SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER 2024

SAT 00:00 Soul Music (m000ydl2)
Take Me Home, Country Roads
"Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong"
'Take Me Home, Country Roads' was written by Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert with and for their friend John Denver.
The song went on to be covered by Ray Charles, Toots and the Maytals, Olivia Newton John and many more.
A song about the longing for home and the desire to be back with the people you love, 'Country Roads' has become one of the official state songs of West Virginia but it also speaks to people from around the world and across political divides.
It's a song about togetherness, belonging, homesickness, the immigrant experience and the hold that the landscape of your 'home place' can have on you.
Featuring contributions from:
Bill Danoff
Sarah Morris
Jason Jeong
Ngozi Fulan
Lloyd Bradley
Alison Wells.
And from Molly Sarlé, Alexandra Sauser-Monnig and Amelia Meath of the band Mountain Man.
Produced for BBA Audio in Bristol by Mair Bosworth.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2021.
SAT 00:30 Ladybird, Ladybird (b00765nt)
The story of a publishing phenomenon - and the last vestiges of a 1950s childhood.
Ladybird Books summons up ankle socks, sleeveless fair isle pullovers and days of innocence.
But as the Loughborough based company closes down its Midlands operation and is swallowed up by Penguin - it's the end of an era.
Producer: Lindsay Leonard.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2001.
SAT 01:00 Whodunnits (b007jvn3)
Wimsey - The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club
6. Ann Dorland
With two suspects missing, Lord Peter Wimsey battles to pinpoint the poisoner.
Ian Carmichael stars as the aristocratic sleuth.
Conclusion of Dorothy L Sayers' detective mystery.
Lord Peter Wimsey …. Ian Carmichael
Robert Fentiman ...... Allan Cuthbertson
George Fentiman ...... Martin Jarvis
Inspector Parker ...... Gabriel Woolf
Ann Dorland ...... Amanda Reiss
Sheila Fentiman ...... Frances Jeater
Dr Penberthy ...... Christopher Emmett
Colonel Marchbanks ...... Wilfrid Carter
Dramatised by Chris Miller.
Producer: Simon Brett
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1975.
SAT 01:30 Whodunnits (b00k89mm)
Falco - Venus in Copper
2. The Unexpected Offer
Falco is searching for the truth about the deaths of Severina's three husbands, when an unexpected offer forces him to question his instincts.
Maybe he should consult his new feathered friend?
Anton Lesser stars as Ancient Rome's favourite detective.
Lindsey Davis's gripping, historical mystery.
Dramatised by Mary Cutler.
Marcus Didius Falco …. Anton Lesser
Helena Justina …. Ann Madeley
Pollia …. Julia Hills
Doctor …. Jez Thomas
Thalia …. Chipo Chung
Severina Zotica …. Tracy Wiles
Cossus …. Jonathan Tafler
The Parrot …. Colin Rote
Hortensius Novus …. Ian Brooker
Directed at BBC Birmingham by Peter Leslie Wild.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2006.
SAT 02:00 The Older Woman (b039by7w)
Series 2
Episode 2
Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger have changed their image from tough-talking, macho men to gentle, child-caring new men.
Can Roy follow suit in his own home movie?
Starring Geraldine James and Martin Clunes.
Tony Bagley's romantic comedy drama serial mixing fantasy with reality.
Jane Callaghan ...... Geraldine James
Roy Hitchcock ...... Martin Clunes
Chad ...... Nicky Henderson
Colin Say ...... David Troughton
Mrs Churchill ...... Rebecca Front
Helen ...... Susannah Corbett
Martin Sheen/Schwarzenegger ...... Peter Serafinowicz
Producer: Paul Schlesinger:
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1994.
SAT 02:30 Share and Share Alike (m000nf7x)
The Seance
After two months of enforced living together. Jack and Lesley make one last desperate effort to get their hands on their cash legacy
Can they manage to contact their late mother through a medium?
Starring Hugh Paddick and Michael Robbins.
Series written by Harold Snoad and Michael Knowles.
Jack Burrows …. Michael Robbins
Lesley Burrows …. Hugh Paddick
Janet …. Elizabeth Morgan
Ron …. Denis Bond
Mr Brown …. Deryck Guyler
Archie Cartwright …. Henry McGee
Producer: John Dyas
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1978.
SAT 03:00 Room 101 with Paul Merton (m001mt78)
Series 1
Mark Steel
Paul Merton interviews guests from the world of comedy and entertainment, to find out what they would like to send to Room 101
In this episode, comedian and author Mark Steel tells Paul his choices include tinned custard and his former self.
Additional material by John Irwin and Suki Webster
Producer: Richard Wilson
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in June 2023.
SAT 03:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hht1)
5. Staving Off Suitors
Much to the bemusement of her family and community, Alex does her best to stave off the attention of several eligible young men.
Delightful tale of a small community hovering between two eras
Written by Jane and Mary Findlater - the sisters known as the 'Scottish Brontes'.
Originally published in 1908.
Abridged by Clara Glynn.
Read by Rosalind Sydney.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2020.
SAT 03:45 Bird in the Hand by Sarah Daniels (m000lnll)
5. A Greater Gift Than Gold
Simon has struggled to cope after the death of his partner, Mel.
Written out of her mother's will, he's unsure if he'll ever be happy again?
Now Barbara is on the verge of death, is it too late for Si to find some recompense for himself?
Conclusion of Sarah Daniels' moving exploration of grief.
Simon ...... Ben Miles
Barbara ...... Haydn Gwynne
Alison ...... Louise Brealey
Mel ...... Pippa Nixon
Police Officer ...... Saffron Coomber
Director: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2020.
SAT 04:00 Foul Play (b00zf4tf)
Series 4
The Final Judgement
Crime writers Jessica Mann and James Melville investigate a distinctly 'kinky' matter.
Simon Brett hosts the murder mystery panel game
Witnesses played by:
Maria McErlane
Lee Simpson
Producer: Liz Anstee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1998.
SAT 04:30 The Brothers (b00p92xt)
Series 2
Episode 6
Peter, Nigel and Michael make mistakes and promises.
Sitcom about the dysfunctional Burbage siblings.
Written by Caroline and David Stafford.
Nigel Burbage …. Adam Godley
Michael Burbage …. Ray Coulthard
Oonagh …. Pauline McLynn
Zorro …. Alex Lowe
Peter …. James Fleet
Helen …. Sophie Roberts
Director: Marc Beeby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2005.
SAT 05:00 Barry Lyndon by William Makepeace Thackeray (b00t1bsd)
2. The Squire
Redmond Barry pursues and wins the widowed Lady Lyndon to take the title of Barry Lyndon and play the role of country squire.
However, once arrived at the summit of his good fortune, his luck begins to change for the worse.
Conclusion of William Makepeace Thackeray's classic novel about the rise and fall of an Irish adventurer in the 18th century.
Starring Gerard McSorley, Sheila Hancock, Kenneth Cranham and Andrew Scott
Dramatised by Don McCamphill
Barry ...... Gerard McSorley
Lady Lyndon ...... Tina Kellegher
Chevalier de Balibari ...... David Kelly
Bell Barry ...... Sheila Hancock
Earl of Crabs ...... Kenneth Cranham
Wiggins ...... Jamie Foreman
Redmond ...... Andrew Scott
Furniture Dealer ...... Mark Lambert
Poynings ...... Don Wycherley
Ulick ...... Darragh Kelly
Brendan ...... Eanna MacLiam
Maggie-Rose ...... Alice Barry
Directed at BBC Belfast by Lawrence Jackson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2003.
SAT 06:00 Guy Meredith - The Tokyo Correction (m0022yzc)
Artist Adam Bax returns to London after ten years on the run in Spain.
Penniless and jobless, he's taken under the wing of an old student of his.
He soon finds himself tangled up in a major art deception - and then discovers one of his collaborators has been murdered...
Starring Norman Rodway and James Grout.
Comedy thriller written by Guy Meredith - the sequel to ‘Craft’.
Bax .... Norman Rodway
Quartermain .... James Grout
Tessa .... Carole Boyd
Nicholas Bonalack .... David Ashton
Constantine .... Neville Jason
Sergeant .... John Webb
Terry Harman .... Steve Hodson
Herman Dorff .... Jonathan Adams
Judith .... Sandra James-Young
Principal .... John Baddeley
Customer .... Melinda Walker
Director: Cherry Cookson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1993.
SAT 07:30 Slow Rise: A Bread-Making Adventure by Robert Penn (Omnibus) (m0022yzf)
Journalist Robert Penn’s account of his search for the perfect bread made from ancient wheat grains.
It's a quest which takes him to several countries around the world, including Egypt, Turkey and America, before he returns home to grow his own wheat in the Black Mountains in Wales.
Can he learn to plant, harvest, thresh and bake enough sourdough bread to feed his family for a year?
Will they give him the thumbs-up for the perfect loaf?
Omnibus of five parts abridged by Anna Magnusson.
Read by Adrian Scarborough.
Producer: Bruce Young
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2021.
SAT 08:45 Holmes and Watford (b09jf4qg)
Burglary
For PC Sue Holmes policing is about keeping the peace, but PC Tina Watford yearns for excitement and she'll stop at nothing to ensure some action.
Today a burglary has taken place and Tina has a lightbulb moment as to whom may have committed the crime.
Jon Canter's comedy about two policewoman crewing in a small village.
Sue Holmes ...... Jessica Ransom
Tina Watford ...... Susan Wokoma
Russ ...... Matthew Marsh
Micheal ...... Gary Duncan
Director: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2017.
SAT 09:00 Play It Cool (b05r7w7p)
Episode 4
What if the Cannes film festival came to Britain? What might Hollywood stars expect?
Fast-moving sketches written by Eric Merriman - best known for Beyond Our Ken.
Starring:
Ian Carmichael
Joan Sims
Hugh Paddick
Music from:
Rosemary Squires
The Mike Sammes Singers
The Ken Thorne Orchestra
Producer: John Simmonds
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in August 1964.
SAT 09:30 Brothers in Law (b007k2p3)
Series 2
But...
Juggling cases and girlfriends, barrister Roger is having trouble with toggles and grommets.
Henry Cecil's comic legal novel Brothers in Law was first published in 1955.
Adapted for radio from Frank Muir & Denis Norden's BBC TV scripts by Richard Waring.
Roger Thursby …. Richard Briers
Grimes …. John Glyn-Jones
Sally …. Julia Lockwood
Joy …. Bridget Armstrong
The Judge …. Brian Oulton
Other parts played by:
William Fox
Garard Green
Peter Tuddenham.
Producer: David Hatch
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1971.
SAT 10:00 Clowning Around on 4 Extra (m0019s50)
1. Coco the Castaway
Tony Lidington traces the role of the clown in British humour.
From the Great Grimaldi and the stars of circus, panto and Pierrots through to modern entertainers and even activists.

Drawing on his own performances, BBC archive and contemporary experts, Tony traces the clown's evolution.
In the first of three programmes, he begins with Shakespeare's plays where rustic clowns and court fools could speak uncomfortable truths to those in power.
* Tony himself recreates the role of ‘The Great Grimaldi’.
* Nicolai Poliakoff – alias Coco the Clown – is Roy Plomley’s castaway in DESERT ISLAND DISCS from 1963.
Producer: Mike Greenwood
Made for Radio 4 Extra by Pier Productions and first broadcast in March 2014.
SAT 11:00 Guy Meredith - The Tokyo Correction (m0022yzc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 12:30 Slow Rise: A Bread-Making Adventure by Robert Penn (Omnibus) (m0022yzf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SAT 13:45 Holmes and Watford (b09jf4qg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
SAT 14:00 Play It Cool (b05r7w7p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 14:30 Brothers in Law (b007k2p3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SAT 15:00 Clowning Around on 4 Extra (m0019s50)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SAT 16:00 And When You Sleep You Remind Me of the Dead (b094281v)
Young Tracy has a terrifying recurring nightmare.
It seems to be connected with the cottage where she lives with her mother.
Tracy dreams about a man hideously wounded in battle, and about a little girl who tries frantically, but in vain, to wake her mother.
What happens when the nightmare becomes real..?
Supernatural thriller written by Trevor Walker.
Ross ...... Graham Padden
Angela ...... Natasha Pyne
Dr Craig ...... Gareth Armstrong
John ...... Andrew Branch
Lucy ...... Susie Brann
George ...... Alan Dudley
Alice ...... Pauline Letts
Martin Elliot ...... Peter Howell
Tracy ...... Romy Tennant
Young Alice ...... Emma Grinsell
Directed at BBC Pebble Mill by Peter Windows.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1987.
SAT 16:45 MR James (m0022yzh)
Lost Hearts
Stephen Elliott has been recently orphaned.
His elderly, reclusive cousin invites him to live at Aswarby Hall in Lincolnshire.
MR James's chilling short story first published in 1895.
Read by Peter Cushing.
Producer: Peter Estall
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1978.
SAT 17:00 Guy Meredith - The Tokyo Correction (m0022yzc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 18:30 Slow Rise: A Bread-Making Adventure by Robert Penn (Omnibus) (m0022yzf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SAT 19:45 Holmes and Watford (b09jf4qg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
SAT 20:00 Play It Cool (b05r7w7p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 20:30 Brothers in Law (b007k2p3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SAT 21:00 Clowning Around on 4 Extra (m0019s50)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SAT 22:00 Welcome to Wherever You Are (b07gh57z)
Pilot
Andrew Maxwell hosts a truly global stand-up show.
Comedians perform from wherever on the planet they happen to be, via high quality phone lines and internet video, to a live audience in the BBC Radio Theatre, London.
Expect a range of observations a little wider than in your typical stand-up show.
This pilot features: award-winning comedians:
* Sakdiyah Ma'ruf in Jakarta, Indonesia
* Igor Meerson in St Petersburg, Russia
* Guy Branum in Los Angeles, USA
Subjects include: the freedoms afforded to women; how powerful Vladimir Putin really is; and why Canada probably doesn't exist.
Andrew Maxwell is a multiple Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and a regular on BBC Radio 4.
Producer: Ed Morrish
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in June 2016.
SAT 22:30 Tom Allen Is Actually Not Very Nice (m000c4zq)
Episode 2
Tom Allen is Actually Not Very Nice explores what happens when Tom's calm and collected exterior collapses.
He used to be such a nice boy but what has happened to turn him naughty?
With help from the assembled studio audience, Tom works out how best to navigate some tricky social situations and how to keep a lid on his fury when confronted with life's small injustices.
Featuring Gabby Best.
Producer: Richard Morris
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in December 2019.
*** Photo credit: Edward Moore @edshots
SAT 23:00 Sorry About Last Night (b00n8vry)
A Animal
Andy and Julie make their first attempt to throw a posh dinner party.
Written by and starring Alexei Sayle.
Sitcom about life, love and not living together
Andy ...... Alexei Sayle
Julie ...... Siobhan Redmond
Mr Hamad ...... Nadim Sawalha
Mrs Saunders/D.I. Troon ..... Doon Mackichan
Mrs Abasanjo ...... Adjoa Andoh
Mr Lucik ...... Chris Pavlo
Dad ...... Harry Towb
Estate agent ...... Simon Greenall
Michael ...... Gary Bleasdale
Captain Healey ...... Roger Blake
Tony Blair ...... Brian Bowles
Produced and directed by Jo Clegg with Alexei Sayle.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1999.
SAT 23:30 Can't Tell Nathan Caton Nothing (b01s4r79)
Series 2
About Upset Mums
Nathan illustrates what can happen when you don't listen to your mum.
This is the story of young, up-and-coming comedian Nathan Caton, who becomes the first in his family to graduate from University - only to opt for a career in comedy - much to his family's annoyance who want him to get a 'proper job' using his architecture degree.
Each episode shows the criticism, interference and rollercoaster ride that Nathan endures from his family as he pursues his career against their wishes.
Will Nathan be able to persist and follow his dreams? Or will he give in to his family's interference?
A mix of Nathan's stand-up intercut with scenes from his family life.
Written by: Nathan Caton.
Additional material by: Ola and Maff Brown.
Nathan ...... Nathan Caton
Mum ...... Adjoa Andoh
Grandma ...... Mona Hammond
Dad ...... Curtis Walker
Reverend Williams ..... Don Gilet
Producer: Katie Tyrrell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2013.
SAT 23:45 Sounding Off with McGough (b007jlwb)
1. Munich and Clichés
Roger McGough looks at life, love, happiness, heroes, villains and embarrassing relations.
Poetic reflections on the business of poetry, to the accompaniment of long-time musical collaborator Andy Roberts.
Recorded in Bath.
Producer: Sara Davies
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2010.


SUNDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2024

SUN 00:00 And When You Sleep You Remind Me of the Dead (b094281v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Saturday]
SUN 00:45 MR James (m0022yzh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:45 on Saturday]
SUN 01:00 Guy Meredith - The Tokyo Correction (m0022yzc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Saturday]
SUN 02:30 Slow Rise: A Bread-Making Adventure by Robert Penn (Omnibus) (m0022yzf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Saturday]
SUN 03:45 Holmes and Watford (b09jf4qg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Saturday]
SUN 04:00 Play It Cool (b05r7w7p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Saturday]
SUN 04:30 Brothers in Law (b007k2p3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Saturday]
SUN 05:00 Clowning Around on 4 Extra (m0019s50)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]
SUN 06:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b012lj22)
American Singers
Emmylou Harris
Country rock singer Emmylou Harris is castaway by Sue Lawley.
Born in Alabama in 1947, her musical influences were folk rather than country. Initially, she wanted to be an actress, but, influenced by Joan Baez and Bob Dylan, she turned to singing folk instead and began performing in the bars of Greenwich Village.
But, by the age of 24, it seemed as if her singing career was over - she was a single mother and had returned home to live with her mother, only singing in local bars.
It was a chance encounter that led to her being heard by Gram Parsons - formerly of The Byrds and later The Flying Burrito Brothers. They worked together on two albums and invented what has become country rock - a fusion of folk, country and rock music.
To date she has won 11 Grammys and in 1992 was inducted into the Grand Old Opry. She now writes her own music.
She is three-times divorced and now travels everywhere with her mother.
DISC ONE: Waylon Jennings - Dreaming My Dreams With You
DISC TWO: The Staple Singers - Uncloudy Day
DISC THREE: The Band - Up On Cripple Creek
DISC FOUR: Kate & Anna McGarrigle - Talk to Me of Mendocino
DISC FIVE: Neil Young - The Emperor of Wyoming
DISC SIX: Bruce Springsteen - Mansion on the Hill
DISC SEVEN: Daniel Lanois - The Maker
DISC EIGHT: Ensemble of the Bulgarian Republic - Polegnala E Todora (Theodora is Dozing)
CASTAWAY'S FAVOURITE: Kate & Anna McGarrigle - Talk to Me of Mendocino
BOOK CHOICE: Blank book
LUXURY CHOICE: A library
Producer: Leanne Buckle
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2003.
SUN 06:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00n3jxh)
Series 1
Large Blue
The Large Blue butterfly died out in Britain in 1979, but why?
Investigations pointed to a complex life cycle linked to a single species of ant.
With this knowledge the Large Blue was re-introduced into the British countryside, but there is a sinister twist in the tale, in the form of a parasitic wasp.
Series of talks by Sir David Attenborough on the natural histories of creatures and plants from around the world.
Producer: Julian Hector.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2009.
SUN 07:00 Poetry Extra (m00230p6)
Tongue and Talk - The Dialect Poets: Cumbria
Poet Daljit Nagra revisits the BBC's poetry archive and chooses Tongue and Talk - The Dialect Poets: Cumbria.
Poet and novelist Katie Hale explores the legacy of early dialect poets in her native county of Cumbria, to discover if dialect poetry is a way of expressing local identity.
Cumbria has a long history of dialect poetry, beginning with poets like Josiah Relph, Susanna Blamire and Robert Anderson, and continuing right up to the present day.
Katie finds out more about some of these historic poets and their contemporary counterparts. She also speaks to Cedric Robinson - the former Queen’s Guide to the Sands of Morecambe Bay - and to farmer and writer James Rebanks, trying to understand the connection between dialect, identity and the land itself.
How does the place we live in shape who we are and how we choose to express ourselves?
Producers: Iain Mackness & Ashley Byrne
A Made in Manchester production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in 2019.
SUN 07:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (Omnibus) (m00230p8)
Episode 1
In the early 1900s Alexandra Hope is on the cusp of the modern.
However the sleepy Scottish village of Crossriggs is not the place for an unconventional woman.
Delightful tale of a small community hovering between two eras
Written by Jane and Mary Findlater - the sisters known as the 'Scottish Brontes'.
Originally published in 1908.
Omnibus of the first five of ten parts abridged by Clara Glynn.
Read by Rosalind Sydney.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2020.
SUN 08:40 Inheritance Tracks (m00230pc)
Rachel Stevens
S Club 7’s Rachel Stevens with That's What Friends Are For by Dionne Warwick and Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance With Somebody.
SUN 08:50 Bird In The Hand by Sarah Daniels (Omnibus) (m00230pf)
Si is finding it hard to move on after the death of his partner, Mel.
When her mother writes him out of her will and puts an end to Si's dreams of running his own business, he determines to find a way of being written back in.
A moving exploration of grief by Sarah Daniels.
Simon ...... Ben Miles
Barbara ...... Haydn Gwynne
Mel ...... Pippa Nixon
Jan ...... Karen Bartke
Omnibus of five parts.
Sarah Daniels is one of our most celebrated radio writers. Her plays include Cross My Heart and Hope to Fly, Sound Barriers and Dykes. She was one of the core writers on the long running series 'Home Front'. Her theatre plays include Masterpieces, Gut Girls and NeapTide
Ben Miles is well known for both his stage and TV work. He played John Profumo in The Trial of Christine Keeler and Group Captain Peter Townsend in The Crown. He has recently been seen on stage in The Lehman Brothers at The National and as Thomas Cromwell in Wolf Hall and Bring Up The Bodies at the RSC.
Haydn Gwynne played Camilla in 'The Windsors' and won a BAFTA for Drop The Dead Donkey. As well as TV, she also had an acclaimed stage career winning Olivier Awards for Billy Elliot, Women on The Verge of A Nervous Breakdown and Threepenny Opera. She sadly died aged 66 in 2023.
Director: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2020.
SUN 10:00 The Clitheroe Kid (m00230ph)
Series 6
The House That Jim Picked
When Grandad comes into some money, so cheeky Jimmy decides he's the one to pick their new house.
Starring the diminutive Jimmy Clitheroe
Legendary sitcom about Lancashire’s eternal cheeky schoolboy who lives with his Mother, sister Susan and Grandad
At its peak, ten million fans tuned in each week to hear Jimmy’s latest antics
Written by James Casey.
The Kid Himself …. Jimmy Clitheroe
Mother …. Patricia Burke
Grandad …. Peter Sinclair
Theodore Craythorpe/Harry Whittle …. Leonard Williams
Alfie .... Danny Ross
Susan …. Diana Day
Curate / Old Man Whittle …. Derek Guyler
Theme music by Alan Roper and played by the BBC Northern Dance Orchestra directed by Alan Ainsworth.
Producer: James Casey
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in October 1962.
SUN 10:30 Drop Me Here, Darling (m000vy0m)
A Winter Break
Leslie is broke and turns to mini-cabbing, but pays the price.
Starring Leslie Phillips.
Andrew Palmer's comedy about a former property tycoon who’s fallen on hard times and is now chauffeur to his wealthy ex-wife.
Leslie Duggan …. Leslie Phillips
Caroline Duggan …. Jill Bennett
Mini Cab Controller …. Norma Ronald
With:
John Kane
Jennifer Croxton
Sandra Clark
Producer: Edward Taylor
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in February 1983.
SUN 11:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b012lj22)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 11:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00n3jxh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 today]
SUN 12:00 Poetry Extra (m00230p6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
SUN 12:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (Omnibus) (m00230p8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SUN 13:40 Inheritance Tracks (m00230pc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 today]
SUN 13:50 Bird In The Hand by Sarah Daniels (Omnibus) (m00230pf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]
SUN 15:00 The Clitheroe Kid (m00230ph)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 15:30 Drop Me Here, Darling (m000vy0m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
SUN 16:00 Terry Pratchett (b008pc0b)
Guards! Guards!
5. Re-enter the Dragon
"That dragon isn't going to accept any mealy-mouthed, wishy-washy liberal nonsense.... Do you know what you're getting with a dragon? Unashamed strong leadership."
The dragon strikes. But will Captain Vimes triumph?
Stars John Wood and Martin Jarvis.
The 8th of Terry's Pratchett's comic fantasy stories set on Discworld.
Narrator …. Martin Jarvis
Captain Vimes …. John Wood
Nobby …. Melvyn Hayes
Sergeant Colon …. Stephen Thorne
Lady Ramkin …. Helen Atkinson-Wood
Carrot …. Robert Gwilym
Lord Vetinari …. Crawford Logan
Supreme Grand Master …. Brett Usher
Chief Merchant …. Jeff Nuttall
Librarian …. Michael Roberts
Little Girl …. Kate McEnery
Director: John Taylor
First broadcast on BBC Radio 5 in December 1992.
SUN 16:30 Wally K Daly (b007jt6t)
The Silent Scream
1. Sixth-Sensers
Tom Harris disappears into space but returns with new and astonishing powers.
Put to good use, they will benefit humanity - but in the wrong hands they could have horrifying and nightmarish implications.
Wally K Daly's sequel to 'Before the Screaming Begins'.
Tom Harris …. James Laurenson
A P Smith …. Donald Hewlett
Prime Minister …. Colin Douglas
Silkin …. Peter Wickham
Sally Harris …. Hannah Gordon
Opposition MP/Colonel …. Peter Williams
Andy …. Elizabeth Lindsay
Gloria/Cabinet Minister …. Brenda Kaye
Second Pilot/PC …. Gregory de Polnay
Alien Controller/Cabinet Minister …. Manning Wilson
Second Boy …. Tim Bentinck
First Girl …. Alison Draper
Audio from Wally K Daly's own collection and reversioned into three parts by BBC Radio 4 Extra
Producer: Martin Jenkins
First broadcast as a 90 minute Saturday Night Drama on BBC Radio 4 in 1979.
SUN 17:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b012lj22)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 17:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00n3jxh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 today]
SUN 18:00 Poetry Extra (m00230p6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
SUN 18:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (Omnibus) (m00230p8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SUN 19:40 Inheritance Tracks (m00230pc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 today]
SUN 19:50 Bird In The Hand by Sarah Daniels (Omnibus) (m00230pf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]
SUN 21:00 The Clitheroe Kid (m00230ph)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 21:30 Drop Me Here, Darling (m000vy0m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
SUN 22:00 Revolting People (b008h6np)
Series 3
Over the Rainbow
Mary discovers that there's no place like home.
Sitcom set just before the American War of Independence.
Written by Andy Hamilton and Jay Tarses.
McGurk ...... Andy Hamilton
Samuel ...... Jay Tarses
Captain Brimshaw ...... James Fleet
Mary ...... Jan Ravens
Joshua ...... Tony Maudsley
Ezekiel ...... Hugh Dennis
Cora ...... Penelope Nice
Other parts played by Philip Pope and Michael Fenton Stevens.
Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2004.
SUN 22:30 Unnatural Acts (b00kmtcc)
Series 2
Monkey Business
The Hardy household and friends prepare for an expedition to a safari park.
In addition to gridlock, the trip throws up unexpected attractions.
A slightly surreal sitcom about a happily-married couple - Jeremy and Kit - and their unusual friends.
Jeremy.....Jeremy Hardy
Kit.............. Kit Hollerbach
Paul............Paul B Davies
Caroline.... Caroline Leddy
Written by Jeremy Hardy, Kit Hollerbach, Paul B Davies and Peter Sinclair.
Producer: David Tyler
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1988.
SUN 23:00 Great Unanswered Questions (b011r187)
Series 3
Episode 3
The show which wrestles with some unusual questions.
If you don’t know what ‘hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia’ is, you will by the end of the show.
Hosted by Colin Murphy.
Experts
Dr David Booth
Matthew Collins
Special Guest: Keith Farnan
Producer: Jackie Hamilton
First broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster in 2010.
SUN 23:30 Elastic Planet (b0089jhr)
The Shape
Drugged electricity and artificial icebergs.
Oliver Postgate narrates a stream of bizarre coincidences.
Ben Moor’s cosmic comedy of connections.
With:
Johnny Ball
Henry Cooper
Jamie Owen
Kerry Shale
Dan Strauss
Michael Troughton
Neil Mullarkey
Siriol Jenkins
Alan Dedicoat
Producer: Jon Naismith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1995
SUN 23:45 Hearing with Hegley (b0075s8l)
Series 3
Episode 3
Luton poet John Hegley bikes north for a brimful of Birmingham and some bookshop capers.
He unravels some improvised poems about Aston Villa FC.
And he also answers questions about the nature of poetic inspiration and cuts a birthday cake.
Producer: Nigel Piper.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2000.


MONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2024

MON 00:00 Terry Pratchett (b008pc0b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Sunday]
MON 00:30 Wally K Daly (b007jt6t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:30 on Sunday]
MON 01:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b012lj22)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Sunday]
MON 01:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00n3jxh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 on Sunday]
MON 02:00 Poetry Extra (m00230p6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Sunday]
MON 02:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (Omnibus) (m00230p8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Sunday]
MON 03:40 Inheritance Tracks (m00230pc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 on Sunday]
MON 03:50 Bird In The Hand by Sarah Daniels (Omnibus) (m00230pf)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Sunday]
MON 05:00 The Clitheroe Kid (m00230ph)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Sunday]
MON 05:30 Drop Me Here, Darling (m000vy0m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Sunday]
MON 06:00 Whodunnits (b007jpkt)
Miss Marple - A Caribbean Mystery
1. The Photograph
Amateur sleuth Jane Marple's peaceful island break is disrupted by a death - and a photograph.
Agatha Christie's whodunnit stars June Whitfield as Miss Marple.
From the thriller first published in 1964.
Dramatised in five parts by Michael Bakewell.
Miss Marple …. June Whitfield
Major Palgrave …. Windsor Davies
Dr Graham .... John Rowe
Canon Prescott …. David King
Miss Prescott …. Jenny Lee
Evelyn Hillingdon …. Carolyn Jones
Edward Hillingdon …. Christopher Wright
Lucky Dyson …. Tracy-Ann Oberman
Greg Dyson …. Brian Parr
Molly Kendall …. Alison Pettit
Tim Kendall …. David Thorpe
Victoria .... Amanda Gordon
Jim Ellis …. Anthony Ofoegbu
Raymond West …. Iwan Thomas
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1997.
MON 06:30 Whodunnits (b00k8t30)
Falco - Venus in Copper
3. Party Season
After a short spell in prison, Falco finds half of Rome is having a party but it seems he isn't invited.
One particular gathering comes to an abrupt halt and as a result, the detective's reputation could be at stake.
Anton Lesser stars as Ancient Rome's favourite crime investigator.
Lindsey Davis's gripping, historical mystery.
Dramatised by Mary Cutler.
Marcus Didius Falco …. Anton Lesser
Helena Justina … Ann Madeley
Titus Caesar … Jonathan Keeble
Hyacinthus …. Stephen Critchlow
Viridovix …. Nick Fletcher
Hortensius Felix …. Graham Padden
Severina Zotica …. Tracy Wiles
Pollia …. Julia Hills
Directed at BBC Birmingham by Peter Leslie Wild.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2006.
MON 07:00 Babblewick Hall (b0075c76)
Series 2
Episode 2
Squire Babblewick is determined to buy a workhouse to turn it into a school
Starring Nicholas Le Prevost and Forbes Masson.
Scott Cherry’s sitcom set in the 18th-century.
Nicholas Le Provost ...... Squire Fenton Babblewick
Molly ...... Maggie McCarthy
Augustus Snipe ...... Forbes Masson
Jack ...... Dave Hill
Barney ...... Benedict Sandiford.
Anne Giddy ...... Elizabeth Spriggs
Helen Giddy ...... Pat Coombs
Squire Blunt ...... Geoffrey McGivern
Music by Paul Mottra.
Producer: Jon Rolph
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1998.
MON 07:30 The Navy Lark (m00230qr)
Series 11
Commander Murray and The Squatters
Whenever the crew of HMS Troutbridge return from leave, Portsmouth Dockyard normally locks everything up and runs for cover.
But not this time.
Everyone from the Admiral downwards just doubles up with laughter.
Something highly unpleasant is about to fall on them from a very great height.
But what?
Starring Leslie Phillips, Jon Pertwee and Stephen Murray.
Laughs afloat aboard British Royal Navy frigate HMS Troutbridge.
Written by Lawrie Wyman
The Sub-Lieutenant ...... Leslie Phillips
Chief Petty Officer ...... Jon Pertwee
The Number One ...... Stephen Murray
Captain Povey ...... Richard Caldicot
Heather ….. Heather Chasen
The Padre …. Michael Bates
The Admiral ….. Tenniel Evans
The Navy Lark ran for an impressive 13 series between 1959 and 1976.
Producer: Alastair Scott Johnston.
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in December 1969.
MON 08:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b03trnjd)
Series 3
The Funeral
Damien's peace is once again shattered when he is asked to do the food at the funeral of Anthony's maiden aunt.
But things become even more complicated when his literary agent is discovered behaving erratically in a branch of Paperchase and Damien has to look after him.
Meanwhile, Anthony must prepare a song to sing at the funeral.
Sitcom written by and starring Miles Jupp, charting the life of cookery writer Damien Trench and his partner Anthony.
Damien Trench ...... Miles Jupp
Anthony MacIlveny ...... Justin Edwards
Mr Mullaney ...... Brendan Dempsey
Ian Frobisher ...... Philip Fox
Anthony's Father ...... Philip Fox
Policeman ...... David Seddon
Anthony's Sister ...... Priyanga Burford
Producer: Sam Michell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2014.
MON 08:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hmmw)
6. Long-Awaited Wedding
As Crossriggs celebrates a long-awaited wedding, Alex Hope is surprised by the emotions that she feels.
Delightful tale of a small community hovering between two eras
Written by Jane and Mary Findlater - the sisters known as the 'Scottish Brontes'.
Originally published in 1908.
Abridged in ten parts by Clara Glynn.
Read by Rosalind Sydney.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2020.
MON 08:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2b5q)
1. Beginnings
1866: Self-described "educationalist" Sophia Jex-Blake returns from North America frustrated at opportunities available to women in Britain, particularly in medicine.
Sophie's increasingly convinced she'd like to train to be a doctor.
But the odds are stacked against her - and the one person she hopes will support her turns out not to be an ally...
Maggie Allen's ten-part dramatisation of the real life medical pioneer who campaigned for women's right to education in the late 19th century.
Sophia Jex-Blake ... Julia Watson
Mrs Jex-Blake ... Tina Gray
Elizabeth Garret Anderson ... Michelle Newell
Henry Fawcett MP ... Richard Derrington
Alexander Russel ... David Bannerman
Professor Masson ... Ian Brooker
Mrs Masson ... Sharon Baylis
Edith Pechey ... Susan Jeffrey
Prof Christison ... Bob Doherty
Prof Crum Brown ... Nell Bett
Dr Anstie ... Clifford Rose
Mr Norton .... Christopher Scott
Directed by Sue Wilson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2001.
MON 09:00 The Unbelievable Truth (m0022t7p)
Series 30
Episode 6
David Mitchell hosts the panel game in which four comedians are encouraged to tell lies and compete against one another to see how many items of truth they’re able to smuggle past their opponents.
Miles Jupp, Holly Walsh, Lou Sanders and Marcus Brigstocke are the panellists obliged to talk with deliberate inaccuracy on subjects as varied as fungi, the Beckhams, cushions and puddings.
The show is devised by Graeme Garden and Jon Naismith.
Producer: Jon Naismith
A Random Entertainment production for BBC Radio 4
MON 09:30 Did the Victorians Ruin the World? (b08kttk5)
Series 1
1. Squirrels
It's the most celebrated period of British ingenuity, but are our Victorian forebears due a rethink?
Sci-curious sisters Kat and Helen Arney are on hand with some revisionist revelations that could turn what we think we know completely upside down.
The Victorians were huge nature lovers but, in their quest to find all manner of exotic flora and fauna across the world and bring them back to Blighty, did they know they were doing more harm than good?
It was the Victorians who unleashed grey squirrels and a whole lot more besides on the unsuspecting British countryside.
In so doing, were they really a bunch of environmental vandals?
* Helen Arney is a presenter and comedian
* Dr Kat Arney is a writer and broadcaster who published a book on genetics.
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2017.
MON 09:45 Daily Service (m00230qt)
Blessed: part 1 - The Beatitudes
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Blessed: part 1 - The Beatitudes
Matthew 5: 1-10
Led by Angel Morgan.
Blessed Are The Humble (The Beatitudes) -Graham Kendrick
I surrender - Hillsong United
Alpha & Omega - Israel & New Bread
MON 10:00 Frankly Speaking (b05qkhm4)
Bette Davis - Self-Portrait of a Star
Oscar-winning Hollywood actress Bette Davis answers the questions from a panel of two:
* Actor, George Coulouris
* BBC producer, Peter Duval Smith
In an occasionally heated conversation about her career, Davis shares her opinions on what it means to be a star after 30 years in the business.
Davis is quizzed over causing frictions on her movie sets – and claims that she uses the same mannerisms in every performance.
Films discussed include 'Dark Victory' (1939), 'Juarez' (1939), 'Watch on the Rhine' (1943) and Davis's most recent hit at the time, 'What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?' with Joan Crawford (1962).
George Coulouris had previously starred alongside Davis in 'All This, and Heaven Too' (1940), 'Watch on the Rhine' (1943) and 'Mr Skeffington' (1944).
Launched in 1952, Frankly Speaking was a completely novel and ground breaking BBC series. Initially there were three interviewers and the series was both unrehearsed and unscripted.
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in June 1963.
MON 10:30 Mao's Golden Mangoes (b06zvb6k)
Why would people preserve a mango in formaldehyde? Why would they make thousands of wax replicas of mangoes and carry them in processions, venerating the fruit like a sacred icon?
It seems mystifying. But at the height of the Cultural Revolution, China was gripped by a peculiar hysteria – a mania for mangoes.
In the summer of 1968, China’s student Red Guards had brought the country to the brink of chaos. Over 1700 teachers and administrators died in two months in Beijing alone, and factions of students were in open battle at the city’s Qinghua University.
Mao Zedong sent thousands of workers to occupy the campus and quell the violence, declaring that the working class, rather than the students, would direct the next stage of the revolution. A week later, the Pakistani foreign minister visited Beijing and presented Chairman Mao with a basket of mangoes.
As Benjamin Ramm finds out, Mao sent the mangoes on to the workers at Qinghua and sparked a nationwide passion for the fruit. The gift was interpreted as an act of selflessness and mangoes became synonymous with the Chairman and a symbol of his love for the workers.
The Communist Party’s propaganda department quickly set to work creating thousands of mango-themed cotton fabrics and domestic goods. Floats with giant papier-mache mangoes dominated the National Day Parade in 1968. Armed peasants even fought over a black and white copy of a photograph of a mango.
As Benjamin learns, mangoes represented the hope and faith of a traumatized population during one of the most violent periods in China’s history.
Producer: Nija Dalal-Small
A Sparklab production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in 2016.
MON 11:00 Whodunnits (b007jpkt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 11:30 Whodunnits (b00k8t30)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 12:00 Babblewick Hall (b0075c76)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 12:30 The Navy Lark (m00230qr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 13:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b03trnjd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 13:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hmmw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 13:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2b5q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
MON 14:00 It's Not What You Know (b09tf70n)
Series 5
Episode 1
Has Tony Hawks ever committed a crime?
What's the most embarrassing thing Rachel Riley does when working on TV's Countdown?
What did Desiree like least about working as a dominatrix?
Just some of the questions from Joe Lycett as he tests the three panellists on how well they know their nearest and dearest.
Producer: Matt Stronge
A BBC Studios Production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in March 2018.
MON 14:30 Spending My Inheritance (b00fjdqd)
1. The Party
What are cash-strapped, 40-somethings supposed to do when they see their cash-rich, equity released parents spending all their inheritance? As his father's 65th birthday approaches, and the money starts disappearing, harry decides to throw his dad a party.
Sitcom by Clive Coleman starring Kris Marshall.
Harry ...... Kris Marshall
Jo ...... Raquel Cassidy
Brian ...... Kenneth Cranham
Liz ...... Judy Parfitt
Richard ...... Chris Pavlo
David ...... Dan Starkey
Stuart ...... Malcolm Tierney
Directed by Sam Hoyle.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2008.
MON 15:00 Othniel Smith - Thank You for Talking to Me, Africa (m00230qz)
A chance meeting takes Barry to Africa in search of family history.
But the reality is nothing like the dream...
Starring Treva Etienne.
Written by Othniel Smith.
Barry .... Treva Etienne
Rachel .... Eiry Thomas
Ayi .... Louis Mahoney
Martha .... Nina Wadia
Karl .... Al Matthews
Soldier .... Jude Akuwudike
Director: Alison Hindell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1995.
MON 16:00 Frankly Speaking (b05qkhm4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
MON 16:30 Mao's Golden Mangoes (b06zvb6k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
MON 17:00 Whodunnits (b007jpkt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 17:30 Whodunnits (b00k8t30)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 18:00 Babblewick Hall (b0075c76)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 18:30 The Navy Lark (m00230qr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 19:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b03trnjd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 19:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hmmw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 19:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2b5q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
MON 20:00 It's Not What You Know (b09tf70n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
MON 20:30 Spending My Inheritance (b00fjdqd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
MON 21:00 Othniel Smith - Thank You for Talking to Me, Africa (m00230qz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
MON 22:00 The Unbelievable Truth (m0022t7p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
MON 22:30 Rudy's Rare Records (b00nkb2s)
Series 2
Ride With Me
Adam takes his mortality a little too seriously, and finds himself confronted with a little too much lycra.
Starring Lenny Henry, Larrington Walker and Joe Jacobs.
Sitcom by Danny Robins, set in the finest, feistiest, family-run record shop in Birmingham.
Adam ...... Lenny Henry
Rudy ...... Larrington Walker
Richie ...... Joe Jacobs
Tasha ...... Natasha Godfrey
Clifton ...... Jeffery Kissoon
DJ Karel ...... Andrew Brooke.
Producer: Lucy Armitage
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2009.
MON 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m002383p)
Mary O’Connell 1/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, The Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. And tonight, Athena Kugblenu interviews the comedian and writer Mary O’Connell.
MON 23:00 The News Quiz (m0022skq)
Series 115
Prisoners and Pensioners
Simon Evans, Ria Lina, Glenn Moore, and Coco Khan join Andy Zaltzman to quiz the news
This week on The News Quiz the panel look towards a cold winter for pensioners, an early fall for prisoners, and try to figure out exactly what was being said during the US Presidential debate.
Written by Andy Zaltzman
With additional material by: Mike Shephard, Christiana Riggs, Rebecca Bain, Sam Lyden and Teresa Burns
Producer: Sam Holmes
Executive Producer: James Robinson
Production Coordinator: Jodie Charman
Sound Editor: Giles Aspen
A BBC Studios Audio Production for Radio 4
An Eco-Audio certified Production
MON 23:30 Chris Addison's Civilization (b00dr4t0)
Controlling the Universe
Chris Addison goes on a journey through the vast and rich subject of civilisation and explains exactly what we need to create a new one.
In the opening episode, he investigates the notion of a controllable universe.
With:
Professor Austin Herring (Geoffrey McGivern)
Jo Enright
Dan Tetsell
Producer: Simon Nicholls
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2006.


TUESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER 2024

TUE 00:00 Frankly Speaking (b05qkhm4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Monday]
TUE 00:30 Mao's Golden Mangoes (b06zvb6k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Monday]
TUE 01:00 Whodunnits (b007jpkt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Monday]
TUE 01:30 Whodunnits (b00k8t30)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Monday]
TUE 02:00 Babblewick Hall (b0075c76)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Monday]
TUE 02:30 The Navy Lark (m00230qr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b03trnjd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Monday]
TUE 03:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hmmw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2b5q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Monday]
TUE 04:00 It's Not What You Know (b09tf70n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Monday]
TUE 04:30 Spending My Inheritance (b00fjdqd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Monday]
TUE 05:00 Othniel Smith - Thank You for Talking to Me, Africa (m00230qz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Monday]
TUE 06:00 Whodunnits (b007jplb)
Miss Marple - A Caribbean Mystery
2. Nightmares
The sudden death of Major Palgrave leaves Miss Marple wondering whether it's a case of murder?
Agatha Christie's whodunnit stars June Whitfield.

Dramatised by Michael Bakewell.
Miss Marple …. June Whitfield
Mr Rafiel …. George A. Cooper
Dr Graham .... John Rowe
Esther Walters …. Yvonne Edgell
Miss Prescott …. Jenny Lee
Evelyn Hillingdon …. Carolyn Jones
Edward Hillingdon …. Christopher Wright
Molly Kendall …. Alison Pettit
Tim Kendall …. David Thorpe
Greg Dyson …. Brian Parr
Victoria .... Amanda Gordon
Jackson …. Andrew Wincott
Daventry …. David Brooks
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1997.
TUE 06:30 Whodunnits (b00k8x93)
Falco - Venus in Copper
4. Shady Business
After two murders in one night, Falco is offered a job by the prime suspect.
Meanwhile his social life looks up, as he hosts a turbot supper with more than one unexpected guest.
But Falco has his sights set on catching a bigger fish...
Anton Lesser stars as Ancient Rome's favourite crime investigator.
Lindsey Davis's gripping, historical mystery.
Dramatised by Mary Cutler.
Marcus Didius Falco …. Anton Lesser
Helena Justina …. Ann Madeley
Falco's Mother …. Frances Jeater
Petronius …. Ben Crowe
Titus Caesar …. Jonathan Keeble
Hyacinthus …. Stephen Critchlow
Severina Zotica …. Tracy Wiles
Pollia …. Julia Hills
The Parrot …. Colin Rote
Appius Priscillus …. Kim Wall
Directed at BBC Birmingham by Peter Leslie Wild.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2006.
TUE 07:00 Rent (b00752fm)
Series 3
Episode 3
It's havoc in the Reynolds household as the preparations for the baby's naming ceremony reach a climax.
Stars Patrick Barlow and Barbara Flynn.
Lucy Flannery's award-winning sitcom about the struggles of Maria and Richard Reynolds and their lodgers.
Maria …. Barbara Flynn
Richard …. Patrick Barlow
Amy …. Linda Polan
Ruby …. Vivienne Rochester
Paul …. Dave Lamb
Mother …. Sally Grace
Father ...... Chris Emmett
Producer: Liz Anstee.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1997.
TUE 07:30 The Goon Show (b007jmrj)
Series 6
Shangri-La Again
Neddie Seagoon escapes an invasion and finds Utopia.
Groundbreaking, surreal BBC radio comedy written by Spike Milligan.
Starring:
Peter Sellers
Harry Secombe
Spike Milligan
First billed as Crazy People, ten series of The Goon Show were recorded between 1951 and 1960, but sadly many of the earliest shows weren’t kept in the archive.
With the Ray Ellington Quartet and Max Geldray.
Orchestra conducted by Wally Stott.
Announcer: Wallace Greenslade
Producer: Peter Eton
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in November 1955.
TUE 08:00 Alone (m00094lp)
Series 2
A Cry For No Help
Mitch is desperate to have his wedding anniversary pass unnoticed to avoid any awkwardness in the house.
Unfortunately, Will lets the anniversary cat out of the bag.
So Mitch, who is endeavouring to find someone to hold on to his spare keys, encounters very strange reactions to this seemingly simple request.
Sitcom about five single, middle aged neighbours living in flats in a converted house in North London.
Mitch is a widower and part-time therapist, looking to put his life back together now that he is single and living with Will, his younger, more volatile and unhappily divorced half-brother.
Elsewhere in the building is schoolteacher Ellie who is shy, nervous and holds a secret candle for Mitch.
Overly honest, frustrated actress Louisa, and socially inept IT nerd Morris complete the line-up of mis-matched neighbours.
Written and created by Moray Hunter.
Mitch ...... Angus Deayton
Will ...... Pearce Quigley
Ellie ...... Abigail Cruttenden
Louisa ...... Kate Isitt
Morris ...... Bennett Arron
Producer: Gordon Kennedy
Based on an original idea developed in association with Dandy Productions
An Absolutely production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2019.
TUE 08:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hmg7)
7. Unexpressed Feelings
As Alex and Robert Maitland struggle with their unexpressed feelings, Laura Maitland falls gravely ill.
Van quarrels with Alex after he accuses her of hoping for Laura's death.
Delightful tale of a small community hovering between two eras
Written by Jane and Mary Findlater - the sisters known as the 'Scottish Brontes'.
Originally published in 1908.
Abridged by Clara Glynn.
Read by Rosalind Sydney.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2020.
TUE 08:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2f4r)
2. Back in Britain
1869: After gaining three years' medical experience studying in New York, Sophia Jex-Blake returns to Britain and catches up with a campaigning journalist.
Sophia focuses her efforts on matriculating at Edinburgh University and starts canvassing for support.
Sophia's campaign to become a doctor continues...
True story of the late 19th century pioneer in Maggie Allen's dramatisation.
Sophia Jex-Blake ... Julia Watson
Mrs Jex-Blake ... Tina Gray
Elizabeth Garret Anderson ... Michelle Newell
Henry Fawcett MP ... Richard Derrington
Alexander Russel ... David Bannerman
Professor Masson ... Ian Brooker
Mrs Masson ... Sharon Baylis
Edith Pechey ... Susan Jeffrey
Prof Christison ... Bob Doherty
Prof Crum Brown ... Nell Bett
Dr Anstie ... Clifford Rose
Mr Norton .... Christopher Scott
Director: Sue Wilson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2001.
TUE 09:00 Heresy (m0017kd4)
Series 12
Episode 1
Victoria Coren Mitchell presents the show which dares to commit heresy.
Joining Victoria Coren Mitchell to commit heresy about feelings and trigger warnings are comedians Desiree Burch and David Baddiel and artist Grayson Perry.
Written, presented, and produced by Victoria Coren Mitchell with additional material from Dan Gaster and Charlie Skelton.
Series created by David Baddiel
An Avalon production for BBC Radio 4
TUE 09:30 Did the Victorians Ruin the World? (b08l6tqk)
Series 1
2. Beards
It's the most celebrated period of British ingenuity, but are our Victorian forebears due a rethink?
Sci-curious sisters Kat and Helen Arney are on hand with some revisionist revelations that could turn what we think we know completely upside down.
The current fad for furry face furniture can be traced back to the Victorians. If you think we're at Peak Beard today - think again!
But the growth of facial hair isn't a straightforward story.
In 1840 beards were derided and only one MP dared to sport one. Just 50 years later, before the end of the century, nearly every man in the public eye had bearded up. Why did beards explode under Queen Victoria? And is it true that beards can be good for health?
Helen and Kat are hunting for the hairy truth.
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2017.
TUE 09:45 Daily Service (m002301l)
Blessed: part 1 - Poor in spirit
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Blessed: part 1 - Poor in spirit
Luke 4: 16-21
Led by Stewart Rapley.
Cantus Choro - Come, O spirit from on High
Natalie Chorister, Daily Services Singers - A Clare Benediction
Graham Kendrick - God of the poor
TUE 10:00 A Good Read (b096hcz4)
Toby Young and Sarah Vine
Writers Toby Young and Sarah Vine join Harriett Gilbert to discuss their favourite books by Lionel Davidson, John Preston and Jan Morris.
Kolymsky Heights by Lionel Davidson
Publisher: Faber
A Very English Scandal by John Preston
Publisher: Virago
Conundrum by Jan Morris
Publisher: Faber
Producer: Sally Heaven
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2017.
TUE 10:30 Frankie Vaughan and the Live Gang Show (b00fzwjl)
Gang violence making front-page news is commonplace. It creates stories - and reputations.
40 years after the event, Denise Mina speaks to the people of Easterhouse about the legacy of Frankie Vaughan.
This high-profile pop star will forever be remembered for making rival gang leaders in the Glasgow suburb shake hands and give up their knives.
But who really benefitted?
This programme looks at the reality on the ground and in the press, and the relationship between the two.
Producer: Victoria McArthur
First broadcast on BBC Radio Scotland in December 2008.
TUE 11:00 Whodunnits (b007jplb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 11:30 Whodunnits (b00k8x93)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 12:00 Rent (b00752fm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 12:30 The Goon Show (b007jmrj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 13:00 Alone (m00094lp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 13:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hmg7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 13:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2f4r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
TUE 14:00 Booked (b00753mr)
Series 1
Episode 2
Mrs Malaprop shares a Jacuzzi with Eliza Doolittle, and the She Devil flirts with Frankenstein at a rave.
Outrageous parody, biting wit and bizarre couplings from:
Miles Kington
Dillie Keane
Roger McGough
Mark Thomas
Ian McMillan chairs the irreverent literary game.
Producer: Marc Jobst
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1995.
TUE 14:30 Getting Nowhere Fast (b008jdf4)
Series 2
Episode 4
The belated burning of bras hits the bistro as Pamela suddenly realises that all the men in her life have been hopeless.
Merv disagrees - he is one of them.
Dilkes discovers murder most foul - a dead chicken.
Neville discovers Nigella Lawson and Pamela renounces the Oven and embraces the Coven.
Edith is happy to get her kit off.
Sitcom written by and starring Mervyn Stutter.
Merv ...... Mervyn Stutter
Pam ...... Lill Roughley
Dibden ...... John Challis
PC Dilkes ...... Michael Mears
Chantal ...... Tracy-Ann Oberman
Nev ...... Gyuri Sarossy
Producer: Mario Stylianides
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2003
TUE 15:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hdzq)
Jamaica Inn
1. Revelation
Young Mary Yellan arrives at Jamaica Inn where she meets her uncle, Joss Merlyn.
As she begins to form her suspicions of his terrible trade - he reveals something far more evil than she could have ever imagined...
Daphne du Maurier's classic gothic suspense novel, first published in 1936.
Starring Susannah Corbett and John Woodvine.
Dramatised in four parts by Michael Bakewell.
Mary Yellan .... Susannah Corbett
Joss Merlyn .... John Woodvine
Aunt Patience .... Auriol Smith
Jem Merlyn .... Mark Straker
Harry, the Pedlar .... John Hartley
Mrs Yellan .... Joanna Wake
Doctor .... Eric Allan
Coach Driver .... John Church
Old man in coach .... Ronald Herdman
Woman in coach .... Ann Windsor
Lawyer Clerk .... Robert Portal
Idiot .... Alan Barker
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1991
TUE 16:00 A Good Read (b096hcz4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
TUE 16:30 Frankie Vaughan and the Live Gang Show (b00fzwjl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
TUE 17:00 Whodunnits (b007jplb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 17:30 Whodunnits (b00k8x93)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 18:00 Rent (b00752fm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 18:30 The Goon Show (b007jmrj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 19:00 Alone (m00094lp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 19:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hmg7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 19:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2f4r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
TUE 20:00 Booked (b00753mr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
TUE 20:30 Getting Nowhere Fast (b008jdf4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
TUE 21:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hdzq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
TUE 22:00 Heresy (m0017kd4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
TUE 22:30 The Consultants (b007vb2j)
Series 2
Episode 1
Time to hark back to a gentler age of radio for a rollicking archive adventure.
Archie Strutz and his Swinging Nuts were a favourite on the BBC Home Service and folktales sang of rustic careers "where the tales are our seed and the sod is your ears".
Cerebral sketch show with the winners of 2002's Perrier Best Newcomer award - who had to brace themselves for the inevitable backlash.
Written by and starring:
Neil Edmond,
Justin Edwards
James Rawlings
Producer: Will Saunders
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2003.
TUE 23:00 The Shuttleworths (b007jnzg)
Series 3
Radio Shuttleworth
John Shuttleworth starts a brand new radio station broadcasting to Sheffield.
But can he rely on Mary and Ken as on-air talent?
Written and performed by Graham Fellows.
Producer: Paul Schlesinger
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1997.
TUE 23:15 The John Moloney Show (b092pgx2)
Series 2
The Phone Call
John Moloney shares far too much info about his thoughts on life with the person he's called at the utility centre.
How hard can it be to change your electricity supplier?
Well, it turns out that it's harder than it looks.
Written and performed by John Moloney.
A Dabster production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in September 2017.
TUE 23:30 Lionel Nimrod's Inexplicable World (b007qctj)
Series 1
Monsters
The spoof TV sci-fi star explains the big mysteries of life.
Written by and starring Richard Herring and Stewart Lee.
With:
Tom Baker
Rebecca Front
Armando Iannucci
Producer Sarah Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1992.


WEDNESDAY 18 SEPTEMBER 2024

WED 00:00 A Good Read (b096hcz4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Tuesday]
WED 00:30 Frankie Vaughan and the Live Gang Show (b00fzwjl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Tuesday]
WED 01:00 Whodunnits (b007jplb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Tuesday]
WED 01:30 Whodunnits (b00k8x93)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Tuesday]
WED 02:00 Rent (b00752fm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Tuesday]
WED 02:30 The Goon Show (b007jmrj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:00 Alone (m00094lp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Tuesday]
WED 03:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hmg7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2f4r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Tuesday]
WED 04:00 Booked (b00753mr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Tuesday]
WED 04:30 Getting Nowhere Fast (b008jdf4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Tuesday]
WED 05:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hdzq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Tuesday]
WED 06:00 Whodunnits (b007jplv)
Miss Marple - A Caribbean Mystery
3. Accosted
Tensions start to grow on the beautiful tropical island.
The authorities have been called in and a murder investigation is underway.
Agatha Christie's whodunnit stars June Whitfield as Miss Marple.
Dramatised by Michael Bakewell
Miss Marple …. June Whitfield
Evelyn Hillingdon …. Carolyn Jones
Edward Hillingdon …. Christopher Wright
Lucky Dyson …. Tracy-Ann Oberman
Greg Dyson …. Brian Parr
Molly Kendall …. Alison Pettit
Tim Kendall …. David Thorpe
Victoria …. Amanda Gordon
Jim Ellis …. Anthony Ofoegbu
Inspector Weston …. David Bannerman
Daventry …. David Brooks
Cook …. Chris Pavlo
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1997.
WED 06:30 Whodunnits (b00k9dbx)
Falco - Venus in Copper
5. The Warning
A battered and bruised Falco discovers the best way to win back the affections of his girlfriend.
Helena proves that she too can play detective, but the intriguing murder case is put on hold when Falco discovers his world crashing down around him.
Anton Lesser stars as Ancient Rome's favourite crime investigator.
Lindsey Davis's gripping, historical mystery.
Dramatised by Mary Cutler.
Marcus Didius Falco …. Anton Lesser
Helena Justina …. Ann Madeley
Petronius …. Ben Crowe
Hyacinthus …. Stephen Critchlow
Appius Priscillus …. Kim Wall
Severina Zotica …. Tracy Wiles
The Maid …. Emily Chennery
The Cake Seller …. Laurence Saunders
Cossus …. Jonathan Tafler
The Parrot …. Colin Rote
Directed at BBC Birmingham by Peter Leslie Wild.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2006.
WED 07:00 Bangers and Mash (b0075hby)
Episode 6
The toffee tin with half the company profits is missing. With only three days to go, can the two-and-a-half grand be collected in time?
Conclusion of Katie Hims's sitcom about a chaotic catering company.
Juan Jose ...... Roger May
Martina ...... Catherine Harvey
Jimmy ...... Gerard McDermott
Carol ...... Jane Whittenshaw
Kingsley ...... Mark Straker
Director: Catherine Horn
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1999.
WED 07:30 The Missing Hancocks (m000cc7h)
Series 4
Prime Minister Hancock
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.
The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history.
But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives, until four highly successful series lovingly reimagined them before a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.
In this recreation: The Lad stands for Parliament, with no success whatsoever.
But in his dreams he's swept to power on a landslide, and the country salutes... Prime Minister Hancock.
Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.
Tony Hancock …. Kevin McNally
Bill Kerr …. Kevin Eldon
Kenneth Williams …. Robin Sebastian
Sid James …. Simon Greenall
Andree Melly …. Suzy Kane
Classic Hancock score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.
Producers: Neil Pearson and Hayley Sterling.
The original version of ‘Prime Minister Hancock’ was first broadcast on the 31st May, 1955.
A BBC Studios production first broadcast on Radio 4 in December 2019.
WED 08:00 Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang-Ups (b04ntvv9)
Series 2
Lost and Found
When Tom makes his weekly phone call to his parents in Sheffield he discovers they've been flooded.
As his parents manage the clear up operation, Tom reflects on what is important to keep and what isn't.
Tom ...... Tom Wrigglesworth
Granny ...... Judy Parfitt
Dad ...... Paul Copley
Mum ...... Kate Anthony
Written by Tom Wrigglesworth and James Kettle. With Miles Jupp.
Producer: Katie Tyrrell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2014.
WED 08:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hn57)
8. Worries about Van
Laura Maitland makes a full recovery.
Just as Alex wonders if she should entertain a proposal from Van, she learns that he is to marry Dolly Orranmore.
When she next sees him, he is miserably married. The friends make peace but Van has changed. He goes out alone in his boat and worries Crossriggs when he doesn't return.
This delightful tale of a small community hovering between two eras was written by the sisters known as the 'Scottish Brontes' and originally published in 1908.
Read by Rosalind Sydney.
Written by Jane and Mary Findlater.
Abridged by Clara Glynn.
Produced by Eilidh McCreadie.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2020.
WED 08:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2glh)
3. The Edinburgh Seven
It's 1870. Finally permitted to study medicine at the University of Edinburgh, Sophia starts classes with six other women. But they face financial pressures and abuse, when male students riot over a mixed class.
Sophia Jex-Blake's campaign to become a doctor continues in this true story of a late 19th century pioneer in Maggie Allen's ten-part dramatisation.
CAST:
Sophia Jex-Blake ... Julia Watson
Mrs Jex-Blake ... Tina Gray
Elizabeth Garret Anderson ... Michelle Newell
Henry Fawcett MP ... Richard Derrington
Alexander Russel ... David Bannerman
Professor Masson ... Ian Brooker
Mrs Masson ... Sharon Baylis
Edith Pechey ... Susan Jeffrey
Prof Christison ... Bob Doherty
Prof Crum Brown ... Nell Bett
Dr Anstie ... Clifford Rose
Mr Norton .... Christopher Scott
Director: Sue Wilson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2001.
WED 09:00 Paul Sinha's Perfect Pub Quiz (m0016pw7)
Series 1
Round two: The World
The problem with quizzes is that the same questions keep coming up, like “What’s the largest land mammal?”*. So the more quizzes you do the more predictable they get. Luckily, here comes quizzer, comedian and Rose d’Or winner Paul Sinha with his series, Paul Sinha’s Perfect Pub Quiz. In each episode he will invite the audience to tell him their favourite quiz questions, before offering up not just different and surprising questions, but also the fascinating stories behind the answers.
This week's show is full of questions for the World Round of the quiz. Paul asks about the first woman to circumnavigate the globe, the world's longest river, and the US state which has Boston as its capital. The audience, meanwhile, contribute questions about countries on the equator, wordless national anthems, and matching flags.
It’s facts, jokes, stories and puns – just the way you like them.
Written and performed by Paul Sinha
Additional material Oliver Levy
Additional questions The Audience
Original music: Tim Sutton
Sound engineer: Jerry Peal
Producer: Ed Morrish
A Lead Mojo production for BBC Radio 4
*The African elephant, as you well know.
WED 09:30 Did the Victorians Ruin the World? (b08l6twn)
Series 1
3. Cars
It's the most celebrated period of British ingenuity, but are our Victorian forebears due a rethink?
Sci-curious sisters Kat and Helen Arney are on hand with some revisionist revelations that could turn what we think we know completely upside down.
There are few if any more influential inventions on modern life than the automobile but, as revolutionary as cars were in the late 19th century, has the cost to the environment been worth it? Especially as history could nearly have been very different indeed. Is it true that the Victorians in fact invented the electric car, and a petrol-free society was within reach? Helen and Kat are on the trail.
Helen Arney is a presenter and comedian, and Dr Kat Arney is a writer and broadcaster who has published a book on genetics.
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast n April 2017.
WED 09:45 Daily Service (m0022z7s)
Blessed: part 1 - Those who mourn
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Blessed: part 1 - Those who mourn
Isaiah 40: 1-5
Led by Azariah France Williams.
Jesus the very thought of thee - Kenneth Cope
Yvonne Lyon - Comfort in the tragedy
London Community Gospel Choir - Old Rugged Cross
WED 10:00 Meeting Myself Coming Back (b00m88t6)
Clare Short
What would you think if you could hear your younger self? Would you be proud of your idealism? Ashamed or your mistakes?
In Meeting Myself Coming Back John Wilson takes Clare Short back through her life in sound as captured in the BBC archive.
Clare has spent her life in the public eye, never less than passionate, never short of opinions. From her first appearance as a community activist in the early 1980s, through to her announcement that she will be standing down as an MP at the next election, her career has always been controversial. What does she think now of her early causes - her opposition to Page 3 and support for the legalisation of cannabis? And what of those resignations? Was she really, as she claimed at the time 'making a sacrifice to a higher purpose' by staying inside the cabinet despite her opposition to the Gulf War?
As Clare Short meets herself coming back over nearly thirty years of sound recordings will she be proud? Pleased? Or driven, as she says she often is, to think 'Oh, shut up Clare' for her insistance on always speaking up, even when staying quiet might be a wiser choice.
Producer: Eleanor Garland
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2009.
WED 11:00 Whodunnits (b007jplv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 11:30 Whodunnits (b00k9dbx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 12:00 Bangers and Mash (b0075hby)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 12:30 The Missing Hancocks (m000cc7h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 13:00 Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang-Ups (b04ntvv9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 13:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hn57)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 13:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2glh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
WED 14:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b07qc93g)
Series 9
Brown, Birkwood, Monbiot
This week, the Professor of Ignorance John Lloyd and his curator Noel Fielding welcome:
* Craig Brown, critic and satirist, best known for his parodies in Private Eye. Writer for The Independent on Sunday, The Guardian and Daily Telegraph. Books include The Little Book of Chaos.
* Katie Birkwood, the rare books and special collections librarian at the Royal College of Physicians, London. Katie regularly contributes to the journal Library & Information History.
* George Monbiot, environmental journalist and campaigner. Guardian columnist and author of Captive State, The Age of Consent, Poisoned Arrows and No Man's Land.
The Museum's Guest Committee appreciate a mythical hotel from another age; a book that was stolen from the greatest library of the Tudor age; and the greatest bear that ever lived.
Researchers: Mike Turner and Anne Miller of QI
Producers: Richard Turner and James Harkin
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in September 2016.
WED 14:30 Hazelbeach (b00lny4b)
Series 2
Film
An unsuitable film is made and Nick has a whirlwind romance.
Starring Jamie Foreman.
Caroline and David Stafford's comedy drama about likeable conman Ronnie Hazelbeach.
Ronnie Hazelbeach.... Jamie Foreman
Nick..........Paul Bazely
James.........Neil Stuke
Polly........... Lizzy Watts
Berlin Phil....... Stephen Hogan
Director: Marc Beeby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2009.
WED 15:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hfb7)
Jamaica Inn
2. Trade Secrets
Mary believes she knows the terrible trade of Jamaica Inn.
But Joss Merlyn, in a drunken stupor, reveals something far more evil than anything she could imagine.
Daphne du Maurier's classic gothic suspense novel, first published in 1936.
Starring Susannah Corbett and John Woodvine.
Dramatised by Michael Bakewell.
Mary Yellan .... Susannah Corbett
Joss Merlyn .... John Woodvine
Aunt Patience .... Auriol Smith
Jem Merlyn .... Mark Straker
Reverend Francis Davey .... James Laurenson
Squire Bassat .... Vincent Brimble
Mrs Bassat .... Anne Jameson
Richards .... Sean Arnold
1st Horse Dealer .... Alan Barker
2nd Horse Dealer .... Peter Gunn
James .... Andrew Wincott
Boy .... Emma Fielding
Fortune Teller .... Joanna Myers
Stable Keeper .... Eric Allan
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1991
WED 16:00 Meeting Myself Coming Back (b00m88t6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
WED 17:00 Whodunnits (b007jplv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 17:30 Whodunnits (b00k9dbx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 18:00 Bangers and Mash (b0075hby)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 18:30 The Missing Hancocks (m000cc7h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 19:00 Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang-Ups (b04ntvv9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 19:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hn57)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 19:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2glh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
WED 20:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b07qc93g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
WED 20:30 Hazelbeach (b00lny4b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
WED 21:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hfb7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
WED 22:00 Paul Sinha's Perfect Pub Quiz (m0016pw7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
WED 22:30 The Goldfish Bowl (m0017lvw)
Series 2
Episode 2
Our two be-scaled heroes find themselves face to face with Horace the master criminal cat.
They have 60 minutes to save the world - in James Bond-style.
Starring Sean Foley and Hamish McColl.
Goldfish bowl based sitcom written by Shaun Prendergast.
Liam ......................Sean Foley
Anton ................. Hamish McColl
Susan ....Tracy Ann Oberman
Struan ....Shaun Prendergast
Director: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2000.
WED 22:45 Deborah Frances-White Introduces... (m000tlwf)
2. Travis Alabanza
Travis Alabanza, Scarlett Curtis, Jessica Fostekew and Steve Ali join Deborah Frances-White to tell stories.
Deborah is a comedian and writer best known for The Guilty Feminist podcast which has had 85 million downloads and she has appeared at The Royal Albert Hall, The Sydney Opera House and The London Palladium.
She has hosted many storytelling events and, for this special broadcast series, she has picked four very different writers to take part. She gave them all the prompt – The Devil You Know. In Travis Alabanza’s story we meet the devil in their own life who became too close for comfort.
Travis is a performance artist and writer. Their most recent drama Overflow was performed at the Bush in December before moving online; it has received critical acclaim, including numerous four star reviews. Their debut show Burgerz, which they also performed in, won a number of awards including the Total Theatre Award at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2019.
Deborah’s BBC Radio 4 show Deborah Frances-White Rolls the Dice won The Writers’ Guild Award for Best Radio Comedy. Her award winning independent film Say My Name premiered in 2019 at The Leicester Square Odeon. Deborah’s book The Guilty Feminist was a Sunday Times Bestseller. She is an Amnesty International Ambassador and Artistic Director of the Secret Policeman legacy brand.
Written and Read by Travis Alabanza.
Produced by Caroline Raphael.
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in March 2021.
WED 23:00 Elis James's Pantheon of Heroes (b019h88c)
Series 1
Religion
More historical heroism - as Saint David, Saint Patrick and Gerald of Wales are put to the Totaliser Test.
Comedian Elis James compares key figures in Welsh history to determine the ultimate heroes of Wales.
With:
Ben Partridge
Nadia Kamil
Written by Elis James, Gareth Gwyn and Benjamin Partridge.
Producer: Sharif Shahwan
First broadcast on BBC Radio Wales in January 2012
WED 23:30 The Skewer (m0022sz6)
Series 12
Episode 1
The week’s biggest stories like you’ve never heard them before. The news, remixed as a satirical comedy concept album. This week - Deadpool and Starmerine, Black Holes, Americans eat cats, and Gathering Winter Fuel Bills.
Jon Holmes presents the multi-award winning The Skewer. Headphones on.
Producer: Jon Holmes
An unusual production for BBC Radio 4
WED 23:45 Little Lifetimes by Jenny Eclair (b04brs9j)
Series 1
Fifteen Minutes to Landing
A couple experience severe turbulence on a flight - although it turns out to be not nearly as bumpy as their marriage.
Starring Lesley Manville.
Leading actresses star in Jenny Eclair's comic series about women facing a crisis in their lives.
Woman ...... Lesley Manville
Captain James Barrington ...... Clive Hayward
Air Hostess ...... Jane Slavin
Pat ...... Ruth Sheen
Checkout woman ...... Elaine Claxton
Lauren ...... Jane Slavin
Producer: Sally Avens
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2014.


THURSDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 2024

THU 00:00 Meeting Myself Coming Back (b00m88t6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:00 Whodunnits (b007jplv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:30 Whodunnits (b00k9dbx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Wednesday]
THU 02:00 Bangers and Mash (b0075hby)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Wednesday]
THU 02:30 The Missing Hancocks (m000cc7h)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:00 Tom Wrigglesworth's Hang-Ups (b04ntvv9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Wednesday]
THU 03:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hn57)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2glh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Wednesday]
THU 04:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b07qc93g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Wednesday]
THU 04:30 Hazelbeach (b00lny4b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Wednesday]
THU 05:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hfb7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Wednesday]
THU 06:00 Whodunnits (b007jpmc)
Miss Marple - A Caribbean Mystery
4. Unnatural Causes
With the murder tally on the island now standing at two, Miss Marple is in need of an ally...
Agatha Christie's whodunnit stars June Whitfield.
Dramatised by Michael Bakewell.
Miss Marple …. June Whitfield
Mr Rafiel …. George A. Cooper
Dr Graham .... John Rowe
Miss Prescott …. Jenny Lee
Esther Walters …. Yvonne Edgell
Evelyn Hillingdon …. Carolyn Jones
Edward Hillingdon …. Christopher Wright
Molly Kendall …. Alison Pettit
Tim Kendall …. David Thorpe
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1997.
THU 06:30 Whodunnits (b00kf0yz)
Falco - Venus in Copper
6. Demolition
Falco begins to understand the lengths that a lover will go to for revenge.
The case is still unsolved, but Falco has a couple of ideas that may lead to the culprit...
Anton Lesser stars as Ancient Rome's favourite crime investigator.
Gripping conclusion of Lindsey Davis's historical mystery.
Dramatised by Mary Cutler.
Marcus Didius Falco …. Anton Lesser
Helena Justina …. Ann Madeley
Petronius …. Ben Crowe
Appius Priscillus …. Kim Wall
Pollia …. Julia Hills
Severina Zotica …. Tracy Wiles
Cossus …. Jonathan Tafler
Thalia …. Chipo Chung
The Parrot …. Colin Rote
Directed at BBC Birmingham by Peter Leslie Wild.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2006.
THU 07:00 Coming Alive (b007k22v)
Series 1
Hostage To Fortune
Terry loses confidence and Sandra knows that he needs her, as they both face danger and confront someone else's unhappiness...
Starring Karl Howman and Phylis Logan.
Jim Eldridge's sitcom about ex-convict Terry King's efforts to run a community centre.
Terry King ...... Karl Howman
Sandra Gaines ...... Phyllis Logan
Steve ...... Ben Crowe
Ed Bayliss ...... Harry Myers
Police Officer ...... Giles Fagan
Mr Preston ...... David Holt
Superintendent Ann Robinson ...... Rachel Atkins
Producer: Marilyn Imrie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1999
THU 07:30 It Sticks Out Half A Mile (b007k1sl)
2. The Bank Loan
1948: Will a visit to the pier in Frambourne-on-Sea pour cold water on the renovation plans?
Starring John Le Mesurier, Ian Lavender and Bill Pertwee.
A seaside saga of pier perpetuation.
Written by Harold Snoad and Michael Knowles.
Arthur Wilson ...... John Le Mesurier
Frank Pike ...... Ian Lavender
Bert Hodges ...... Bill Pertwee
Miss Perkins ...... Vivienne Martin
Guthrie ...... Glynn Edwards
Mr Johnson ...... Michael Bilton
Based on the Dad's Army characters originally created by Jimmy Perry and David Croft.
Producer: Martin Fisher
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in November 1983.
THU 08:00 Paul Sinha's Citizenship Test (b038zf13)
4. British Greatness
Paul Sinha is proudly British. He also loves a quiz. So you would have thought that the UK Citizenship Test, which newcomers to this country must pass to become citizens, would have been right up his street.
But the questions in the 2012 and 2013 Home Office guides seem either bizarrely easy - "Where is Welsh most widely spoken?" - or infuriatingly vague - "What happened in the First World War?".
So Paul has created his own test, to better reflect the things that aspiring migrants should understand before they can call themselves British.
In this episode, he looks who and what Britons consider to be "great", and social cohesion - from what you need to know about weddings and marriage to the 2011 summer riots.
Written and performed by Paul Sinha.
Producer: Ed Morrish
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2013.
THU 08:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hpd2)
9. 'Unfortunate' Events
Despite being estranged from her friend Van, Alex Hope is distraught when he goes missing.
This delightful tale of a small community hovering between two eras was written by the sisters known as the 'Scottish Brontes' and originally published in 1908.
Read by Rosalind Sydney.
Written by Jane and Mary Findlater.
Abridged by Clara Glynn.
Produced by Eilidh McCreadie.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2020.
THU 08:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2h7p)
4. London
When the University fails to help Sophia realise her medical ambitions, she heads to London, where she meets a new revolutionary supporter.
Sophia Jex-Blake's campaign to become a doctor continues in this true story of a late 19th century pioneer in Maggie Allen's ten-part dramatisation.
CAST:
Sophia Jex-Blake ... Julia Watson
Mrs Jex-Blake ... Tina Gray
Elizabeth Garret Anderson ... Michelle Newell
Henry Fawcett MP ... Richard Derrington
Alexander Russel ... David Bannerman
Professor Masson ... Ian Brooker
Mrs Masson ... Sharon Baylis
Edith Pechey ... Susan Jeffrey
Prof Christison ... Bob Doherty
Prof Crum Brown ... Nell Bett
Dr Anstie ... Clifford Rose
Mr Norton .... Christopher Scott
Director: Sue Wilson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2001.
THU 09:00 Phil Ellis Is Trying (m000mkty)
Series 3
Prison Break
Phil's never got on with his dad Goodison, who spent a lot of Phil's life pretending to be dead. Now in prison for theft of an embarrassingly small bingo prize, Goodison invites Phil to visit him as part of HMP Parbold's annual "Bring Your Family To Prison Day". Phil sees this as an opportunity to reconnect with his dad. After all, as Polly says, it's not like he can run away this time. But when it soon turns out there's more to Goodison's invitation than meets the eye, will Phil be quick enough to see through his clever ruse? Meanwhile, Polly visits Johnny who is serving a 3 to 5 stretch (hours) for selling a hooky hook from the film Hook, and is worried he might be becoming institutionalised.
Cast includes:
Phil Ellis as Phil
Johnny Vegas as Johnny
Amy Gledhill as Polly
Jason Barnett as Basher/Graham McCartney/DJ
Terry Mynott as Prison Warder McKay/Paul McCartney/Hannibal
And
Guest starring Alexei Sayle as Phil's dad Goodison
It was produced by Sam Michell and is a BBC Studios Production
THU 09:30 Did the Victorians Ruin the World? (b08l6tcm)
Series 1
4. Darwinism
It's the most celebrated period of British ingenuity, but are our Victorian forebears due a rethink?
Sci-curious sisters Kat and Helen Arney are on hand with some revisionist revelations that could turn what we think we know completely upside down.
Charles Darwin's discoveries have done more than anything before or since to radically change the way we think about natural history and where we came from. It's one of the most robust and powerful scientific concepts of all time and Darwin applied it across the animal kingdom - but he was always reluctant to be drawn on the role of natural selection in human development. However, his cousin Francis Galton had no such qualms, and used Darwin's ideas to develop a theory of Eugenics.
Between the good of Darwin and the bad of Galton, whose ideas were the more powerful?
Helen Arney is a presenter and comedian, and Dr Kat Arney is a writer and broadcaster who has published a book on genetics.
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast n April 2017.
THU 09:45 Daily Service (m0022z86)
Blessed: part 1 - The meek
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Blessed: part 1 - The meek
Titus 3: 1-8
Led by Reverend Molly Boot.
THU 10:00 Great Lives (b0076bg6)
MR James
Writer and broadcaster Muriel Gray chooses ghost story writer, MR James.
Will their hero stand up to intensive scrutiny and merit the description of having led a great life?
Murial Gray and Humphrey Carpenter are joined by expert witness, Christopher Frayling.
Presenter: Humphrey Carpenter
Producer: Mary Ward-Lowery
First broadcast on Radio 4 in November 2002.
THU 10:30 The Honest Musician's Fear of Accidental Plagiarism (b00xw21s)
Many musicians have found themselves accused of stealing from another artist. It's every songwriter's biggest fear - that really great phrase or lyric you thought was all your own creation turns up in another song.
There are few musicians who would admit to stealing even if caught red handed, but what happens if the theft was unintentional? And what if you heard lines from one of your songs in someone else's work? Would you immediately reach for the lawyers phone number or would you let it go without complaint if the offending writer 'fessed up? Musicians assimilate what is around them and even the finest tunesmiths derive inspiration by drawing on and re-adapting existing popular music. So is any song really original?
As Noel Gallagher put it rather bluntly when confronted about his musical influences: "There's twelve notes in a scale and 36 chords and that's the end of it. All the configurations have been done before."
Singer and songwriter Guy Garvey, with the help of fellow songwriters Sir Tim Rice, Paul Heaton and John Bramwell, explores the legal pitfalls that can befall the honest musician and how to avoid them.
Producer: Cecile Wright
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2011.
THU 11:00 Whodunnits (b007jpmc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 11:30 Whodunnits (b00kf0yz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 12:00 Coming Alive (b007k22v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 12:30 It Sticks Out Half A Mile (b007k1sl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 13:00 Paul Sinha's Citizenship Test (b038zf13)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 13:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hpd2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 13:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2h7p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
THU 14:00 Wordaholics (b04g8q5c)
Series 3
Episode 2
Comedians Josh Widdecombe and Helen Keen, Dictionary Corner's Susie Dent and classics scholar Natalie Haynes vie for wordy supremacy under the watchful eye of chair Gyles Brandreth.
Lexicographer Susie Dent admits to the words she finds most difficult to spell; science lover Helen Keen grumpily dismantles the portmanteau word 'murse'; Natalie Haynes works out what 'kyacting' is, and does some to boot; while Josh Widdecombe tries to ban the word 'chilllax'.
The panel also guess what some foreign words which have no direct equivalent in English.
Writers: Jon Hunter and James Kettle.
Producer: Claire Jones
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2014.
THU 14:30 The Brothers (b00pcn0m)
Series 3
Mix Tape
Brothers Nigel and Michael are back - in a new office, yet with the same inability to cope with life.
Nigel gets his contacts in a twist and Michael becomes a "wing-man".
Return of the sitcom about the dysfunctional Burbage siblings.
Written by Caroline and David Stafford.
Nigel Burbage …. Adam Godley
Michael Burbage …. Ray Coulthard
Oonagh …. Pauline McLynn
Zorro …. Alex Lowe
Peter …. James Fleet
Director: Marc Beeby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2005.
THU 15:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hfbw)
Jamaica Inn
3. No comfort or joy
It is Christmas Eve and a terrified Mary has been abandoned at Launceston Fair.
Now she must make her way back along the lonely road to Jamaica Inn.
Daphne du Maurier's classic gothic suspense novel, first published in 1936.
Starring Susannah Corbett and John Woodvine.
Dramatised by Michael Bakewell.
Mary Yellan .... Susannah Corbett
Joss Merlyn .... John Woodvine
Aunt Patience .... Auriol Smith
Jem Merlyn .... Mark Straker
Reverend Francis Davey .... James Laurenson
Harry, the Pedlar .... John Hartley
1st wrecker .... Peter Gunn
2nd wrecker .... Matthew Sim
3rd wrecker .... Robert Portal
Coachman .... Brett Usher
Hannah .... Katherine Parr
Scobell .... Eric Allan
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 1991
THU 16:00 Great Lives (b0076bg6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
THU 16:30 The Honest Musician's Fear of Accidental Plagiarism (b00xw21s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
THU 17:00 Whodunnits (b007jpmc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 17:30 Whodunnits (b00kf0yz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 18:00 Coming Alive (b007k22v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 18:30 It Sticks Out Half A Mile (b007k1sl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 19:00 Paul Sinha's Citizenship Test (b038zf13)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 19:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hpd2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 19:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2h7p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
THU 20:00 Wordaholics (b04g8q5c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
THU 20:30 The Brothers (b00pcn0m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
THU 21:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hfbw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
THU 22:00 Phil Ellis Is Trying (m000mkty)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
THU 22:30 John Finnemore's Souvenir Programme (b09qhbxh)
Series 7
Episode 5
John Finnemore presents another half hour of his award-winning sketch show.
We hear from several different animals, a couple of types of King, and witness a much-needed intervention.
Plus witness a majestic sunset and some audience participation...
Written by and starring John Finnemore.
With:
Margaret Cabourn-Smith
Simon Kane
Lawry Lewin
Carrie Quinlan
John Finnemore's Souvenir Programme was described by The Radio Times as "the best sketch show in years, on television or radio", and by The Daily Telegraph as "funny enough to make even the surliest cat laugh". Already the winner of a BBC Audio Drama Award and a Radio Academy Silver Award, John was named the 2016 Radio Broadcaster of the Year by the Broadcasting Press Guild for his work on Souvenir Programme.
Producer: Ed Morrish
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in 2018.
THU 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m002383r)
Mary O’Connell 2/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, The Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. And tonight, Athena Kugblenu interviews the comedian and writer Mary O’Connell.
THU 23:00 The Harpoon (b00cgsrm)
Series 3
Episode 1
Is your journey really necessary?
Do you know your submarines?
Are you bored with your biscuits?
And above all - are you German?
The Empire's favourite is back with a special wartime edition of the nostalgic spoof of boys' adventure magazine.
Written by Julian Dutton and Peter Baynham.
Performed by:
Alistair McGowan
Peter Baynham
Susie Brann
Mary Elliot-Nelson
Julian Dutton
Producer: Sarah Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1994.
THU 23:30 Party (b011pkqg)
Series 2
It's Technology, Stupid
The young aspiring politicians of the new political party get to grips with technology and whether it is making people stupid.
Meanwhile, they launch a recruiting campaign on the internet.
Tom Basden's satirical comedy about a political party run by young idealists.
Simon ..... Tom Basden
Duncan ..... Tim Key
Jared ..... Jonny Sweet
Mel ..... Ann Crilly
Phoebe ..... Katy Wix
Jared's Mum ..... Jane Whittenshaw
Producer: Julia McKenzie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2011.


FRIDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 2024

FRI 00:00 Great Lives (b0076bg6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Thursday]
FRI 00:30 The Honest Musician's Fear of Accidental Plagiarism (b00xw21s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Thursday]
FRI 01:00 Whodunnits (b007jpmc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Thursday]
FRI 01:30 Whodunnits (b00kf0yz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Thursday]
FRI 02:00 Coming Alive (b007k22v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Thursday]
FRI 02:30 It Sticks Out Half A Mile (b007k1sl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:00 Paul Sinha's Citizenship Test (b038zf13)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Thursday]
FRI 03:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hpd2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl2h7p)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Thursday]
FRI 04:00 Wordaholics (b04g8q5c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Thursday]
FRI 04:30 The Brothers (b00pcn0m)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Thursday]
FRI 05:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hfbw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Thursday]
FRI 06:00 Whodunnits (b007jpmx)
Miss Marple - A Caribbean Mystery
5. Nemesis
After two murders and an attempted suicide, amateur sleuth Miss Marple is battling to find a link.
Conclusion of Agatha Christie's whodunnit starring June Whitfield.
Dramatised by Michael Bakewell
Miss Marple …. June Whitfield
Mr Rafiel …. George A. Cooper
Tim Kendall …. David Thorpe
Molly Kendall …. Alison Pettit
Esther Walters …. Yvonne Edgell
Evelyn Hillingdon …. Carolyn Jones
Edward Hillingdon …. Christopher Wright
Lucky Dyson …. Tracy-Ann Oberman
Jackson …. Andrew Wincott
Canon Prescott …. David King
Dr Graham .... John Rowe
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1997.
FRI 06:30 Philip Levene - The Beneficiary (m0022zhz)
Mr and Mrs Bentley appear to be consumed.
One with illness and medication and the other with a new insurance policy - as well as the young attractive hired help.
So who is secretly plotting..?
Thriller written by Philip Levene.
Alice Bentley .... Kathleen Helme
Henry Bentley .... Malcolm Hayes
Ellen Smith .... Judy Bailey
Inspector Meadows .... John Hollis
Mr Clarke .... Kenneth Dight
Producer: David H Godfrey
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in March 1960.
FRI 07:00 The Older Woman (b039gkz0)
Series 2
Episode 3
Roy's efforts to make a video diary become tinged with paranoia.
The thought police and Michael Buerk from TV’s ‘999’ infiltrate his fantasies.
Surprisingly, Jane finds herself feeling sorry for Roy and makes a gesture she lives to regret.
Starring Geraldine James and Martin Clunes.
Tony Bagley’s romantic comedy drama serial that mixes fantasy with reality.
Roy …. Martin Clunes
Jane …. Geraldine James
Chad …. Nicky Henson
Colin …. David Troughton
Mrs Churchill …. Rebecca Front
Marina …. Tilly Vosburgh
God …. Alistair McGowan
Michael Buerk as himself.
Music composed by Julian Wostall.
Theme sung by Toyah Willcox.
Producer: Paul Schlesinger:
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1994.
FRI 07:30 The Burkiss Way (b007jsfr)
Series 5
The Man from the Burkiss Way
A deadly game of Russian Roulette Video Cassette and Blake's 7 spoofed.
Starring Fred Harris, Jo Kendall, Nigel Rees and Chris Emmett.
Cult sketch comedy series which originally ran from 1976 to 1980.
Written by Andrew Marshall and David Renwick.
Producer: David Hatch
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1980.
FRI 08:00 Room 101 with Paul Merton (m001n1r5)
Series 1
Phil Wang
Paul Merton interviews guests from the world of comedy and entertainment, to find out what they would like to send to Room 101
In this episode, Phil Wang's choices are standing ovations, biopics and the second law of thermodynamics.
Additional material by John Irwin and Suki Webster
Produced by Richard Wilson
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in June 2023.
FRI 08:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hq1t)
10. Escape
Torn apart by her love for married neighbour Robert and mourning her friend Van, Alex has left Crossriggs to become a companion for her demanding Aunt Clara.
This delightful tale of a small community hovering between two eras was written by the sisters known as the 'Scottish Brontes' and originally published in 1908.
Read by Rosalind Sydney.
Written by Jane and Mary Findlater.
Abridged by Clara Glynn.
Produced by Eilidh McCreadie.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2020.
FRI 08:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl6l2b)
5. London School of Medicine
Sophia battles to finally open the very first medical school for women. But as she's still not on the medical register, she plots a plan of action...
Sophia Jex-Blake's campaign to become a doctor continues in this true story of a late 19th century pioneer in Maggie Allen's ten-part dramatisation.
CAST:
Sophia Jex-Blake ... Julia Watson
Mrs Jex-Blake ... Tina Gray
Elizabeth Garret Anderson ... Michelle Newell
Henry Fawcett MP ... Richard Derrington
Alexander Russel ... David Bannerman
Professor Masson ... Ian Brooker
Mrs Masson ... Sharon Baylis
Edith Pechey ... Susan Jeffrey
Prof Christison ... Bob Doherty
Prof Crum Brown ... Nell Bett
Dr Anstie ... Clifford Rose
Mr Norton .... Christopher Scott
Director: Sue Wilson.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2001.
FRI 09:00 The Many Wrongs of Lord Christian Brighty (m0022zj4)
4. The Lord I Shot
Brighty’s decision to right a wrong – killing a man in a duel – leads to a bust-up with Babs. Whilst she goes full tilt for revolution, Brighty and Churley are left mentoring a young proto-rake. Will the schism in the gang ever be repaired?
Lord Christian Brighty is the talk of the Regency 'Ton' - a celebrated libertine, a heartthrob and a hero to many. But close-up, he is a spoilt, impetuous, life-ruining bastard… Or at least he was. Because his carefree life of infinite privilege has been upended by an encounter with his new chambermaid - the uneducated but forthright Babigail - who became the first person to tell him the unvarnished truth about his selfish behaviour. Overnight, his lifelong trust that everyone loved him had been replaced with a gnawing fear that Babs was right.
So now, with his narcissism collapsing and a need to prove to Babs he is actually a good person, Lord Brighty is determined to fix all his past wrongs. And by extension all the ills of Regency society. Accompanying him in his quest are Babs (elevated beyond her station to a chambermaid-cum-adviser role), and his butler, Mr Churlington. Although Churley would prefer everything to stay exactly as it used to be (as would all Brighty’s friends, family and the entirety of high society).
Written by Christian Brighty & Amy Greaves
Cast:
Lord Christian Brighty ….. Christian Brighty
Babs ….. Jessica Knappett
Churlington ….. Colin McFarlane
Dowager / Fleetsbee ….. Nimisha Odedra
Monty ….. Joz Norris
Manon ….. Chiara Goldsmith
John ….. David Reed
Script Editor ….. David Reed
Sound & Recording ….. David Thomas
Photographer ….. Will Hearle
Production Assistant ….. Katie Sayer
Producer ….. Ben Walker
A DLT Entertainment Production for BBC Radio 4
Christian Brighty and Amy Greaves are award-winning comedians. Their viral sketches based on Bridgerton, Poldark and Jane Austen have catapulted them to viral stardom, securing Christian’s place as the internet’s answer to Mr Darcy and amassing 150 million views across TikTok and Instagram (@brightybuoy). Amy and Christian both have a deep love of the work Jane Austen, traditional regency romance (not smut), and historical romance set in the regency (smut).
FRI 09:30 Did the Victorians Ruin the World? (b08l6tp3)
Series 1
5. Toilets
It's the most celebrated period of British ingenuity, but are our Victorian forebears due a rethink?
Sci-curious sisters Kat and Helen Arney are on hand with some revisionist revelations that could turn what we think we know completely upside down.
Was the water-based toilet the pinnacle of 19th century hygienic invention, or did the Victorians literally flush away our most precious resource? Why did they choose the water closet over the alternatives that were available to them - the Earth Closet and the Air Closet? And was there a Fire Closet too (or was that just the result of that other great Victorian import, the curry?). Helen and Kat are holding their noses and diving in.
Helen Arney is a presenter and comedian, and Dr Kat Arney is a writer and broadcaster who has published a book on genetics.
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast n April 2017.
FRI 09:45 Daily Service (m0022zj8)
Blessed: part 1 - Hunger and thirst
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Blessed: part 1 - Hunger and thirst
John 6: 35-40
Led by Ann Easter
Trinity College Choir - Bread of the world
Scottish Festival Singers - Eat this Bread
Volney Morgan - As the deer
FRI 10:00 Soul Music (m000760l)
Series 28
Farewell to Stromness
Personal stories about Farewell to Stromness, by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies.
Written in 1980 as a protest against uranium mining in Orkney, the music has touched and changed people's lives.
The Orkney landscape which inspired Max's music is described by his partner Tim Morrison.
We hear from Rosalind Newton, for whom the music provided peace after the death of her grandmother.
Conductor Christopher Warren-Green recalls his performance of the music at the wedding of the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.
In Stromness we discover a community coming together to face the threat of uranium mining.
Guitarist Sean Shibe and writer Ivan Hewett consider why this simple piece is so subtle and affective.
And we hear from Jeana Leslie how the music, with its quiet melancholy inspired by folk music, has became traditional , and was a favourite for Peter Maxwell Davies to perform to visitors at his remote island home.
Producer: Melvin Rickarby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2019.
FRI 10:30 How Dolly Got Rotherham Reading (b012ql5c)
Dolly Parton grew up in poverty in rural East Tennessee, where children only attended school if there was no work to be done on the farm. She came to regard good literacy skills as one of the key passports to enhanced life chances and in 1995 she launched the 'Imagination Library'.
The idea was quite simple. All children in the area were sent one book a month from birth until five years. In 2007 she took South Yorkshire by surprise when she turned up in Rotherham - not a city used to celebrity visits. But what happened next? Did her library capture the imagination of Rotherham's children? We follow up to ask whether it was just a flash in the pan or a serious project.
Travelling to Dollywood for an Imagination Library conference, Sarfraz Manzoor meets people from all over the world who have signed up for the literacy project. From Alaskan children in remote communities to young readers in Nottingham, Sarfraz finds that Dolly's influence is global.
Sarfraz will meet Dolly Parton in Dollywood to talk about her life and work. We'll hear from those who knew her as a child and understand the motivations for this charitable work she undertakes with such passion.
It will be a journey to the glamourous heart of country music, but one which reveals much more about one of the world's best loved country singers. Dolly Parton in her own words and in her own personal world of the Imagination Library.
Producer: Mark Rickards
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2011.
FRI 11:00 Whodunnits (b007jpmx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 11:30 Philip Levene - The Beneficiary (m0022zhz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 12:00 The Older Woman (b039gkz0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 12:30 The Burkiss Way (b007jsfr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 13:00 Room 101 with Paul Merton (m001n1r5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 13:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hq1t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 13:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl6l2b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
FRI 14:00 Foul Play (b00zljzj)
Series 4
Death and Two Copies, Please
Crime writers Tim Heald and Margaret Yorke puzzle over a case of robbery gone wrong.
Simon Brett hosts the murder mystery panel game
Witnesses played by:
Maria McErlane
Lee Simpso
Producer: Liz Anstee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1998.
FRI 14:30 Lucky Heather (b0075rtm)
For a Few Dollars More
Just this side of nosey, Heather is western movie-mad. She's also the Sherlock Holmes of the rundown Sutter Estate.
With the aid of daughter Natalie and her boyfriend Ryan, she's determined to help her local community.
For starters, Heather tries to help a family with a sick child, but events take an unexpected turn...
Six-part sitcom by Sue Teddern.
Starring Lindsey Coulson (Carol Jackson in BBC TV's EastEnders until 2015)
Heather …… Lindsey Coulson
Natalie …… Abigail Hart
Ryan …… Ben Crowe
Maev …… Dearbhla Molloy
Craig …… Tom George
Lisa …… Beth Chalmers
Director: David Hunter
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2000.
FRI 15:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hfl0)
Jamaica Inn
4. Night of Terror
Alone and desolate after her horrific encounter with the wreckers, Mary has sought help from the only people she can trust - the Bassats and Francis Davey.
Conclusion of Daphne du Maurier's classic gothic suspense novel.
Starring Susannah Corbett.
Dramatised by Michael Bakewell.
Mary Yellan .... Susannah Corbett
The Reverend Francis Davey .... James Laurenson
Jem Merlyn .... Mark Straker
Squire Bassat .... Vincent Brimble
Mrs Bassat .... Anne Jameson
Harry, the Pedlar .... John Hartley
Richards .... Sean Arnold
Tom Jory .... Robert Portal
Hannah .... Katherine Parr
Scobell .... Eric Allan
Militia Man .... Matthew Sim
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 1991
FRI 16:00 Soul Music (m000760l)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
FRI 16:30 How Dolly Got Rotherham Reading (b012ql5c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
FRI 17:00 Whodunnits (b007jpmx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 17:30 Philip Levene - The Beneficiary (m0022zhz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 18:00 The Older Woman (b039gkz0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 18:30 The Burkiss Way (b007jsfr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 19:00 Room 101 with Paul Merton (m001n1r5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 19:30 Crossriggs by Jane & Mary Findlater (m000hq1t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 19:45 Maggie Allen - Not Me, But Us (b0bl6l2b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
FRI 20:00 Foul Play (b00zljzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
FRI 20:30 Lucky Heather (b0075rtm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
FRI 21:00 Daphne Du Maurier (m001hfl0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
FRI 22:00 The Many Wrongs of Lord Christian Brighty (m0022zj4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
FRI 22:30 The Million Pound Radio Show (b008ythm)
Series 2
Episode 3
Spoofing the royals - and chatty dinosaurs.
Sharp-edged topical humour in the most expensive show on radio.
Written by and starring Andy Hamilton and Nick Revell.
With:
Felicity Montagu
Harry Enfield
Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1986.
FRI 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m002383t)
Mary O’Connell 3/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, The Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. And tonight, Athena Kugblenu interviews the comedian and writer Mary O’Connell.
FRI 23:00 The Show What You Wrote (b06s9f1j)
Series 3
Crime & Punishment
John Thomson, Shobna Gulati, Fiona Clarke, Chris Jack, and Gavin Webster star in the themed sketch show made entirely from contributions sent in by the public.
The best ideas have been chosen from thousands of submissions from new writers resulting in a show like no other.
The theme of "Crime & Punishment" features some remarkably literal highwaymen, a door-to-door salesman who is in no way a conman, and an HR policy that shows it's always best to read the small print.
Written by Cassie Atkinson, Tim Craig, Sarah Glenister, Helen Green, Jack Hall, Dai Hill, Joe Hodgson, Gabby Hutchinson Crouch, Rose Johnson, Graham Kilvington, Derek Martin, Steve Nelson, Owen Seddon & Emlyn Williams.
Script editor: Jon Hunter
Producers: Ed Morrish and Paul Sheehan.
A BBC Radio Comedy production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in December 2015.
FRI 23:30 Alex Edelman's Peer Group (m000wjqx)
Series 4
New Relationships To Old Things
Alex Edelman is a comedian who spends his life travelling the US and the world. So when his parents come to sell the family home he thinks nothing of it.
That is until lockdown happens and he realises he might have more emotional investment in the house, and the things he left behind, than he had at first thought.
Written by Alex Edelman and Max Davis
With special thanks to
Josh Weller
Alfie Brown
Rajiv Karia
Tasha Dhanraj
Danny Jolles
Hannah Einbinder
Produced by Sam Michell.
A BBC Studios Production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in June 2021.