SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2015

SAT 00:00 Book at Bedtime (b00s2skz)
Henry James - The Aspern Papers
Episode 5
Episode 5 of The Aspern Papers by Henry James, read by Samuel West.
Aspern's literary editor, having laid out a good deal of money and time in the quest for previously unpublished papers connected with the poet, is growing restless at his lack of results. He has now recruited the pathetic niece Miss Tina to the cause of preserving Aspern's letters from destruction by her aunt; at the same time, he becomes convinced that Miss Bordereau herself has guessed what he's about.
Abridged and produced by Christine Hall.
SAT 00:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c3hvl)
How the Universe Began
Heather Couper presents a narrative history of astronomy.
The discovery that the universe is expanding led cosmologists to suggest that its origin lay in a compact, dense, hot fireball. Cambridge astronomer Fred Hoyle thought this so ridiculous that he disparagingly called it the big bang. The name stuck and there followed intense arguments between supporters of the big bang theory and Fred Hoyle and his colleagues, who favoured a steady state universe.
A decisive blow to the latter theory came from a radio telescope in New Jersey in the early 1960s that detected a gentle background glow at microwave radio frequencies that theorists had predicted as the dying embers of the big bang itself.
Readers are Timothy West, Robin Sebastian, Julian Rhind-Tutt and John Palmer.
SAT 00:30 Juliet Ace - Young Victoria (b00xn8hs)
The Death of Albert
Based on diaries and letters. Victoria mourns for her mother whilst Albert is tormented by Bertie. Stars Imogen Stubbs.
SAT 00:45 Book of the Week (b00r2jf9)
Patti Smith - Just Kids
Episode 5
Patti Smith reads from her new memoir of her life in New York in the late 1960s and 1970s.
In 1986, Patti is living with her husband and son in Detroit when she hears bad news about Robert Mapplethorpe.
Abridged by Jeremy Osborne
A Sweet Talk production for BBC Radio 4.
SAT 01:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b015bxql)
Series 4
Carr, Bellos, Stavrakopoulou
The Museum of Curiosity is, as ever, hosted by the Professor of Ignorance from the University of Buckingham John Lloyd (now with added C.B.E). For this, the fourth series, he is joined by the intensely curious comedian Dave Gorman as his Curator. Dave is the latest in a line of illustrious Museum curators: Bill Bailey, Sean Lock and Jon Richardson.
The Museum of Curiosity has a unique method for collecting exhibits. Once a week it welcomes three luminaries from widely different specialist fields and asks them to bring with them their most treasured items to donate.
The Museum's collection already boasts The Big Bang When It Was The Size Of A Grapefruit; A Pineapple; A Yard Of Silence; Nothing; A British Railways Bridge Plate; A Telepathic Sheep; A Chimpanzee Rain Dance; An Impossible Rabbit; A Gay Bomb; A Choir Of Singing Sand Dunes; National Ignorance Day (of which we know nothing); and An Icelandic Volcano (long before they were fashionable).
In the first of the new series, John and Dave are joined by comedian Jimmy Carr; documentary maker, theologian (and atheist) Francesca Stavrakapoulou; and the mathematician, Guardian South America correspondent and football author Alex Bellos.
The museum's guests later in the rest of the series are:
Philosopher Alain de Botton
Linguist David Crystal
Filmmaker Gareth Edwards
Comedian Harry Enfield
Solar physicist Lucie Green
Classically-trained comedian Natalie Haynes
New Scientist Editor Roger Highfield
Comedian Alex Horne
Rational Comedian Robin Ince
Graham Linehan
Data Miner David McCandless
Marine biologist Helen Scales
Advertising guru Rory Sutherland
Admiral Alan William John West, Baron West of Spithead GCB DSC PC
Polar explorer Sara Wheeler.
SAT 01:30 My Life in Five Books (b012fvl0)
Series 2
James Robertson
James Robertson is a poet, editor, novelist and publisher and was the first Writer-in-Resident at Hugh MacDiarmid's cottage at Brownsbank near Bigger in Lanarkshire.
James explains to Stuart how he first discovered MacDiarmid and how his book of Collected Poems is his life changing book. They also discuss James's favourite reference book, the volume he has looked at most often and the title he'd most like to re-read.
Books chosen: .
1: Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.
2: Collected Poems by Hugh MacDiarmid.
3: Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable by the Reverend Dr. Ebenezer Cobham
4: At Swim-Two-Bird by Flann O'Brieny
5: Bleak House by Charles Dickens.
Producer Mike Walker

Presenter Stuart Cosgrove.
First broadcast on Radio Scotland in 2011.
SAT 02:00 Christopher Coake - You Came Back (b01r2wd7)
Episode 5
With Mark's commitment to Allie called into question, how can he earn a future and lay to rest the past? Read by John Chancer. From March 2013.
SAT 02:30 Frequently Asked Questions (b00lszh8)
Writer Ian Sansom examines the changing nature of the relationship, and contact, between authors and their readers.
With contributions from Susan Hill, Hilary Mantel, Michael Rosen, Toby Lift, Joanna Prior, Linda Grant, Geoffrey Dyer, Monica Ali, Robert McCrum, Nikki Gerrard and Sean French
Producer: Sara Davies
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2009.
SAT 03:00 Thomas Hardy - Jude the Obscure (b007t2h6)
The Letter Killeth
Into their lives comes little Father Time, the child of Jude and Arabella.
Sue finds herself bowed down with domestic drudgery and hardship. Jude returns to his humbler trade of baking because his consumption cannot withstand the outdoor life of a stonemason.
Once again there's the old longing to return to Christminster, and Jude makes a resolution...
Conclusion of Thomas Hardy's 1895 novel dramatised in six parts by Elizabeth North.
Stars Michael Pennington as Jude Fawley, June Barrie as Widow Edlin, Elizabeth Garvie as Sue Bridehead, John Normington as Phillotson, Elva Makins as Arabella, Hazel Ellerby as Annie, Jesse Lawrence as Father Time, Brian Jackson as Tinker Taylor, Gregory Phillips as Jack Stagg, John Linstrum as Dr Vilbert, Alexa Romanes as the Landlady, Judy Gibson as the Woman and Brian Gear a as Man in Crowd.
Produced at BBC Bristol by Brian Miller.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1986.
SAT 04:00 OxCrimes (b052trfx)
Face Value by Stella Duffy, Part 2
A notorious artist recalls her most controversial work, and the night it was unveiled to the public. Read by Maggie Steed.
Following the success of OxTales (2009) and OxTravels (2011), Oxfam has produced this collection of crime writing. We have chosen 5 of the best for Radio 4 Extra.
Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra by the Waters Partnership.
SAT 04:15 Neil Brand - Stan (b0076mjl)
As death finally threatens to separate the greatest double act in film comedy, Stan Laurel tries to say the things to Oliver Hardy which have been left unsaid. Stars Tom Courtenay.
SAT 05:00 King Street Junior Revisited (b00lc98v)
Series 4
Centenary
There’s piano trouble as children and staff celebrate the 100th anniversary of the school's foundation.
The 100th episode of the school comedy created and written by Jim Eldridge.
Ten series of this King Street Junior ran between 1985 and 1998. King Street Junior Revisited ran from 2002 to 2005.
Stars Brigit Forsyth as Mrs Eastwood, Marlene Sidaway as Miss Lewis, Michael Cochrane as Mr Maxwell, Teresa Gallagher as Miss Featherstone, Jacqueline Beatty as Miss Reid, Janice Acquah as Mrs Khan, Paul Copley as Mr Long, James Grout as Mr Beeston, Deirdre Costello as Mrs Patterson, Margaret John as Mrs Stone and Vivienne Martin as Mrs Rudd.
With Corrine Douglas, Chris Parkinson, Angelo Andreou, James Ellis, Cherrelle Williams and Karim Zeroual as the children.
Producer: John Fawcett Wilson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2005.
SAT 05:30 Living with the Enemy (b007719g)
Episode 2
Gyles and Sophie decide to move out of Nick's flat as soon as possible, until they realise the consequences...
Sitcom about a Tory MP-turned-media celebrity and a comedian-turned-holistic therapist.
Written by and starring Nick Revell and Gyles Brandreth
Gyles Brandon ...... Gyles Brandreth
Nick Reynolds ...... Nick Revell
Sophie Okuyu ...... Guqu Mbatha-Raw
George Carstairs ...... Martin Jarvls
Taxidriver ...... Nathan Caton
Mr Longstaff ...... Martin Hyder
Shop assistant ...... Alys Torrance
Producer: Ed Morrish
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2006.
SAT 06:00 Miguel de Cervantes - Don Quixote (b007k0d1)
Episode 1
The Adventures of the Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote de Ie Mancha by Miguel De Cervantes Saavedra.
Don Quixote dons his rusty armour, mounts his broken down horse and sets off with Sancho Panza, his faithful squire, to put the world to rights. The classic adventure published in 1605. Adapted by John Arden.
Starring Bob Grant as Don Quixote, Bernard Cribbins as Sancho Panza, Ronald Baddiley as Cervantes and Meg Johnson as Aldonza.
Music composed by Stephen Boxer.
Director: Alfred Bradley
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1980.
SAT 07:30 Freedom Pass (b00sk9vm)
Episode 3
Sexagenarians Alan Coren and Christopher Matthew use free travel for another chatty trip on local public transport. From September 2004.
SAT 08:00 Archive on 4 (b019dzpp)
Bertrand Russell: The First Media Academic?
Bertrand Russell was one of the greatest thinkers of the last century. His contributions to the field of mathematics and philosophy are still widely acknowledged as some of the most important of their kind. But, as Robin Ince discovers, he was also arguably one of the first great media academic stars, who brought his own brand of rationalism and intellect to an audience far beyond the academic and political circles he routinely mixed with. His relationship with the BBC goes back almost to the beginning of its own history, and his many broadcasts and appearances on radio, in particular, brought his ideas to a whole new audience. He delivered the very first Reith Lectures back in 1948, and was a regular panellist on the hugely popular "The Brains Trust". His thoughts on themes ranging from education, through to nuclear armament and religion, were regularly broadcast on the BBC, right up to the end of his life. Robin Ince takes a listen back to some of Russell's great contributions to broadcasting and looks at the life of arguably the first great media academic.
Producer: Alexandra Feachem.
SAT 09:00 Lynne Truss: Pick of the Archive (b0528nk7)
Writer and broadcaster Lynne Truss introduces her favourite programmes from the BBC archive - from 1960s quizzes and classic comedy dramas to Tom Stoppard and Garrison Keillor.
Over 3 hours, Lynne's handpicked highlights include:
We Interrupt the Programme: a BBC Radio 4 documentary celebrating the American comedy duo Bob and Ray from 2004. With a 40 year partnership, Bob and Ray were the first to parody radio and TV with spoofs that often outlasted the original. If you've never heard the 'slow-talkers of America', this is not to be missed.
Many a Slip: an episode of the long-running BBC radio panel show from the 1960s.
Albert's Bridge by Tom Stoppard: the timeless, surreal and philosophical radio drama featuring a 27-year-old John Hurt in the title role.
The Wordsmiths of Gorsemere: comedy drama that still makes Lynne laugh nearly 30 years after it was made - Sue Limb's parody of the lives of the Romantic poets, starring Simon Callow, Geoffrey Whitehead and Denise Coffey.
Lake Wobegon: Garrison Keillor performing his classic storytelling monologue, a report from the writer's fictitious hometown.
Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra by Pier Productions.
SAT 12:00 The Embrace (Omnibus) (b053cwb5)
Tabby is frightened that the truth will emerge when Iona's return stirs up old conflicts and broken promises. As the repercussions of Tabby's betrayal unfold, Iona and Charlie come to understand the price of their love.
Six people desperately grapple with the consequences of a lie in Linda Marshall Griffiths's compelling drama about love, betrayal and the power of money
IONA.....LYNDSEY MARSHAL
CHARLIE.....WILLIAM ASH
GRACE.....OLIVIA HALLINAN
DAN.....BLAKE RITSON
TABBY.....OLWEN MAY
CLEM.....JONATHAN KEEBLE
Omnibus directed by Nadia Molinari
First broadcast in five parts on BBC Radio 4 in 2015.
SAT 13:15 John Peacock - London Particulars (b008p7qg)
The Last of the Bow Street Runners
London 1839, and Katherine turns to old-school detective Pip Shepherd when her sweetheart Michael disappears. Stars Todd Carty.
SAT 14:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b007k251)
Series 2
The Marrow Contest
The green-fingered lad takes on the authorities to save his pride and joy.
Starring Tony Hancock, Bill Kerr, Sidney James. Andree Melly and Kenneth Williams.
Announcer: Kenneth Williams
Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.
Theme and incidental music composed by Wally Stott. Recorded by the BBC Revue Orchestra conducted by Harry Rabinowitz.
Producer: Dennis Main Wilson
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in June 1955.
SAT 14:30 The Ken Dodd Show (b007jx2y)
From 07/06/1964
Doddy reports from the Knotty Ash Eisteddfod and introduces the world's worst uncle.
Starring Ken Dodd.
With Judith Chalmers, Patricia Hayes, Duncan Macrae, Peter Hudson, Wallas Eaton, Percy Edwards and The Bachelors.
BBC Revue Orchestra, conducted by Malcolm Lockyer.
Script by Ken Dodd and Eddie Braben.
Producer: Bill Worsley
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in June 1964.
SAT 15:00 Archive on 4 (b019dzpp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
SAT 16:00 Miguel de Cervantes - Don Quixote (b007k0d1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 17:30 Gloomsbury (b01nbt9b)
Series 1
Trying to Avoid Unpleasantness
The gardener Vera Sackcloth Vest and her husband Henry are obliged to offer hospitality to the writer of very naughty books Mr D H Lollipop and his new flame, Venus Traduces - who formerly harboured a Sapphic passion for Vera.
The guests are accommodated in the dovecote as Henry will not have Lollipop in the house, in case the cook Mrs Gosling is exposed to impertinences. Vera is hoping that Lollipop will be able to improve her prose style, but instead he seems to take pleasure in trashing her garden and redesigning her study. Lollipop is intent on awakening Venus's blood consciousness but, alas, any educational impulse involving Venus is doomed to failure.
As Venus's passion for Lollipop begins to flag, she finds consolation with the gardener Gosling on the potting bench. Despite Henry's precautions, Mrs Gosling is exposed to Lollipop's impertinences, and the outcome is unexpected and inconvenient.
Cast:
Vera Sackcloth-Vest ..... Miriam Margolyes
Gosling, her gardener ..... Nigel Planer
Henry Mickleton ..... Jonathan Coy
Venus Traduces ..... Morwenna Banks
Mrs Gosling, Housekeeper ..... Alison Steadman
D H Lollipop ..... John Sessions
Produced by Jamie Rix
A Little Brother production for BBC Radio 4.
SAT 18:00 Bruce Bedford - The Gibson (b007js8q)
Episode 4
Saul learns the truth about Stonehenge and the fear-instilling Gibson Room, and two cavers push too deep.
Bruce Bedford's time-hopping supernatural thriller serial set in - and under - Bath.
Robert Glenister .... Saul Judd
Sharon Duce .... Elise Judd
Freddie Jones .... The Scribe
Kate Binchy .... The Scribe's Wife
Timothy West .... Selwyn Fist
Zoe Hicks .... Miss Dewhurst
Jonathan Tafler .... Alan
Steve Woodward .... Martin
Katy Carmichael .... Tracky
Jonathan Adams .... Optician
Cornelius Garrett .... Newsreader
Original music composed by Thomas Johnson.
Music realised by Robin Lever.
Special effects: Dick Mills (Radiophonic Workshop)
Directed at BBC Bristol by Andy Jordan
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1992.
SAT 18:30 Paradise Lost in Cyberspace (b007jpfm)
Episode 4
The Old-Age Paramilitaries have developed a secret weapon to destroy the Central Database computer. George Smith is the man to use it.
Colin Swash's dystopian comedy set in 22nd-century Britain, starring Stephen Moore as George Smith.
George ...... Stephen Moore
Doris ...... Patsy Byrne
O'Connell ...... Geoffrey McGivern
Mrs Cookson ...... Edna Dore
Andrea Sunbeam ...... Lorelei King
Dawkins ...... Melanie Hudson
Ronnie ...... Christopher Douglas
Other parts by Lewis MacLeod, Dave Lamb and Peter Serafinowicz.
Producer: Richard Wilson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1998.
SAT 19:00 Lynne Truss: Pick of the Archive (b0528nk7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 22:00 Sabotage (b053d27m)
Series 2
Episode 1
Developed by the team behind the live comedy night of the same name, Sabotage prides itself on being a comedy show for comedy fans; a unique event where the acts love coming to perform, and the fans seek out something special.
MC Mark Talbot introduces:
Kieran Hodgson
Pete Johansson
Mat Ewins
Natasia Demetriou
Pat Cahill
Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra by Hat Trick Productions.
First broadcast in 2015.
SAT 23:00 Mark Steel's in Town (b00s3gq5)
Series 2
Penzance
Comedian Mark Steel visits Cornwall and finally reaches the town of Penzance where the locals revel in their remoteness, pilchards and pasties. Struck by the beauty of this rugged coastal town he is surprised to find a civil war raging...From April 2010.
SAT 23:30 The Jason Byrne Show (b00mw69r)
Series 1
Sport
Probing a fresh theme each week, the Irish comedian hosts stand-up and sketches. With Ivan Brackenbury. From August 2008.


SUNDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2015

SUN 00:00 Bruce Bedford - The Gibson (b007js8q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:00 on Saturday]
SUN 00:30 Paradise Lost in Cyberspace (b007jpfm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:30 on Saturday]
SUN 01:00 Archive on 4 (b019dzpp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Saturday]
SUN 02:00 The Embrace (Omnibus) (b053cwb5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 12:00 on Saturday]
SUN 03:15 John Peacock - London Particulars (b008p7qg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 13:15 on Saturday]
SUN 04:00 Miguel de Cervantes - Don Quixote (b007k0d1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Saturday]
SUN 05:30 Gloomsbury (b01nbt9b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 17:30 on Saturday]
SUN 06:00 Juliet Ace - Young Victoria (Omnibus) (b00y1vzm)
Episode 2
The honeymoon is all too soon over for Albert and Victoria, as pressing matters of state require her attention. But their happiness is made even greater when their first child is expected...
Scripted by Juliet Ace, based on the letters and diaries of the young Queen Victoria, this portrait of her younger life and the happy years of her marriage, reveals some of the remarkable and long-lasting achievements of this extraordinary queen.
Starring Imogen Stubbs as Victoria.
Duchess of Kent ........ Anna Massey
Prince Albert ........ Adrian Lukis
Baroness Lehzen ........ Selina Cadell
Sir John Conroy ........ John Rowe.
Melbourne ........ Christopher Cazenove
WAG ........ Andrew Wincott
William IV ........ Terence Edmond
Prince of Wales Bertie ........ Thomas Arnold
Princess Vicky ........ Clare Corbett
Prince of Wales Bertie as a child ........ George Allonby
Producer: Cherry Cookson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2001.
SUN 07:15 Snapshots in the Dark (b0075qhb)
Eddie Adams - Execution of a Vietcong Suspect, 1968
How Adams's photograph, seen around the world, impacted upon support for the Vietnam War. From December 1999.
SUN 07:30 Clare in the Community (b0151xsf)
Series 7
To Kill a Mocking Bird
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.
In episode two 'To Kill A Mocking Bird' Clare ends her relationship with Brian and is surprised by her colleagues' reaction to the news.
Episode Two 'To Kill A Mocking Bird'
Clare ..... SALLY PHILLIPS
Brian ..... ALEX LOWE
Megan/Nali ..... NINA CONTI
Ray ..... RICHARD LUMSDEN
Helen ..... LIZA TARBUCK
Simon ..... ANDREW WINCOTT
Libby ..... SARAH KENDALL
Pru Granville ..... SOPHIE THOMPSON
Mr Collier ..... GERARD MCDERMOTT
Thomas ..... GEORGIA LOWE
Written by Harry Venning and David Ramsden
Producer by Katie Tyrrell.
SUN 08:00 Emery at Large (b053d96s)
From 21/05/1964
Character comedy supremo Dick Emery spoofs Harley Street doctors and dodgy lonely hearts ads.
With Deryck Guyler, Norma Ronald and a ditty from Paddy Roberts.
Script by John Cleese, George Wadmore and Peter Moore.
Like many of his comedic contemporaries, Dick Emery's career began by entertaining fellow servicemen in the Second World War with Ralph Reader's Gang Show. His early radio career included appearances on Variety Bandbox, Workers' Playtime, Educating Archie and deputising for Harry Secombe in The Goon Show.
After landing his first BBC TV series in 1963, Emery at Large arrived on the BBC Light Programme in 1964 with his last series broadcast in 1967. A further series for BBC Radio 2 followed in 1968 called What About Dick Emery!!
Emery hit his peak as a TV comedy superstar during the 1960s and 70s. His Saturday night BBC TV show ran for an impressive 18 series of 166 episodes. Writers for the show included Mel Brooks, Barry Cryer, Marty Feldman, David Nobbs and even Harold Pinter.
Rated "one of the comedy greats" by David Walliams, Emery's technique was based on creating comedy characters to be used time and time again across each of his series. His style was to be much aped by the likes of Harry Enfield, Paul Whitehouse and shows like Little Britain. His most memorable characters include desperate spinster Hettie, the elderly Lampwick, the toothy vicar, plus blonde bombshell Mandy and her enduring catchphrase, "Ooh, you are awful... but I like you!"
Dick Emery died in January 1983 aged 67.
Producer: Charles Maxwell
First broadcast on the BBC Radio Light Programme in May 1964.
SUN 08:30 Life With The Lyons (b012qrpv)
Time Marches Back
Ben needs jokes for his big speech at the Festival of Britain - can the family help?
Starring real-life American family: Ben Lyon and his wife Bebe Daniels and their children, Richard and Barbara.
With Doris Rogers as Florrie, Molly Weir as Aggie, Horace Percival as Mr Wimple, Ian Sadler and David Enders.
Life With The Lyons was one the BBC's most popular radio sitcoms between1950 and 1961. It was also adapted for BBC Television.
Written by Bebe Daniels, Bob Block and Bill Harding.
BBC Revue Orchestra conducted by Robert Busby
Incidental music by Arthur Wilkinson
Producer: Tom Ronald
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in February 1951.
SUN 09:00 Fairytales: Live From the Palace (b012lj20)
Exclusive inside scoops on best-loved fairytales from top correspondents at royal palaces. Stars Sean Baker and Alex Tregear.
SUN 10:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b053db1w)
Oscar Winners
Shirley MacLaine
From Cole to Webber, actress Shirley MacLaine shares her castaway choices with Roy Plomley. From November 1983.
SUN 10:45 Afternoon Reading (b00tj89s)
Claire Keegan - Foster
Episode 1
By Claire Keegan
Abridged by Neville Teller
A heartbreaking, haunting story of childhood, loss and love by one of Ireland's most acclaimed writers. A small girl is sent to live with her mother's people on a farm in rural Ireland, without knowing when she will return home. In the strangers' house, she finds a warmth and affection she has not known before and slowly begins to blossom in their care. And then a secret is revealed, and suddenly, she realizes how fragile her idyll is.
Winner of the Davy Byrnes Memorial Prize, Foster will be published in a revised and expanded version by Faber on 2nd September 2010. Beautiful, sad and eerie, it is a story of astonishing emotional depth, showcasing Claire Keegan's great accomplishment and talent.
Claire Keegan's first collection of short stories, 'Antarctica', was completed in 1998 and was awarded the Rooney Prize for Literature. Her second short story collection, 'Walk the Blue Fields', was published to enormous critical acclaim in 2007 and won her the 2008 Edge Hill Prize for Short Stories. Claire Keegan lives in County Louth, Ireland.
'Foster' is read by Evanna Lynch, best known to many for her portrayal of Luna Lovegood in the Harry Potter films.
Producer Heather Larmour.
SUN 11:00 TED Radio Hour (b053693q)
Series 1
To the Edge
A journey through fascinating ideas based on talks by riveting speakers on the TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) stage.
Guy Raz investigates how people are able to go to the brink of human endurance. With high wire artist Philippe Petit.
SUN 11:45 Roddy Doyle - Bullfighting (b01dk3z6)
Ash
Kevin's wife has just left him with two kids and a babysitter to pay. Or at least he thinks so. Short stories by the Irish novelist, read by Conleth Hill.
SUN 12:00 Juliet Ace - Young Victoria (Omnibus) (b00y1vzm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 13:15 Snapshots in the Dark (b0075qhb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:15 today]
SUN 13:30 Israel Horovitz - Fighting Over Beverley (b007558h)
More than 40 years on, a Yorkshireman flies to America to reclaim a war bride. Stars Israel Horovitz and Ian Carmichael.
SUN 15:00 Emery at Large (b053d96s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
SUN 15:30 Life With The Lyons (b012qrpv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
SUN 16:00 Mel's Mix: The Best of The 4 O'Clock Show (b053dd30)
Roald Dahl, Scary Mice and Treehouses
Mel Giedroyc introduces the highlights of this week's 4 O'Clock Shows including treehouse living, actress Anjelica Huston and the wonderful world of Roald Dahl.
SUN 17:00 Fairytales: Live From the Palace (b012lj20)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SUN 18:00 The Man in Black (b0186hf0)
Series 4
4. Reunion by Janice Okoh
Joy loses more than her heart in her desperate quest for love.
Mark Gatiss as the sinister raconteur, The Man in Black, introduces Janice Okoh's cautionary tale.
Joy ..... Nikki Amuka-Bird
Grace ..... Adjoa Andoh
Fiona ..... Karlina Grace
Dr Alex ..... Richard Pepple
Tom ..... Adam Billington
Steve ..... Alex Lanipekun
More horrifying tales from The Man in Black. You might meet him at a luggage carousel in an airport, or behind the desk at an employment agency or he might approach you in the corridor of a care home. Wherever you encounter him, he's eager to pass on his stories. Stories to unsettle and horrify. Stories to haunt you.
Director: Gemma Jenkins
Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in December 2011.
SUN 18:30 Douglas Hill - The Blade of the Poisoner (b007jrtt)
Last Chance
Unless the tainted blade and Prince Mephtik are destroyed within two days, Jarral will die...
Conclusion of Douglas Hill's sci-fi fantasy dramatised in four parts by Wally K Daly.
Starring Eric Allen as Jarral the man, James Holland as Jarral the boy, Elizabeth Bell as Archer, Ben Onwukwe as Carver, Hugh Dixon as Prince Mephtik, Susan Sheridan as Mandra, David Bannerman as Yorrold, James Thomason as Cryltor Tabatang, Bret Usher as Flammarock, Richard Pierce as Whiney, Anne Windsor as Innkeeper, with Nigel Carrington and Charles Millom as Soldiers.
Special effects by Dick Mills.
Music by Peter Howells of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop.
Producer: Peter Fozzard
First broadcast on BBC Radio 5 in 1991.
SUN 19:00 TED Radio Hour (b053693q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 today]
SUN 19:45 Roddy Doyle - Bullfighting (b01dk3z6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:45 today]
SUN 20:00 Emery at Large (b053d96s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
SUN 20:30 Life With The Lyons (b012qrpv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
SUN 21:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b053db1w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 21:45 Afternoon Reading (b00tj89s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:45 today]
SUN 22:00 Clare in the Community (b0151xsf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SUN 22:30 Elvenquest (b00wlgt5)
Series 2
Episode 5
The Questers continue their search for the Sword of Asnagar. This time they accidentally trespass upon grounds of the Emperor Jackie.
Jackie claims to have the Sword of Asnagar but he'll only hand it over if the Questers, and particularly Penthiselea, stay with him for a while.
In the meantime, Lord Darkness' main evil priest, Gaydok, is upset - he doesn't believe Darkness is evil anymore. In a fit of pique Darkness fires him.
But it's not long before he realises that keeping the faith with the evil hordes isn't as easy as he originally thought...
Fantasy-based sitcom set in Lower Earth written by Anil Gupta and Richard Pinto.
Sam …. Stephen Mangan
Lord Darkness …. Alistair McGowan
Emperor Jackie …. Sanjeev Bhaskar
Dean/Kreech …. Kevin Eldon
Vidar …. Darren Boyd
Amis – The Chosen One …. Dave Lamb
Penthiselea …. Sophie Winkleman
Producer: Sam Michell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2010.
SUN 23:00 Giles Wemmbley Hogg Goes Off (b01hxtcn)
Series 3
Russia
Thanks to some handy parental connections, the gap-year buffoon goes to Moscow. Stars Marcus Brigstocke. From February 2005.
SUN 23:30 Meet David Sedaris (b00rtg8c)
Series 1
Let It Snow; The Cat and the Baboon; Keeping Up
From Carnegie Hall to the BBC Radio Theatre - American humorist David Sedaris reads from his extensive collection of published stories and articles. In show 2 of 4: "Let It Snow", "The Cat and the Baboon" and "Keeping Up".
The producer is Steve Doherty, and this is a Boomerang Plus production for BBC Radio 4.


MONDAY 23 FEBRUARY 2015

MON 00:00 The Man in Black (b0186hf0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:00 on Sunday]
MON 00:30 Douglas Hill - The Blade of the Poisoner (b007jrtt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:30 on Sunday]
MON 01:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b053db1w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Sunday]
MON 01:45 Afternoon Reading (b00tj89s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:45 on Sunday]
MON 02:00 Emery at Large (b053d96s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Sunday]
MON 02:30 Life With The Lyons (b012qrpv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Sunday]
MON 03:00 Clare in the Community (b0151xsf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Sunday]
MON 03:30 Israel Horovitz - Fighting Over Beverley (b007558h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 13:30 on Sunday]
MON 05:00 Fairytales: Live From the Palace (b012lj20)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Sunday]
MON 06:00 Wimsey (b007jvmh)
The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club
1. Armistice Night
Lord Peter Wimsey investigates the puzzling death of rich, retired General Fentiman who's found dead in an armchair at his gentleman's club.
Ian Carmichael stars as the aristocratic sleuth.
British gentleman detective Lord Peter Wimsey features in a number of detective novels and short stories by English crime writer, Dorothy L Sayers. The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club was first published in 1928.
Classy and sharp-witted, aristocratic amateur sleuth Lord Peter Bredon Wimsey was born in 1890 and educated at Eton and Oxford, before serving in the military during the First World War.
Ian Carmichael appeared as Lord Peter Wimsey for BBC Radio from 1973 to 1983, in addition to the BBC TV adaptations that were broadcast between 1972 and 1975.
Adapted in six episodes by Chris Miller.
Lord Peter Wimsey …. Ian Carmichael
Bunter …. Peter Jones
George Fentiman …. Martin Jarvis
Mr Murbles …. John Gabriel
Dr Penberthy …. Christopher Emmett
Culyer …. Blain Fairman
Challoner …. John Dunbar
Colonel Marchbanks …. Wilfrid Carter
Producer: Simon Brett.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1975.
MON 06:30 Before Your Very Ears! (b00chw4h)
Grant Gordon explores the rich history of magic on radio.
Archive features include Sid and Lesley Piddington and their mind-reading act, the great Sidani confounding Kenneth Horne, Uri Geller bending keys, John Wade sawing Barry Wordsworth in half, David Berglas's magical carpentry and Jack Delvin escaping from a lift in Bush House.
Contributors include magicians Darryl Rose, Paul Zenon, Ali Bongo and Derren Brown.
MON 07:00 The Stanley Baxter Playhouse (b00txjth)
Series 4
In the Name of the Wee Man
Stanley Baxter, inspired in his own stellar career by the man's outstanding impersonations, stunning pantomime dame performances and brilliant comic timing; pays tribute to Tommy Lorne, one of Scotland's greatest early twentieth century comedians
Stanley says: "In the long and distinguished history of great Scottish comedians there is one name that stands out particularly in my mind, that of Tommy Lorne. His star burned brightly, but briefly, in the early years of the 20th century. My parents loved him, as did many Glaswegians, and in 1934 as an eight year old boy I was taken to the Theatre Royal to see him as Dame in Babes in the Wood. Although he died only a year later and I was to see him no more, his hilarious and extraordinary stage persona is still etched in my memory. He was, rightly, a huge star in Scotland, and although he may be long gone I'd hate for him to be forgotten. So this is my tribute to the great Tommy Lorne entitled, in the words of his own, famous catch phrase: 'In the Name of the Wee Man.'"
Baxter recounts the triumphs and disappointments of Tommy's short life, where he brought laughter and happiness to many in his Pantomime Dame performances and musical hall routines, recreated in this production by Stanley himself, joined by John Sessions, himself an ace impersonator and life long fan of Stanley's , he says that Stanley has had exactly the same kind of lasting influence on his work as Tommy Lorne had on Stanley himself.
Cast:
Tommy Lorne ..... Stanley Baxter
Willie Barbour ..... John Sessions
Harry McKelvie ..... John Ramage
Mary ..... Gabriel Quigley
Danny ..... David Holt
Producer: Marilyn Imrie
A Catherine Bailey production for BBC Radio 4.
MON 07:30 Just a Minute (b052hptn)
Series 71
Episode 2
The popular comedy panel game returns with Paul Merton, Tony Hawks, Josie Lawrence and Alun Cochrane, hosted by Nicholas Parsons. Subjects include 'Multitasking', 'Kinky Boots' and 'A Cathedral City' as this edition comes from Canterbury.
This is the second in series 71 of Radio 4's classic panel game in which the contestants are challenged to speak on a given subject for a minute without hesitation, repetition or deviation.
This series, the guests include Jenny Eclair, Stephen Fry, Sheila Hancock, Robin Ince Paul Merton, Graham Norton, and trying his hand at the game for the first time, the tenth doctor, David Tennant.
Recorded at the BBC's Radio Theatre and Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, this long running and popular series enters its 47th year with the same wonderful host, Nicholas Parsons.
MON 08:00 Dad's Army (b007jlhv)
Series 1
The Armoured Might of Lance-Corporal Jones
Private Walker dreams up a plan to get petrol coupons so Corporal Jones's delivery van can be commandeered for the war effort...
The comic exploits of a Second World War Home Guard platoon in Walmington-on-Sea.
Adapted for radio from Jimmy Perry and David Croft's TV scripts by Harold Snoad and Michael Knowles.
Captain Mainwaring …. Arthur Lowe
Sergeant Wilson …. John Le Mesurier
Corporal Jones …. Clive Dunn
Private Walker …. James Beck
Private Godfrey …. Arnold Ridley
Private Pike …. Ian Lavender
Private Frazer …. John Laurie
Cissie Godfrey …. Nan Brawnton
Percy the Parrot …. Percy Edwards
Announcer …. John Snagge
Producer: John Dyas
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1974.
MON 08:30 The Michael Bentine Show (b008vnrl)
From 12/02/1984
From an old colonial to a herd of operatic cows – it can only be Michael Bentine.
The ultimate one man show written and performed by the host.
Producer: Jamie Rix
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in February 1984.
MON 09:00 Quote... Unquote (b00r5dlm)
Nigel Rees chairs the popular quiz involving the exchange of quotations and anecdotes.
With David Nobbs, Justin Webb, Marcel Berlins and Naomi Gryn.
The reader is Peter Jefferson.
MON 09:30 Mr Blue Sky (b011p7st)
Series 1
Good Luck
Harvey Easter (played by Mark Benton), 46, is the eternal optimist. He is able to see the good in every situation, the silver lining within every cloud, the bright side to every bit of bad news.
This, however, is his downfall. Someone for whom the glass is always half-full can be difficult to live with, as his wife of 19 years, Jacqui or "Jax" (played by Rebecca Front), knows all too well.
In this episode Robbie is taught a lesson whilst Harvey feels it's time to spill the beans, nothing is sure to get in the way...
Cast:
Harvey Easter .... Mark Benton
Jacqui Easter ..... Rebecca Front
Charlie Easter ..... Antonia Campbell-Hughes
Robbie Easter ..... Joe Tracini
Kill-R .... Javone Prince
Rakesh Rathi ..... Navin Chowdhry
Ray Marsh ..... Justin Edwards
Sean Cahoun ..... Michael Legge
Sergeant Major ..... Simon Day
Writer ..... Andrew Collins
Title Music performer/arranger ..... Jim Bob
Producer/Director ..... Anna Madley
An Avalon production for BBC Radio 4.
MON 10:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b00b9k9p)
The Saint Overboard
Lantern-jawed, haloed hero Simon Templar - otherwise known as The Saint - sets out to solve the disappearance of missing sunken bullion.
First published in 1936, one of a long series of novels featuring Leslie Charteris's creation Simon Templar, alias "The Saint".
Simon Templar …. Paul Rhys
Loretta Page …. Patsy Kensit
Roger/Ivaloff …. Charles Simpson
Peter Quentin/Intruder …. Jonathan Keeble
Orace …. John Hollis
Vogel …. Geoffrey Whitehead
Murdoch …. John Guerrasio
Prof Yule …. David Timson
Arnheim/Helmsman …. Joshua Towb
Dramatised by Neville Teller.
Director: Matthew Walters
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1995.
MON 11:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nlwzw)
The Shadow
Three girls are told a late-night tale of evil, the tragic ending of which hits too close to home. Read by Anna Madeley.
MON 11:15 Loose Ends (b0532cby)
Sara Cox, Celia Imrie, Richard Osman, Morgana Robinson, Nick Mohammed, Arrested Development
Clive Anderson and co-host Sara Cox chat to Celia Imrie about her new novel 'Not Quite Nice'; to Morgana Robinson about the new series of Vic and Bob's 'House of Fools'; to 'Pointless's Richard Osman about 'Two Tribes' and to comic Nick Mohammed about 'Dracula! Mr Swallow - The Musical'. With music from Arrested Development.
Producer: Sukey Firth.
MON 12:00 Dad's Army (b007jlhv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 12:30 The Michael Bentine Show (b008vnrl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 13:00 Wimsey (b007jvmh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 13:30 Before Your Very Ears! (b00chw4h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 14:00 15 Minute Drama (b03gvctt)
Children in Need: Holding On to You
Episode 1
D.L.Weller's powerful drama about child sexual exploitation and grooming.
Fourteen year old Holly can't believe her luck when she is asked out by twenty year old Jay; so why is her best friend Leah not happy for her and why can't her parents just leave her alone?
D.L. Weller has done extensive research with victims and their families and professionals working in child protection and safeguarding. Holding On To You, although fictional, is informed and inspired by these interviews. It explores a problem thought to affect tens of thousands of children, of all backgrounds, yet that still remains largely hidden and apparently unaddressed in many regions.
MON 14:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c50x2)
Broadcasts from the Cosmos
Heather Couper presents a narrative history of astronomy.
Second World War radar research led to the discovery of radio broadcasts from the skies. A new science was born and radio astronomers started to build giant dishes to listen in to the cosmos, including the great radio telescope at Jodrell Bank, brainchild of Bernard Lovell.
In 1967, a field near Cambridge saw a strange new sort of telescope, consisting of 1,000 wooden posts and 120 miles of wire. It was with this that Jocelyn Bell discovered a regular cosmic heartbeat, a regular radio pulse. Researchers initially surmised that it might be a signal from an alien civilisation, but it was later found to emanate from an extremely dense spinning neutron star, the collapsed core of an exploded star or supernova. Soon dozens of these pulsars were known, taking physics to a new level.
Readers are Timothy West, Robin Sebastian, Julian Rhind-Tutt and John Palmer.
MON 14:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5m08)
Henry James - The Aspern Papers
Episode 6
Episode 6 of The Aspern Papers by Henry James, read by Samuel West.
Jeffrey Aspern's obsessive devotee has become more desperate to obtain the elusive letters held by Miss Bordereau. Fearing that the old lady will destroy the papers he has put pressure on her niece to rescue them, but he begins to realise that neither of them is a match for the calculating Juliana herself.
Abridged and produced by Christine Hall.
MON 14:45 Book of the Week (b014f9pz)
Tim Jeal - Explorers of the Nile
Episode 1
Nothing obsessed explorers of the mid-nineteenth century more than the quest to discover the source of the White Nile. It was the planet's most elusive secret, the prize coveted above all others. Between 1856 and 1876, six larger-than-life men and one extraordinary woman accepted the challenge. Showing extreme courage and resilience, Richard Burton, John Hanning Speke, James Augustus Grant, Samuel Baker, Florence von Sass, David Livingstone, and Henry Morton Stanley risked their lives and reputations in the fierce competition.
Award-winning author Tim Jeal deploys fascinating new research to provide a vivid tableau of the unmapped 'Dark Continent', its jungle deprivations, and the courage as well as malicious tactics of the explorers. On multiple forays launched into east and central Africa, the travellers passed through almost impenetrable terrain and suffered the ravages of flesh-eating ulcers, paralysis, malaria, deep spear wounds, and even death. They discovered Lakes Tanganyika and Victoria and became the first white people to encounter the kingdoms of Buganda and Bunyoro.
Jeal weaves the story with authentic new detail and examines the tragic unintended legacy of the Nile search that still casts a long shadow over the people of Uganda and Sudan.
Tim Jeal is the author of acclaimed biographies of Livingstone, Baden-Powell, and Stanley, each selected as a Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times and the Washington Post. He lives in London.
Reader: Alex Jennings
Abridger: Libby Spurrier
Producer: Joanna Green
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.
MON 15:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b00b9k9p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
MON 16:00 The 4 O'Clock Show (b053h5ky)
Camels, Sandwiches and The Mousetrap
Mel Giedroyc reveals how the camel got its hump, celebrates the humble sandwich and introduces the next part of Roald Dahl's classic story, The Witches.
MON 17:00 Second Thoughts (b00lqzs9)
Series 4
Just Managing
Bill and Faith face new pressures on their marriage and Liza shows just how vulnerable she really is.
Sitcom about the battles of married life for ex-divorcees Bill and Faith, whilst balancing the demands of his ex-wife, Liza and Faith's teenage children.
Stars James Bolam as Bill, Lynda Bellingham as Faith, Belinda Lang as Liza, Julia Sawalha as Hannah, Mark Denham as Joe, Melanie Hudson as Louise and Nick Murchie as Duncan.
Series three of four inspired by the real lives of its writers, husband and wife Jan Etherington and Gavin Petrie.
A TV version made by LWT for ITV appeared in 1991 and ran for four series, with a spin-off 'Faith in the Future'.
Producer: Paul Schlesinger
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1992.
MON 17:30 The Stanley Baxter Playhouse (b00txjth)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 18:00 Quote... Unquote (b00r5dlm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
MON 18:30 A Good Read (b0075jqn)
Jim Perrin and Marina Warner
Sarah Lefanu and her guests, rock climber Jim Perrin and writer Marina Warner, discuss three favourite paperbacks by JM Synge, Robert Graves and Maeve Binchy. From 1999.
The Aran Islands by J.M. Synge
Publisher: Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics
The Greek Myths by Robert Graves
Publisher: Penguin
Evening Class by Maeve Binchy
Publisher: Orion.
MON 19:00 Dad's Army (b007jlhv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 19:30 The Michael Bentine Show (b008vnrl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 20:00 Wimsey (b007jvmh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 20:30 Before Your Very Ears! (b00chw4h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 21:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nlwzw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 today]
MON 21:15 Loose Ends (b0532cby)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 today]
MON 22:00 Just a Minute (b052hptn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 22:30 Mr Blue Sky (b011p7st)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
MON 23:00 The News Quiz Extra (b053hbbb)
Series 13
Episode 1
Made for 4 Extra. A satirical review of the week's news, chaired by Sandi Toksvig. Susan Calman, Samira Ahmed and Phill Jupitus join regular panellist Jeremy Hardy.
MON 23:45 Helen Keen's It Is Rocket Science (b00z5hrv)
Series 1
Episode 1
Funny, off-beat but factually accurate account of the science of rockets and the brilliant but occasionally warped brains behind it all.
Helen Keen, Peter Serafinowicz and Susy Kane look at the three fathers of modern rocket science:
* 19th Century self-taught Russian visionary Eduardovich Tsiolkovsky and his dreams of orbiting space stations and Martian colonies;
* American Robert H Goddard, derided in The New York Times in the 1920s for his prediction of a lunar landing (A retraction was printed after the Apollo 11 launch);
* Transylvanian-German Hermann Oberth with his brilliant theories about space travel and his horrifying theories about racial supremacy.
Plus Helen reveals the surprising connection between space travel and a coach tour of the Jewels of the Rhineland.
Written by Helen Keen and Miriam Underhill.
Producer: Gareth Edwards
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2011.


TUESDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2015

TUE 00:00 15 Minute Drama (b03gvctt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Monday]
TUE 00:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c50x2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:15 on Monday]
TUE 00:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5m08)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Monday]
TUE 00:45 Book of the Week (b014f9pz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:45 on Monday]
TUE 01:00 Quote... Unquote (b00r5dlm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Monday]
TUE 01:30 A Good Read (b0075jqn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:30 on Monday]
TUE 02:00 Wimsey (b007jvmh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Monday]
TUE 02:30 Before Your Very Ears! (b00chw4h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b00b9k9p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Monday]
TUE 04:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nlwzw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 on Monday]
TUE 04:15 Loose Ends (b0532cby)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 on Monday]
TUE 05:00 Second Thoughts (b00lqzs9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 17:00 on Monday]
TUE 05:30 The Stanley Baxter Playhouse (b00txjth)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Monday]
TUE 06:00 Wimsey (b007jvmm)
The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club
2. The General's Last Evening
Lord Peter Wimsey probes the mysterious Mr Oliver - and a pair of tricky wills.
Ian Carmichael stars as the aristocratic sleuth.
Dorothy L Sayers' detective mystery dramatised by Chris Miller.
Lord Peter Wimsey …. Ian Carmichael
Robert Fentiman ...... Allan Cuthbertson
George Fentiman ...... Martin Jarvis
Inspector Parker ...... Gabriel Woolf
Mr Murbles ...... John Gabriel
Sheila Fentiman ...... Frances Jeater
Woodward/Collins ...... James Thomason
Pritchard/Hinkins ...... Antony Higginson
Producer: Simon Brett.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1975.
TUE 06:30 Erin's Model World (b009rx96)
Erin O’Connor is one of the world’s most famous and versatile supermodels. From the cover of Vogue to Marks and Spencer campaigns, she has made her name in the diverse corners of the fashion world.
In Erin’s Model World, the supermodel takes us deep into fashionista territory, to witness the frenzy of the fashion show in the glare of the paparazzi’s flashbulbs.
She’s keen to change the industry from within by improving working conditions of models through the establishment of the first ever models’ union.
Together with Erin’s other ideas, will these steps to improve the health of models carry over to the wider industry?
First broadcast on Radio 4 in 2008.
TUE 07:00 Nineteen Ninety-Eight (b01c6sgt)
Episode 3
On the run, Edward meets the Leopard - will he survive? Orwellian sitcom with David Threlfall and Hugh Laurie. From April 1987.
TUE 07:30 Trodd en Bratt Say 'Well Done You' (b047c476)
Series 1
Episode 2
Nominated for Best Comedy in the BBC Audio Drama Awards 2015, Trodd en Bratt Say 'Well Done You' is a comedy sketch show written and performed by Ruth Bratt and Lucy Trodd, stars of Radio 4's Showstoppers.
This week there's a robbery in the Fings and Bobs shop, but Anja and Benjio are only too happy to help the robber find his way around. Meanwhile, Mary's dark secret threatens to ruin her church choir's concert; and Ruth tries to confront a colleague with a distracting verbal tick.
Written and performed by Ruth Bratt and Lucy Trodd
Supporting cast: Adam Meggido and Oliver Senton
Script Editor: Jon Hunter
Composer: Duncan Walsh Atkins
Producer: Ben Worsfield
A Lucky Giant production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 08:00 Yes Minister (b007jmsk)
Series 1
Doing the Honours
During an economy drive, MP Jim Hacker find himself outwitted by Sir Humphrey.
Starring Paul Eddington, Nigel Hawthorne and Derek Fowlds.
Antony Jay and Jonathan Lynn satirical sitcom ran on BBC TV between 1980 and 1984. Yes Minister is centred around the hapless Jim Hacker and a collection of civil service underlings headed by the Machiavellian Sir Humphrey Appleby and obsequious Bernard.
Jim Hacker ...... Paul Eddington
Sir Humphrey Appleby ...... Nigel Hawthorne
Bernard ...... Derek Fowlds
Sir Arnold ...... John Nettleton
The Master ...... Graham Crowden
The Bursar ...... William Fox
Committee Member ...... Stuart Organ
Committee Member ...... David Peart
Committee Member ...... Moir Leslie
Adapted for radio by producer Pete Atkin.
First broadcast on Radio 4 in November 1983.
TUE 08:30 The Ken Dodd Show (b053hndh)
From 28/06/1964
Can Sir Doddy rescue a damsel in distress? - and meet the unluckiest sailor.
Starring Ken Dodd.
With Judith Chalmers, John Slater, Patricia Hayes, Peter Hudson and Wallas Eaton
Music from The Caravelles.
BBC Revue Orchestra, conducted by Malcolm Lockyer
Script by Ken Dodd and Eddie Braben.
Producer: Bill Worsley
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in June 1964.
TUE 09:00 The News Quiz Extra (b053hbbb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 23:00 on Monday]
TUE 09:45 Helen Keen's It Is Rocket Science (b00z5hrv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 23:45 on Monday]
TUE 10:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b00b9xgx)
The Saint Closes the Case
Simon Templar is confronted by arch-villain, Doctor Rayt Marius, in a deadly struggle to save the world from an evil weapon.
First published in 1930 under the title 'The Last Hero' - one of a long series of novels featuring Leslie Charteris's creation Simon Templar, alias "The Saint".
Simon Templar …. Paul Rhys
Patricia Holm …. Kim Thomson
Roger Conway …. Charles Simpson
Orace …. John Hollis
Norman Kent …. Joshua Towb
Doctor Rayt Marius …. Sandor Eles
Inspector Claude Eustace Teal …. John Baddeley
Professor Vargan …. John Turner
Captain Harding …. Ross Livingstone
Cynthia …. Linda Regan
Janos …. Paul Jenkins
Gabor/Rudolph …. Jonathan Keeble
Bela …. Stephen Critchlow
Golter/Hale/Lazlo …. Geoffrey Whitehead
Malone/Tibor/Foreshaw …. David Timson
Dramatised for radio by Roger Danes.
Director: Matthew Walters
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1995.
TUE 11:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm0dy)
John Charrington's Wedding
A groom promises to be at the church on time, even if he has to come back from the grave to do it. Read by Tobias Menzies.
TUE 11:15 Drama (b01gvwxt)
Katie Hims - Betsy Coleman
by Katie Hims
Betsy Coleman signs up to do memory research for a bit of extra cash, but she finds that her memories are so vivid that revisiting her past becomes compulsive, particularly when she gets to spend some virtual time with her late Mother.
Betsy .... Maxine Peake
David ..... Benedict Wong
Young Betsy ..... Shannon Flynn
Mick ..... Ralph Ineson
Carla ..... Alison Pettit
Des ..... Tony Bell
Julie ..... Christine Kavanagh
Written by Katie Hims
Directed by Mary Peate
When Betsy Coleman was 11 years old, her father was convicted of murdering her mother. Now 37, Betsy has drifted through her life, committing to nothing and no one. She sees an ad looking for volunteers to take part in some neurological research at the local University, and, in need of some extra cash, she signs up.
She quite likes the look of the geeky research scientist, David, but mostly she loves going back into her memories, particularly those which involve her late mother. Against his better judgment, David lets her do more tests. But then things start to get out of hand...
TUE 12:00 Yes Minister (b007jmsk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 12:30 The Ken Dodd Show (b053hndh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 13:00 Wimsey (b007jvmm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 13:30 Erin's Model World (b009rx96)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 14:00 15 Minute Drama (b03h30g6)
Children in Need: Holding On to You
Episode 2
D.L. Weller's powerful drama about child sexual exploitation and grooming.
Police are called to the family home when fourteen year old Holly goes missing for the night. As Holly's desperate parents try to track her down, Holly finds herself in danger.
D.L. Weller has done extensive research with victims and their families and professionals working in child protection and safeguarding. Holding On To You, although fictional, is informed and inspired by these interviews. It explores a problem thought to affect tens of thousands of children, of all backgrounds, yet that still remains largely hidden and apparently unaddressed in many regions.
TUE 14:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c843k)
Squashed Stars and Black Holes
Heather Couper presents a narrative history of astronomy.
As long ago as 1783, the rector of a small Yorkshire church suggested that the gravity of a very massive star might be strong enough to pull its light back and prevent it from shining. It was not until the 1930s, however, that Subramanyan Chandrasekhar suggested a mechanism through which such a star might form, and even then he was ridiculed by his peers. But the concept slowly gained ground, and in the late 1960s the first x-ray telescope in space pinpointed the first black hole to be discovered in orbit around a normal star.
A black hole seems to defy notions of common sense and even of normal physics. Light, information and travellers would have no escape from its gravity. At its heart, matter and even space and time would be squashed out of existence. Yet there is a small theoretical chance that someone entering a spinning black hole might survive to emerge in another universe.
Readers are Timothy West, Robin Sebastian, Julian Rhind-Tutt and John Palmer.
TUE 14:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5lv0)
Henry James - The Aspern Papers
Episode 7
The final episode of The Aspern Papers by Henry James, read by Samuel West.
After all his scheming to obtain Jeffrey Aspern's letters to Juliana Bordereau, the obsessive collector is tantalizingly close to them but cannot feel confident of possessing them. He knows where they are in the house, he knows that Juliana has not long to live. It has now become a matter of ensuring the old lady doesn't destroy the papers before she dies. His one hope is the co-operation of the loveless Miss Tina.
Abridged and produced by Christine Hall.
TUE 14:45 Book of the Week (b014m7t5)
Tim Jeal - Explorers of the Nile
Episode 2
Burton and Speke are searching for the source of the Nile. But with Burton too ill to travel, Speke goes it alone
Nothing obsessed explorers of the mid-nineteenth century more than the quest to discover the source of the White Nile. It was the planet's most elusive secret, the prize coveted above all others. Between 1856 and 1876, six larger-than-life men and one extraordinary woman accepted the challenge. Showing extreme courage and resilience, Richard Burton, John Hanning Speke, James Augustus Grant, Samuel Baker, Florence von Sass, David Livingstone, and Henry Morton Stanley risked their lives and reputations in the fierce competition.
Award-winning author Tim Jeal deploys fascinating new research to provide a vivid tableau of the unmapped 'Dark Continent', its jungle deprivations, and the courage as well as malicious tactics of the explorers.
Jeal weaves the story with authentic new detail and examines the tragic unintended legacy of the Nile search that still casts a long shadow over the people of Uganda and Sudan.
Tim Jeal is the author of acclaimed biographies of Livingstone, Baden-Powell, and Stanley, each selected as a Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times and the Washington Post. He lives in London.
Reader: Alex Jennings
Abridger: Libby Spurrier
Producer: Joanna Green
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.
TUE 15:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b00b9xgx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
TUE 16:00 The 4 O'Clock Show (b053jbgw)
Lee Evans, Chips and Giant Knitting Needles
Mel Giedroyc hears about the pleasures of a moonlit bike ride, where comedian Lee Evans gets his gags and meets a lady who knits with four-metre long needles.
TUE 17:00 Capital Gains (b007qgnq)
Series 1
Risk Capital
Amateur philosopher, Julius Hutch is looking forward to spending his retirement just "pottering".
But one morning, he wakes early to find that his life is changed forever...
Peter Jones stars as Julius Hutch.
First of two series written by Collin Johnson.
Julius Hutch ...... Peter Jones
Mrs Pauline Tone ...... Celestine Randall
Kate ...... Justine Midda
Sexton Lewis ...... Jeffrey Wickham
News Reader ...... Collin Johnson
Producer: Andy Jordan.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1995.
TUE 17:30 Nineteen Ninety-Eight (b01c6sgt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 18:00 Hidden Treasures (b0075xyh)
Petworth House
Check out your chattels and hang on to your heirlooms!
Lars Tharp chairs the light-hearted Antiques Quiz from some of England's finest country houses.
Starting at Petworth House in West Sussex – there are mystery objects, several hidden treasures from the house itself and valuations.
With Eric Knowles and Bunny Campione.
Producer: Annie Bristow
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1998.
TUE 18:30 How Tickled Am I? (b007k4rl)
Series 2
Al Read
Mark Radcliffe profiles the Salford sausage-maker who became one of BBC radio's most popular comedians, Al Read.
Series exploring some of the North's best-loved and most influential comedians.
Producer: Libby Cross
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2000.
TUE 19:00 Yes Minister (b007jmsk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 19:30 The Ken Dodd Show (b053hndh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 20:00 Wimsey (b007jvmm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 20:30 Erin's Model World (b009rx96)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 21:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm0dy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 today]
TUE 21:15 Drama (b01gvwxt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 today]
TUE 22:00 Trodd en Bratt Say 'Well Done You' (b047c476)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 22:30 I've Never Seen Star Wars (b00hdb84)
Series 2
Arthur Smith
Marcus Brigstocke tries to tempt Arthur to ventures new, but what's new for a man who sang nude in Balham? From February 2009.
TUE 23:00 Delve Special (b007k4fc)
Series 2
The Secret Disservice
David Lander probes MI5 in a tale of dirty tricks, purple herrings and mauve sheep.
Presented by David Lander with assistance from Stephen Fry.
Studio production by Brenda Blethyn, Tony Robinson, Jack Klaff and Stephen Frost.
Dramatic reconstruction by Felicity Montague, Robert Bathurst and Phil Nice.
Researched and compiled by Tony Sarchet.
Editor: Paul Mayhew-Archer
Delve Special ran for four series from 1984 to 1987 and later transferred to TV as: This is David
Lander.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1985.
TUE 23:25 The Comedy Club Interviews (b054tbp2)
From 10pm to midnight, seven days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus 'spirit medium' Ian D Montfort chats to Timandra Harkness.
TUE 23:30 Rudy's Rare Records (b00y2cvn)
Series 3
Redemption Song
Father and son comedy set in the finest old-school record shop in Birmingham.
Thanks to some dodgy paperwork, Adam and Rudy are faced with the prospect of losing the lease on their shop in less than a year. Inspired by Rudy's claim that Bob Marley once cited Rudy's Rare Records as having the best toilet facilities in Birmingham, they take extreme action.
Written by Danny Robins
Produced by Lucy Armitage
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2011.


WEDNESDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2015

WED 00:00 15 Minute Drama (b03h30g6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Tuesday]
WED 00:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c843k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:15 on Tuesday]
WED 00:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5lv0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Tuesday]
WED 00:45 Book of the Week (b014m7t5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:45 on Tuesday]
WED 01:00 Hidden Treasures (b0075xyh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:00 on Tuesday]
WED 01:30 How Tickled Am I? (b007k4rl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:30 on Tuesday]
WED 02:00 Wimsey (b007jvmm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Tuesday]
WED 02:30 Erin's Model World (b009rx96)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b00b9xgx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Tuesday]
WED 04:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm0dy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 on Tuesday]
WED 04:15 Drama (b01gvwxt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 on Tuesday]
WED 05:00 Capital Gains (b007qgnq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 17:00 on Tuesday]
WED 05:30 Nineteen Ninety-Eight (b01c6sgt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Tuesday]
WED 06:00 Wimsey (b007jvmr)
The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club
3. Mr Oliver
Probing the last hours of the life of General Fentiman, Lord Peter Wimsey seeks out his grandson.
Ian Carmichael stars as the aristocratic sleuth.
Dorothy L Sayers' detective mystery dramatised by Chris Miller.
Lord Peter Wimsey …. Ian Carmichael
Robert Fentiman ...... Allan Cuthbertson
George Fentiman ...... Martin Jarvis
Inspector Parker ...... Gabriel Woolf
Mr Murbles ...... John Gabriel
Culyer ...... Blain Fairman
Producer: Simon Brett.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1975.
WED 06:30 Macavity's Not There: TS Eliot in the 21st Century (b00lp043)
TS Eliot may be regarded by some as the most significant poet in the English language over the past 100 years, but how much does he mean to modern readers? As a major project begins to edit everything he wrote, author and critic Michael Alexander explores where Eliot, and poetry in general, stand in national culture.
WED 07:00 Believe It! (b03ktz0f)
Series 2
Victor
Jon Canter's "radiography" of Richard Wilson returns for a second series.
Celebrity autobiographies are everywhere. Richard Wilson has always said he'd never write one. Based on glimmers of truth, Believe It is the hilarious, bizarre, revealing (and, most importantly, untrue) celebrity autobiography of Richard Wilson.
He narrates the series with his characteristic dead-pan delivery, weaving in and out of dramatised scenes from his fictional life-story. He plays a heavily exaggerated version of himself: a Scots actor and national treasure, unmarried, private, passionate about politics, theatre and Manchester United (all true), who's a confidant of the powerful and has survived childhood poverty, a drunken father, years of fruitless grind, too much success, monstrosity, addiction, charity work and fierce rivalry with Sean Connery and Ian McKellan (not true).
The title - in case you hadn't spotted - is an unashamed reference his famous catchphrase.
Written by Jon Canter
Produced and Directed by Clive Brill
A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4.
WED 07:30 Chain Reaction (b052jk2z)
Series 10
Adam Buxton talks to Reece Shearsmith
Comedian, actor, technophile and one half of 'Adam and Joe', Adam Buxton talks to the co-creator and star of The League of Gentlemen, Psychoville and Inside No. 9, Reece Shearsmith.
Chain Reaction is the long running hostless chat show where last week's interviewee becomes this week's interviewer.
Producer: Charlie Perkins
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2015.
WED 08:00 The Navy Lark (b00yzgq5)
Series 2
Cementing Relations
Commander Povey's aghast at news of an Island Draft inspection - sparking trouble for Pertwee.

Starring Leslie Phillips as the Sub-Lieutenant, Jon Pertwee as the Chief Petty Officer, Stephen Murray as Number One, Richard Caldicot as Commander Povey, Ronnie Barker as AS Johnson, Heather Chasen as Heather, Michael Bates as Ginger and Tenniel Evans as Uncle Ebenzer.

The Navy Lark ran for an impressive 13 series on BBC Radio between 1959 and 1976.

Scripted by Lawrie Wyman.

Producer: Alastair Scott Johnston.

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in December 1959.
WED 08:30 I'm Sorry, I'll Read That Again (b00sz54y)
Series 4
Episode 4
Can Tim escape the villains? Will Jo do a love scene with King Harold?
More quick-fire sketches, terrible puns, humorous songs and parodies.
Stars Tim Brooke-Taylor, John Cleese, David Hatch, Jo Kendall and Bill Oddie.
Written by Tim Brooke-Taylor, John Cleese, Graeme Garden, Eric Idle and Bill Oddie. Plus Andy Smith and Don Currell.
Originating from the Cambridge University Footlights revue 'Cambridge Circus', ISIRTA ran for 8 years on BBC Radio and quickly developed a cult following.
Music and songs by Dave Lee and Bill Oddie.
Producer: Humphrey Barclay
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in October 1966.
WED 09:00 So Wrong It's Right (b00zm31y)
Series 2
Episode 3
Charlie Brooker hosts the new comedy panel show that revels in glorious failure. He is joined by comedians Lee Mack, Shappi Khorsandi and David Schneider in a comedy contest to give the wrongest answer to each of Charlie's challenges.
Amongst the questions Charlie throws at his guests in this episode is 'what's the worst thing you've done in the pursuit of romance'. The panel's pitches - Lee Mack's first kiss whilst playing 'spin the bottle', Shappi's ill-fated attempts to impress a boy by showing how fast she can walk, and David's unfortunate heroics at the local swimming pool - are all subjected to Charlie's unique comic interrogation.
Added to this are the panel's hilariously terrible ideas for a new museum and their nominations for the worst irritants of modern life...
The host of So Wrong It's Right, Charlie Brooker, also presents BBC4's award-winning series Newswipe and You Have Been Watching on Channel 4 - plus writing for The Guardian. He won Best Newcomer at the British Comedy Awards 2009 and Columnist of the Year at the 2009 British Press Awards for his column.
Produced by Aled Evans
A Zeppotron Production for BBC Radio 4.
WED 09:30 Spread a Little Happiness (b00zf5sr)
Series 2
Fight the Good Fight, But Not in the Shop!
A quiet Sunday for Hope and Carrie painting the shop becomes quite exciting after all. Debra Stevenson and Nicola Duffet star in John Godber and Jane Thornton's comedy set in a sandwich bar in Beverley, near Hull.
Cast:
Hope ..... Debra Stevenson
Maria ..... Nicola Duffett
Dave ..... Neil Dudgeon
Mam ..... Anne Reid
Ray ..... Shaun Prendergast
Gavin ...... Ralph Brown
Jenny ..... Sarah Moyle
Anita ..... Sherry Baines
Carrie ..... Elizabeth Godber
Eve ..... Helen Longworth
Bob ...... Ben Crowe
Monty ..... Stephen Critchlow
Blinds man ..... James Weaver
'Spread A Little Happiness' is sung by Debra Stevenson.
Producer/Director: Chris Wallis
An Autolycus production for BBC Radio 4.
WED 10:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b007jtvy)
The Saint Plays With Fire
Simon Templar uncovers a fascist conspiracy to seize power in France.
First published in 1938 under the title 'Prelude for War' - one of a long series of novels featuring Leslie Charteris's creation Simon Templar, alias "The Saint".
Simon Templar …. Paul Rhys
Patricia Holm …. Kim Thomson
Valerie …. Fiona Fullerton
Inspector Claude Eustace Teal/Usher …. John Baddeley
Peter Quentin …. Jonathan Keeble
Fairweather …. John Hartley
Luker …. Geoffrey Whitehead
General Sangore …. John Turner
Orace …. John Hollis
Knightley/Foreman …. Andrew Branch
Marteau/Constable/Pietri/Sergeant …. Roger May
Coroner/Bravache …. David Collings
Bream/Senappe …. David Timson
Dramatised for radio by Neville Teller.
Director: Matthew Walters
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1995.
WED 11:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm20l)
The Violet Car
A nurse is summoned to a farm to help with an unusual case, and finds a couple slowly going mad. Read by Charlotte Emmerson.
WED 11:15 Benjamin Zephaniah - Listen to Your Parents (b0080sf7)
Living with his violent dad, 10-year-old Mark captures his thoughts on life and football in simple poems. Stars James Smith.
WED 12:00 The Navy Lark (b00yzgq5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 12:30 I'm Sorry, I'll Read That Again (b00sz54y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 13:00 Wimsey (b007jvmr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 13:30 Macavity's Not There: TS Eliot in the 21st Century (b00lp043)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 14:00 15 Minute Drama (b03h3l0t)
Children in Need: Holding On to You
Episode 3
D.L. Weller's powerful drama about child sexual exploitation and grooming.
Jo is desperately worried about her fourteen year old daughter Holly who she feels she is losing to something she does not understand and cannot control. To Holly it seems the only person she can turn to is her boyfriend Jay. As Jay's hold on Holly gets stronger will anyone be able to help her?
D.L. Weller has done extensive research with victims and their families and professionals working in child protection and safeguarding. Holding On To You, although fictional, is informed and inspired by these interviews. It explores a problem thought to affect tens of thousands of children, of all backgrounds, yet that still remains largely hidden and apparently unaddressed in many regions.
WED 14:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c6wpd)
A Violent Universe
Heather Couper presents a narrative history of astronomy.
Only in the last 50 years have telescopes been powerful enough to study distant galaxies beyond our Milky Way in much detail. Cygnus A first came to astronomers' attention as a radio source, the second strongest in the sky. Optical astronomers later realised that it was a pair of galaxies colliding with one another. It is a colossal 700 million light years away, making its radio output a million times more powerful than that of our Milky Way. Energetic reactions were taking place in its core, shooting out great jets of high energy particles emitting radio waves.
The next breakthrough came from an even more distant object over 2 billion light years away. At its heart was something 40 times more luminous than a normal galaxy yet no bigger than the solar system. These mysterious powerhouses were named quasi-stellar radio sources, now abbreviated to quasars. The consensus now is that they are massive black holes, millions or even billions of times the mass of our Sun, gobbling stars and gas in the centres of galaxies.
Readers are Timothy West, Robin Sebastian, Julian Rhind-Tutt and John Palmer.
WED 14:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5m0b)
A Perpetual Love Affair
Byron in Venice
Henry James described his relationship with Venice as "a perpetual love affair," and in Bryon's case this is very apt. Byron arrived in Venice in 1816, following great scandal in England. He had not meant to stay long but soon fell in love - notably with the wife of his landlord - and his letters chronicle the development both of this affair and of his eccentric decision to learn Armenian.
This selection of Byron's letters is read by Mark Meadows.
Abridged and produced in Bristol by Christine Hall.
WED 14:45 Book of the Week (b014m7ty)
Tim Jeal - Explorers of the Nile
Episode 3
Samuel Baker and his mistress, Florence, leave Gondokoro, in search of Lake Albert
Nothing obsessed explorers of the mid-nineteenth century more than the quest to discover the source of the White Nile. It was the planet's most elusive secret, the prize coveted above all others. Between 1856 and 1876, six larger-than-life men and one extraordinary woman accepted the challenge. Showing extreme courage and resilience, Richard Burton, John Hanning Speke, James Augustus Grant, Samuel Baker, Florence von Sass, David Livingstone, and Henry Morton Stanley risked their lives and reputations in the fierce competition.
Award-winning author Tim Jeal deploys fascinating new research to provide a vivid tableau of the unmapped 'Dark Continent', its jungle deprivations, and the courage as well as malicious tactics of the explorers.
Jeal weaves the story with authentic new detail and examines the tragic unintended legacy of the Nile search that still casts a long shadow over the people of Uganda and Sudan.
Tim Jeal is the author of acclaimed biographies of Livingstone, Baden-Powell, and Stanley, each selected as a Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times and the Washington Post. He lives in London.
Reader: Alex Jennings
Abridger: Libby Spurrier
Producer: Joanna Green
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.
WED 15:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b007jtvy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
WED 16:00 The 4 O'Clock Show (b053lmqs)
Sherlock Holmes, Nursery Rhymes and Sheila Ravenscroft
Mel Giedroyc examines our love of nursery rhymes, Philip Ardagh takes a tour of a special Sherlock Holmes exhibition and there's the next part of Roald Dahl's tale The Witches.
WED 17:00 Flying the Flag (b007jx5g)
Series 1
Favours
In which the repair of the Embassy typewriter plays a part in the mating of seals, the extermination of bugs, and the silencing of little birds.
Alex Shearer's Eastern bloc embassy sitcom.
Starring Dinsdale Landen as HM Ambassador Mr Mackenzie, Peter Acre as William Frost, Moir Leslie as Helen Waterson, Milton Johns as Brown, Stuart Organ as Bryant and Christopher Benjamin as the Colonel
Producer: Pete Atkin
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1987.
WED 17:30 Believe It! (b03ktz0f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 18:00 So Wrong It's Right (b00zm31y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
WED 18:30 Off the Page (b0076k92)
Idealism
Matthew Parris and writers Peter Flannery, Mimi Khalvati and Jemma Kennedy discuss hope versus cynicism.
In each programme, Matthew Parris introduces a group of writers of fact and fiction: new talent and established names. In the context of a discussion of one of the ideas and pre-occupations of our times, each presents a piece on this week's topic.
The best new writing and the freshest conversation from 2004.
WED 19:00 The Navy Lark (b00yzgq5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 19:30 I'm Sorry, I'll Read That Again (b00sz54y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 20:00 Wimsey (b007jvmr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 20:30 Macavity's Not There: TS Eliot in the 21st Century (b00lp043)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 21:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm20l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 today]
WED 21:15 Benjamin Zephaniah - Listen to Your Parents (b0080sf7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 today]
WED 22:00 Chain Reaction (b052jk2z)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 22:30 Count Arthur Strong's Radio Show! (b00cv179)
Series 2
Just a Minute
After arguing all day, the former variety star sparks confusion when he arrives at the BBC. Stars Steve Delaney. From March 2007.
WED 23:00 Down the Line (b00qyqdh)
Series 1
Equality and Why Men Won't Go to the Doctors
Award-winning spoof phone-in show, with talk radio host Gary Bellamy. Stars Rhys Thomas and Paul Whitehouse. From May 2006.
WED 23:30 The Penny Dreadfuls (b00gpbcj)
The Brothers Faversham
Horatius Faversham
The tale of Victorian Britain's most decorated soldier - Horatius Faversham.
The comedy sketch trio present swashbuckling tales of four brothers born into the same privileged aristocratic family - Horatius, Theseus, Leonidas and Augustus,
Written by and starring Humphrey Ker, David Reed and Thom Tuck.
Alexandra Faversham ... Ingrid Oliver
Narrator... Miles Jupp.
Producer: Julia McKenzie
Made for BBC Radio 7 and first broadcast in January 2008.


THURSDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2015

THU 00:00 15 Minute Drama (b03h3l0t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Wednesday]
THU 00:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c6wpd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:15 on Wednesday]
THU 00:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5m0b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Wednesday]
THU 00:45 Book of the Week (b014m7ty)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:45 on Wednesday]
THU 01:00 So Wrong It's Right (b00zm31y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:30 Off the Page (b0076k92)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:30 on Wednesday]
THU 02:00 Wimsey (b007jvmr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Wednesday]
THU 02:30 Macavity's Not There: TS Eliot in the 21st Century (b00lp043)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:00 Leslie Charteris - The Saint (b007jtvy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Wednesday]
THU 04:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm20l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 on Wednesday]
THU 04:15 Benjamin Zephaniah - Listen to Your Parents (b0080sf7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 on Wednesday]
THU 05:00 Flying the Flag (b007jx5g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 17:00 on Wednesday]
THU 05:30 Believe It! (b03ktz0f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Wednesday]
THU 06:00 Wimsey (b007jvmz)
The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club
4. Exhumation
Lord Peter Wimsey awaits Doctor Horner's verdict.
At a party thrown by pal Margery, the upper class sleuth does a little more digging.
Ian Carmichael stars as the aristocratic sleuth.
Dorothy L Sayers' detective mystery dramatised by Chris Miller.
Lord Peter Wimsey …. Ian Carmichael
Robert Fentiman ...... Allan Cuthbertson
Inspector Parker ...... Gabriel Woolf
Mr Murbles ...... John Gabriel
Dr Horner ...... Blain Fairman
Dr Penberthy ...... Christopher Emmett
Marjorie Phelps ...... Rosalind Adams
Mrs Rushworth ...... Olwen Griffiths
Producer: Simon Brett
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1975.
THU 06:30 I Have Heard the Mermaids Singing (b00n0wyy)
Janet Ellis heads to Cornwall, Preston and Macclesfield to speak to authors, storytellers and academics about the power of the mermaid image and its origins.
She hears from the man who came up with the Starbucks logo, perhaps the most prevalent mermaid in modern culture, and finds out the identity of the 'girl next door' on whom it was based. Janet also trawls through the myriad mermaid references in art and literature, from Robert Graves and TS Eliot to the Pre-Raphaelites, who used the mermaid as a powerful image of voluptuous sexuality.
The legend of the mermaid is said to date back to the days when sailors far from home would mistake sea mammals like manatees and dugongs for semi-human creatures. Since the days of Homer, the image of the mysterious female luring sailors to their deaths has remained extremely powerful in the popular imagination, and has survived numerous reinventions over the centuries. With the help of the likes of Hans Christian Andersen and Walt Disney, mermaids have become as much a mainstay of modern childhood as pirates and princesses.
THU 07:00 The Pickerskill Reports (b012r6tw)
Series 2
Paul Whitney Beauchamp
Retired English Master Dr Henry Pickerskill recalls a bullied day boy and his mother. Stars Ian McDiarmid. From July 2011.
THU 07:30 Brian Gulliver's Travels (b01m5n7s)
Series 2
Gravinia and Plumpf
Brian Gulliver, a seasoned presenter of travel documentaries, finds himself in a hospital's secure unit after claiming to have experienced a succession of bizarre adventures.
More memories as Brian relives his adventures in Gravinia, a land where the military are revered above everything.
Brian Gulliver ..... Neil Pearson
Rachel Gulliver..... Mariah Gale
Fillick ..... Marcus Brigstocke
Chaplain ..... Adrian Scarborough
Guest ..... Tracy Wiles
Host..... Patrick Brennan
Stegga ..... Barunka O'Shaughnessy
Barista..... Harry Livingstone
Dragit ..... Nick Mohammed
Glugas Hold ..... Dan Tetsell
Producer: Steven Canny
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2012.
THU 08:00 Brothers in Law (b053mjk2)
Series 1
Counsel's Opinion
Can rookie barrister Roger Thursby stop a leak of confidential information?
Starring Richard Briers as Roger Thursby, Richard Waring as Henry Blagrove and Ann Davies as Sally Mannering.
Adapted for radio by Richard Waring from the BBC TV scripts.
Restored from BBC Transcription Service tapes - originally edited for sale abroad.
Published in 1955, Henry Cecil's comic legal novel Brothers in Law was adapted first for TV in 1962 by Frank Muir and Denis Norden. It provided the first regular starring role for Richard Briers, who later reprised his role of the idealistic young lawyer Roger Thursby for BBC Radio between 1970 and 1972.
Produced by David Hatch.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1970.
THU 08:30 Not in Front of the Children (b053mk6b)
Series 1
Survival
A spate of pet deaths causes consternation for the Corner family.
Starring Wendy Craig and Francis Matthew.
The comedy mishaps of the Corner family - Jennifer and Henry and their three kids Trudi, Amanda and Robin.
Four series were first shown on BBC TV from 1967 to 1970. Richard Waring adapted his own scripts for this radio version, now fully restored from the original reel-to-reel tapes. Wendy Craig won a Best Actress BAFTA award for the TV version of Not in Front of the Children in 1969.
Jennifer Corner ...... Wendy Craig
Henry Corner ...... Francis Matthews
Mary ...... Charlotte Mitchell
Trudi ...... Roberta Tovey
Robin ...... Hugo Keith-Johnston
Amanda ...... Jill Riddick
Music by Ronnie Hazlehurst
Producer: Trafford Whitelock.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1969.
THU 09:00 The Personality Test (b007vt9q)
Series 3
Eve Pollard
All about Eve – writer and ex-newspaper editor Eve Pollard is in the hot seat posing questions all about her.
Tackling the ultra-personal quiz are Sue Perkins, Caroline Quinlan, Robin Ince and Will Smith.
Comedy quiz presented by a new guest host every show. All the questions are about them. .
Script by Simon Littlefield and Kieron Quirke.
Devised and produced by Aled Evans.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2007.
THU 09:30 House on Fire (b0138xn0)
Series 2
Quarantine
The return of the comedy radio series written by Dan Hine and Chris Sussman.
In her job as legal secretary, Vicky rarely finds herself in a courtroom. That is - until she decides to defend her father on a charge of International War crimes.
Meanwhile, Matt's parents have decided to go on a world tour just as Matt contracts a horrible flu. Desperate to avoid catching anything from Matt, Vicky agrees to a number of disturbing household duties - just as long as he agrees to never set foot outside his room.
Cast:
Vicky ..... Emma Pierson
Matt ..... Jody Latham
Colonel Bill ..... Rupert Vansittart
Peter ..... Philip Jackson
Julie ..... Janine Duvitski
Gerald ..... Clive Brill
Sir Nicholas ..... Nick Sampson
Additional characters played by Fergus Craig and Colin Hoult
Producer: Clive Brill
A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4.
THU 10:00 Nan Woodhouse (b04v2w8w)
Judith Shakespeare
Playwright William Shakespeare's younger daughter Judith, feels restless in the confined world of Stratford-upon-Avon and yearns to be a part of her father's more exciting life.
Judith Shakespeare..............................Amanda Root
William Shakespeare...........................Michael Pennington
Henry, Earl of Southampton.............Anton Lesser
Ben.............................................................Andrew Wincott
Anne..........................................................Melinda Walker
Hamnet.....................................................Thomas Connor
Carias.........................................................Stephen Critchlow
Landlady...................................................Ann Beach
Chambermaid.........................................Colleen Prendergast
Wise woman and steward's wife.....Jillie Meers
Written by Nan Woodhouse
Director: Tracey Neale
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1996.
THU 11:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm5jb)
Man-Size in Marble
Newlyweds find the cottage of their dreams, but the previous evil (and dead) owners threaten to return. Read by Harry Hadden-Paton.
THU 11:15 Drama (b01jwk66)
Ben Lewis - Tiny
This is the story of a legend in the making.
A nervous young man lives at the dead end of a dead-end town. On his eighteenth birthday he comes into his inheritance. With a little help from an old teacher, he finds it equips him to broadcast over the internet.
Living in a house where rolling news is a constant presence, he does what comes naturally - he fires up his computer and presents the news. But his news is different. It puts a spring in its audience's step. That is, until his grandma starts to grow suspicious about what this boy is getting up to, nightly in his bedroom, and tries to put a stop to the broadcasts completely.
A quirky comedy about a teenager who becomes an internet phenomenon by Ben Lewis.
THU 12:00 Brothers in Law (b053mjk2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 12:30 Not in Front of the Children (b053mk6b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 13:00 Wimsey (b007jvmz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 13:30 I Have Heard the Mermaids Singing (b00n0wyy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 14:00 15 Minute Drama (b03h6pxc)
Children in Need: Holding On to You
Episode 4
D.L. Weller's powerful drama about child sexual exploitation and grooming.
As the pressure on Holly escalates she tries to stand up to Jay but when Jay won't take no for an answer will Holly seek help?
D.L. Weller has done extensive research with victims and their families and professionals working in child protection and safeguarding. Holding On To You, although fictional, is informed and inspired by these interviews. It explores a problem thought to affect tens of thousands of children, of all backgrounds, yet that still remains largely hidden and apparently unaddressed in many regions.
THU 14:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c76bn)
The Dark Side of the Cosmos
Heather Couper presents a narrative history of astronomy.
In 1933, Fritz Zwicky realised that a huge cluster of galaxies is being held together by something more powerful than the gravitational pull of the visible matter. In the 1960s, Vera Rubin was coming to the same conclusion from studying the rotation of stars within individual galaxies. The conclusion was inescapable; all the visible stars and gas comprise a mere fraction of the total matter in the universe. Dark matter exists, although nobody knows what it is.
The question remains unanswered, though now there are many theories. It is hoped that elaborate experiments in particle accelerators may cast some light on the subject.
Readers are Timothy West, Robin Sebastian, Julian Rhind-Tutt and John Palmer.
THU 14:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5n6p)
A Perpetual Love Affair
Henry James' Venice
Henry James considered his relationship with Venice "a perpetual love affair."
Selina Cadell reads a selection of James's writing about the city he loved.
Abridged and produced by Christine Hall.
THU 14:45 Book of the Week (b014m912)
Tim Jeal - Explorers of the Nile
Episode 4
Following in the footsteps of Burton, Speke and Baker, Dr Livingstone aims to solve the Nile mystery once and for all.
Nothing obsessed explorers of the mid-nineteenth century more than the quest to discover the source of the White Nile. It was the planet's most elusive secret, the prize coveted above all others. Between 1856 and 1876, six larger-than-life men and one extraordinary woman accepted the challenge. Showing extreme courage and resilience, Richard Burton, John Hanning Speke, James Augustus Grant, Samuel Baker, Florence von Sass, David Livingstone, and Henry Morton Stanley risked their lives and reputations in the fierce competition.
Award-winning author Tim Jeal deploys fascinating new research to provide a vivid tableau of the unmapped 'Dark Continent', its jungle deprivations, and the courage as well as malicious tactics of the explorers.
Jeal weaves the story with authentic new detail and examines the tragic unintended legacy of the Nile search that still casts a long shadow over the people of Uganda and Sudan.
Tim Jeal is the author of acclaimed biographies of Livingstone, Baden-Powell, and Stanley, each selected as a Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times and the Washington Post. He lives in London.
Reader: Alex Jennings
Abridger: Libby Spurrier
Producer: Joanna Green
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.
THU 15:00 Nan Woodhouse (b04v2w8w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
THU 16:00 The 4 O'Clock Show (b053mzhm)
Jamie Oliver, Beekeeping and the Blind Stuntman
Mel Giedroyc hears about the joy of beekeeping, blind daredevil Deano Dunbar discusses his passion for thrill-seeking and Jamie Oliver explains where his love of food comes from.
THU 17:00 No Commitments (b00sx228)
Series 4
Faith, Hope and Very Little Charity
Charlotte and Emily find religion, but Victoria loses her patience. Stars Rosemary Leach and Celia Imrie. From August 1996.
THU 17:30 The Pickerskill Reports (b012r6tw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 18:00 The Personality Test (b007vt9q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
THU 18:30 Great Lives (b0076hh1)
Sarah Bernhardt
Comedienne Jenny Eclair chooses one of the first acting superstars, Sarah Bernhardt. With Humphrey Carpenter.
The biographical series in which a distinguished guest chooses someone who's inspired their life. Will their hero stand up to intensive scrutiny and merit the description of having led a great life? From 2003.
THU 19:00 Brothers in Law (b053mjk2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 19:30 Not in Front of the Children (b053mk6b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 20:00 Wimsey (b007jvmz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 20:30 I Have Heard the Mermaids Singing (b00n0wyy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 21:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm5jb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 today]
THU 21:15 Drama (b01jwk66)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 today]
THU 22:00 Brian Gulliver's Travels (b01m5n7s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 22:30 Newsjack (b053n0y9)
Series 12
Episode 1
This week's stories lovingly bashed, mashed and moulded into sketches, one-liners and vox-pops by the public. Trying to make sense of it all is our host, Nish Kumar.
Nish is joined this week by Jess Ransom, Mike Wozniak and Ellie White.
THU 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (b054bsc5)
The best in contemporary comedy. Tonight, 'spirit medium' Ian D Montfort chats to Professor Chris French.
THU 23:00 Old Harry's Game (b00hv1f4)
Series 7
Episode 3
The presence of a baby is turning the residents of Hell all soft - Scumspawn becomes the first demon to wear a papoose, and Satan tries to locate "Satan Junior's" real family.
Stars Andy Hamilton as Satan, Annette Crosbie as Edith, Robert Duncan as Scumspawn and Jimmy Mulville as Thomas.
Additional roles played by Michael Fenton Stevens and Philip Pope.
Written by Andy Hamilton.
Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2009.
THU 23:30 Hut 33 (b00lmdjr)
Series 1
Baghdad
Charles and Archie jump at the chance of going to Iraq, but the posting turns out not to be as cushy as it first seemed.
James Cary's sitcom set in Bletchley Park in 1941.
Three code-breakers are forced to share a draughty wooden hut, as they try to break German ciphers. Unfortunately, they hate each other.
Charles …. Robert Bathurst
Archie …. Tom Goodman-Hill
Minka …. Olivia Colman
Gordon …. Fergus Craig
Mrs Best …. Lill Roughley
Joshua …. Alex MacQueen
Written by James Cary.
Producer: Adam Bromley
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2007.


FRIDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2015

FRI 00:00 15 Minute Drama (b03h6pxc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Thursday]
FRI 00:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c76bn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:15 on Thursday]
FRI 00:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5n6p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Thursday]
FRI 00:45 Book of the Week (b014m912)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:45 on Thursday]
FRI 01:00 The Personality Test (b007vt9q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Thursday]
FRI 01:30 Great Lives (b0076hh1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 18:30 on Thursday]
FRI 02:00 Wimsey (b007jvmz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Thursday]
FRI 02:30 I Have Heard the Mermaids Singing (b00n0wyy)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:00 Nan Woodhouse (b04v2w8w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Thursday]
FRI 04:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nm5jb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 on Thursday]
FRI 04:15 Drama (b01jwk66)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 on Thursday]
FRI 05:00 No Commitments (b00sx228)
[Repeat of broadcast at 17:00 on Thursday]
FRI 05:30 The Pickerskill Reports (b012r6tw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Thursday]
FRI 06:00 Wimsey (b007jvn1)
The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club
5. At Lady Dormer's
Discovering General Fentiman was poisoned, Lord Peter Wimsey decides to probe Miss Dorland's hobby.
Ian Carmichael stars as the aristocratic sleuth.
Dorothy L Sayers' detective mystery dramatised by Chris Miller.
Lord Peter Wimsey …. Ian Carmichael
Robert Fentiman ...... Allan Cuthbertson
Inspector Parker ...... Gabriel Woolf
Sheila Fentiman ...... Frances Jeater
Ann Dorland ...... Amanda Reiss
Mrs Munns ...... Ysanne Churchman
Nellie ...... Judy Bridgland
Mr Munns ...... Clifford Norgate.
Producer: Simon Brett
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1975.
FRI 06:30 Bob Marley: The Chrysler Year (b00p3p56)
Lifelong reggae fan Jonathan Charles traces the missing year when Bob Marley dropped out of the Jamaican music scene and spent a year driving a forklift truck in the Chrysler car factory in Wilmington, Delaware.
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 07:00 Living with the Enemy (b00771ft)
Episode 3
Gyles persuades Nick to help him seek revenge on his estranged wife.
Sitcom about a Tory MP-turned-media celebrity and a comedian-turned-holistic therapist.
Written by and starring Nick Revell and Gyles Brandreth
Gyles Brandon ...... Gyles Brandreth
Nick Reynolds ...... Nick Revell
Sophie Okuyu ...... Guqu Mbatha-Raw
Mrs Woodman ...... Prunella Scales
Mr Woodman ...... Timothy West
Producer: Ed Morrish
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2006.
FRI 07:30 Gloomsbury (b01ngrwf)
Series 1
A Desperate Attempt to Have Fun
The writer Vera Sackcloth-Vest has to tear herself away from her beloved garden just at the moment when her mammillarias are about to open.
She and her husband Henry have been summoned to London by her bosom chum, the novelist Ginny Fox. Ginny and her husband Lionel have realized that they have never had what is known as "fun" and they beg Vera and Henry to provide it.
Simultaneously, Vera's ardent acolyte Venus Traduces asks Vera to educate her, so she can be taken seriously by the Gloomsbury set. Exhausted by her efforts to educate and entertain, and haunted by the fear that her beloved Henry will soon be posted to the Balkans, Vera endures an emotional crisis at a picnic in Kensington Gardens.
Rescue arrives unexpectedly, and she escapes back to her beloved Sizzlinghurst, just as her mammillarias lift their saucy little faces to the sun.
Cast:
Vera Sackcloth-Vest ..... Miriam Margolyes
Henry Mickleton ..... Jonathan Coy
Venus Traduces ..... Morwenna Banks
Mrs Ginny Fox ..... Alison Steadman
Lionel Fox ..... Nigel Planer
Produced by Jamie Rix
A Little Brother production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 08:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b00j1wj3)
Series 3
The Pet Dog
The lad buys Andree a puppy for her birthday, but to his alarm - it won't stop growing!
Starring Tony Hancock.
With Bill Kerr, Sidney James, Andree Melly and Kenneth Williams.
Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.
Theme and incidental music composed by Wally Stott. Recorded by the BBC Revue Orchestra conducted by Harry Rabinowitz.
Producer: Dennis Main Wilson
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in October 1955.
FRI 08:30 The Men from the Ministry (b0116gvp)
We All Make Mistakes
Sir Gregory decides it's time to take action over the bumbling bureaucrats...
A weekly tribute to all those who work in government departments.
Stars Richard Murdoch and Deryck Guyler. With Norma Ronald, Ronald Baddiley and John Graham.
Written by Edward Taylor and John Graham.
'The Men from the Ministry' ran for 14 series between 1962 and 1977. Deryck Guyler replaced Wilfrid Hyde-White from 1966. Sadly many episodes didn't survive in the archive, however the BBC's Transcription Service re-recorded 14 shows in 1980 - never broadcast in the UK, until the arrival of BBC Radio 4 Extra.
Producer: Edward Taylor
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 4 in August 1971.
FRI 09:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b015mzzd)
Series 4
Linehan, Sutherland, Scales
Hosted by the Professor of Ignorance from the University of Buckingham John Lloyd C.B.E. and the intensely curious comedian Dave Gorman.
This week's guests:
Coming from a long line of vicars, Robin Ince is the UK's most rational comedian, and he tests his reason to the limit once every year by performing at least four shows a day at the Edinburgh fringe. His infamous Bad Book Club, which in which he invites his fellow comedians to celebrate awful literature, has become an institution, and his massive Christmas show Nine Lessons and Carols For Godless People is now a huge event, featuring the likes of Jarvis Cocker, Dara O Briain and Richard Dawkins.
Roger Highfield is a scientist, science author and the editor of New Scientist, but if you met him, you wouldn't immediately guess that science is his thing. He's jolly and worldly and has the hearty laugh of a comic supervillain. He first made his name as a scientist be being the first person ever to bounce a neutron off a soap bubble. Roger has written and co-written 9 best-selling science books, including a book on the hows and whys of Dolly the sheep, an explanation of the science of Harry Potter and a biography of Einstein.
Gareth Edwards is a filmmaker whose success and methods of achieving it have sent ripples of fear through the studios of Hollywood. His movie Monsters is an apocalyptic blockbuster which he made for one five hundredth of the budget for Avatar by shooting with a small, mobile team, hiring non-actors on the spot and using dazzling-but-cheap CGI effects.
FRI 09:30 The Cavity Within (b007709x)
Episode 1
Marty has finally settled on a life in dentistry, like his father and grandfather before him. But the dysfunctional practice he's joined seems to have its own cavity within. Will he have the patients?
Written by Jim Poyser
Starring Chris O'Dowd as Marty, Jeff Rawle as Pete, Mark Straker as Tim, Christine Kavanagh as Anna, John Rowe as Mr Holmes, Emma Noakes as Sarah, Tracy Wiles as Mum and Sam Dale as Mr Burgess.
Director: Peter Kavanagh
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2006.
FRI 10:00 Dave Sheasby - Donkeys Led By Lions (b00vy71t)
Teacher Arthur Willis battles his conscience over fighting in the Great War, with devastating consequences. Stars Ian Dunn.
FRI 11:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nmjlq)
The Ebony Frame
A man inherits a property where he discovers a portrait of a woman that will change his life forever. Read by Anton Lesser.
FRI 11:15 Katie Hims - Lila (b007632j)
Lila has lost her husband. Only his tactless brothers are left. Will life be the same after Ron's death? Starring Denise Black.
FRI 12:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b00j1wj3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 12:30 The Men from the Ministry (b0116gvp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 13:00 Wimsey (b007jvn1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 13:30 Bob Marley: The Chrysler Year (b00p3p56)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 14:00 15 Minute Drama (b03h7grn)
Children in Need: Holding On to You
Episode 5
D.L. Weller's powerful drama about child sexual exploitation and grooming.
As Holly is helped to come to terms with the truth, she faces a difficult decision about Jay.
D.L. Weller has done extensive research with victims and their families and professionals working in child protection and safeguarding. Holding On To You, although fictional, is informed and inspired by these interviews. It explores a problem thought to affect tens of thousands of children, of all backgrounds, yet that still remains largely hidden and apparently unaddressed in many regions.
FRI 14:15 Cosmic Quest (b00c6wpj)
Design or Accident - Why Me?
Heather Couper presents a narrative history of astronomy.
Given all that we now know about the formation of stars and planets and the evolution of life on Earth, it might seem as if the mystery is being taken out of the universe. However, every solution seems to throw up a deeper mystery. Within our understanding of physics, there are no known fundamental reasons for much of the astronomical phenomena that we observe. Of course, we can only observe a universe that supports life. This is known as the anthropic principle and has far-reaching implications. Some argue that it makes the universe very special, as if we were meant to be, while others suggest that we inhabit one of the few bio-friendly corners in an almost infinite multiverse of possibilities.
Readers are Timothy West, Robin Sebastian, Julian Rhind-Tutt and John Palmer.
FRI 14:30 Book at Bedtime (b00s5ncd)
A Perpetual Love Affair
Jan Morris's Venice
Henry James felt that the inevitable relationship with Venice was "a perpetual love affair", and certainly many writers have found that to be true.
In today's piece about the city, travel writer Jan Morris notes particularly the children of Venice - and the cats. The reader is Selina Cadell, and the programme is abridged and produced by Christine Hall.
FRI 14:45 Book of the Week (b014m93d)
Tim Jeal - Explorers of the Nile
Episode 5
Having found Dr Livingstone, Stanley is determined to continue the doctor's quest to find the source of the Nile
Nothing obsessed explorers of the mid-nineteenth century more than the quest to discover the source of the White Nile. It was the planet's most elusive secret, the prize coveted above all others. Between 1856 and 1876, six larger-than-life men and one extraordinary woman accepted the challenge. Showing extreme courage and resilience, Richard Burton, John Hanning Speke, James Augustus Grant, Samuel Baker, Florence von Sass, David Livingstone, and Henry Morton Stanley risked their lives and reputations in the fierce competition.
Award-winning author Tim Jeal deploys fascinating new research to provide a vivid tableau of the unmapped 'Dark Continent', its jungle deprivations, and the courage as well as malicious tactics of the explorers.
Jeal weaves the story with authentic new detail and examines the tragic unintended legacy of the Nile search that still casts a long shadow over the people of Uganda and Sudan.
Tim Jeal is the author of acclaimed biographies of Livingstone, Baden-Powell, and Stanley, each selected as a Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times and the Washington Post. He lives in London.
Reader: Alex Jennings
Abridger: Libby Spurrier
Producer: Joanna Green
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.
FRI 15:00 Dave Sheasby - Donkeys Led By Lions (b00vy71t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
FRI 16:00 The 4 O'Clock Show (b053q6rn)
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Sword Swallowing and Mice
Mel Giedroyc explores why mice terrify some of us, meets the man who tried to right the Leaning Tower of Pisa and learns about the perils of sword swallowing.
FRI 17:00 Beachcomber... By the Way (b0080jmp)
Series 1
Episode 1
Dr Strabismus sets a trap for a mouse, Colonel Wretch gets a visit from Hercules the Mighty, and Mr Justice Cocklecarrot encounters the notorious 12 red-bearded dwarfs for the first time.
Richard Ingrams, John Wells, John Sessions and Patricia Routledge recreate the world of the JB Morton.
Running in the Daily Express from 1924 to 1975 – JB Morton’s surreally comic ‘Beachcomber’ column paved the way for a great deal of modern humour.
Adapted by Michael Barfield with Richard Ingrams.
Announcer: Brian Perkins
Producer: Harry Thompson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1989.
FRI 17:30 Living with the Enemy (b00771ft)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 18:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b015mzzd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
FRI 18:30 My Life in Five Books (b012lnm1)
Series 2
Joanne Harris
Joanna Harris has written eleven novels including Chocolat which was made into an Oscar-nominated film starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp.
Her most recent book, Blueeyedboy has been recently published in paperback.
She picks five books that are important in her life and explains to Stuart Cosgrove how she allows her daughter to read books that were banned in her young life. Joanne explains how she draws inspiration for her own writing and how she was pleased with the film adaptation of her most famous novel.
Joanne's five books:
1: GORMENGHAST by Mervyn Peake
2: SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES by Ray Bradbury
3: PERFUMES by Luca Turin.
4: LES MISERABLES by Victor Hugo
5: SANDMAN SERIES by Neil Gaiman.
First broadcast on BBC Scotland in 2011.
FRI 19:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b00j1wj3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 19:30 The Men from the Ministry (b0116gvp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 20:00 Wimsey (b007jvn1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 20:30 Bob Marley: The Chrysler Year (b00p3p56)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 21:00 Ghost Stories of E Nesbit (b01nmjlq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:00 today]
FRI 21:15 Katie Hims - Lila (b007632j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 11:15 today]
FRI 22:00 Gloomsbury (b01ngrwf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 22:30 The League against Tedium (b007jnsj)
Episode 3
War is declared on war, and sporty people are really good fun. Simon Munnery's surreal music and comedy hour. From January 1997.
FRI 23:25 The Comedy Club Interviews (b054bsmy)
The best in contemporary comedy. Tonight, Arthur Smith chats to Ian Moore.
FRI 23:30 The In Crowd (b008d1f1)
Series 1
Episode 5
Sketch show from Manchester's Comedy Store with Robin Ince, Helen Moon, Smug Roberts and Kate Ward. From September 2001.
FRI 23:45 Self-Storage (b01hn1q8)
Series 1
Dating
Judy fixes Dave up on his first date since his marriage broke up. Unfortunately, Sarah needs a favour and Geoff needs Judy.
Stars Reece Shearsmith and Mark Heap.
Sitcom written by Tom Collinson and Barnaby Power.
Dave ...... Reece Shearsmith
Geoff ...... Mark Heap
Ron ...... Tom Goodman-Hill
Judy ...... Rosie Cavaliero
Sarah ...... Susan Earl
Liz ...... Nadia Kamil.
Producer: Ed Morrish
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2007.