SATURDAY 28 JUNE 2025

SAT 00:00 Soul Music (b040hx6j)
Series 18
Something Inside So Strong
Labi Siffre wrote Something Inside So Strong in 1984.
Widely believed to have been inspired by seeing film footage from South Africa, of young blacks being shot at by white policeman, the singer-songwriter now reveals that the lyrics were also informed by the oppression he had experienced as as a gay man.
The song has been taken up by individuals and groups around the world who have suffered from discrimination. The Choir With No Name in Birmingham, made up of homeless singers, always close their concerts with the song. Choir members explain why it's so important to them, giving them a sense of pride and dignity.
American singer Suede, talks about the power she finds in the song while South African singer, Lira talks about making a special recording of it for the birthday of Nelson Mandela, as it was one of his favourite pieces.
Also hear how Celtic football fans sing it as an act of solidarity with their beleaguered manager, Neil Lennon.
In his first interview for over a decade, Siffre explains how he still sings the songs as he tries to put his life back together after the death of his partner, Peter.
Contributors:
Labi Siffre
Bill West
Peter Churchill
Neil Lennon
Series about pieces of music with a powerful emotional impact
Producer: Lucy Lunt
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2014.
SAT 00:30 Arthur Mee - Encyclopaedist (b00cdr0g)
Arthur Mee wrote on average a million words a year for 50 years.
Enthusiast Ian Sansom explores the life and work of the prolific journalist, historian, polemicist and educator.
Arthur Mee's Children's Encyclopaedia was first published in 1908, and its successor, the weekly Children's Newspaper, were bought by millions throughout the first half of the 20th century.
Producer: Sara Davies
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2008.
SAT 01:00 Only One Man For the Part (m002dxmc)
Ian Hudson is about to produce a new TV serial by famous author Brian Sweetlove.
His radio serials invariably run for years.
Once, Sweetlove and John Armitage, a highly skilled and popular broadcaster, were friends, with many interests in common.
Perhaps they shared one thing (or was it one person?) too many?
At least, that might have been one reason why the casting of a new serial should lead to tragedy.
Starring Richard Hurndal, John Humphry and Wilfred Babbage.
Written by Gale Pedrick.
Ian Hudson, a TV producer .... Richard Hurndall
Brian Sweetlove .... John Humphry
John Armitage .... Wilfred Babbage
Inspector Lane .... David Bird
Ian Hudson's secretary .... Cecile Chevreau
Valerie, another secretary .... Judy Bailey
Sam, a barman .... John Hollis
Bedstraw .... John Bryning
A daily Woman ....Eva Stuart
Producer: Audrey Cameron
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in April 1960.
SAT 01:30 After Eden (m0009cbz)
5. The Peace and The Passion
The marriage of the Reverend Elaine Metcalfe's friends is under strain.
Can she manage to balance the needs of her friends against those of her parishioners?
Alison Leonard's warm-hearted drama about the life of a woman priest.
Rev Elaine Metcalfe …. Christine Pritchard
Gareth …. Simon Harris
Sian …. Sue Jones Davies
Mr Hudson …. Steve Hodson
Ellis .… Dafydd Wyn Roberts
Josie .… Marilyn Le Conte
Director: Alison Hindell.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1995.
SAT 02:00 A Very Private Man (b09k9kp0)
Episode 6
David dreads the forthcoming visit by his mother and Helen tries to get back on the job ladder...
Starring Rodney Bewes and Ann Bell.
Terry Gregson's north v south sitcom.
David Parkinson ...... Rodney Bewes
Helen Parkinson ...... Ann Bell
Mrs Henderson ...... Daphne Oxenford
Mrs Wilshaw ...... Marlene Sidaway
Mr Sands ...... Peter Wheeler
Produced at BBC Manchester by Ron McDonnell.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in February 1981.
SAT 02:30 The Jason Explanation of... (b007jpwr)
Money
David Jason sets out in his probe of modern life as he tries to comprehend cash.
Following in the footsteps of Lord Clark, Dr Bronowski and Professor Galbraith, David unravels the mysteries of the universe and the meaning of life.
With:
Miriam Margolyes
Royce Mills
Written by Colin Bostock Smith, Andy Hamilton and Barry Pilton.
Music by John Owen Edwards.
Producer: Geoffrey Perkins
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 4 in September 1977.
SAT 03:00 Showstopper (b00yjcnw)
5. The Magical Sea Of Dreams
The Showstopper team are here to create a hilarious improvised comic musical on the spot!
Featuring songs, plot and characters based entirely on suggestions from the live studio audience.
It’s curtain-up on the musical world of a magical sea.
The cast includes:
Pippa Evans
Ruth Bratt
Dylan Emery
Lucy Trodd
Sean McCann
Oliver Senton
Producer: Sam Bryant
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2011.
SAT 03:30 The Vanishing Futurist by Charlotte Hobson (m000myv4)
10. The Truth
Gerty and Pasha uncover the truth about the mysterious Laboratoria 37.
Early in 1914, 22-year-old Gerty Freely travels to Russia to work as a governess, little-knowing the huge upheavals in the world and in her own life that lie ahead.
In London, 1974, Gerty begins a memoir for her daughter Sophy, looking back at that extraordinary time of war, revolution and civil war.
Most of her memories are centred on a young inventor, Nikita Slavkin, who mysteriously disappeared in 1919 and was subsequently celebrated in Soviet culture as The Vanishing Futurist.
“No word has been heard from him since […] Yet the idea persists that one day he will reappear.”
Charlotte Hobson's novel abridged by Jeremy Osborne.
Concluded by Barbara Flynn.
Producer: Jeremy Osborne
A Sweet Talk production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in September 2020.
SAT 03:45 Private Papers by Margaret Forster (m002dxmf)
10. A Family Trip to Florence
The Butlers attend a wedding and take a family trip to Florence.
Rosemary wonders if her mother has reassessed her view of family at the age of 70, and after the trip to Florence when the private letters come to an end.
Margaret Forster's novel about family and conflicting memories.
Dramatised by Juliet Ace.
Penelope (mother) . . . . Angela Pleasence
Rosemary . . . . Nichola McAuliffe
Celia . . . . Jenny Funnell
Emily . . . . Jessica Lloyd
Director: Tanya Nash
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2000.
SAT 04:00 The Motion Show (b00768mm)
Series 3
Episode 3
Debates galore over staying home and getting fit.
Graeme Garden chairs the quirky battle of words and wit.
With:
Hugh Dennis
Gyles Brandreth
Arthur Smith
Emma Kennedy
Producer: Helen Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2000
SAT 04:30 Hidden Treasures (m002dxmk)
Bardell v Pickwick by Charles Dickens
An entertainment for radio by Michael and Mollie Hardwick from The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens.
Starring Jim Dale, Moray Watson and Marjorie Westbury.
The action takes place at Mr. Pickwick's London lodgings, a Court of Law and later in the Fleet Prison.
When Mrs Bardell misconstrues Mr Pickwick a legal battle ensues.
Sam Weller .... Jim Dale
Mr Pickwick .... Moray Watson
Mrs Bardell .... Marjorie Westbury
Serjeant Buzfuz .... Norman Shelley
Tommy Bardell .... Dempsey Cook
Mr Tupman .... Alexander John
Mr Snodgrass .... Brain Haines
Mr Winkle/Roker .... Nicholas Edmett
Mr Fogg .... John Pullen
Mr Dodson/Solomon Pell .... Wilfred Carter
Tony Weller .... Haydn Jones
Mrs Cluppins .... Hilda Krizeman
Mrs Sanders .... Grizelda Hervey
Mr Jackson/Judge .... Denis McCarthy
Mr Perker .... John Boxer
Serjeant Snubbin .... Peter Baldwin
Foreman of the Jury/Cobbler .... Ian Frost
Mr Jingle .... Christopher Owen
Maid .... Rosalind Shanks
Landlady .... Pauline Letts
Guitarist: George Elliott
Producer: Archie Campbell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1968.
**********************************************************************************************************************************************
Bardell v Pickwick is part of BBC Radio 4 Extra's Hidden Treasures collection of selected titles returned to the BBC by various collectors.
Our warm thanks go to the Radio Circle.
SAT 06:00 The Scatterbrained Scarecrow of Oz by Alfred Bradley (m002f6r3)
After the Wizard retired, the Scarecrow is now ruler of the Land of Oz.
Accompanied by his friends Dorothy, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow sets off to find the Wicked Witch of the North.
She's stolen his brains and intends to take over the Emerald City.
A sequel to L Frank Baum's famous story.
Starring Wendy Padbury, Christopher Goodwin, Brian Murphy and David Beames.
Written by Alfred Bradley.
Dorothy .... Wendy Padbury
The Scarecrow ... Christopher Godwin
The Lion ... Brian Murphy
The Tin Man ... David Beames
Aunt Em/Wicked Witch of the North ... Carole Hayman
Uncle Henry/Wizard of Oz ... Ronald Herdman
Brat, the Witch's son ... Freddie Lees
The Witch's Cat/Glinda the Good ... Vivienne Dixon
The Guardian of the Gates/The Music Man ... Frank Elliott
Kay the Queen of the Kaleidoscope ... Susan Tracy
The Spirit of Midnight ... Malcolm Hebden
Music composed by Ronnie Bridges.
Lyrics by Brenda Johnson and Alfred Bradley.
Director: Alfred Bradley
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 1980.
SAT 07:20 Inheritance Tracks (b04prp0s)
Ruthie Henshall
West End and Broadway star Ruthie Henshall selects Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Judy Garland and Faure's In Paradisum.
SAT 07:30 Hamilton and Me by Giles Terera (Omnibus) (m002f6r5)
It's one of the most groundbreaking musicals of our time.
Olivier award-winning actor, musician and film-maker Giles Terera reads from his insider's account of his time in Hamilton.
After being offered the role of Aaron Burr, Giles Terera kept a journal of his time preparing for, rehearsing and performing in the London production of Lin-Manuel Miranda's iconic musical.
This is his thrilling behind-the-scenes look at everything involved in opening a once-in-a-generation production - from the triumphs to the breakthroughs, the doubts to the camaraderie, and the final electrifying performances.
Omnibus of five episodes abridged by Richard Hamilton.
Producer: Justine Willett
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2021.
SAT 08:45 Diplomatic Dinners (m0008pq8)
Potage Aux Ambassadeurs
Chris Bowlby hears what it's like to eat for Britain from such wined-and-dined luminaries as Chris Patten and Christopher Meyer.
In this episode, he hears how Britain has tried to improve the image of its cuisine in the eyes of the French.
Plus some of the more challenging dishes the diplomats have to eat for Queen and country.
Producer: Mark Savage.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2006.
SAT 09:00 The Men from the Ministry (b007jqfn)
Not on Your Telly
The bungling bureaucrats spark bedlam during a BBC 'Panorama' probe.
A weekly tribute to all those who work in government departments.
Written by Edward Taylor and John Graham.
Lennox-Brown …. Deryck Guyler
Lamb …. Richard Murdoch
Mildred Murfin/Miss Swann/Daphne Bentwater …. Norma Ronald
Sir Gregory Pitkin …. Ronald Baddiley
Lord Stilton/Jeremy Capon/Edgar/Robin Gay …. John Graham
Newsreader …. Bryan Martin
Written by Edward Taylor and John Graham.
The Men from the Ministry' ran for 14 series between 1962 and 1977. Deryck Guyler replaced Wilfrid Hyde-White from 1966.
Producer: Edward Taylor
Producer: Edward Taylor
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 4 in August 1977.
SAT 09:30 All Gas and Gaiters (m000mxz0)
Series 1
The Bishop Writes a Sermon
The Bishop battles to write a sermon.
Ecclesiastical sitcom which started life on BBC TV.
Written and adapted by husband-and-wife team, Pauline Devaney and Edwin Apps.
The Archdeacon …. Robertson Hare
The Bishop …. William Mervyn
The Bishop's Chaplain …. Derek Nimmo
The Dean …. John Barron
The Postman …. Frank Abbott
'All Gas And Gaiters' started life as a TV pilot in Comedy Playhouse, ahead of a run on BBC1 from 1966 to 1971.
Selected scripts were revised and re-recorded for radio.
Producer: David Hatch.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1967.
SAT 10:00 The Mastertapes Guide to Writing the Perfect Song (m000zky4)
3. Who's It For?
Randy Newman reflects on writing for films and Graham Nash recalls Neil Young’s unique playback system.
In the last of three programmes, John Wilson looks back over more of his conversations with 45 acclaimed songwriters for BBC Radio 4's series ‘Mastertapes’.
Recorded with an audience of fans at the BBC Maida Vale studios in London, each guest focuses on a key album from their career, describing in detail how dozens of much loved hit songs were written.
Now, the ‘Mastertapes’ guests are brought together to offer a unique how-to guide to writing the perfect song.
In this episode, Randy Newman reflects on writing for films and Graham Nash recalls Neil Young’s unique playback system.
Presented and produced by John Wilson.
Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in May 2021.
SAT 11:00 The Scatterbrained Scarecrow of Oz by Alfred Bradley (m002f6r3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 12:20 Inheritance Tracks (b04prp0s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:20 today]
SAT 12:30 Hamilton and Me by Giles Terera (Omnibus) (m002f6r5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SAT 13:45 Diplomatic Dinners (m0008pq8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
SAT 14:00 The Men from the Ministry (b007jqfn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 14:30 All Gas and Gaiters (m000mxz0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SAT 15:00 The Mastertapes Guide to Writing the Perfect Song (m000zky4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SAT 16:00 Doctor Who (m001j5qk)
The War Doctor
7. The Shadow Vortex
Cardinal Ollistra exploits The War Doctor's affection for Earth by sending him to Cold War East Berlin in 1961, on the trail of the Dalek mercenary, Lara Zannis. Her aim is to breach the Earth's quantum shield on a deadly mission for the Dalek Time Strategist.
Caught between MI6 and the KGB, the War Doctor must first escape the Stasi before he can hope to stop her.
John Hurt stars as The War Doctor.
Written by David Llewellyn.
The War Doctor .... John Hurt
Cardinal Ollistra .... Jacqueline Pearce
Lara Zannis …. Neve McIntosh
Lt Kruger …. Timothy Speyer
Kavarin …. Gunnar Cauthery
Professor Crane …. Helen Goldwyn
Haleyna .... Honeysuckle Weeks
Leith …. Matthew Cottle
Dalek Time Strategist/The Daleks .... Nicholas Briggs
Original music written by Howard Carter.
Director: Nicholas Briggs
A Big Finish production.
SAT 17:00 The Scatterbrained Scarecrow of Oz by Alfred Bradley (m002f6r3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SAT 18:20 Inheritance Tracks (b04prp0s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:20 today]
SAT 18:30 Hamilton and Me by Giles Terera (Omnibus) (m002f6r5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SAT 19:45 Diplomatic Dinners (m0008pq8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
SAT 20:00 The Men from the Ministry (b007jqfn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
SAT 20:30 All Gas and Gaiters (m000mxz0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]
SAT 21:00 The Mastertapes Guide to Writing the Perfect Song (m000zky4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SAT 22:00 The Harri-Parris' Radio Show (b066zl5x)
Series 1
West End Boys
Ifan plots to split Anni from Ben, roping her ex-boyfriends into a scheme at Rumourz.
Sitcom with songs by Llinos Mai about the latest goings on from West Wales' most dysfunctional farming family.
Starring:
Llinos Mai
Daniel Rochford
Rhys ap Trefor
Oli Wood
Rhian Morgan
Producer: Mark Harrison
First broadcast on BBC Radio Wales in August 2015.
SAT 22:30 Start/Stop (b04vk6l2)
Series 2
8. Hotel
Jack Docherty’s sitcom about three marriages in various states of disrepair.
The three couples end up on a 'date night' together and Evan is a surprise convert to French cinema.
Meanwhile Barney tries to get his smartphone to answer some of life's big questions.
Starring:
Couple 1:
Barney ...... Jack Docherty
Cathy ...... Kerry Godliman
Couple 2:
Evan ...... John Thomson
Fiona ...... Fiona Allen
Couple 3:
David ...... Charlie Higson
Alice ...... Sally Bretton
Voice of Barney's smartphone .... Jon Briggs
Producer: Claire Jones
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2014.
SAT 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m002fch6)
Ashley Blaker 1/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Laura Lexx chats to Ashley Blaker.
SAT 23:00 Nick Mohammed in Bits (b00tmt9h)
Lila
It's a new term and second year student Lila plans to teach the Freshers everything she knows.
Written by and starring Nick Mohammed.
Lila ...... Nick Mohammed
Reporter ...... Colin Hoult
Lila's best friend ...... Anna Crilly
Series of one-off comic plays showcasing the best of Nick Mohammed's idiosyncratic comic character creations.
Producer: Victoria Lloyd
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2010.
SAT 23:30 Micky Flanagan: What Chance Change? (b00sp1rs)
2000s
Cockney comedian Flanagan takes us through the noughties.
This was the decade spent settling down with a middle class woman - "she's been ski-ing and everything" - and building a career as a stand up comedian.
In the documentary segments, Micky chats to his parents about turning to stand up. He also discusses comedy and class with the brilliant Sean Lock.
Concluding his first radio series, Micky charts his progression from working-class Herbert to middle-class intellectual and being caught awkwardly between the two.
Written and performed by Micky Flanagan.
Producer: Tilusha Ghelani.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2010.

SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2025

SUN 00:00 Doctor Who (m001j5qk)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Saturday]
SUN 01:00 The Scatterbrained Scarecrow of Oz by Alfred Bradley (m002f6r3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Saturday]
SUN 02:20 Inheritance Tracks (b04prp0s)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:20 on Saturday]
SUN 02:30 Hamilton and Me by Giles Terera (Omnibus) (m002f6r5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Saturday]
SUN 03:45 Diplomatic Dinners (m0008pq8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Saturday]
SUN 04:00 The Men from the Ministry (b007jqfn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Saturday]
SUN 04:30 All Gas and Gaiters (m000mxz0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Saturday]
SUN 05:00 The Mastertapes Guide to Writing the Perfect Song (m000zky4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]
SUN 06:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m002fmbv)
King Lear
Warren Mitchell
Actor Warren Mitchell is castaway by Sue Lawley.
Arthur Miller praised his portrayal of Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman at the National Theatre and he played King Lear in Australia in 1978 and at the West Yorkshire Playhouse in 1995.
However, Warren will always be best remembered for Alf Garnett, the bigoted, bully in Till Death Us Do Part which first aired on BBC TV in 1965.
DISC ONE: Soloists David Healey, Barry Rutter and Kevin Williams - Frank Loesser’s Fugue For Tinhorns (from Guys and Dolls)
DISC TWO: Orchestra: Academy of St Martin in the Fields, conducted by Sir Neville Marriner
- Ralph Vaughan Williams’s Fantasia On A Theme By Thomas Tallis
DISC THREE: Paul Scofield reading Four Quartets
DISC FOUR: Eddie Condon - The Song is Ended
DISC FIVE: Sir John Betjeman - Youth and Age on Beaulieu River
DISC SIX: Judith Durham - Cake Walking Babies from Home
DISC SEVEN: Scottish Orchestra, conducted by Neeme Jarvi - George Enescu’s Romanian Rhapsody
DISC EIGHT: Soloists Yvonne Kenny, Diana Montague, and Rosemary Joshua with The London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by David Parry - Richard Strauss’s "Marie Theres'! Hab' mir's gelobt" (Act 3 Trio) (from Der Rosenkavalier)
CASTAWAY'S FAVOURITE: Soloists Yvonne Kenny, Diana Montague, and Rosemary Joshua with The London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by David Parry - Richard Strauss’s Marie Theres'! Hab' mir's gelobt (Act 3 Trio) (from Der Rosenkavalier)
BOOK CHOICE: Master and Commander by Patrick O'Brian
LUXURY CHOICE: Organ (from the Royal Albert Hall)
Producer Angie Nehring
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1999.
SUN 06:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00mlxpv)
Series 1
Bird's Nest Soup
Filming birds that make their nests from saliva proved a challenge in the total darkness of a Borneo cave....
.....until a conical mound of bat guano provided a natural platform.
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 September 2009.
SUN 07:00 Poetry Extra (m002f70n)
Poetry & I
Poet Daljit Nagra revisits the BBC's poetry archive and selects Poetry and I.
I think. I feel. I am.
Award winning poet Jay Bernard explores the power and potency carried in one small stroke - the letter I.
The first person has been used by poets to explore identity, expression and the self for centuries. Lyric poems, a type of short, introspective poem most associated with the I, are everywhere. We read them aloud at pivotal moments - births, weddings, funerals. It’s Keats, Wordsworth, Shakespeare’s sonnets.
But now the lyric I is being re-imagined by a new generation of poets who are tackling burning social questions. For poets from marginalised communities, the simple act of saying ‘this is what I see’ can be revolutionary, an assertion of their humanity. But, as Jay explains, it isn’t always easy.
Jay’s been tussling with the I in their poems for years. They identify as a lyric poet. But they’ve also had to figure out their relationship to the first person in the context of a Western canon where the I in poetry has been overwhelmingly configured as white and male.
In this programme, Jay embarks on a deep exploration of their own relationship with the I they set down on paper, and hears from other poets grappling with the same tensions.
In the poems and testimony of Harry Josephine Giles, Nuala Watt, Sandeep Parmar and Claudia Rankine, Jay meets a multifaceted, shape-shifting I, with the capacity to re-imagine the world and expand our understanding of the human experience.
Presenter: Jay Bernard
Producer: Caroline Thornham
Executive Producer: Max O'Brien
A Novel production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in 2021.
SUN 07:30 The Vanishing Futurist by Charlotte Hobson (Omnibus) (m002f70q)
Episode 2
To Gerty’s chagrin, Sonya begins to assist Slavkin in the building of the Socialisation Capsule.
Meanwhile the whole commune waits anxiously for news of Pasha and Volodya.
Early in 1914, 22 year-old Gerty Freely travels to Russia to work as a governess, little-knowing the huge upheavals in the world and in her own life that lie ahead.
In London, 1974, 82 year-old Gerty embarks on a memoir for her daughter Sophy, looking back at that extraordinary time of war, revolution and civil war.
Most of her memories are centred on a young inventor, Nikita Slavkin, who mysteriously disappeared in 1919 and was subsequently celebrated in Soviet culture as The Vanishing Futurist.
“No word has been heard from him since… Yet the idea persists that one day he will reappear.”
Omnibus of the last five of ten episodes written by Charlotte Hobson.
Concluded by Barbara Flynn.
Abridged and produced by Jeremy Osborne.
A Sweet Talk production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in September 2020.
SUN 08:40 Inheritance Tracks (p0l59d9r)
Charles Collingwood
Archers actor Charles Collingwood chooses ‘My Blue Heaven’ by Frank Sinatra and ‘The Hungry Years’ by Neil Sedaka.
SUN 08:50 Private Papers by Margaret Forster (Omnibus) (m002f70t)
2. The Girls Grow Up
Rosemary continues to read her mother's private account of their family history, adding her views as she does so.
The three sisters are now adults, and their lives seem very strange to their mother.
Margaret Forster's novel about family conflict, first published in 1986.
Omnibus of the last five of ten episodes dramatised by Juliet Ace.
Penelope (mother) . . . . Angela Pleasence
Rosemary . . . . Nichola McAuliffe
Celia . . . . Jenny Funnell
Emily . . . . Jessica Lloyd
Andrew Baylis . . . . Brendan Charleson
Daniel . . . . Ben Sullivan
Director: Tanya Nash
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2000.
SUN 10:00 Frankie Howerd (m001874g)
Series 3
Episode 3
The King of Titters reminisces about his ill-fated trip to Casablanca.
Frankie takes a comic look back through his eventful life and illustrious career.
Written by David McKellar and David Nobbs.
With:
June Whitfield
Ray Fell
Dennis McCarthy
Producer: David Hatch.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in November 1974.
SUN 10:30 Jim the Great (b01109xq)
Pilot
Back in England's days of feudal fiefdoms, one particular chieftain was very hard up....King Jim.
Pilot episode of the historical regal romp starring Jimmy Edwards.
With:
Jimmy Edwards
Joan Sanderson
Julian Orchard
Alan Curtis
Derek Seaton
David Ryall
Jim The Great ran for 2 series between 1976 - 1979.
Producer: Edward Taylor
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in February 1976.
SUN 11:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m002fmbv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 11:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00mlxpv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 today]
SUN 12:00 Poetry Extra (m002f70n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
SUN 12:30 The Vanishing Futurist by Charlotte Hobson (Omnibus) (m002f70q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SUN 13:40 Inheritance Tracks (p0l59d9r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 today]
SUN 13:50 Private Papers by Margaret Forster (Omnibus) (m002f70t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]
SUN 15:00 Frankie Howerd (m001874g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 15:30 Jim the Great (b01109xq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
SUN 16:00 Weird Tales (b01nrd24)
Series 3
Original Features by Christopher William Hill
When Carl and Rob buy a flat in a 19th century house, it seems they've found their perfect home.
With Carl away on business, Rob throws himself into restoring the flat, but he ends up with more of the original features than he'd anticipated...
Series of chilling plays for winter nights.
Written by Christopher William Hill.
Carl ..... Martin Hutson
Rob ..... Carl Prekopp
Jess ..... Adjoa Andoh
Girl ..... Francine Chamberlain
Answerphone ..... Tracy Wiles
Woman ..... Alex Rivers
Man ..... Christopher Webster
Director: Mary Peate
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2011.
SUN 16:30 Orbit One Zero by Peter Elliott Hayes (b08fx516)
1. The Unseeing Eye
"A glimpse across a weird threshold, on the rim of space where there should be nothing but eternal, frozen darkness. Yet where there was something more....."
Newspaper reporter, Tom Lambert has decided to reinvestigate the strange events of ten years before, concerning the "cosmic noise".
Believing the inside story was never told, he's tracked down the only man who knows, Dr Hayward Petrie.
Told in flashbacks, the story unfolds from Dr Petrie's own recordings of the time when the detection of a strange pattern of signals sparks a mysterious discovery...
Written in six parts by Peter Elliott Hayes
Dr Petrie …. Felix Felton
Tom Lambert …. David Spenser
Clifford Brown …. Graydon Gould
Elizabeth Ryder …. Elaine MacNamara
Professor Campbell McLaren …. Ian Sadler
Peter Garrick …. Harold Reese
Producer: David Davis
First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in April 1961.
SUN 17:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m002fmbv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
SUN 17:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00mlxpv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 today]
SUN 18:00 Poetry Extra (m002f70n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
SUN 18:30 The Vanishing Futurist by Charlotte Hobson (Omnibus) (m002f70q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
SUN 19:40 Inheritance Tracks (p0l59d9r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 today]
SUN 19:50 Private Papers by Margaret Forster (Omnibus) (m002f70t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 today]
SUN 21:00 Frankie Howerd (m001874g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
SUN 21:30 Jim the Great (b01109xq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
SUN 22:00 Colin Hoult's Carnival of Monsters (b04xrzdh)
Series 2
Episode 2
Enter the Carnival of Monsters, a bizarre and hilarious world of sketches, stories and characters, presented by the sinister Ringmaster.
A host of characters are the exhibits at the Carnival - all played by Colin himself.
Meet such monstrous yet strangely familiar oddities as: Wannabe Hollywood screenwriter Andy Parker - and Anna Mann - outrageous star of such forgotten silver screen hits such as 'Rogue Baker', 'Who's For Turkish Delight' and 'A Bowl For My Bottom'.
Plus a host of other characters from acid jazz obsessives, to mask workshop coordinators.
Producer: Sam Bryant.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2015.
SUN 22:30 Armando Iannucci (b007jzc3)
Series 2
Episode 2
Lies galore, wind-up calls and this week’s fight.
Armando lannucci hosts wry comical discussion, sketches and music.
With:
Rebecca Front
David Schneider
Richard Herring
Written by Armando Iannucci, Peter Baynham, Richard Herring, Stewart Lee and Ben Moor.
Producer: Sarah Smith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 1 in March 1994.
SUN 23:25 The Comedy Club Interviews (m002fchb)
Ashley Blaker 2/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Laura Lexx chats again to Ashley Blaker.
SUN 23:30 The Sofa of Time (b00j0hqt)
Here Comes Bod
Can Milford and Parker overcome Raamen Bod and find the Sofa of Time?
Concluding the epic and timeless tale of two men and their quest to find "The Sofa of Time", the most magical and powerful item of furniture in the entire universe.
It is said that those who sit on the sofa can be transported to anywhere and anytime.
Fantasy sitcom written by Nick Frost and Matt King.
Milford ...... Matt King
Parker ...... Nick Frost
Marmite ...... Mark Heap
Raamen Bod ...... Peter Serafinowcz
With:
Kevin Eldon
Julia Deakin
Janei Anderson
Daisy Jones
Andrew Maxwell
Simon Pegg
Producer: Mario Stylianides
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2002.

MONDAY 30 JUNE 2025

MON 00:00 Weird Tales (b01nrd24)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:00 on Sunday]
MON 00:30 Orbit One Zero by Peter Elliott Hayes (b08fx516)
[Repeat of broadcast at 16:30 on Sunday]
MON 01:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m002fmbv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Sunday]
MON 01:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00mlxpv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:45 on Sunday]
MON 02:00 Poetry Extra (m002f70n)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Sunday]
MON 02:30 The Vanishing Futurist by Charlotte Hobson (Omnibus) (m002f70q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Sunday]
MON 03:40 Inheritance Tracks (p0l59d9r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:40 on Sunday]
MON 03:50 Private Papers by Margaret Forster (Omnibus) (m002f70t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:50 on Sunday]
MON 05:00 Frankie Howerd (m001874g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Sunday]
MON 05:30 Jim the Great (b01109xq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Sunday]
MON 06:00 The Quarry (m0010y0v)
1. Mysterious Stranger
Douglas and Penelope Shemley buy an old painting by an obscure German artist called Isadore Meyer.
But who is the mysterious stranger that follows them?
Starring Barry Foster and Penelope Lee.
Five-part thriller serial written by Jon Rollason and Keith Williams.
Douglas Shemley .... Barry Foster
Penelope Shemley .... Penelope Lee
Receptionist .... Margaret Wolfit
Ruth .... Isabel Rennie
Paul .... Andrew Sachs
Simon Shaft .... Roddy Maude-Roxby
Pinder .... John Hollis
American .... Peter Marinker
Reinke .... Frederick Schrecker
Producer: John Tydeman
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in January 1965.
MON 06:30 After Eden (m0009l04)
6. God Up For Grabs
The Reverend Elaine Metcalfe disagrees with her son, Phil, but doesn't see what business it is of her parishioners.
Alison Leonard's warm-hearted six-part drama about the life of a woman priest.
Rev Elaine Metcalfe …. Christine Pritchard
Gareth …. Simon Harris
Sian …. Sue Jones Davies
Melvyn .... Michael Povey
Freda .… Sharon Morgan
Phil .... Hywel Morgan
Tash .... Clare Isaac
Gwen .... Manon Edwards
Gareth …. Simon Harris
Director: Alison Hindell.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1995.
MON 07:00 The Pasadenas' Almanac (m002f8h2)
If I Had A Talking Picture of You
Duncan Galloway and the boys head off to the Hollywood studios to provide the perfect soundtracks for a whip cracking Western, a soppy Dickens and a cartoon.
But will their efforts be appreciated?
Another musical excursion for the Pasadena Roof Orchestra through great moments in 20th Century history
Written by Chris Emmett and Tony Hare
Starring:
June Whitfield
Jeffrey Holland
Chris Emmett
With vocalist Duncan Galloway
Producer Richard Wilson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in January 1992.
MON 07:30 Steptoe and Son (b013fj7r)
Series 2
The Wooden Overcoats
Trouble ensues when Harold brings home two coffins on the cart, sparking a burst of manic superstition from Albert.
Starring Wilfrid Brambell and Harry H Corbett.
Classic sitcom about the lives of rag and bone men Albert Steptoe and his son Harold.
Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.
Albert …. Wilfrid Brambell
Harold …. Harry H Corbett
The 1962 BBC TV comedy pilot 'The Offer' sparked a run of 8 series.
Adapted for BBC radio from the TV script by Gale Pedrick.
Producer: Bobby Jaye
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in June 1967.
MON 08:00 Relativity (m000kvkd)
Series 3
Episode 1
Ian and Chloe are new parents to their much loved but incessantly crying baby, Don.
Meanwhile sister Jane has had enough of husband Pete, while Ken and Margaret are simply trying to turn the television on.
Drawing on his own family, the third series of Richard Herring’s comedy drama builds on the warm, lively characters and sharply observed family dynamics of previous series.
His affectionate observation of inter generational misunderstanding, sibling sparring and the ties that bind will resonate with anyone who has ever tried to show their dad which remote turns the television on.
Amid the comedy, Richard broaches some more serious highs and lows of family life.
Return of Richard Herring’s sitcom about an extended modern family.
Margaret …… Alison Steadman
Ken …… Phil Davis
Jane …… Fenella Woolgar
Ian …… Richard Herring
Chloe …… Emily Berrington
Pete …… Gordon Kennedy
Holly …… Tia Bannon
Mark …… Fred Haig
Nick …… Harrison Knights
Richard Herring is a comedian, writer, blogger and podcaster and the world's premier semi-professional self-playing snooker player.
Sound Design by Eloise Whitmore
Producer: Polly Thomas
Executive Producers: Jon Thoday and Richard Allen Turner
An Avalon Television production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in July 2020.
MON 08:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017k5hr)
1. Confidante
In 1956, Colin Clark worked as a 'gofer' on the set of 'The Prince and the Showgirl', the film that disastrously united Laurence Olivier with Marilyn Monroe.
23-year-old Colin was fresh from Eton and Oxford – the younger brother of politician and famous diarist Alan and younger son of Kenneth 'Lord Clark of Civilisation'.
In this beautifully written memoir, he recalls how, during filming, he became Monroe's confidante and spent an idyllic week helping her to escape from the pressures of stardom through a series of sweetly innocent adventures.
Abridged in five parts by Robin Brooks.
Read by Samuel Barnett.
Producer: Kirsteen Cameron
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
MON 08:45 Lamentation (m000rd1r)
1. Theft
In 1546, the court of Henry VIII is on the edge of anarchy as Catholic and Protestant factions vie for power.
While heretics are burned at the stake, the Queen, Catherine Parr, rashly decides to write a confessional book about her religious beliefs.
When the manuscript is stolen its contents could endanger her life.
In desperation, she enlists the help of her old friend, the lawyer Matthew Shardlake.

Based on CJ. Sansom's best-selling novel.
Dramatised in ten parts by Colin MacDonald.
Shardlake …… Justin Salinger
Barak …… Bryan Dick
Queen Catherine …… Jessica Hardwick
Lord Parr …… Robbie Jack
Henry VIII …… Michael Mackenzie
Richard Rich …… Simon Donaldson
William Paget …… Gavin Mitchell
Charles Stice …… Matthew Barker
William Cecil …… James Rottger
Myldmore …… Kenny Blyth
Okedene …… Mark McDonnell
Cranmer …… Crawford Logan
Mary Odell …… Francesca Dymond
Barwic …… Mark Jeary
Elias …… Caleb Hughes
Garet …… Harri Pitches
Other parts played by the cast.
Director: Bruce Young
A BBC Scotland production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in January 2021.
MON 09:00 It's a Fair Cop (m002dz5t)
Series 9
5. The Steelworks
This week's case begins with an ambulance hurtling down the streets of Scunthorpe and the patient inside, struggling to breathe.
A mysterious illness is striking down workers at the Steelworks, and the DI wants his best man on the job. Unfortunately his best man's busy, so he sends Alfie instead.
Written and presented by Alfie Moore
Script Editor: Will Ing
Production Co-ordinator: Caroline Barlow
Producer: James Robinson
A BBC Studios Audio Production for Radio 4
MON 09:30 Peter Snow Returns to the Future (b06gqdx8)
Alan Johnson MP
Peter takes Alan Johnson MP on a journey back to the dark days of the Victorian Mill, and forwards to the end of work as we know it.
Series in which Peter Snow and guests board a time travelling DeLorean to go back and forward in time.
Producer: David Stenhouse
First broadcast on BBC Radio in October 2015.
MON 09:45 Daily Service (m002f8h4)
Love thy neighbour- The Great Commandment
Christian Worship with a Bible reading, prayer and Christian music.
Theme: Love thy neighbour- The Great Commandment
Led by Canon Simon Doogan
Reading: Matthew 22.34-40
O for a heart to praise my God
If ye love me (Tallis)
When I needed a neighbour
MON 10:00 That Reminds Me (b007jmr3)
Series 1
Barry Took
Comedian, writer and presenter Barry Took reminisces as he entertains an audience.
Featuring tales of Round the Horne, The News Quiz and Monty Python.
Producer: Claire Jones
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1999.
MON 10:30 Fly Me To The Reverend Moon (b00s08g6)
When American Studies student John Waite was approached in Manchester in the early 1970s and offered the chance of a free trip to America, he jumped at the opportunity.
Only once he, and a plane load of other students, actually arrived at a large estate in upstate New York, did he learn that the people footing the bill were the Unification Church, known to tabloid readers across the world as The Moonies.
Over the course of the following days and weeks John and the students were kept on the estate as the Church tried to win them over, in order that its message might be taken back to Britain with these bright young things.
John goes back for the first time to tell the story of what happened to him and the rest of the students when they were taken in by one of the most controversial religious groups of the day.
He meets up with people who went on the trip with him as well as former Church members who were active in the organisation at the time - and reflects on how the experience as a young man ready for adventure has shaped him in the decades since.
Producer: Geoff Bird
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2010.
MON 11:00 The Quarry (m0010y0v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 11:30 After Eden (m0009l04)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 12:00 The Pasadenas' Almanac (m002f8h2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 12:30 Steptoe and Son (b013fj7r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 13:00 Relativity (m000kvkd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 13:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017k5hr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 13:45 Lamentation (m000rd1r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
MON 14:00 Just a Minute (b00td8kq)
Series 57
Episode 3
Nicholas Parsons presides over the devious game where panellists are challenged to speak for one minute without hesitation, deviation or repetition.
With:
Paul Merton
Tony Hawks
Ross Noble
Shelia Hancock
Subjects include: Women In Comedy, The French, My Local, Motorcycles, Over The Hill and Law and Order.
Created by Ian Messiter.
Producer: Tilusha Ghelani
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2010.
MON 14:30 Married (b007v2sz)
Series 1
Episode 3
Grumpy bachelor Robin Lightfoot is feeling a little warmer towards his adopted "wife" - until his doppelganger's other woman turns up to rock the boat.
With a new wife and kids, Robin learns more about his parallel universe.
Hugh Bonneville stars in Tony Bagley's comedy.
Robin ...... Hugh Bonneville
Lesley ...... Josie Lawrence
Linda ...... Sue Elliott-Nicholls
Dirk ...... Steve Frost
Lord Reith ...... Lewis MacLeod
Ned ...... Sam Bradley
Producer: Claire Jones
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1999.
MON 15:00 McLevy (b07x12m1)
Meet James McLevy
How it all began - a remake of the first episode of the Victorian detective drama featuring Inspector James McLevy - first aired in 1999.
Starring Brian Cox and Siobhan Redmond
Written by David Ashton.
The death of a bank manager from a heart attack might have seemed straightforward enough - except he was found dead and naked in the Water of Leith.
When it's revealed that the man was last seen trying to "save" girls in a brothel run by Jean Brash, McLevy's suspicions are aroused.
Assisted by Constable Mulholland, newly arrived from Ireland, McLevy investigates...
McLevy …. Brian Cox
Jean …. Siobhan Redmond
Mulholland …. Michael Perceval-Maxwell
Roach …. David Ashton
Hannah …. Colette O’Neil
Robert Forsythe …. Tony Cownie
Donny Shields …. Keiran Gallacher
Mary Forsythe …. Kathryn Howden
Jessie …. Gemma McElhinney
Jarvis …. Robert Jack
Other parts played by the cast
Director Bruce Young
A BBC Scotland production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2016.
MON 16:00 That Reminds Me (b007jmr3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
MON 16:30 Fly Me To The Reverend Moon (b00s08g6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
MON 17:00 The Quarry (m0010y0v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
MON 17:30 After Eden (m0009l04)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
MON 18:00 The Pasadenas' Almanac (m002f8h2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
MON 18:30 Steptoe and Son (b013fj7r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
MON 19:00 Relativity (m000kvkd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
MON 19:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017k5hr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
MON 19:45 Lamentation (m000rd1r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
MON 20:00 Just a Minute (b00td8kq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
MON 20:30 Married (b007v2sz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
MON 21:00 McLevy (b07x12m1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
MON 22:00 It's a Fair Cop (m002dz5t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
MON 22:30 Big Problems with Helen Keen (b09d4bkr)
Series 2
Care
Who cares? Why do we care? If genes are selfish why is altruism attractive?
Is fairness built into our brains? What is the future of empathy? What is the cost of love?
Comedy series looking at the biggest problems our species has faced since the beginning of time - and offering some incredible, absurd and possible scientific solutions.
Starring Helen Keen
With:
Jon Culshaw
Susy Kane
Written by Helen Keen, Jenny Laville, Lloyd Langford and Carrie Quinlan.
Producer: Katie Tyrrell
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in November 2017.
MON 23:00 Dead Ringers (m002f01r)
Series 26
Episode 3. Glastonbury, Benefits, and Bombs
The Dead Ringers team are back to train their vocal firepower on the week’s news with an armoury of impressive impressions. This week: Trump drops the F-Bomb, Lammy drops another clanger, and money saving expert Martin Lewis drops into NATO.
Cast: Jan Ravens, Jon Culshaw, Lewis Macleod, Jess Robinson, Duncan Wisbey and Kieran Hodgson.
The episode was written by: Nev Fountain and Tom Jamieson, Laurence Howarth, Tom Coles, Sophie Dickson, Toussaint Douglas, Peter Tellouche, Rob Darke, Edward Tew, Jon Holmes, Alice Bright, Katie Sayer, Davina Bentley, Rachel E Thorn, Chris Ballard and Pete Redfern
Created by Bill Dare
Producer: Jon Holmes
Executive Producer: Pete Strauss
Production Co-ordinator: Caroline Barlow
MON 23:30 Old Harry's Game (b007jvgp)
Series 4
Health and Safety
Hell's latest arrival is a health & safety officer who moans to Satan about the lighting.
Andy Hamilton’s devilishly funny sitcom set in Hell.
Satan …. Andy Hamilton
The Professor …. James Grout
Thomas …. Jimmy Mulville
Scumspawn …. Robert Duncan
Other characters played by:
Felicity Montagu
Philip Pope
Nigel Pegram
Michael Fenton Stevens
Producer: Paul Mayhew-Archer
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2001.

TUESDAY 01 JULY 2025

TUE 00:00 That Reminds Me (b007jmr3)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Monday]
TUE 00:30 Fly Me To The Reverend Moon (b00s08g6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Monday]
TUE 01:00 The Quarry (m0010y0v)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Monday]
TUE 01:30 After Eden (m0009l04)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Monday]
TUE 02:00 The Pasadenas' Almanac (m002f8h2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Monday]
TUE 02:30 Steptoe and Son (b013fj7r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:00 Relativity (m000kvkd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Monday]
TUE 03:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017k5hr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:45 Lamentation (m000rd1r)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Monday]
TUE 04:00 Just a Minute (b00td8kq)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Monday]
TUE 04:30 Married (b007v2sz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Monday]
TUE 05:00 McLevy (b07x12m1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Monday]
TUE 06:00 The Quarry (m0010y1d)
2. Break-In
A large pile of cash is offered to Douglas and Penelope for their old painting of a quarry by Isadore Meyer.
But why does it seem like some people are determined to take if off them at any cost?
Stars Barry Foster and Penelope Lee.
Thriller serial by Jon Rollason and Keith Williams.
Douglas Shemley .... Barry Foster
Penelope Shemley .... Penelope Lee
Simon Shaft .... Roddy Maude-Roxby
Pinder .... John Hollis
Barnabus .... Hamlyn Benson
Simon Shaft .... Roddy Maude Roxby
Reinke .... Frederick Schrecker
Cunningham .... Hector Ross
Paul .... Andrew Sachs
American .... Peter Marinker
Producer: John Tydeman
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in January 1965.
TUE 06:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pj0q)
1. Strange Habits
Is someone white-slaving nuns in Flaxborough?
After a tip-off from an intercepted telegram, Inspector Purbright carefully picks his way through another case...
Colin Watson's gripping serial about vice and violence stirring beneath the surface of a peaceful market town.
John Rowe stars as Inspector Walter Purbright.
Dramatised in six parts by Christopher Denys.
Inspector Purbright ..... John Rowe
Sergeant Love ..... Paul Downing
Mrs Hatch ..... Patricia Wilcock
Baxter ..... Peter Rylands
Mrs Spain ..... Judith Davies
Lucy Teatime ..... Ann Rye
Councillor Crispin ..... Finetime Fontayne
Anus ..... Daniel Coll
Hatch ..... Harry Kirkham
Chubb ..... Geoffrey Banks
Tudor ..... David Fleeshman
Director: Tony Cliff
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1993.
TUE 07:00 Winston (b00pkyb2)
Winston Back Home
Don't Call Me Soams
Bossy Rosie and William irk old rogue Winston whose thoughts turns to 'The Forsyte Saga'.
Peter Tinniswood's bawdy comedy serial.
Winston …. Bill Wallis
Father …. Maurice Denham
Nancy …. Shirley Dixon
Rosie …. Liz Goulding
William .… Christian Rodska
Director: Shaun MacLoughlin.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1994.
TUE 07:30 The Goon Show (b00cghns)
Series 8
The Junk Affair
Neddie Seagoon combs the world for junk, hoping to corner the market and make a packet.
Groundbreaking, surreal BBC radio comedy written by Spike Milligan.
With:
Peter Sellers
Spike Milligan
Harry Secombe
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: Charles Chilton
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in October 1957.
TUE 08:00 Bad Salsa (b06ts66c)
Series 2
What Happens at Salsa...
The return of the sitcom about three women who embrace the world of salsa while adjusting to life after cancer.
Jill has left her husband and son to live at her new boyfriends' parent's house, Camille is planning a huge life change and Chippy has a new live-in wannabe step-father in the shape of Gordon from their salsa class.
In the first episode Camille is still with Marco and reveals their plan to start a new life together, Jill is struggling with jealousy and living with Tim's parents, Chippy discovers what Tinder can bring and Gordon takes advantage of the opportunities his new salsa role offers.
The series is not about cancer, but about life after cancer, how you cope the changes in your outlook, your desires and your expectations.
It's also about how other people cope with the change in you.
Written by Kay Stonham.
Chippy ..... Sharon Rooney
Jill ..... Natasha Little
Terri ..... Camille Coduri
Marco ..... Derek Elroy
Gordon ..... Andrew Obeney
Georgie ..... Emily Chase
Joel ..... Joe Johnsey
Tim ..... Matt Houlihan
Marnie ..... Jessica Turner
Producer: Alison Vernon-Smith.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2016.
TUE 08:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zy8j)
2. Loyalty
Marilyn quizzes Colin on his loyalty.
Has he been sent to spy on her by Laurence Olivier? Accepting his answer "I'm on your side, Miss Monroe" she invites him to visit her at home that evening and their friendship is established.
In 1956, Colin Clark worked as a 'gofer' on the set of 'The Prince and the Showgirl', the film that disastrously united Laurence Olivier with Marilyn Monroe.
In this memoir, Clark recalls how, during filming, he became Monroe's confidante, helping her escape from the pressures of filming.
Abridged by Robin Brooks.
Read by Samuel Barnett.
Producer: Kirsteen Cameron
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
TUE 08:45 Lamentation (m000rcnv)
2. Murder
It's 1546 and the Queen’s stolen manuscript falls into the hands of a printer known for his radical religious beliefs.
But when he's murdered, the book is taken by his assailants.
Based on CJ Sansom's best-selling novel.
Dramatised by Colin MacDonald.
Shardlake …… Justin Salinger
Barak …… Bryan Dick
Okedene …… Mark McDonnell
Elias …… Caleb Hughes
Director: Bruce Young
A BBC Scotland production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in January 2021.
TUE 09:00 Room 101 with Paul Merton (m001xvkz)
Series 2
Chris McCausland
Paul Merton interviews a variety of guests from the world of comedy and entertainment to find out what they would send to Room 101 as well as the one item they cannot live without.
In this first episode of the series, Chris McCausland attempts to banish teacups with tiny handles and prices that end in 99p, as well as explaining his unswerving devotion to a particular Christmas-time edible treat.
Additional material John Irwin and Suki Webster
Produced by Richard Wilson
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in 2024.
TUE 09:30 Peter Snow Returns to the Future (b06hgw85)
Maggie Aderin-Pocock
Peter takes space scientist Maggie Aderin-Pocock for an encounter with the past and future of aliens.
Peter Snow and guests board a time travelling DeLorean to go back and forward in time.
Producer: David Stenhouse
First broadcast on BBC Radio in October 2015.
TUE 09:45 Daily Service (m002f9b9)
Love thy Neighbour - Love Your Neighbour as Yourself
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Love thy Neighbour - Love Your Neighbour as Yourself
Presenter: Imogen Ball
Reading: Leviticus 19: 9-16
Music:
For the fruit of his Creation - Jesus College Cambridge
Judge Eternal [Malcolm Archer] - Chichester Cathedral Choir
Dear Lord and Father of Mankind - Laura Wright & Daily Service Singers
TUE 10:00 A Good Read (m00035vn)
Sarah Hadland and Russell Tovey
Actors Sarah Hadland and Russell Tovey join Harriett Gilbert to discuss their favourite books by Annie Proulx, Quentin Crisp and Muriel Barbery.
Close Range: Brokeback Mountain by Annie Proulx
Publisher: Harper Perennial
The Elegance of The Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery
Translator: Alison Anderson
Publisher: Gallic
The Naked Civil Servant by Quentin Crisp
Publisher: Flamingo
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2019.
TUE 10:30 The Unsent Letters of Erik Satie (b036thyn)
Alistair McGowan travels to Paris on the trail of his musical hero, the visionary Erik Satie - now most well-known as the composer of the Gymnopedies.
Satie was famously eccentric - he replaced traditional musical directions like 'ralentando' and 'fortissimo' with instructions to the musician such as, 'While watching oneself approach' and 'like a nightingale with a toothache'.
And in order to save time deciding what to wear every day, he bought seven, identical, yellow, corduroy suits - one for every day of the week.
Satie's radical new approach to music was initially dismissed by the musical establishment, but he was to prove a highly influential force in the new French music of Debussy, Ravel and anticipated 20th century minimalism.
As Alistair talks to Satie biographers and musicians, he uncovers the story of Satie's one and only love affair, with the artist Suzanne Valadon.
Their affair lasted only six months, but years later, after Satie's death, bundles of unsent letters to Suzanne were discovered in Satie's apartment.
Featuring interviews with:
* Robert Orledge
* Ornella Volta
* Jean-Pierre Armengaud
Translations of Ornella Volta's interviews were voiced by Philippa Stanton
Producer: Emma Harding
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2013.
*** FURTHER READING:
* Satie Seen Through His Letters, edited by Ornella Volta, translated by Michael Bullock. Marion Boyars Publishers Ltd; New edition (May 1994)
* Satie the Composer by Robert Orledge. Cambridge University Press (4 Dec 2008)
TUE 11:00 The Quarry (m0010y1d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 11:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pj0q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 12:00 Winston (b00pkyb2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 12:30 The Goon Show (b00cghns)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 13:00 Bad Salsa (b06ts66c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 13:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zy8j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 13:45 Lamentation (m000rcnv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
TUE 14:00 The Food Quiz (b0728z3b)
Series 1
Episode 4
Jay Rayner puts well-known gastronomes through their culinary paces.
On the menu:
Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall
Heston Blumenthal
Jekka McVicar
Clarissa Dickson Wright
Producer: Rebecca Wells
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2003.
TUE 14:30 Double Science (b0133g6w)
Real Ale
A real ale home brewing competition turns incompetent teachers Kenneth and Colin into bitter rivals. The turmoil continues at the Sixth Form College.
Written by and starring Ben Willbond and Justin Edwards.
With:
Rebecca Front
Raza Jaffrey
Margaret Cabourn-Smith.
Gus Brown
Producer: Adam Bromley
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2008.
TUE 15:00 Drama on 4 (b036twsz)
Three Pieces in the Shape of a Pear by Alistair McGowan
Alistair McGowan's witty and poignant drama about his musical hero - the visionary and eccentric French composer Erik Satie and the three key relationships in his life.
Satie is now most famous for his delicate and dreamlike 'Gymnopedies'.
But he was a man ahead of his time - turning his back on the musical conventions of his day and composing spare, 'white' pieces with strange titles, such as 'Flabby Preludes for a Dog' and 'Three Pieces in the Shape of a Pear'
But he was also a complex and solitary man.
McGowan's drama looks at three key figures in Satie's life - his friend and rival, Claude Debussy; his first love, the artist Suzanne Valadon and the society soprano, Paulette Darty, for whom he nurtured a long, but undeclared, devotion.
But despite the poignancy of Satie's romantic life, this is a fresh and funny portrayal of an engagingly eccentric figure.
He was a man who saved time deciding what to wear by buying seven, identical, yellow, corduroy suits (one for every day of the week) and who, for a time, consumed only white foods in the hope of instilling that simplicity and purity into his own body and music.
Erik Satie .... Alistair McGowan
Claude Debussy .... Nathaniel Parker
Suzanne Valadon .... Imogen Stubbs
Paulette Dart .... Charlotte Page
All other parts played by members of the company.
Director: Emma Harding
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2013.
TUE 15:45 Short Works (b08tglj7)
Series 1
The Beautiful Girl by Sophie Townsend
As a teenager, Sophie Townsend was swotty and awkward, bookish and unsophisticated.
She used to watch the pretty, popular girls across the playground as if they were creatures from another planet.
Now a mother herself, she is mystified by her 14-year-old daughter, who is more interested in make-up than books, and who struggles with her grades at school. She is one of the pretty ones. Perhaps too pretty for her own good.
An original short work for radio by Sophie Townsend.
Sophie is a radio producer, writer and storyteller. She is part of ABC Radio's Creative Audio Unit and has produced work for the BBC and the CBC.
Producer: Mair Bosworth.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2017.
TUE 16:00 A Good Read (m00035vn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
TUE 16:30 The Unsent Letters of Erik Satie (b036thyn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
TUE 17:00 The Quarry (m0010y1d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
TUE 17:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pj0q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
TUE 18:00 Winston (b00pkyb2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
TUE 18:30 The Goon Show (b00cghns)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
TUE 19:00 Bad Salsa (b06ts66c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
TUE 19:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zy8j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
TUE 19:45 Lamentation (m000rcnv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
TUE 20:00 The Food Quiz (b0728z3b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
TUE 20:30 Double Science (b0133g6w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
TUE 21:00 Drama on 4 (b036twsz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
TUE 21:45 Short Works (b08tglj7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:45 today]
TUE 22:00 Room 101 with Paul Merton (m001xvkz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
TUE 22:30 Inside Alan Francis (b00hr4mz)
Episode 2
Alan Francis explores the workings of his own mind in relation to his life, friends and long-suffering girlfriend Jane.
Alan has come to the conclusion that he needs to talk to Jane about their relationship.
With:
Julian Dutton
Barnaby Power
Kali Peacock.
Written by Alan Francis with Julian Dutton, Anthony Neilson and Richard Turner.
Producer Julia McKenzie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2009.
TUE 22:55 The Comedy Club Interviews (m002fchg)
Ashley Blaker 3/3
From 10pm until midnight, seven days a week, the Comedy Club has two hours of comedy. Plus Laura Lexx chats again to Ashley Blaker.
TUE 23:00 Tina C (b06s9s02)
Tina C: Herstory
Episode 4
Country music legend Tina C brings us right up to date with a (slightly) festive look at where she is today.
Bob Harris quizzes her about her ambitions for the future, and a live country band take us through some of her biggest hits.
Written and performed by Christopher Green.
Additional voices:
Susan Jameson
Leo Wan
The band: Duncan Walsh-Atkins, Mark Hardisty & Phil Wraith.
Producer: Victoria Lloyd.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2015.
TUE 23:30 And Now in Colour (b007jmql)
Series 1
Back to the Studio
The sketch show team take their audience on a trip to the cinema – but where are the all-star special guests?
Precision comedy written and performed by:
Tim Firth
Tim de Jongh
Michael Rutger
William Vandyck
Producer: Lissa Evans
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1990.

WEDNESDAY 02 JULY 2025

WED 00:00 A Good Read (m00035vn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Tuesday]
WED 00:30 The Unsent Letters of Erik Satie (b036thyn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Tuesday]
WED 01:00 The Quarry (m0010y1d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Tuesday]
WED 01:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pj0q)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Tuesday]
WED 02:00 Winston (b00pkyb2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Tuesday]
WED 02:30 The Goon Show (b00cghns)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:00 Bad Salsa (b06ts66c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Tuesday]
WED 03:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zy8j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:45 Lamentation (m000rcnv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Tuesday]
WED 04:00 The Food Quiz (b0728z3b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Tuesday]
WED 04:30 Double Science (b0133g6w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Tuesday]
WED 05:00 Drama on 4 (b036twsz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Tuesday]
WED 05:45 Short Works (b08tglj7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:45 on Tuesday]
WED 06:00 The Quarry (m0010xqr)
3. Stranger Revealed
Douglas and Penelope begin to unravel the secrets surrounding the painting.
And the identity of who exactly wants the picture - and why - is revealed....
Stars Barry Foster, Penelope Lee and Andrew Sachs.
Thriller serial by Jon Rollason and Keith Williams.
Douglas Shemley .... Barry Foster
Penelope Shemley .... Penelope Lee
Paul .... Andrew Sachs
Pinder .... John Hollis
Simon Shaft .... Roddy Maude-Roxby
Reinke .... Frederick Schrecker
Ruth .... Isabel Rennie
Bunnie …. Olga Lindo
Barnabus .... Hamlyn Benson
Producer: John Tydeman
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in January 1965.
WED 06:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pm3k)
2. The Public Performance in Partney Avenue
Mr Hatch finds that his electric curtains have a downside, as Councillor Crispin will prove.
Colin Watson's gripping serial about vice and violence stirring beneath the surface of the market town of Flaxborough.
John Rowe stars as Inspector Walter Purbright.
Dramatised by Christopher Denys.
Inspector Purbright …. John Rowe
Sergeant Love …. Paul Downing
Chubb …. Geoffrey Banks
Tudor …. David Fleeshman
Lucy Teatime …. Ann Rye
Hatch …. Harry Kirkham
Baxter …. Peter Rylands
Amis …. Daniel Coll
Director: Tony Cliff
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1993.
WED 07:00 Nineteen Ninety-Eight (b01c6sgt)
Episode 3
"Yes, it's all in your sensational Nineteen Ninety-Eight! Free!!! A trip to Lo Am Jap Headquarters, plus your chance to win the Edward Wilson doll? And: who is the mysterious Fife?"
On the run, Edward meets the Leopard - will he survive?
Orwellian sitcom starring David Threlfall.
Written by William Osborne and Richard Turner
Edward Wilson ...... David Threlfall
With:
Pam Ferris
Hugh Laurie
Steve Steen
Rebecca Stevens
Richard Turner
Mike Myers
Produced at BBC Manchester by Nick Symons
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1987.
WED 07:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007wp6j)
Series 4
The Last of the McHancocks
The Lad Himself inherits a Scottish castle and starts feuding with his nasty neighbour.
Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's classic comedy about the life and times of Anthony Aloysius St John Hancock.
Starring Tony Hancock.
With:
Sidney James
Bill Kerr
Hattie Jacques
Kenneth Williams
Special guest James Robertson Justice as Seamus McNasty.
Theme and incidental music composed and conducted by Wally Stott.
Producer: Denis Main Wilson
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in February 1957.
WED 08:00 Dot (b072j327)
Series 1
The Mystery at St Horribly-Vulture's School for Boys
Dot's sent to St Horribly Vulture's School for Boys to enlist a teacher for 'Shhhh Bletchley Park'.
But is he the right sort of chap for the job?
Comic adventures with Dot and the gals from personnel in the rollicking wartime comedy by Ed Harris.
Dot ..... Fenella Woolgar
Myrtle ..... Kate O'Flynn
Millicent ..... Jane Slavin
Peabody ..... David Acton
Mr Belltower ..... Brian Protheroe
Apsley ..... Sam Rix
Director: Jessica Mitic
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2016.
WED 08:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zybx)
3. Escape
In 1956, fresh from Eton and Oxford, 23-year-old Colin Clark (younger brother of politician and famous diarist Alan and younger son of Kenneth 'Lord Clark of Civilisation') worked as a 'gofer' on the set of 'The Prince and the Showgirl', the film that disastrously united Laurence Olivier with Marilyn Monroe.
In this beautifully written memoir, Clark recalls how, during filming, he became Monroe's confidante and spent an idyllic week helping her to escape from the pressures of stardom through a series of sweetly innocent adventures.
Marilyn defies her co-producer's strict instructions and escapes with Colin for a day out in the Windsor countryside. Managing, mostly, to avoid the public gaze they even find time for a skinny dip.
Read by Samuel Barnett.
Abridged by Robin Brooks.
Produced by Kirsteen Cameron.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
WED 08:45 Lamentation (m000rdks)
3. Search
In 1546, the court of Henry VIII is on the edge of anarchy as Catholic and Protestant factions vie for power.
Shardlake pretends to question the Queen’s household about the theft of a ring – while discreetly searching for her missing confessional book.
Based on the best-selling novel by C.J. Sansom, dramatised by Colin MacDonald.
Shardlake …… Justin Salinger
Barak …… Bryan Dick
Lord Parr …… Robbie Jack
William Cecil …… James Rottger
Mary Odell …… Francesca Dymond
Garet …… Harri Pitches
Director: Bruce Young
A BBC Scotland production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in January 2021.
WED 09:00 Your Mum (m002dzk4)
1. Janine Harouni and Russell Kane
Janine tells us what happened when she was swapped at birth, why her brother has a bunker in Arizona and how her mum rules the roost with her ‘feminine guile’. Russell gives his hot take on childbirth, makes a case against toddler food and thanks his mum for putting up with his extraordinary amount of energy.
In this series, Laura Smyth sits down with some incredible guests to find out about their mums and explore the many faces of ‘motherhood’. Join her for a nostalgic, shameless, cathartic ride that asks what (if anything) our folks have taught us.
Producer: Sasha Bobak
Production Coordinator: Katie Baum
Executive Producer: Pete Strauss
A BBC Studios Audio Production for Radio 4.
WED 09:30 Peter Snow Returns to the Future (b06hgwkl)
Simon Calder
Peter Snow and guests board a time travelling DeLorean to go back and forward in time.
Peter Snow takes travel writer Simon Calder to 1961 to witness the building of the Berlin Wall, and forward to a world in which the last border of all is about to come down...
Producer: David Stenhouse
First broadcast on BBC Radio in 2015.
WED 09:45 Daily Service (m002f9gq)
Love thy Neighbour - Love Your Enemies
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Love thy Neighbour - Love Your Enemies
Presenter: Stewart Rapley
Reading: Luke 6: 27- 36
Music:
Brother Sister, Let me Serve You - Daily Service Singers
O God of Mercy - Natalie BBC Young Chorister
The Lord's Prayer - The Priests
Forgive Our Sins As We Forgive - St Martin's Voices
WED 10:00 Archive on 4 (b060qbwm)
Tomorrow's World, Today
Many watched the iconic BBC TV series Tomorrow's World, as it made predictions about the future in which we now live.
On the show's sixtieth anniversary, a former presenter James Burke, takes a journey through the archive, and explores how the series fared.
Tomorrow's World began in the "White Heat" of the 1960s - as science and technology began to promise a future previously unimaginable.
From the first orbits of the moon, to the first heart transplant; from the nuclear debates of 20th century, to the economic failure of Concorde; from robots to the internet - Tomorrow's World reported on it all. How did the show do it? And did it get it right?
In 2015, James Burke - a Tomorrow’s World reporter from 1966 to 1972 – looked at how the show dealt with huge technological advances and assesses our ability to see what's around the corner.
Featuring:
Judith Hann
Michael Rodd
Maggie Philbin
Howard Stableford
Michael Blakstad
Dame Wendy Hall
Producer: Polly Weston
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2015.
WED 11:00 The Quarry (m0010xqr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 11:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pm3k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 12:00 Nineteen Ninety-Eight (b01c6sgt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 12:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007wp6j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 13:00 Dot (b072j327)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 13:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zybx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 13:45 Lamentation (m000rdks)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
WED 14:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b09ntss1)
Series 12
Episode 3
Professor of Ignorance John Lloyd and his curator Sally Phillips welcome:
* Comedian Stephen K. Amos
* Nanochemist Dr Suze Kundu
* Author of The Island, Victoria Hislop
The Museum's Guest Committee highlight the resilience of Tooting Broadway, the bulletproof qualities of Kevlar and the influence of the Protective Eye.
Researchers; Mike Turner and QI.
Producers: Richard Turner and Anne Miller
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in January 2018.
WED 14:30 Acropolis Now (b007jwps)
Series 2
Love
It's Eros night at the Fish Restaurant - and despite the hunger, romance is in the air.
Sex, squid and six more Socratic dialogues written by Lynne Truss
Back in Ancient Greece, Uncle Liquidities demands Plato gives up philosophy and enter the funerary urn business.
Heraclitus …….. Stephen Moore
Aristophanes …….. Alan Cox
Socrates …….. Robert Hardy
Xanthippe …….. Imelda Staunton
Plato …….. Tom George
Directed at BBC Pebble Mill by Brian King.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2002.
WED 15:00 Drama on 4 (b081tpw0)
Watership Down by Richard Adams
1. A Perilous Journey
Fearful that their home in Sandleford Warren is to be destroyed, a band of rabbits begins an epic and perilous journey to Watership Down.
First published in 1972, the award-winning Watership Down was Richard Adams' first novel and began life as improvised stories told to his two young daughters. Once published it became hugely successful, and won its author the Guardian Children's Fiction Award and the Carnegie Medal.
Dramatised in two-parts by Brian Sibley
Hyzenthlay ….. Lyndsey Marshal
Hazel ….. Gunnar Cauthery
Fiver ….. Robert Emms
Bigwig ….. Alex Lanipekun
Blackberry ….. Finlay Robertson
Dandelion ….. Luke MacGregor
Holly/Frith ….. Nicholas Murchie
Strawberry ….. John Dougall
Silver ….. Gavi Singh Chera
Cowslip ….. Keziah Joseph
Kehaar ….. Karen Bartke
Other parts played by John Bowler and David Sterne
Producer: Gemma Jenkins
Director: Marc Beeby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016.
WED 16:00 Archive on 4 (b060qbwm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
WED 17:00 The Quarry (m0010xqr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
WED 17:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pm3k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
WED 18:00 Nineteen Ninety-Eight (b01c6sgt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
WED 18:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007wp6j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
WED 19:00 Dot (b072j327)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
WED 19:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zybx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
WED 19:45 Lamentation (m000rdks)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
WED 20:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b09ntss1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
WED 20:30 Acropolis Now (b007jwps)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
WED 21:00 Drama on 4 (b081tpw0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
WED 22:00 Your Mum (m002dzk4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
WED 22:30 Linda Smith's A Brief History of Timewasting (b008ycft)
Series 2
New Islington
With London house prices going stratospheric in the East End, Linda gets a valuation.
Sitcom written by and starring Linda Smith.
With Femi Elufowoju Jnr, Jeremy Hardy, Martin Hyder, Margaret John and Chris Neill.
Special guest: Dillie Keane
Producer: Jon Rolph
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2002.
WED 23:00 The Skivers (b00j1ff4)
Series 3
Michael Fish
High winds alert! Weatherman Michael Fish bids for stardom.
Skilful sketch show written and performed by Nick Golson and Tim de Jongh.
With:
Peter Bradshaw
Sally Phillips
Special guest: Michael Fish
Announcer: Patrick Allen
Producer: Jon Naismith
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1997.
WED 23:30 Concrete Cow (b00768y0)
Series 1
Episode 1
Two kids from Peckham enter Narnia, Dr Jekyll get a telling off, and Radio 4’s new panel show - full of excessive pedantry and nit-picking - I Think You'll Find...
Six-part sketch show series in which anything is possible.
Starring
Olivia Colman
Robert Webb
Sally Hawkins
Steven Kynman
Chris Pavlo
Written by James Cary, Sally Hawkins, Catherine Shepherd, Ashley Blake, Jon Holmes, Adam Bromley, Stuart Barker, Robin Ince and Tim Key.
Producer: Adam Bromley
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2002

THURSDAY 03 JULY 2025

THU 00:00 Archive on 4 (b060qbwm)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:00 The Quarry (m0010xqr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pm3k)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Wednesday]
THU 02:00 Nineteen Ninety-Eight (b01c6sgt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Wednesday]
THU 02:30 Hancock's Half Hour (b007wp6j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:00 Dot (b072j327)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Wednesday]
THU 03:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zybx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:45 Lamentation (m000rdks)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Wednesday]
THU 04:00 The Museum of Curiosity (b09ntss1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Wednesday]
THU 04:30 Acropolis Now (b007jwps)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Wednesday]
THU 05:00 Drama on 4 (b081tpw0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Wednesday]
THU 06:00 The Quarry (m0010xyw)
4. Framed?
Worthless or valuable?
Douglas and Penny still don't fully understand the crazy scramble for their painting.
But more shocks are in store...
Stars Barry Foster, Penelope Lee and Andrew Sachs.
Thriller serial by Jon Rollason and Keith Williams.
Penelope Shemley .... Penelope Lee
Douglas Shemley .... Barry Foster
Ruth .... Isabel Rennie
Paul .... Andrew Sachs
Barnabus .... Hamlyn Benson
Reinke .... Frederick Schrecker
Simon Shaft .... Roddy Maude-Roxby
Pinder .... John Hollis
Producer: John Tydeman
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in January 1965.
THU 06:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pmqt)
3. Vengeance on the River
Three Americans arrive in sleepy Flaxborough – but what are their intentions?
Colin Watson's gripping serial about vice and violence stirring beneath the surface of the market town of Flaxborough.
John Rowe stars as Inspector Walter Purbright.
Dramatised by Christopher Denys.
Inspector Purbright …. John Rowe
Sergeant Love …. Paul Downing
Joxy …. Robin Polley
Hatch …. Harry Kirkham
Amis …. Daniel Coll
Julian …. Michael Duggan
Bernard …. Joseph Alessi
Tudor …. David Fleeshman
Lucy Teatime …. Ann Rye
Crispin …. Finetime Fontayne
Mrs Spain …. Judith Davis
Mrs Hatch …. Patricia Wilcock
Director: Tony Cliff
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1993.
THU 07:00 Bristow (b00cbcpg)
Series 1
Fair Shares
Takeover tangles as Bristow learns Chester Perry is making a takeover bid for the firm across the street.
He thinks that if he surreptitiously invests in rivals Miles and Rudge, he can make a mint...
Michael Williams stars as Bristow, the Chester Perry buying clerk.
He is but a small cog in a gigantic wheel... and he knows it.
Adapted from by Frank Dickens from his famous newspaper cartoon strip. Syndicated internationally, it ran for 51 years from 1961.
Bristow ...... Michael Williams
Jones ...... Rodney Bewes
Mrs Purdy ...... Dora Bryan
Hewitt ...... Owen Brenman
Fudge ...... Jon Glover
Miss Sunman ...... Katy Odey
Prunella Peach ...... Carol Starks
Fred Stokes ...... David Battley
Post Boy ...... Simon Schatzberger
Music: John Whitehall
Producer: Neil Cargill
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 1999.
THU 07:30 The Small, Intricate Life of Gerald C Potter (b0080r03)
Series 2
The Tiff
Author Gerald and his wife Diana squabble over a lunch date.
The convoluted chronicle of an optimistic author who's married to a more successful writer.
Starring Ian Carmichael and Charlotte Mitchell.
Written by Basil Boothroyd.
Gerald C Potter ...... Ian Carmichael
Diana Potter ...... Charlotte Mitchell
With:
Geoffrey Matthews
Edward Kelsey.
Producer: Bobby Jaye
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1977.
THU 08:00 The Break (m000kpv7)
Series 3
5. Strangers and a Drain
Jeff ill-advisedly offers to clean the chaotic drains of his girlfriend Corinne while she’s away at a pest control conference.
Seeking to free himself from this unsavoury task, Jeff strikes a murky deal with Fish Shop Frank to swap DIY tasks - Frank will clear Corinne’s drains and Jeff will fix Frank’s shelves.
However, things don’t go according to plan.
The hapless pair are sucked into a swirling vortex leading to a seething netherworld of crime and Mariachi. Along the way they once again meet punctilious and pedantic policeman, PC Clarke (“That’s Clarke with an ‘e’”) and also unorthodox and erratic limo driver, Psycho Pete.
In the meantime, Andy is training to be a bingo-caller. Unlucky for some - 13.
Jeff ...... Philip Jackson
Corinne ...... Alison Steadman
Frank ...... Mark Benton
Lucy ...... Shobna Gulati
Psycho Pete ...... Rasmus Hardiker
Andy ...... James Northcote
Created and written by Ian Brown and James Hendrie.
Director: Gordon Kennedy
An Absolutely production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in July 2020.
THU 08:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zyd6)
4. Summoned
In 1956, fresh from Eton and Oxford, 23-year-old Colin Clark (younger brother of politician and famous diarist Alan and younger son of Kenneth 'Lord Clark of Civilisation') worked as a 'gofer' on the set of 'The Prince and the Showgirl', the film that disastrously united Laurence Olivier with Marilyn Monroe.
In this beautifully written memoir, Clark recalls how, during filming, he became Monroe's confidante and spent an idyllic week helping her to escape from the pressures of stardom through a series of sweetly innocent adventures.
Colin is summoned to Marilyn's home at 1.30am. Sitting alone together in the dark, he learns some of her darkest fears and glimpses the steely strength that has driven her to become the most famous film star in the world.
The friendship causes concern and Colin has been warned to stay away from her by Marilyn's co-producer Milton Green.
Read by Samuel Barnett.
Abridged by Robin Brooks.
Produced by Kirsteen Cameron.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
THU 08:45 Lamentation (m000rc4b)
4. Mystery Unlocked
In 1546, the court of Henry VIII is on the edge of anarchy as Catholic and Protestant factions vie for power.
While heretics are burned at the stake, the Queen, Catherine Parr, rashly decides to write a confessional book about her religious beliefs.
When the manuscript is stolen its contents could endanger her life.
Catherine Parr's friend and lawyer Shardlake, unlocks the mystery of how the Queen’s confessional book was stolen from a locked chest – when there was only one key which she kept around her neck.
Based on the best-selling novel by C.J. Sansom, dramatised by Colin MacDonald.
Shardlake …… Justin Salinger
Barak …… Bryan Dick
Queen Catherine …… Jessica Hardwick
Lord Parr …… Robbie Jack
Charles Stice …… Matthew Barker
Barwic …… Mark Jeary
Director: Bruce Young
A BBC Scotland production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in January 2021.
THU 09:00 The Matt Forde Focus Group (m002dzz5)
Episode 6 - The politics of 'The End of the World'
Can politics be funny? Yes it can!
Top political comedian Matt Forde convenes his focus group in front of a live theatre audience with guests James Cleverly, Isabel Hardman and Ria Lina- to see how we really all feel about the end of the world.
Written and hosted by Matt Forde
Additional writing from Karl Minns, Katie Storey and Richard Garvin
Producer: Richard Garvin
Co Producers: Daisy Knight and Jules Lom
Broadcast Assistant: Jenny Recaldin
Sound Design and Editing: David Thomas
An Avalon production for BBC Radio 4
THU 09:30 Peter Snow Returns to the Future (b06hgwyf)
Steve Jones
Peter Snow and guests board a time travelling DeLorean to go back and forward in time.
Peter Snow takes geneticist Professor Steve Jones to explore the origins of the red head and the future of the human race.
Producer: David Stenhouse
First broadcast on BBC Radio in 2015.
THU 09:45 Daily Service (m002f8w1)
Love thy Neighbour - Fulfilling the Law Through Love
A space for spiritual reflection with a Bible reading, prayer and a range of Christian music.
Theme: Love thy Neighbour - Fulfilling the Law Through Love
Presenter: Olivia Davies
Reading: Romans 13: 8-10
THU 10:00 Great Lives (m001kpv6)
Arthur Ashe
Broadcaster Qasa Alom chooses the first African American tennis player to win the US Open and Wimbledon, Arthur Ashe.
Arthur Ashe was born in Richmond, Virginia, a state in the US that in 1943 was still part of the segregated south. If Arthur wanted to compete with white players, he had to leave for St Louis and then California to play.
His story is staggering, and not just his success in a notoriously elitist sport. His mother died when he was six, he had a heart attack when he was 36, and he died of AIDS when he was just 49, contracted from a tainted blood confusion.
Film maker and broadcaster Qasa Alom grew up loving Rafa Nadal. Then Ashe's story blew him away.
"In a world where we have so many demonstrative heroes, in sport, in politics, the extrovert who is shouting the loudest often gets heard. There's a really good opportunity here to showcase other ways of being a champion, and Arthur Ashe for me is certainly that person."
Programme contains historic interviews, including Arthur Ashe talking to Anthony Clare for In The Psychiatrists Chair shortly after his first heart attack. And also includes a new interview with Raymond Arsenault, American author of Arthur Ashe: A Life.
Presenter: Matthew Parris
Producer: Miles Warde
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2023.
THU 10:30 Raising Allosaurus: The Dream of Jurassic Park (b038c7b9)
In the 20 years since the release of the film Jurassic Park, DNA cloning technologies have advanced dramatically. Professor Adam Hart asks whether we could and should start bringing extinct animals back from the dead.
The fossilised remains of dinosaurs are too degraded to hold any viable DNA, so Jurassic Park is unlikely to be a reality. But what about Pleistocene Park? Deep frozen remains of Arctic animals like the woolly mammoth or the Irish elk, have been shown to contain DNA - but is it in good enough condition to rebuild the genome and attempt cloning these animals which went extinct nearly 4000 years ago?
Some people think it could work. But should we even be considering it? With so many plants and animals threatened with extinction now, should we be wasting time and resources on bringing back animals that didn't make the cut?
Adam Hart asks experts in ancient DNA whether the code for life could be resurrected in animals like the mammoth, the passenger pigeon, the dodo, the marsupial tiger, or thylacine? And he asks conservationists whether we should be doing it.
Produced by Fiona Roberts.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2013.
THU 11:00 The Quarry (m0010xyw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 11:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pmqt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 12:00 Bristow (b00cbcpg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 12:30 The Small, Intricate Life of Gerald C Potter (b0080r03)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 13:00 The Break (m000kpv7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 13:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zyd6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 13:45 Lamentation (m000rc4b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
THU 14:00 The Write Stuff (m0001vtj)
Series 1
Jane Austen
James Walton hosts his first book quiz testing Sebastian Faulks, John Walsh, Victoria Glendinning and Tracey MacLeod.
Author of the week: Jane Austen.
Reader: Rachel Atkins.
Producer: Jon Rolph
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1998.
THU 14:30 Cabin Pressure (b00lmcyc)
Series 2
Helsinki
Carolyn and her sister haven't spoken for 15 years. Which is why Arthur has invited her to a party on board, together with 500 Euros-worth of smuggled orchids...
Meanwhile, Martin gets tangled up in some karate and a fishcake.
Starring Stephanie Cole, Benedict Cumberbatch and Roger Allam.
John Finnemore's sitcom about the pilots of a tiny charter airline for whom no job is too small, but many, many jobs are too difficult.
With special guest Alison Steadman.
Carolyn Knapp-Shappey ...... Stephanie Cole
1st Officer Douglas Richardson ...... Roger Allam
Capt. Martin Crieff ...... Benedict Cumberbatch
Arthur Shappey ...... John Finnemore
Ruth Gregson ...... Alison Steadman
Kieran Gregson ...... Matt Green
Milo ...... Simon Greenall
Director: David Tyler
A Pozzitive production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in July 2009.
THU 15:00 Drama on 4 (b0829dcv)
Watership Down by Richard Adams
2. Terrifying Confrontations with General Woundwort
The rabbits have found a new home on Watership Down but to ensure the warren's future they must now confront the terrifying General Woundwort.
Conclusion of Richard Adams' award-winning novel from 1972 - dramatised by Brian Sibley
Hyzenthlay ..... Lyndsey Marshal
Hazel ..... Gunnar Cauthery
Fiver ..... Robert Emms
Bigwig ..... Alex Lanipekun
Woundwort ..... Paul Hilton
Blackberry ..... Finlay Robertson
Dandelion ..... Luke MacGregor
Holly/Black Emissary ..... Nicholas Murchie
Kehaar ..... Karen Bartke
Strawberry ..... John Dougall
Silver ..... Gavi Singh Chera
Nelthilta ..... Keziah Joseph
Campion ..... John Bowler
The Farmer ..... David Sterne
Producer: Gemma Jenkins
Director: Marc Beeby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016.
THU 16:00 Great Lives (m001kpv6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
THU 16:30 Raising Allosaurus: The Dream of Jurassic Park (b038c7b9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
THU 17:00 The Quarry (m0010xyw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
THU 17:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pmqt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
THU 18:00 Bristow (b00cbcpg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
THU 18:30 The Small, Intricate Life of Gerald C Potter (b0080r03)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
THU 19:00 The Break (m000kpv7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
THU 19:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zyd6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
THU 19:45 Lamentation (m000rc4b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
THU 20:00 The Write Stuff (m0001vtj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
THU 20:30 Cabin Pressure (b00lmcyc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
THU 21:00 Drama on 4 (b0829dcv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
THU 22:00 The Matt Forde Focus Group (m002dzz5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
THU 22:30 Mr and Mrs Smith (b01blzkq)
Series 1
The Music Festival
Will reluctantly accompanies wife Annabelle to a music festival. She brings her annoying friend Heather along.
Will Smith's sitcom about a couple in marriage counselling,
Counsellor Guy must mediate another dispute between Will and Annabelle, with flashbacks to the events that spawned the argument, and by the end, the couple find marital equilibrium once more.
Sort of.
Will Smith ..... Will Smith
Annabelle Smith ..... Sarah Hadland
Guy ..... Paterson Joseph
Heather ..... Morwenna Banks
Various ..... Simon Bubb
Producer: Tilusha Ghelani
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2012.
THU 23:00 The Shuttleworths (b007lrj3)
John Shuttleworth's Open Mind
Ghosts
Spooky happenings hamper John's investigation as he delves into the world of ghosts.
He can't afford a night at a haunted hotel, but he does get some expert advice from his telephone guest, Yvette Fielding.
Sheffield's John Shuttleworth continues his probe into unsolved phenomena.
With Mary Shuttleworth.
Written and performed by Graham Fellows.
Additional material by Dean Wilkinson.
Producer: Dawn Ellis
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2006.
THU 23:30 Mark Watson Makes the World Substantially Better (b00kvq7t)
Series 1
Wrath
Mark Watson investigates wrath as he continues his quest to free us from the seven deadly sins via stand-up comedy.
Resentful sketches and songs from:
Tim Key
Tim Minchin
Producer: Katie Marsden
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2007.

FRIDAY 04 JULY 2025

FRI 00:00 Great Lives (m001kpv6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Thursday]
FRI 00:30 Raising Allosaurus: The Dream of Jurassic Park (b038c7b9)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 on Thursday]
FRI 01:00 The Quarry (m0010xyw)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Thursday]
FRI 01:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pmqt)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Thursday]
FRI 02:00 Bristow (b00cbcpg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Thursday]
FRI 02:30 The Small, Intricate Life of Gerald C Potter (b0080r03)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:00 The Break (m000kpv7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Thursday]
FRI 03:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zyd6)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:45 Lamentation (m000rc4b)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Thursday]
FRI 04:00 The Write Stuff (m0001vtj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Thursday]
FRI 04:30 Cabin Pressure (b00lmcyc)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Thursday]
FRI 05:00 Drama on 4 (b0829dcv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 on Thursday]
FRI 06:00 The Quarry (m0010y1j)
5. Truth Revealed
Why did Reinke shout "let it burn?"
The chilling secret behind Douglas and Penelope's painting is finally revealed...
Stars Barry Foster, Penelope Lee and Frederick Schrecker.
Conclusion of the thriller serial by Jon Rollason and Keith Williams.
Douglas Shemley .... Barry Foster
Penelope Shemley …. Penelope Lee
Simon Shaft .... Roddy Maude-Roxby
Reinke .... Frederick Schrecker
Paul .... Andrew Sachs
Ruth .... Isabel Rennie
American .... Peter Marinker
Hotel Receptionist .... Glyn Dearman
Producer: John Tydeman
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in February 1965.
FRI 06:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pp70)
4. A Memorable Evening at the Floradora
Sleepy Flaxborough braces itself for the much-anticipated medieval banquet.
Colin Watson's serial about vice and violence stirring beneath the surface of a peaceful market town.
John Rowe stars as Inspector Walter Purbright.
Dramatised by Christopher Denys.
Inspector Purbright …. John Rowe
Sergeant Love …. Paul Downing
Joxy …. Robin Polley
Hatch …. Harry Kirkham
Amis …. Daniel Coll
Julian …. Michael Duggan
Bernard …. Joseph Alessi
Tudor …. David Fleeshman
Lucy Teatime …. Ann Rye
Crispin …. Finetime Fontayne
Mrs Spain …. Judith Davis
Mrs Hatch …. Patricia Wilcock
Director: Tony Cliff
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1993.
FRI 07:00 Any Other Business (b012rb49)
Episode 1
After the local elections, the town of Chesbury is in uproar.
The undefeatable have been defeated, while the unelectable have been elected - and it looks like the unspeakable will become mayor...
Lucy Flannery's local government sitcom.
Starring:
Nelson David
John Duttine
James Grout
Rosy Fordham
Nick Hardy
Howard Lew Lewis
Toby Longworth
Jan Ravens
Vivienne Rochester
June Whitfield.
Producer: Liz Anstee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1995.
FRI 07:30 The Jason Explanation of... (b007jpzh)
Love, Sex and Marriage
David Jason tries to crack relationships via computer dating and Punch and Judy.
Following in the footsteps of Lord Clark, Dr Bronowski and Professor Galbraith, David Jason unravels the mysteries of the universe and the meaning of life.
With:
Sheila Steafel
Royce Mills
Written by Colin Bostock Smith, Andy Hamilton, Barry Pilton and Paul Leigh.
Music by John Owen Edwards
Producer: Geoffrey Perkins
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 4 in September 1977.
FRI 08:00 Showstopper (b00yqvk0)
6. Bedlam
The Showstopper team are here to create a hilarious improvised comic musical on the spot!
Featuring songs, plot and characters based entirely on suggestions from the live studio audience.
It’s curtain-up on the musical world of Bedlam - set in the Houses of Parliament.
The cast includes:
Pippa Evans
Ruth Bratt
Dylan Emery
Lucy Trodd
Sean McCann
Oliver Senton
Producer: Sam Bryant
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2011.
FRI 08:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zyj2)
5. Realisation
In 1956, fresh from Eton and Oxford, 23-year-old Colin Clark (younger brother of politician and famous diarist Alan and younger son of Kenneth 'Lord Clark of Civilisation') worked as a 'gofer' on the set of 'The Prince and the Showgirl', the film that disastrously united Laurence Olivier with Marilyn Monroe.
In this beautifully written memoir, Clark recalls how, during filming, he became Monroe's confidante and spent an idyllic week helping her to escape from the pressures of stardom through a series of sweetly innocent adventures.
Colin helps Marilyn cope with a tragic and unexpected event.
Next morning he wakes to the realisation that he must put an end to their friendship: too many people claim Marilyn as their property to allow him to stay close to her for much longer. His week-long adventure is over.
Read by Samuel Barnett.
Abridged by Robin Brooks.
Produced by Kirsteen Cameron.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2011.
FRI 08:45 Lamentation (m000rcb0)
5. Prison Guard
In 1546, the court of Henry VIII is on the edge of anarchy as Catholic and Protestant factions vie for power.
While heretics are burned at the stake, the Queen, Catherine Parr, rashly decides to write a confessional book about her religious beliefs.
When the manuscript is stolen its contents could endanger her life.
Shardlake’s investigations lead him to the Tower of London where he encounters a prison guard with links to religious radicals.
Based on the best-selling novel by C.J. Sansom, dramatised by Colin MacDonald.
Shardlake …… Justin Salinger
Barak …… Bryan Dick
Lord Parr …… Robbie Jack
Myldmore …… Kenny Blyth
Okedene …… Mark McDonnell
Elias …… Caleb Hughes
Director: Bruce Young
A BBC Scotland production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in January 2021.
FRI 09:00 Conversations from a Long Marriage (m002d1vd)
Series 6
6. Where the Heart Is
Everything’s packed up but Roger’s furious when Joanna plans a farewell party for friends.
Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam return as the loving, long-married couple, in the 6th series of Jan Etherington’s award-winning comedy.
This week, Joanna has a cataract operation and is banned from bending over. Roger continues packing up the house alone, for the move to the coast but then Joanna announces she’s invited everyone to a farewell party. Moving day arrives, the dog goes missing, crazy friend Sally threatens to lie down in front of the removal lorry, and there are a few tears when Roger reveals that he’ll miss his shed.
Conversations from a Long Marriage is written by Jan Etherington and produced by Claire Jones.
Wilfredo Acosta - Sound Engineer
Jon Calver - Sound Designer
Sarah Nicholls - Production Coordinator
An EcoAudio certified production.
A BBC Studios Audio production for Radio 4
FRI 09:30 Peter Snow Returns to the Future (b06hh19v)
Kate Williams
Peter Snow and guests board a time travelling DeLorean to go back and forward in time.
Peter Snow takes historian Kate Williams to the bedchamber of Queen Victoria and the home of an African billionaire.
Producer: David Stenhouse
First broadcast on BBC Radio in 2015.
FRI 09:45 Daily Service (m002f77n)
LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR - Love One Another As I Have Loved You
Theme: LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR - Love One Another As I Have Loved You
Presenter: Very Revd Dr Sarah Rowland Jones
Reading: John 15:12-17
FRI 10:00 Soul Music (b03jznqg)
Series 17
Gymnopédie No 1
From the seat of a concert hall piano, Pascal Rogé, one of the world's greatest interpreters of French piano music, leads us through a personal and musical journey of Erik Satie's Gymnopédies.
You may not immediately know the title but in hearing just the first few notes you are most likely to know the music.
Erik Satie's Gymnopédies are a collection of short, atmospheric pieces of which Gymnopédie No.1 is perhaps the most popular.
Music historian and author Mark Prendergast has studied Satie's work and reveals the complex character of the man who revolutionised the 19th century classical music of Europe.
Melbourne based artist Colin Duncan reflects on the music's 'physical form which takes you into space and time' and for him inspired a body of work created in braille.
Murder Mystery writer Cathy Ace remembers how this meditative music could shut out the noise of the city as she sped around London in her old brown mini, whilst Mathematician and author Ian Stewart explores the mathematics of this special piece and how music can touch our soul.
Series about pieces of music with a powerful emotional impact.
Producer: Nicola Humphries
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2013.
FRI 10:30 Fifty Years Around the Clock (b00js9vh)
Tony Wilson traces the story of the first rock 'n' roll song to reach number 1 in 1955.
It was hastily recorded in a converted ballroom in Manhattan and first released as an obscure B-side.
But 'Rock around the Clock' only found its moment of glory when it was included in the 50s film 'Blackboard Jungle' as the sound of teenage rebellion and an antidote to the jazz of Bix Beiderbecke.
With:
Virtuoso guitarist Vini Reilly
Ex-rocker Sir Cliff Richard
Broadcasting impresario Michael Grade
Producer: Jane Lewis.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2005.
FRI 11:00 The Quarry (m0010y1j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 11:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pp70)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 12:00 Any Other Business (b012rb49)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 12:30 The Jason Explanation of... (b007jpzh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 13:00 Showstopper (b00yqvk0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 13:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zyj2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 13:45 Lamentation (m000rcb0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
FRI 14:00 The Motion Show (b070wg2g)
Series 3
Episode 4
Debates galore over medicine and bringing back national service.
Graeme Garden chairs the quirky battle of words and wit.
With:
Hugh Dennis
Gyles Brandreth
Arthur Smith
Antony Worrall Thompson
Producer: Helen Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2000
FRI 14:30 Odd Balls (b00760d2)
Disputed Inheritance by Jack Acorn
When Fred Melthorpe inherits an estate from his estranged father, he also inherits Jack Acorn, the general factotum.
But Jack's not all he seems so unpleasant discoveries are set to be made.
The last of four character based comedies by Don Howarth.
Jack Acorn ...... John Webb
Fred Melthorpe ...... Stephen Tomlin
Joey ...... Alex Trinder
Mrs Simcock ...... Pauline Jefferson
Director: Julie Beckett
Producer: Sue Wilson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2001.
FRI 15:00 Drama on 4 (b06r8gms)
1977 by Sarah Wooley
Writing the music for the film Watership Down allows one woman to live the life she has always wanted.
In 1977 the bestselling children's novel Watership Down was made into an animated film. Malcolm Williamson, Master of the Queens music, had been hired as the film's composer. But all was not well. Williamson, a notoriously difficult and complicated man, was under extreme pressure; it was the Queens jubilee year and he was over commissioned.
When the film's conductor, Marcus Dods, arrived looking for the film's score he found to his horror that all that existed were two small sketches of music which amounted to no more than seven minutes of screen time. With an expensive orchestra and recording studio booked for the following week, the film's future looked to be in jeopardy.
In desperation he turned to the one person he knew could help; composer and arranger Angela Morley. But she, for her own reasons, was going to need some persuading...
Starring Rebecca Root as Angela Morley.
Written by Sarah Wooley.
Angela Morley …. Rebecca Root
Christine Parker …. Debra Baker
Marcus Dods …. William Gaminara
Terry Rawlings …. Bryan Dick
Malcolm Williamson …. Chris Pavlo
John Sanders …. David Seddon
Larry Ashmore …. David Seddon
All other parts …. Evie Killip
Director: Gaynor Macfarlane
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2015.
FRI 15:45 Short Works (b09d4bl2)
Series 1
Hold Me in Your Light by Harry Baker
Dan is the stag at his own stag do. It's a surreal ordeal. He feels detached, anxious about the marriage but unable to speak about feelings to his fellow stags.
He escapes to the roof of the bar and sees the people below in the streets of the city he loves.
For the first time he notices them glow, leaving trails of light as they move. Perhaps he's found an answer to his doubts.
Written and performed by World Slam Poetry Champion Harry Baker.
Producer Mary Ward-Lowery.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2017.
FRI 16:00 Soul Music (b03jznqg)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]
FRI 16:30 Fifty Years Around the Clock (b00js9vh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:30 today]
FRI 17:00 The Quarry (m0010y1j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]
FRI 17:30 Inspector Purbright - Naked Nuns (m000pp70)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]
FRI 18:00 Any Other Business (b012rb49)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]
FRI 18:30 The Jason Explanation of... (b007jpzh)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]
FRI 19:00 Showstopper (b00yqvk0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]
FRI 19:30 My Week With Marilyn by Colin Clark (b017zyj2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]
FRI 19:45 Lamentation (m000rcb0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]
FRI 20:00 The Motion Show (b070wg2g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 today]
FRI 20:30 Odd Balls (b00760d2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 today]
FRI 21:00 Drama on 4 (b06r8gms)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:00 today]
FRI 21:45 Short Works (b09d4bl2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 15:45 today]
FRI 22:00 Conversations from a Long Marriage (m002d1vd)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]
FRI 22:30 Where Did It All Go Wrong? (b0076gyj)
Series 1
Dorrigo
A comedic take on a rough tough job in Oz and getting cancer.
Written and performed by Simon Munnery.
Producer Ed Morrish.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2003.
FRI 22:45 The Pin (b07wgj2v)
Series 2
Evolution
The Pin are out to evolve - which means new features (and new total misunderstandings about how existence works).
Strap in for a 15-minute delve into a world of oddness performed in front of a live studio audience.
The Pin are an award-winning comedy duo, and legends of Edinburgh festival. They deconstruct the sketch form, in a show that exists somewhere between razor-sharp smartness and utterly joyous silliness.
Written by Ben Ashenden and Alex Owen
Performed by:
Ben Ashenden
Alex Owen
Leila Hoffman
Tahj Miles
Producer: Sam Bryant
A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in September 2016.
FRI 23:00 Vent (b00v3qsn)
Series 2
Alternatives
What would comatose Ben's life be like if it was a Hollywood movie?
Starring Neil Pearson.
Dark sitcom following the thoughts of comatose patient Ben.
Written by Nigel Smith.
Ben …. Neil Pearson
Jean …. Josie Lawrence
Mary …. Fiona Allen
Blitzkrieg …. Leslie Ash
With:
Nicholas Hutchison
Jo Martin
Mark Perry
Producer: Gareth Edwards
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2007.
FRI 23:30 Will Smith's Midlife Crisis Management (b00grsdt)
Episode 6
Will tackles his lack of success with women with the help of Ed, an American love guru.
As ever, Will Smith seeks help and advice - primarily from his godfather Peter - on coping with the onset of middle age.
Starring Will Smith
Comedy by Will Smith and Roger Drew.
Peter ...... Roger Allam
Ed ...... Simon Greenall
Girlfriend ...... Jill Cardo
First date ...... Janice Acquah
Second date ...... Donnla Hughes
Third date ...... Dan Starkey
Waiter ...... Roger Drew
Producer: Tilusha Ghelani
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2009.