBC World News TV and BBC News Channel TV.
Evan and his panel talk cars. What road is the automotive industry on? Just where is it headed? They also consider whether it's best to be a wage slave, with a regular salary, or to take a share of the profits of a business.
Joining Evan in the studio are Ken Keir, Vice President of Honda Motors Europe; Nikki King, Managing Director of Isuzu Truck UK; Wol Kolade, Managing Partner of venture capital firm Isis Equity Partners.
Producer: Ben Crighton
Editor: Stephen Chilcott.
THU 21:00 Nature (b01b9jny)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 on Tuesday]
THU 21:30 In Our Time (b01bb9c9)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
THU 21:58 Weather (b01b8tj0)
The latest weather forecast.
THU 22:00 The World Tonight (b01bb9lg)
The aftermath of the Egyptian football riot: some allege a conspiracy - is that conceivable?
A leading retail guru tells us we should stop trying to revive Britain's high streets.
Russia gears up for more anti-Putin protests at the weekend.
With Roger Hearing.
THU 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b01bb9lj)
Care of Wooden Floors
Episode 4
A starkly minimalist flat drives a writer to the edge in Will Wiles' darkly comic tale.
'Thanks so much for this; you're a real friend for helping me out. I don't feel comfortable leaving the flat for so long, not with the cats... You'll like it, it's a nice flat.'
When an unnamed writer finds himself entrusted with looking after a disturbingly perfect minimalist apartment for his friend, Oskar, he looks forward to a chance to write, relax and recuperate. But all too soon, and all too inevitably, things begin to go wrong. The flat is owned by his old university friend, Oskar, an avant-garde composer, best known for his piece, 'Variations on Tram Timetables' , who turns out to be quite the perfectionist...
Today: after further mishaps in the flat, including a battle with one of the cats, it's time to brave a classical concert.
Reader: Bertie Carvel
Abridger: Sally Marmion
Producer: Justine Willett.
THU 23:00 Paul Temple (b00sq2n3)
Paul Temple and Steve
27a Berkeley House Place
Paul's hunt for Dr Belasco takes him from London's Soho to a dangerous rendezvous on the Great North Road. Stars Crawford Logan.
THU 23:30 Today in Parliament (b01bb9ll)
Susan Hulme hears how an outcry halts a tax break at the top; there are fears that a crackdown on the press could be copied round the world; and a ban for a beer called Top Totty.
FRIDAY 03 FEBRUARY 2012
FRI 00:00 Midnight News (b01b8tjl)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4. Followed by Weather.
FRI 00:30 Book of the Week (b01bb9cc)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:45 on Thursday]
FRI 00:48 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tjn)
The latest shipping forecast.
FRI 01:00 Selection of BBC World Service Programmes (b01b8tjq)
BBC Radio 4 joins the BBC World Service.
FRI 05:20 Shipping Forecast (b01b8tjs)
The latest shipping forecast.
FRI 05:30 News Briefing (b01b8tjv)
The latest news from BBC Radio 4.
FRI 05:43 Prayer for the Day (b01bbb5y)
A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with The Revd Dr Mark Beach, Team Rector of Rugby.
FRI 05:45 Farming Today (b01bbb60)
Charlotte Smith hears that Cheshire West is selling its council farms but across the border Cheshire East is keeping them. Councillor Eveleigh Moore Dutton justifies why Cheshire West and Chester are selling their farms. George Dunn from the Tenant Farmers Association explains what the situation is across the UK.
By the end of 2012 the British Retail Consortium has a target to reduce supermarket food waste by 5%. At the end of 2010 they had only reached 0.4%. Bob Gordon from the BRC tells Charlotte what supermarkets are doing to try and reach the target in time.
Presented by Charlotte Smith. Produced by Emma Weatherill.
FRI 06:00 Today (b01bbb62)
Including Sports Desk; Yesterday in Parliament; Weather; Thought for the Day. Presented by John Humphrys and Evan Davis.
FRI 09:00 Desert Island Discs (b01b8yy0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:15 on Sunday]
FRI 09:45 Book of the Week (b01bbb64)
The Train in the Night: A Story of Music and Loss
Episode 5
The story of Nick Coleman's struggle to overcome losing music, and adjust to a new way of perceiving the world.
Today, his hearing loss is diagnosed.
Nick Coleman grew up in the Fens. He has written about music throughout his career as a journalist for titles including NME, Time Out, the Independent and Independent on Sunday, The Times and The Wire.
Reader: Sean Foley, actor and comedian, is currently directing the West End production of The Ladykillers.
Abridged by Richard Hamilton
Produced by Elizabeth Allard.
FRI 10:00 Woman's Hour (b01bbb66)
The silent movie stars killed off by the talkies, the portrayal of single parents, personal transformation through tragedy
Many actresses failed to make the transition from silent movie to the talkies. We look at the stars who fell from grace - and ask what was it about their voices that meant they couldn't make the grade?
Should the UK continue to be one of only four EU countries that allows smacking - or should the law allow parents to decide how hard they can hit their children?
As the Office of National Statistics reveals the number of single parent families in the UK tipping two million for the first time we ask if a single dad attracts greater social sympathy than single mum?
Research from Leeds Metropolitan University suggests women are more likely than men to undergo a permanent positive shift in their attitude to life as the result of suffering tragedy. We'll be discussing whether experiencing a sudden and positive transformation after trauma is more common than we think.
FRI 10:45 15 Minute Drama (b01bbb68)
The Diary of Samuel Pepys: Series 3
Episode 5
In Hattie Naylor's dramatisation of the diary for 1662, Samuel's brother, Tom, is in love and hoping to marry. But he has exaggerated his income and after some toing and froing, his fiancée breaks the engagement, much to Tom's distress. Lord Sandwich tells Sam that there is hidden treasure undiscovered in the Tower - and charges Samuel with trying to find it. The year ends with Elizabeth unwell in bed and Sam feeding her Christmas treats.
CAST
Samuel Pepys . . . Kris Marshall
Elizabeth Pepys . . . Katherine Jakeways
Lord Sandwich . . . Blake Ritson
Tom . . . Gareth Pierce
Mr Wade . . . Matthew Gravelle
Theme music: Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May, words by Robert Herrick and music by William Lawes, sung by Bethany Hughes. Lute, baroque guitar and theorbo played by David Miller. Violin and viol by Annika Gray, and recorders by Alice Baxter.
Historical consultant: Liza Picard
Sound by Nigel Lewis
A BBC Cymru Wales production directed by Kate McAll.
FRI 11:00 The Nile (b01bbb6b)
Episode 1
For 5000 years the river Nile has dominated Egypt. To mark the first anniversary of the fall of Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak, Edward Stourton travels along the Nile from the magnificent high dam at Aswan to the rich farmland of the Delta to explore the enduring undercurrents that have helped shape the country. While rulers come and go the Nile remains eternal and fundamental to Egypt's existence. The country gets 98% of its water from the river. Seen from the air the Nile cuts a narrow green strip through the desert and the vast majority of Egypt's population live within a few miles either side of its banks. How will the Nile and its people respond to the passing of another dynasty?
FRI 11:30 The Write Stuff (b01bbb6d)
Series 15
Gustave Flaubert
Author of the Week is Gustave Flaubert - French modernist novelist and firebrand, who created perhaps the best novel of all time in the form of "Madame Bovary".
Team captains Sebastian Faulks and John Walsh are joined by comedy writer and author of "May Contain Nuts", John O'Farrell, and literary critic and Guardian journalist, Alex Clark to answer questions about the great Frenchman's life and work.
For the finale of the show, the teams are asked to imagine a 2012 update of Flaubert's "Dictionary of Received Ideas".
FRI 12:00 You and Yours (b01bbcqg)
Accessible websites, airline fees and community libraries
As one airline is sued for not having an accessible website - how easy is it to make the internet friendly to disabled people? Plus the new internet tool to compare airlines' extra charges.
As many libraries face closure we report on some new ways to keep their doors open.
And the extreme measures being taken by villagers cut off for weeks during last year's snow.
Presenter: Peter White
Producer: Lesley Duncanson.
FRI 12:57 Weather (b01b8tjx)
The latest weather forecast.
FRI 13:00 World at One (b01bbcql)
Shaun Ley presents national and international news. Listeners can share their views via email: wato@bbc.co.uk or on twitter: #wato.
FRI 13:45 Sport and the British (b01bbcqn)
The Making of Men
The Duke of Wellington never said the Battle of Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton but it could be argued that the might of the British Empire was moulded on the pitches of Rugby School.
As Clare Balding continues to chart the way the British have shaped sport and sport has shaped Britain, she visits Rugby to discover how the visionary headmaster, Thomas Arnold, ensured games lay at the heart of school life, producing men ready to rule. As the school archivist, Rusty MacLean, explains to her, on leaving, these pupils took the games they'd developed at Rugby to all parts of the globe, giving birth to numerous national sporting clubs in Africa and India, as well as developing new games like Aussie Rules and American football.
Readers, Brian Bowles, Stuart McLoughlin and Jack Firth
Producer: Lucy Lunt.
FRI 14:00 The Archers (b01bb9d8)
[Repeat of broadcast at
19:00 on Thursday]
FRI 14:15 Drama (b01bbd8l)
John Steinbeck - The Pearl
Dramatisation of John Steinbeck's novella by Donna Franceschild.
A captivating and atmospheric parable set in a small Mexican fishing village about the greatest pearl ever found and the tragic impact its discovery has on one young family.
Director: Kirsty Williams.
FRI 15:00 Gardeners' Question Time (b01c2bqj)
Regent's Park, London
Eric Robson chairs a programme from the Royal College of Physicians beside Regent's Park. Chris Beardshaw, Bob Flowerdew and Christine Walkden form the panel.
Questions asked in today's programme:
How can we overcome the shortage of inner London allotment plots?
How do I encourage growth in potted rhubarb?
Can you recommend a 15ft tree to screen my garden, (ideally flowering & fruiting).
Suggestions included: Amelanchier Canadensis Obelisk, Prunus hillieri Spire planted with a Quercus ilex and the common Bay.
Does the pomegranate justify its place on the Royal College of Physician's coat of arms?
How to keep cauliflowers creamy white?
What can I plant in my tiny garden, virtually soil-less and shaded garden?
Suggestions included: Alpine Campanula, Sanguisorba tenor, evergreen Sedum, Aquilegia alpina, Sempervivum, Erigeron, Wallflowers, and Toadflax
Did I prune my Eunoymous Japonicus to death?
Can you suggest plants to plant in wall cracks?
Are there any myths about growing popular plants that you would like to air?
Produced by Howard Shannon
A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 15:45 The Human Cradle (b01bbd8q)
Saba, by Sulaiman Addonia
In Sulaiman Addonia's new short story 'Saba', a former cinema employee decides to create a 'cinema' of his own inside a refugee camp. Read by Abukar Osman.
The first of three contemporary stories from the Horn of Africa - Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia.
Produced by Emma Harding
About the author: Sulaiman S.M.Y. Addonia was born in Eritrea to an Eritrean mother and an Ethiopian father. He spent his early life in a refugee camp in Sudan following the Om Hajar massacre in 1976, and in his early teens he lived and studied in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He has lived in London since 1990. His first novel, The Consequences of Love (Vintage) was published in 2009.
FRI 16:00 Last Word (b01bbd8s)
Angelo Dundee, Isi Metzstein, Oscar Luigi Scalfaro, Theo Angelopoulos
Matthew Bannister on
Angelo Dundee, the boxing trainer behind Muhammed Ali and fourteen other world champions.
Isi Metzstein, the Glasgow based architect who designed some of Britain's most striking churches.
Oscar Luigi Scalfaro, the Italian president who had a twenty year political battle with Silvio Berlusconi
And Theo Angelopoulos the influential Greek director whose films reflected the modern history of his country.
FRI 16:30 Feedback (b01bbd8v)
A clearer focus on news and more coverage of minority sports. That's the order from the BBC Trust, which has just completed its review of 5Live. Do you agree? The recent audience research RAJAR report shows a drop in the station's listening figures. So we find out if listeners think the Trust has got the answer.
Are you experiencing a sense of deja entendu? When it comes to radio dramas, many listeners feel the rate of repeats has increased. Roger asks Jeremy Howe, commissioning editor of Radio 4 drama, if we really have heard it all before.
And while From Our Own Correspondent almost always gets it right, should the correspondent have been reporting on a wedding so soon after an attempted coup? Roger talks to editor Tony Grant about finding the stories behind the headlines.
And a listener wants to apply for the job of Director General of the BBC. She says she'd spend the salary on programmes. What would you do?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 17:00 PM (b01bbd8x)
Eddie Mair presents full coverage and analysis of the day's news.
FRI 18:00 Six O'Clock News (b01b8tjz)
The latest national and international news from BBC Radio 4.
FRI 18:30 The News Quiz (b01bbd8z)
Series 76
Series 76, Programme 7
Bankers, Brothers and the Bungling Bureau: Sandi Toksvig hosts Radio 4's long running panel game in the week that Fred Goodwin was stripped of his Knightood, David Miliband criticised Ed's leadership of the Labour party, and the Criminal Records Bureau accidentally named 20,000 innocent people as ne'er-do-wells. Susan Calman, Roisin Conaty and Mark Steel join series regular Jeremy Hardy, and Neil Sleat reads the news.
Produced by Lyndsay Fenner.
FRI 19:00 The Archers (b01bbd91)
Furious Ruth has seen a fax from the NFU, so knows what David's been doing and accuses him of giving up on the herd. David tries to explain that he just wanted all the facts. They can't carry on like this. Ruth insists the cows can still be a sustainable long-term business and wants to look at all the figures again. David suggests she includes what he's had from Graham Ryder. Ruth's horrified that David's talked to him too but insists they're keeping the cows. It's a stalemate.
Pat's pleased with the sales from last night - nearly £600. Tony's still annoyed to be without Tom's support. Pat knows how busy he is, but points out that they're all busy. She's full of energy though. On top of everything, she's going to organise some proper opposition to the dairy website.
There's another article about the dairy in a farming magazine, again focussing on the division within the family. Brian receives a telling off from Annabelle. The board are getting twitchy over Brian's handling of the objections and she thinks he's being high-handed. Jennifer admits he can come across like that. It's not easy but, hearing it from Jennifer and Annabelle, Brian accepts he's got to face the truth.
FRI 19:15 Front Row (b01bbd93)
Homeland, the Syrian poet Adonis and Restoration Comedy
Mark Lawson and Emily Bell preview the hit US television series Homeland, a political thriller which stars Claire Danes and Damian Lewis.
The 81 year old Syrian poet Adonis is one of the Arabic-speaking world's most celebrated writers and one of the most provocative. He regularly crops up on the shortlists of major literary prizes and as a tribute to him opens in London he talks to Mark Lawson about about his long literary career.
Restoration comedy is a distinctive style of British theatre. As a new production of William Congreve's famous play of money and morals opens, cast members Deborah Findlay, Ben Lloyd-Hughes, and Leo Bill talk about the art behind this 17th century dramatic form
And with the news that composer Paul Mealor is on a quest to find a singer who can sing a note so low that it is thought never to have been sung before for his new work, bass baritone Stephen Richardson discusses the challenge of hitting those deep 'money' notes, from Purcell to Tavener.
Producer Jerome Weatherald.
FRI 19:45 15 Minute Drama (b01bbb68)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
FRI 20:00 Any Questions? (b01bbd95)
Upton, Wirral
Jonathan Dimbleby chairs a live discussion of news and politics from Upton Hall School, Wirral, Merseyside, with Work and Pensions Minister, Maria Miller; Liberal Democrat President, Tim Farron; Shadow Secretary of State, Andy Burnham; and geneticist, Professor Steve Jones.
Producer: Victoria Wakely.
FRI 20:50 A Point of View (b01bbd97)
Email Etiquette
Lisa Jardine reflects on the perils of sending over-hasty emails compared with the time allowed for reflection by old fashioned letter writing.
Producer: Sheila Cook.
FRI 21:00 Sport and the British: Omnibus (b01bmq7k)
Episode 1
The Omnibus edition of this first weeks, Sport and the British with Clare Balding exploring how Britain made sport and sport made Britain.
Producer: Lucy Lunt.
FRI 21:58 Weather (b01b8tk1)
The latest weather forecast.
FRI 22:00 The World Tonight (b01bbd99)
In a special programme, Friday's edition of the programme will focus on a single issue - Syria.
The past week has seen fighting on the streets of the capital city, Damascus. There's also been fierce debate among diplomats at the United Nations. We look at Syria's future. Will President Assad hang onto power? What do the opposition want, and are they united? What is life like for those living in Syria? We'll hear from the Syrian government and opposition and be joined by a panel of experts.
Join Ritula Shah for a special programme tonight at
10pm.
FRI 22:45 Book at Bedtime (b01bbd9c)
Care of Wooden Floors
Episode 5
A starkly minimalist flat drives a writer to the edge in Will Wiles' darkly comic tale.
'Thanks so much for this; you're a real friend for helping me out. I don't feel comfortable leaving the flat for so long, not with the cats... You'll like it, it's a nice flat.'
When an unnamed writer finds himself entrusted with looking after a disturbingly perfect minimalist apartment for his friend, Oskar, he looks forward to a chance to write, relax and recuperate. But all too soon, and all too inevitably, things begin to go wrong. The flat is owned by his old university friend, Oskar, an avant-garde composer, best known for his piece, 'Variations on Tram Timetables' , who turns out to be quite the perfectionist...
Today: the morning after the night before. An alcohol-fuelled night out with one of Oskar's friends results in more mayhem in the now less than pristine flat...
Reader: Bertie Carvel
Abridger: Sally Marmion
Producer: Justine Willett.
FRI 23:00 Great Lives (b01b9kdd)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:30 on Tuesday]
FRI 23:30 Today in Parliament (b01bbd9f)
Mark D'Arcy with the day's top news stories from Westminster.
LIST OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAMMES
(Note: the times link back to the details; the pids link to the BBC page, including iPlayer)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 MON (b01b9b7s)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 MON (b01b9b7s)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 TUE (b01b9jnw)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 TUE (b01b9jnw)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 WED (b01bb7jc)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 WED (b01bb7jc)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 THU (b01bb9ch)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 THU (b01bb9ch)
15 Minute Drama
10:45 FRI (b01bbb68)
15 Minute Drama
19:45 FRI (b01bbb68)
A Last Excuse Me Dance
15:30 SAT (b019rm1j)
A Point of View
08:50 SUN (b01b1nl0)
A Point of View
20:50 FRI (b01bbd97)
Agatha Christie
11:30 MON (b01b9h75)
Analysis
21:30 SUN (b019rlnv)
Analysis
20:30 MON (b01b9hjs)
Any Answers?
14:00 SAT (b01b8w6f)
Any Questions?
13:10 SAT (b01b1nky)
Any Questions?
20:00 FRI (b01bbd95)
Archive on 4
20:00 SAT (b01b8wrw)
Bells on Sunday
05:43 SUN (b01b8xcd)
Bells on Sunday
00:45 MON (b01b8xcd)
Beyond Belief
16:30 MON (b01b9hjd)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 MON (b01b9hjx)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 TUE (b01bb70c)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 WED (b01bb7qf)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 THU (b01bb9lj)
Book at Bedtime
22:45 FRI (b01bbd9c)
Book of the Week
00:30 SAT (b01bbz1y)
Book of the Week
09:45 MON (b01b90bt)
Book of the Week
00:30 TUE (b01b90bt)
Book of the Week
09:45 TUE (b01b9jnr)
Book of the Week
00:30 WED (b01b9jnr)
Book of the Week
09:45 WED (b01bb7j7)
Book of the Week
00:30 THU (b01bb7j7)
Book of the Week
09:45 THU (b01bb9cc)
Book of the Week
00:30 FRI (b01bb9cc)
Book of the Week
09:45 FRI (b01bbb64)
Brain of Britain
23:00 SAT (b019rjng)
Brain of Britain
15:00 MON (b01b9h7f)
Broadcasting House
09:00 SUN (b01b8yxw)
Clare in the Community
18:30 THU (b015pbhd)
Continuity
23:15 TUE (b00tq0p2)
Costing the Earth
15:30 TUE (b01b9kdb)
Costing the Earth
21:00 WED (b01b9kdb)
Decision Time
22:15 SAT (b01b1g9j)
Decision Time
20:00 WED (b01bb7k4)
Deep Country
00:30 SUN (b01b8xcb)
Desert Island Discs
11:15 SUN (b01b8yy0)
Desert Island Discs
09:00 FRI (b01b8yy0)
Drama
14:15 MON (b010t6h0)
Drama
14:15 TUE (b010xzzm)
Drama
14:15 WED (b0112flb)
Drama
14:15 THU (b01bb9cw)
Drama
14:15 FRI (b01bbd8l)
Europe's Choice
13:30 SUN (b01b8yy6)
Europe's Choice
16:00 TUE (b01b8yy6)
Everyone Quite Likes Justin
18:30 WED (b012fqnb)
Excess Baggage
10:00 SAT (b01b8w63)
Farming Today
06:30 SAT (b01b8w5x)
Farming Today
05:45 MON (b01b90bm)
Farming Today
05:45 TUE (b01b9jnk)
Farming Today
05:45 WED (b01bb7j1)
Farming Today
05:45 THU (b01bb9c5)
Farming Today
05:45 FRI (b01bbb60)
Feedback
20:00 SUN (b01b1nkm)
Feedback
16:30 FRI (b01bbd8v)
File on 4
17:00 SUN (b019rqcl)
File on 4
20:00 TUE (b01bb703)
Four Thought
05:45 SUN (b01b1g9l)
Four Thought
20:45 WED (b01bb7k6)
Frank Dickens: Holy Mackerel - It's My Life!
11:30 THU (b01bb9cm)
From Fact to Fiction
19:00 SAT (b01b8wrr)
From Fact to Fiction
17:40 SUN (b01b8wrr)
From Our Own Correspondent
11:30 SAT (b01b8w69)
From Our Own Correspondent
11:00 THU (b01bb9ck)
Front Row
19:15 MON (b01b9hjn)
Front Row
19:15 TUE (b01bb701)
Front Row
19:15 WED (b01bb7k2)
Front Row
19:15 THU (b01bb9db)
Front Row
19:15 FRI (b01bbd93)
Gardeners' Question Time
14:00 SUN (b01bs90w)
Gardeners' Question Time
15:00 FRI (b01c2bqj)
Great Lives
16:30 TUE (b01b9kdd)
Great Lives
23:00 FRI (b01b9kdd)
HR
11:30 WED (b01bb7jh)
I, Regress
23:00 TUE (b01bb70f)
In Living Memory
11:00 WED (b01bb7jf)
In Our Time
09:00 THU (b01bb9c9)
In Our Time
21:30 THU (b01bb9c9)
In Touch
20:40 TUE (b01bb705)
Inside Health
21:00 TUE (b01bb707)
Inside Health
15:30 WED (b01bb707)
It's Your Round
19:15 SUN (b01b8zw3)
James Fenimore Cooper - The Spy
21:00 SAT (b019rgnv)
James Fenimore Cooper - The Spy
15:00 SUN (b01b8yyb)
Kenneth Cranham on the Water
19:45 SUN (b01b8zw5)
Last Word
20:30 SUN (b01b1nkk)
Last Word
16:00 FRI (b01bbd8s)
Living World
06:35 SUN (b01b8yxm)
Loose Ends
18:15 SAT (b01b8wrp)
Material World
21:00 MON (b01b1lk8)
Material World
16:30 THU (b01bb9d4)
Midnight News
00:00 SAT (b01b1k88)
Midnight News
00:00 SUN (b01b8tbv)
Midnight News
00:00 MON (b01b8tdd)
Midnight News
00:00 TUE (b01b8tfh)
Midnight News
00:00 WED (b01b8tgj)
Midnight News
00:00 THU (b01b8thk)
Midnight News
00:00 FRI (b01b8tjl)
Midweek
09:00 WED (b01bb7j5)
Midweek
21:30 WED (b01bb7j5)
Money Box Live
15:00 WED (b01bb7jr)
Money Box
12:00 SAT (b01b8w6c)
Money Box
21:00 SUN (b01b8w6c)
Mr and Mrs Smith
18:30 TUE (b01b9kdj)
Musical Migrants
09:30 TUE (b015ztll)
Nature
11:00 TUE (b01b9jny)
Nature
21:00 THU (b01b9jny)
News Briefing
05:30 SAT (b01b1k8j)
News Briefing
05:30 SUN (b01b8tc3)
News Briefing
05:30 MON (b01b8tdn)
News Briefing
05:30 TUE (b01b8tfr)
News Briefing
05:30 WED (b01b8tgs)
News Briefing
05:30 THU (b01b8tht)
News Briefing
05:30 FRI (b01b8tjv)
News Headlines
06:00 SUN (b01b8tc5)
News and Papers
06:00 SAT (b01b1k8l)
News and Papers
07:00 SUN (b01b8tc9)
News and Papers
08:00 SUN (b01b8tcf)
News and Weather
22:00 SAT (b01b1k93)
News
13:00 SAT (b01b1k8v)
Open Book
16:00 SUN (b01b8zvv)
Open Book
15:30 THU (b01b8zvv)
Open Country
06:07 SAT (b01b1lk4)
Open Country
15:00 THU (b01bb9cy)
PM
17:00 SAT (b01b8wrm)
PM
17:00 MON (b01b9hjg)
PM
17:00 TUE (b01b9kdg)
PM
17:00 WED (b01bb7jy)
PM
17:00 THU (b01bb9d6)
PM
17:00 FRI (b01bbd8x)
Paul Temple
23:00 THU (b00sq2n3)
Phil Collins - King Of The Wild Frontier
10:30 SAT (b01b8w65)
Pick of the Week
18:15 SUN (b01b8zvz)
Poetry Please
23:30 SAT (b019rgt5)
Poetry Please
16:30 SUN (b01b8zvx)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 SAT (b01b1pq9)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 MON (b01b90bk)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 TUE (b01bf78t)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 WED (b01bf87m)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 THU (b01bfd9z)
Prayer for the Day
05:43 FRI (b01bbb5y)
Radio 4 Appeal
07:55 SUN (b01b8yxr)
Radio 4 Appeal
21:26 SUN (b01b8yxr)
Radio 4 Appeal
15:27 THU (b01b8yxr)
Saturday Drama
14:30 SAT (b00rv6nd)
Saturday Live
09:00 SAT (b01b8w61)
Saturday Review
19:15 SAT (b01b8wrt)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 SAT (b01b1k8d)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 SUN (b01b8tbz)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 MON (b01b8tdj)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 TUE (b01b8tfm)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 WED (b01b8tgn)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 THU (b01b8thp)
Selection of BBC World Service Programmes
01:00 FRI (b01b8tjq)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 SAT (b01b1k8b)
Shipping Forecast
05:20 SAT (b01b1k8g)
Shipping Forecast
17:54 SAT (b01b1k8x)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 SUN (b01b8tbx)
Shipping Forecast
05:20 SUN (b01b8tc1)
Shipping Forecast
17:54 SUN (b01b8tcm)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 MON (b01b8tdg)
Shipping Forecast
05:20 MON (b01b8tdl)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 TUE (b01b8tfk)
Shipping Forecast
05:20 TUE (b01b8tfp)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 WED (b01b8tgl)
Shipping Forecast
05:20 WED (b01b8tgq)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 THU (b01b8thm)
Shipping Forecast
05:20 THU (b01b8thr)
Shipping Forecast
00:48 FRI (b01b8tjn)
Shipping Forecast
05:20 FRI (b01b8tjs)
Short Cuts
15:00 TUE (b01b9kd8)
Six O'Clock News
18:00 SAT (b01b1k91)
Six O'Clock News
18:00 SUN (b01b8tcr)
Six O'Clock News
18:00 MON (b01b8tdv)
Six O'Clock News
18:00 TUE (b01b8tfw)
Six O'Clock News
18:00 WED (b01b8tgx)
Six O'Clock News
18:00 THU (b01b8thy)
Six O'Clock News
18:00 FRI (b01b8tjz)
Something Understood
06:05 SUN (b01b8yxk)
Something Understood
23:30 SUN (b01b8yxk)
Soul Music
11:30 TUE (b01b9jp0)
Sport and the British: Omnibus
21:00 FRI (b01bmq7k)
Sport and the British
13:45 MON (b01b9h7c)
Sport and the British
13:45 TUE (b01b9kd6)
Sport and the British
13:45 WED (b01bb7jp)
Sport and the British
13:45 THU (b01bb9ct)
Sport and the British
13:45 FRI (b01bbcqn)
Start the Week
09:00 MON (b01b90br)
Start the Week
21:30 MON (b01b90br)
Sunday Worship
08:10 SUN (b01b8yxt)
Sunday
07:10 SUN (b01b8yxp)
The Archers Omnibus
10:00 SUN (b01b8yxy)
The Archers
19:00 SUN (b01b8zw1)
The Archers
14:00 MON (b01b8zw1)
The Archers
19:00 MON (b01b9hjl)
The Archers
14:00 TUE (b01b9hjl)
The Archers
19:00 TUE (b01b9kdl)
The Archers
14:00 WED (b01b9kdl)
The Archers
19:00 WED (b01bb7k0)
The Archers
14:00 THU (b01bb7k0)
The Archers
19:00 THU (b01bb9d8)
The Archers
14:00 FRI (b01bb9d8)
The Archers
19:00 FRI (b01bbd91)
The Bottom Line
17:30 SAT (b01b1lnm)
The Bottom Line
20:30 THU (b01bb9dg)
The Film Programme
23:00 SUN (b01b1lk6)
The Film Programme
16:00 THU (b01bb9d0)
The Food Programme
12:32 SUN (b01b8yy2)
The Food Programme
15:30 MON (b01b8yy2)
The Human Cradle
15:45 FRI (b01bbd8q)
The Long View
09:00 TUE (b01b9jnp)
The Long View
21:30 TUE (b01b9jnp)
The Media Show
16:30 WED (b01bb7jw)
The News Quiz
12:30 SAT (b01b1nkr)
The News Quiz
18:30 FRI (b01bbd8z)
The Nile
11:00 FRI (b01bbb6b)
The Report
20:00 THU (b01bb9dd)
The Secret Catacombs of Paris
11:00 MON (b01b9h73)
The Unbelievable Truth
12:00 SUN (b019rlnl)
The Unbelievable Truth
18:30 MON (b01b9hjj)
The Week in Westminster
11:00 SAT (b01b8w67)
The World This Weekend
13:00 SUN (b01b8yy4)
The World Tonight
22:00 MON (b01b9hjv)
The World Tonight
22:00 TUE (b01bb709)
The World Tonight
22:00 WED (b01bb7qc)
The World Tonight
22:00 THU (b01bb9lg)
The World Tonight
22:00 FRI (b01bbd99)
The Write Stuff
11:30 FRI (b01bbb6d)
Thinking Allowed
00:15 MON (b01b1g96)
Thinking Allowed
16:00 WED (b01bb7jt)
Tina C
23:00 WED (b01bb7qh)
Today in Parliament
23:30 MON (b01b9hjz)
Today in Parliament
23:30 TUE (b01bb70h)
Today in Parliament
23:30 WED (b01bb7qk)
Today in Parliament
23:30 THU (b01bb9ll)
Today in Parliament
23:30 FRI (b01bbd9f)
Today
07:00 SAT (b01b8w5z)
Today
06:00 MON (b01b90bp)
Today
06:00 TUE (b01b9jnm)
Today
06:00 WED (b01bb7j3)
Today
06:00 THU (b01bb9c7)
Today
06:00 FRI (b01bbb62)
Weather
06:04 SAT (b01b1k8n)
Weather
06:57 SAT (b01b1k8q)
Weather
12:57 SAT (b01b1k8s)
Weather
17:57 SAT (b01b1k8z)
Weather
06:57 SUN (b01b8tc7)
Weather
07:57 SUN (b01b8tcc)
Weather
08:57 SUN (b01b8tch)
Weather
12:57 SUN (b01b8tck)
Weather
17:57 SUN (b01b8tcp)
Weather
05:57 MON (b01b8tdq)
Weather
12:57 MON (b01b8tds)
Weather
21:58 MON (b01b8tdx)
Weather
12:57 TUE (b01b8tft)
Weather
21:58 TUE (b01b8tfy)
Weather
12:57 WED (b01b8tgv)
Weather
21:58 WED (b01b8tgz)
Weather
12:57 THU (b01b8thw)
Weather
21:58 THU (b01b8tj0)
Weather
12:57 FRI (b01b8tjx)
Weather
21:58 FRI (b01b8tk1)
Welsh's Scottish Journey
14:45 SUN (b01b8yy8)
Westminster Hour
22:00 SUN (b01b8zw7)
What Are the Police For?
20:00 MON (b01b9hjq)
What the Papers Say
22:45 SUN (b01b8zw9)
What to Do If You're Not Like Everybody Else
23:15 WED (b014610b)
With Great Pleasure
16:00 MON (b01b9h7h)
Woman's Hour
16:00 SAT (b01b8wrk)
Woman's Hour
10:00 MON (b01b9b7q)
Woman's Hour
10:00 TUE (b01b9jnt)
Woman's Hour
10:00 WED (b01bb7j9)
Woman's Hour
10:00 THU (b01bb9cf)
Woman's Hour
10:00 FRI (b01bbb66)
Word of Mouth
23:00 MON (b019rpvw)
World at One
13:00 MON (b01b9h79)
World at One
13:00 TUE (b01b9kd4)
World at One
13:00 WED (b01bb7jm)
World at One
13:00 THU (b01bb9cr)
World at One
13:00 FRI (b01bbcql)
You and Yours
12:00 MON (b01b9h77)
You and Yours
12:00 TUE (b01b9kd2)
You and Yours
12:00 WED (b01bb7jk)
You and Yours
12:00 THU (b01bb9cp)
You and Yours
12:00 FRI (b01bbcqg)
iPM
05:45 SAT (b01b1pqc)