A BBC Radio 4 Sketch Comedy

The Show What You Wrote

The hilarious BBC Radio comedy show where every sketch has been written by the public 
 
The complete series of the ground-breaking comedy series, which called for submissions from members of the public. With over 12,000 sketches sent in from 1,500 different people, The Show What You Wrote spans such diverse comedy topics as Crime & Thriller, Kitchen Sink, Body & Soul, and Geography, and features sketches about heaven's unexpectedly strict dress code, the Shopping Forecast, the grammar police, and some very literal highwaymen. 
 
Starring John Thomson (The Fast Show, Cold Feet), Jason Manford (8 Out of 10 Cats, QI), and Janice Connolly (Phoenix Nights, Coronation Street) and enjoying special appearances from Gyles Brandreth, Chris Addison, Shobna Gulati, Ben Crompton and Rob Rouse, among others, this brilliant sketch series will never let you look at rock-climbing, night-clubbing, or post-apocalypse dating the same way again... 
 
 
Cast 
John Thomson 
Helen Moon 
Gavin Webster 
Fiona Clarke 
Janice Connolly 
Jason Manford 
Gyles Brandreth 
Chris Addison 
Ben Crompton 
Darren Kuppan 
Rob Rouse 
Shobna Gulati 
Chris Jack 
 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
27 June - 18 July 2013 (Series 1) 
14 August - 4 September 2014 (Series 2) 
8 December - 29 December 2015 (Series 3) 
 
Production credits 
Script Editing by Jon Hunter 
Produced by Carl Cooper, Alexandra Smith, Ed Morrish and Paul Sheehan 
 
Written by Greg Jennings, Jack Bernhardt, Elise Bramich, Peter Brush, Alex Buchanan, Simon Carter, Andy Flood, Robert Frimston, Edward Rowett, Gabby Hutchinson Crouch, Peter Jump, Adam Perrott, Melissa Phillips, Eddie Robson, Paul Solomons, Jimmy Weeks, Jess Bunch, Ash Williamson, James Boughen, Dominic Burgess, John Dennett, Richard Felber, Andy Fell, Stephen Holford, Caspian James, Nathan King, Nick Hall, Matt Oakley, John-Luke Roberts, Adam Lebovits, Alex Clissold-Jones, James Allnutt , David Simpson, Andrew Spence, Callum Scott, Charlie Mizon, Dave McKeon, Eleanor Green, Graham Kilvington, Kev Core, Matthew Smith, Michael DeFroand, Phil Collinge, Rob Hayes, Sam Gore, Simon Copley, Oliver Taylor, Simon Ounsworth, Tom Neenan, Chris Allen, Steve Bugeja, Alex Collier, Andy Fury, Jez Gee, Lucy Guy, Mike Haskins, Katherine Knowles, Maeve Larkin, Sarah Page, Tom Austin, Liam Beirne, James Bugg, Ash Caton, Josh Cluderay, Stu Cooper, Rob Gilroy, Emma Payne, Andrew Stephenson, Mike Whalley, Bridget Burgoyne, Will Cooper, Owen Cooper, Max Davis, Stuart Doherty, Gil Gilmore, Sam Hudson, Carl Jones, Rob Marshall, Sean Fee, Helen Green, Joe Hodgson, Daniel Hooper, David McIver, Matthew Radway, Owen Seddon, Emlyn Williams, Pete Barrett, Martin Alcock, Joshua Bolland-Burrell, Matthew Carr, David Catstrey, Tom Crowley, Jason Jillings, Lucias Malcolm, Harry Roth, Ben Behrens, Dave Bibby, Keith Carter, Lou Conran, Dan Hobson, Jon Bridle, Scott Kingsnorth, Steve Nelson, Christopher Stanners, Claire Wetton, Mark Cowling, Jay Droch, Neil Hickey, Tony Hickson, Dan Kiss, Roxy Muldoon, David Salisbury, Cassie Atkinson, Tim Craig, Sarah Glenister, Jack Hall, Dai Hill, Rose Johnson, Sean Lindsay, Derek Martin, Darshan Singh, Rob Smyth, Owen Archlimb, Stefan Arif, Matt Harvey, Andrew Jones, Rob Keeley, Oliver Ley, Ciaran Murtagh, Lev Parikian and Chris Tindall 
 
©2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

A BBC Radio 4 collection

Hardship Britain: Personal Stories of Social Issues Today

Individuals who have experienced some of society's biggest issues tell their stories - and search for answers 
 
 From climate change, fake news and vaccine hesitancy to mental health, addiction and domestic violence, there are no shortage of societal problems facing the UK right now. But while we are aware these challenges exist, without personal experience it is hard for us to understand what it is like to struggle with them, and harder still to envision potential solutions. 
 
 These compelling documentaries, first broadcast on radio under the title 'My Name Is...', introduce us to a range of individuals who have confronted various hardships, telling their stories and following them as they ask difficult questions and endeavour to drive positive change. Among those we meet are Rachel, who has been sectioned multiple times and seeks to challenge the status quo around psychiatric treatment; Katie, a onetime problem gambler investigating how online gambling firms target the vulnerable; Abi, who almost died at the hands of her violent boyfriend and now helps others stay safe; and Fozia, a doctor horrified by the Covid conspiracy theories that leave patients afraid to come to hospital even when they're seriously ill. 
 
 We also hear from others whose stories are less harrowing, but equally absorbing. There's Noga, a 17-year-old youth strike organiser doing everything she can to save the planet; Hamza, a basketball and martial arts coach who believes broadening access to sport can improve opportunities for disadvantaged kids; Lucy, who's looking for love and wondering whether to ditch the dating apps; and 11-year-old Roman, who adores Minecraft and wants to know if his parents' limits on his screen time are fair. 
 
 Offering unique insight into the lives of a host of extraordinary people, these fascinating first-person accounts highlight the complexity of the issues affecting Britons today, and provide diverse perspectives on how we can set about tackling them. 
 
 Production credits 
 Presented by Noga Levy-Rapoport, Rachel Waddingham, Katie, Josh Walker, 'Courtney', Peter Trimingham, Beth Miles, Abi Blake, Imogen Rhodes, Fozia Hayat, Natasha Saunders, Lucy, Roman, Niellah Arboine, Jordan Lee, Anna, Elvis MacGonagall, Hamza Malik, Joshua Styles, Anna, Christina Adane, Natalie, Haroon Mota, Sam, Kate Deeming, Bex Wilson, Laura Brothwell, Claire Randall, Chris Fox 
 
 Produced by Sue Mitchell, Ben Crighton, Lydia Thomas, Miles Warde, Richard McIlroy, Ben Carter, Eliza Lomas, Kevin Core, Mugabi Turya, Seren Jones, Lucy Proctor, Giles Edwards, Beth Hemmings 
 
 Production Coordinators: Anne Smith, Gemma Ashman, Dave James, Sarah Goodman, Helen Surtees, Siobhan Maguire 
 
 Editors: Philip Sellars, Emma Rippon, Gill Farrington 
 
 First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
 
 My Name is Noga 1 April 2019 
My Name is Rachel 8 April 2019 
My Name is Katie 22 April 2019 
My Name is Josh 6 May 2019 
My Name is Courtney 27 May 2019 
My Name is Peter 6 January 2020 
My Name is Beth 27 January 2020 
My Name is Abi 3 February 2020 
My Name is Immie 10 February 2020 
My Name is Fozia 27 July 2020 
My Name is Natasha 3 August 2020 
My Name is Lucy 17 August 2020 
My Name is Roman 24 August 2020 
My Name is Niellah 31 August 2020 
My Name is Jordan 1 February 2021 
My Name is Anna 8 February 2021 
My Name is Elvis 15 February 2021 
My Name is Hamza 1 March 2021 
My Name is Josh 8 March 2021 
My Name is Anna 16 August 2021 
My Name is Christina 30 August 2021 
My Name is Natalie 6 September 2021 
My Name is Haroon 28 February 2022 
My Name is Sam 7 March 2022 
My Name is Kate 14 March 2022 
My Name is Bex 21 March 2022 
My Name is Laura 25 July 2022 
My Name is Claire 08 August 2022 
My Name is Chris 29 August 2022 
 
 
 © 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

A BBC Radio Comedy

Welcome to Wherever You Are: Series 1 and 2

Andrew Maxwell hosts the comedy show featuring stand-ups from all over the planet streaming live to an audience in London 
 
In this groundbreaking series, comedians from all around the globe perform from wherever they happen to be, and their set is streamed via high quality phone lines and internet video to an audience in the BBC Radio Theatre, London. Host Andrew Maxwell, a multiple Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and BBC Radio 4 regular, keeps the gags and chat flowing as we chuckle along to stand-up stars in Indonesia, Russia, Argentina, China, South Africa, Singapore, Serbia, Italy, Dubai - and more. 
 
Among the cornucopia of up-and-coming comic talent are Rehman Akhtar,Orlando Baxter, Schalk Bezuidenhout, Guy Branum, Eliana La Casa, Sharul Channa, Berit Companjen, Fabrizio Copano, Francesco De Carlo, Sakdiyah Ma'ruf, Igor Meerson, Aparna Nancherla, Tats Nzonzo, Al Pitcher, Omar Ramzi, Nikola Silic, Steph Tisdell, Tin Vodopivec and Storm Xu. 
 
There's also Carl Joshua Ncube, 'the biggest Zimbabwean stand-up comedian in the world', Kansiime Anne, the 'Queen of African Comedy', Maysoon Zayid, one of America's first Muslim women comedians, and world-renowned satirist Bassem Youssef, who explains why he had to move to Los Angeles from his native Egypt (spoiler: it turns out dictators don't like you making jokes about them). Plus, Iceland's Ari Eldjárn gives us the lowdown on Iceland/Denmark rivalry, Australia's Alice Fraser talks cricket and colonialism, New Zealand's Urzila Carlson discusses flip-flops and marriage, and Ambrose Orosz, the first Hungarian to perform stand-up at the Edinburgh Festival, dials in from Budapest with stories of politics and his favourite 'uncle jokes'. 
 
Broaden your horizons and laugh your way around the world, with over four hours of entertainment from the most diverse and talented line-up you'll ever hear in one place. 
 
NB: Due to the nature of these recordings, the sound quality may vary 
 
Production credits 
Presented by Andrew Maxwell 
 
Featuring: Rehman Akhtar, Kansiime Anne, Orlando Baxter, Schalk Bezuidenhout, Guy Branum, Urzila Carlson, Eliana La Casa, Sharul Channa, Berit Companjen, Fabrizio Copano, Francesco De Carlo, Ari Eldjárn, Alice Fraser, Carl Joshua Ncube, Sakdiyah Ma'ruf, Igor Meerson, Aparna Nancherla, Tats Nzonzo, Ambrose Orosz, Al Pitcher, Omar Ramzi, Nikola Silic, Steph Tisdell, Tin Vodopivec, Storm Xu, Bassem Youssef, Maysoon Zayid 
 
Produced by Ed Morrish (Pilot and Series 1) Richard Morris (Series 2) 
Production co-ordinator: Hayley Sterling (Series 2) 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4, 23 June 2016 (Pilot), 30 November-21 December 2017 (Series 1), 18 July-8 August 2019 (Series 2) 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

The Complete BBC Radio 4 Hostless Chat Show

Chain Reaction

The tag-team interview show where the celebrity guest becomes the interviewer 
 
A complete collection of the talk show with a twist - the guest each week becomes the interviewer in the following episode. Focusing on the career and passions of a figure in the entertainment world whose work they admire, each interviewer gets to delve into the life of their hero as well as revealing hidden aspects of themselves. 
 
Featuring great British comedians, award-winning actors, and iconic musicians and writers, Chain Reaction serves you double helpings of amazing individuals like Johnny Vegas, Barry Cryer, Lenny Henry, David Tennant, Eddie Izzard, Lee Mack, Ruby Wax, Stephen Merchant, Caitlin Moran, Frankie Boyle, Bob Mortimer, Vic Reeves, Olivia Colman, Katherine Ryan, Ian Hislop, Victoria Coren-Mitchell, Joe Lycett, Sara Pascoe, Tim Vine, and many, many more. 
 
Production credits 
Produced by Tilusha Ghelani, Sam Bryant, Lianne Coop, Ed Morrish, Carl Cooper, Charlie Perkins, Richard Morris and Adnan Ahmed 
 
With: Jenny Eclair, Jimmy Carr, Matt Lucas, Johnny Vegas, Stewart Lee, Alan Moore, Brian Eno, Jo Brand, Barry Cryer, Mark Thomas, Alexei Sayle, Lenny Henry, Bill Bailey, Simon Pegg, Marcus Brigstocke, Clive Anderson, John Lloyd, Phill Jupitus, John Hegley, Jack Dee, Jeremy Hardy, Catherine Tate, David Tennant, Richard Wilson, Arabella Weir, Paul Whitehouse, Robert Llewellyn, Dave Gorman, Frank Skinner, Eddie Izzard, Alastair Campbell, Alistair McGowan, Simon Callow, Ronni Ancona, Lee Mack, Ade Edmondson, Ruby Wax, Harry Shearer, Stephen Merchant, Jarvis Cocker, Rhys Thomas, Simon Day, Peter Hook, John Cooper Clarke, Kevin Eldon, Mark Steel, Barry Davies, Jeremy Front, Rebecca Front, Chris Addison, Derren Brown, Tim Minchin, Caitlin Moran, Jennifer Saunders, Terry Christian, Kevin Bridges, Frankie Boyle, Grant Morrison, Neil Innes, Graham Linehan, Adam Buxton, Reece Shearsmith, Bob Mortimer, Vic Reeves, Olivia Colman, Sharon Horgan, Dennis Kelly, Ed Byrne, Al Murray, Ian Hislop, Victoria Coren-Mitchell, Sandi Toksvig, Roy Hudd, Alison Steadman, Sara Cox, Joe Lycett, Katherine Ryan, Sara Pascoe, Harry Hill, Tim Vine, Ken Dodd 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4, 30 December 2004 - 27 March 2017 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Classic storylines from the BBC Radio drama

The Archers: Vintage Highlights

Classic vintage highlights from the much-loved radio soap 
 
The world's longest-running drama, The Archers has delighted audiences ever since its launch on 1 January 1951. Today, over five million fans across generations and across the world tune in, hooked on the epic saga of everyday life in the rural village of Ambridge. 
 
This collection takes a look back at the early years of the iconic show, from the 1950s to the 1970s, and follows the fortunes of some of its pivotal characters, including Jack and Peggy Archer, Walter Gabriel, Sid Perks, and Brian and Jennifer Aldridge. Here are some of the most memorable moments from Ambridge's history: Grace Archer's tragic death in a stable fire; Tom Forrest's arrest for manslaughter; the wedding of Tony and Pat; the birth of Phil and Jill's daughter, Elizabeth - and their subsequent worries about her heart; and the shock of Jennifer's illegitimate baby. 
 
Also featured is a compilation of farming catastrophes that shaped the lives of the residents, including Dan Archer's devastating discovery of fowl pest in his poultry, plus a selection of Christmas celebrations throughout the years, where we hear tidings of the births of Debbie Aldridge and John Archer and drop in on shows in the village hall. 
 
Covering all the major Archers milestones over the first three decades, this compendium of classic highlights offers lifelong listeners an ideal opportunity to relive their favourite storylines, while giving newer fans the perfect chance to catch up with key events from Ambridge's past. 
 
Due to the vintage nature of these recordings, the sound quality may vary. 
 
Track listing 
1. Introduction 
2. Grace and Phil 
3. George and Nora 
4. Walter Gabriel 
5. Tom Forrest 
6. Phil and Jill (Part 1) 
7. Phil and Jill (Part 2) 
8. Farming Catastrophes 
9. Sid and Polly 
10. Jack and Peggy 
11. Pat and Tony 
12. Brian and Jennifer 
13. Christmas in Ambridge 
 
Production credits 
Written by Brian Hayles, Edward J Mason, Keith Miles, Bruno Milna, William Smethurst, David Turner and Geoffrey Webb 
Produced by Tony Shryane 
Editor: Godfrey Baseley 
 
Cast includes: 
Peggy Archer - Thelma Rogers/June Spencer 
Jack Archer - Dennis Folwell 
Doris Archer - Gwen Berryman 
Grace Fairbrother/Archer - Ysanne Churchman 
Tom Forrest - Bob Arnold 
Walter Gabriel - Chris Gittins 
Nelson Gabriel - Jack May 
Dan Archer - Harry Oakes/Monte Crick/Edgar Harrison 
Phil Archer - Norman Painting 
Jill Archer - Patricia Greene 
Sid Perks - Alan Devereux 
Polly Mead/Perks - Hilary Newcombe 
George Barford - Graham Roberts 
Christine Archer - Lesley Saweard 
Nora McAuley - Julia Mark 
Brian Aldridge - Charles Collingwood 
Jennifer Archer/Aldridge - Angela Piper 
Carol Grey - Anne Cullen 
Pat Lewis/Archer - Patricia Gallimore 
Tony Archer - Colin Skipp 
Lilian Archer - Margaret Lane/Elizabeth Marlowe 
 
First broadcast March 1952-December 1982 on the BBC Home Service, BBC Light Programme and BBC Radio 4 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Classic vintage highlights from the much-loved radio soap 
 
The world's longest-running drama, The Archers has delighted audiences ever since its launch on 1 January 1951. Today, over five million fans across generations and across the world tune in, hooked on the epic saga of everyday life in the rural village of Ambridge. 
 
This collection takes a look back at the early years of the iconic show, from the 1950s to the 1970s, and follows the fortunes of some of its pivotal characters, including Jack and Peggy Archer, Walter Gabriel, Sid Perks, and Brian and Jennifer Aldridge. Here are some of the most memorable moments from Ambridge's history: Grace Archer's tragic death in a stable fire; Tom Forrest's arrest for manslaughter; the wedding of Tony and Pat; the birth of Phil and Jill's daughter, Elizabeth - and their subsequent worries about her heart; and the shock of Jennifer's illegitimate baby. 
 
Also featured is a compilation of farming catastrophes that shaped the lives of the residents, including Dan Archer's devastating discovery of fowl pest in his poultry, plus a selection of Christmas celebrations throughout the years, where we hear tidings of the births of Debbie Aldridge and John Archer and drop in on shows in the village hall. 
 
Covering all the major Archers milestones over the first three decades, this compendium of classic highlights offers lifelong listeners an ideal opportunity to relive their favourite storylines, while giving newer fans the perfect chance to catch up with key events from Ambridge's past. 
 
Due to the vintage nature of these recordings, the sound quality may vary. 
 
Track listing 
1. Introduction 
2. Grace and Phil 
3. George and Nora 
4. Walter Gabriel 
5. Tom Forrest 
6. Phil and Jill (Part 1) 
7. Phil and Jill (Part 2) 
8. Farming Catastrophes 
9. Sid and Polly 
10. Jack and Peggy 
11. Pat and Tony 
12. Brian and Jennifer 
13. Christmas in Ambridge 
 
Production credits 
Written by Brian Hayles, Edward J Mason, Keith Miles, Bruno Milna, William Smethurst, David Turner and Geoffrey Webb 
Produced by Tony Shryane 
Editor: Godfrey Baseley 
 
Cast includes: 
Peggy Archer - Thelma Rogers/June Spencer 
Jack Archer - Dennis Folwell 
Doris Archer - Gwen Berryman 
Grace Fairbrother/Archer - Ysanne Churchman 
Tom Forrest - Bob Arnold 
Walter Gabriel - Chris Gittins 
Nelson Gabriel - Jack May 
Dan Archer - Harry Oakes/Monte Crick/Edgar Harrison 
Phil Archer - Norman Painting 
Jill Archer - Patricia Greene 
Sid Perks - Alan Devereux 
Polly Mead/Perks - Hilary Newcombe 
George Barford - Graham Roberts 
Christine Archer - Lesley Saweard 
Nora McAuley - Julia Mark 
Brian Aldridge - Charles Collingwood 
Jennifer Archer/Aldridge - Angela Piper 
Carol Grey - Anne Cullen 
Pat Lewis/Archer - Patricia Gallimore 
Tony Archer - Colin Skipp 
Lilian Archer - Margaret Lane/Elizabeth Marlowe 
 
First broadcast March 1952-December 1982 on the BBC Home Service, BBC Light Programme and BBC Radio 4 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

10 of the best

The Reith Lectures

Ten emblematic lectures by world-leading thinkers, specially selected by the series producer. 
 
Since 1948, the BBC's iconic annual lecture series has provided a platform for brilliant, entertaining individuals to discuss and develop their ideas on radio. The topics range from art and science to history, culture, politics and more, and each Reith Lecture - which is a little longer than a TED talk - is followed by a lively question-and-answer session showcasing the speaker's expertise, wisdom and wit. 
 
This collection brings together ten of the very best Reith Lectures, chosen by the series producer, Jim Frank. Prize-winning artist Grayson Perry argues that art can no longer shock us - we've seen it all before; bestselling novelist Hilary Mantel explores how art can bring the dead back to life; Eliza Manningham-Buller, the former MI5 director, tells us what it was like to head up the security services in the aftermath of 9/11; Tom Kirkwood asks whether ageing and death are the price we pay for sex; and Margaret MacMillan discusses the relationship between war and humanity, and the role of the soldier. 
 
In addition, Atul Gawande considers the future of medicine; Michael Sandel examines the expansion of markets; Kwame Anthony Appiah appeals for a world free of racial fixations; Vilayanur S. Ramachandran looks at the process we call 'seeing'; and Daniel Barenboim celebrates the power of music to bring us together. Illuminating, captivating and thought-provoking, these superlative radio lectures are full of insight and inspiration. 
 
Production credits 
Presented, chaired and introduced by Sue Lawley 
Produced and curated by Jim Frank 
Edited by Hugh Levinson 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
Tom Kirkwood: Sex and Death 18 April 2001 
Vilayanur S. Ramachandran: Synapses and the Self 9 April 2003 
Daniel Barenboim: In the Beginning was Sound 7 April 2006 
Michael Sandel: Markets and Morals 9 June 2009 
Eliza Manningham-Buller: Terror 6 September 2011 
Grayson Perry: Nice Rebellion - Welcome In! 29 October 2013 
Atul Gawande: The Century of the System 2 December 2014 
Kwame Anthony Appiah: Colour 1 November 2016 
Hilary Mantel: The Day is for the Living 13 June 2017 
Margaret MacMillan: Fearing and Loving - Making Sense of the Warrior 3 July 2018 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

A BBC Radio 4 drama collection

The Titanic Letters

42 letters written by Titanic passengers and crew, plus two documentaries relating survivors' stories and bringing the tragedy to life through the voices of the wireless operators 
 
The largest, most luxurious liner in the world, the RMS Titanic captured the public's imagination. But four days into her maiden voyage, on 14 April 1912, she hit an iceberg and sank, taking the lives of over 1500 people. 
 
This commemorative anthology opens with the emotional letters from the individuals who were there that fateful night - those who lived, and those who died. They talk of life on board the ship, describing its size, opulence and vaunted 'unsinkabiity'; write about the friends they've made; make disparaging remarks about fellow travellers; and send fond messages of love, signed with a dozen kisses. 
 
Here, too, are heartrending eyewitness accounts of the shipwreck and its aftermath, written from the safety of the rescue ship Carpathia. Among them are letters from a woman who lost her mind on the Titanic, a newlywed who left the ship a widow, a message in a bottle from a despairing 19-year-old - and a missive accusing an unknown man of having dressed as a woman to get on a lifeboat. Introduced by Ciaran Hinds, who also reveals the writers' fate, each letter is read by a different celebrity, including Amanda Burton, Patrick Kielty, Eamonn Holmes, Christine Bleakley and Gloria Hunniford. 
 
Also included are two fascinating documentaries. Omnibus: Titanic - The Unsinkable Legend, asks why the story of the doomed ship still fascinates us today. Including an interview with Titanic survivor Eva Hart, who was just seven years old when the ship went down, it looks at the influence the iconic ship has had on media and culture in the 100 years since its sinking. 
 
And in Discovery: Titanic - In Her Own Words, Sean Coughlan narrates the Marconi wireless operators' version of the Titanic disaster. Converting their Morse code into speech synthesis, this enthralling programme gives us a remarkable 'black box recording' of the event, as the young operators in the vicinity frantically communicated with one another across the freezing expanses of the North Atlantic in an effort to mount a rescue mission. 
 
Poignant, absorbing and deeply affecting, this unique radio collection reveals the human stories behind the terrible maritime tragedy. 
 
Production credits 
 
Titanic Letters 
Presented by Ciaran Hinds 
Read by Amanda Burton, Patrick Kielty, Eamonn Holmes, Brian Kennedy, Dame Mary Peters, James Ellis, Christine Bleakley, John Linehan, Colin Murphy, Martin Lynch, Donna Traynor, Eddie Irvine, Gloria Hunniford, Dr Stephen Myers, Ian McElhenny, Phil Coulter, Bronagh Gallagher, Barry Douglas, Ciaran McMenamin, Frances Tomelty, Paul Rankin, Dana, Noel Thompson, Tim Wheeler, Maggie Cronin, Dan Gordon, Janet Gray, Susan Lynch, Colin Bateman, Wendy Austin, Marie Jones, Baroness May Blood, Conleth Hill, Charles Lawson, Stella McCusker, William Crawley, Olivia Nash, Brian Keenan, Sarah Travers, Glenn Patterson, Leila Webster, Ciaran Hinds 
 
First broadcast BBC Radio Foyle &amp; BBC Radio Ulster, 9-22 April 2012 
 
Omnibus: Titanic - The Unsinkable Legend 
With Eva Hart, Ronnie Brock, Bob Pryor, Hans Magnus Enzensberger, Bill McQuitty 
First broadcast BBC World Service, 13 January 1998 
 
Discovery: Titanic - In Her Own Words 
Presented by Sean Coughlan 
Conceived and created by Susanne Weber 
Produced by Alex Mansfield 
First broadcast BBC World Service, 9 April 2012 
 
©2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

10 BBC Radio full-cast dramas

HER Story: Women’s Untold Histories

10 dramas focusing on women's untold stories from history. 
 
This diverse, eclectic collection of plays explores an array of social, political and historical events from a female point of view. In these captivating dramas, we see the world through their eyes, giving us a fresh perspective on a female history that is too often unrecorded, misrepresented or misunderstood. 
 
Featuring a multiplicity of styles and genres, and written by a wide variety of authors, they range from comedy dramas themed around the Bayeux Tapestry and the 1962 Cheltenham Literary Festival, to award-winning, thought-provoking tales of Nigerian teenagers kidnapped by Boko Haram. A contemporary version of the heroines from Greek mythology, Persephone and Demeter; Profumo affair from a female perspective, Britain's last witch (Helen Duncan); a legendary ballerina (Margot Fonteyn); a little sister (Dious, sibling of St Anthony) and a youngest daughter (Judith Shakespeare). 
 
Embroidering the Truth 
Queen Edith - Katy Brand 
Bishop Odo - Charlie Anson 
Other cast, Katy Sobey, Lisa Zahra, Jonny Holden, Rosie Cavaliero, Tracy Wiles. Written by Abigail Youngman. Produced by Mary Ward-Lowery. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 17 October 2019 
 
Girls 
Tisana - Amaka Okafor 
Ruhab - Faith Alabi 
Haleema - Joan Iyiola 
Written by Theresa Ikoko. Directed by Abigail Gonda. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 14 July 2017 
 
The Bulbul Was Singing 
Laura - Rebecca Humphries 
Ariman - Shaniaz Hama Ali 
Other Cast: Paul Hickey, Jonny Holden, Saya Zahawi, Catherine Cusack, Shaun Mason, Debbie Korley, Chris Pavlo 
Written by Judy Upton. Directed by Emma Harding. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 19 August 2019 
 
Seven Pomegranate Seeds 
Performed by Niamh Cusack, Ruth Bradley and Leah McNamara 
Written by Colin Teevan. Produced and directed by Allegra McIlroy. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 7 January 2020 
 
Festival 
Elizabeth Jane Howard - Melody Grove 
John Moore - Tony Gardner 
Kingsley Amis - Jonathan Forbes 
Other cast: Will Howard, Emma Handy, John Lightbody. Written by Sarah Wooley. Directed by Gaynor Macfarlane. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 31 July 2018 
 
Well, He Would, Wouldn't He? 
Mandy (younger) - Aimee-Ffion Edwards 
Christine Keeler - Lyndsey Marshal 
'Pops' Murray - Stephen Marzella 
Stephen Ward/Peter Rachman - Ewan Bailey 
Other cast: Adrian Schiller, Alex Dower, Anthony Courier. Written by Charlotte Williams. Directed by Kate McAll. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 23 February 2013 
 
Tony's Little Sister and the Paradox of Monasticism 
Anthony - Duncan Preston 
Dious - Samantha Spiro 
Satan - Tim McMullan 
Other cast Ben Crowe, Rachel Bavidge. Written by David and Caroline Stafford. Produced by Marc Beeby. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 6 August 2007 
 
Judith Shakespeare 
Judith Shakespeare - Amanda Root 
William Shakespeare - Michael Pennington 
Henry, Earl of Southampton - Anton Lesser 
Other Cast, Andrew Wincott, Melinda Walker, Thomas Connor, Stephen Critchlow, Ann Beach, Colleen Prendergast, Jillie Meers 
Written by Nan Woodhouse. Directed byTracey Neale. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 25 April 1996 
 
An Unchoreographed World 
Margot Fonteyn - Sophie Jerrold 
Constant Lambert - Richard McCabe 
Other cast Oliver Millingham, Kate Littlewood 
Chorus - Anne-Marie Piazza, Maria Askew, Ffion Jolly, Ben Ashton &amp; Coen de Groot 
Written by Frances Byrne. Produced and directed by Mark Smalley. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 22 May 2008 
 
The Last Witch Trial 
Lucy - Indira Varma 
Margo - Lyndsey Marshal 
Other Cast: Joanna Monro, Vineeta Rishi Sam Dale, Michael Shelford, Keely Beresford 
Written by Melissa Murray. Directed by Marc Beeby. First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 4 June 2010 
©2021 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2021 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Thirty ground-breaking men and women of the early English nation

Anglo-Saxon Portraits

The half millennium between the creation of the English nation in around 550 and the Norman Conquest in 1066 was a formative one. This groundbreaking series rediscovers the Anglo-Saxons through vivid portraits of thirty incredible men and women, as told by their contemporary admirers. 
 
Nobel prize-winner Seamus Heaney discusses the Beowulf bard; former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams focuses on St Augustine, the first Archbishop of Canterbury; Michael Wood celebrates Penda, the much-maligned last pagan king of England; Barbara Yorke tells the story of Hild of Whitby, the powerful abbess and largely forgotten pre-feminism model; and writer David Almond investigates the oldest surviving English poet, Caedmon. 
 
From royalty to peasants, the women behind the Bayeux Tapestry to rebellious nuns, Anglo-Saxon Portraits unravels the mysteries of a too often forgotten period in British history.

Eight dramatisations of classic children's stories

A BBC Fairy Tale Collection

Eight dramatisations of classic children's stories, featuring full casts, music and sound effects

At bedtime, in the car or just for fun! 
 
This enchanting collection brings to life eight traditional fairy tales as full-cast recordings. Created with music, sound effects and all the expertise of the BBC, these much-loved stories will thrill a new generation of children. 
 
The classic stories in this collection are: 
 
Sleeping Beauty 
A princess sleeps for a hundred years 
 
Jack and the Beanstalk 
A magic beanstalk just keeps on growing 
 
Hansel and Gretel 
Two children lost in the forest 
 
Little Red Riding Hood 
A cunning wolf gets up to some nasty tricks 
 
The Ugly Duckling 
A young bird surprises everyone 
 
The Little Mermaid 
A mermaid falls in love with a prince 
 
The Emperor's New Clothes 
One small boy speaks his mind 
 
The Tinder Box 
A soldier meets a dog with huge eyes 
 
Encourage your child's enjoyment of listening and comprehension with BBC Audio. 
 
 
Performed by Douglas Blackwell, Andrew Branch, John Bull, Teresa Gallagher, Kathleen Helme, Edward Kelsey, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Jill Shilling, Ian Targett, Jo Manning Wilson, John Baddeley, Garard Green, Fred Harris, Matthew Lloyd Davies, Judy Parkin, Richard Pearce, Anne Rosenfeld, Susan Sheridan 
 
Produced by Colin Smith

A BBC Radio collection of chilling plays inspired by H.P. Lovecraft

Weird Tales

Eleven uncanny stories inspired by the master of otherworldly horror, H.P. Lovecraft

Eleven uncanny stories inspired by the master of uncanny terror, H.P. Lovecraft 
 
One hundred years ago, H.P. Lovecraft created the Necronomicon, a grimoire of lost souls, magical rites and forbidden lore. Now, locked away, the hoarder of horror is after new voices, new blood, to add to his collection. 
 
Listen as he shares the tales that come to him, whispered through the keyhole and written in the dust. From ghost stories to encounters with demons, haunted houses and a fateful Celtic goddess, they will draw you into his claustrophobic and disturbing world, stir your imagination and awaken your deepest fears and nightmares... 
 
Introduced by Stephen Hogan as H.P. Lovecraft, these chilling, intimate dramas feature full casts including Elizabeth Berrington, Geoffrey Streatfeild, Stella Gonet, Derek Riddell, Jamie Glover, Adjoa Andoh, Sara Poyzer and Eddie Marsan. 
 
Track listing: 
1 - Out of the Depths by Melissa Murray 
2 - The Loop by Chris Harrald 
3 - Bleeder by Ed Hime 
4 - The Fly by Lynn Ferguson 
5 - Connected by Melissa Murray 
6 - Split the Atom by Lynn Ferguson 
 7 - The House on Pale Avenue by Richard Vincent 
8 - Original Features by Christopher William Hill 
9 - The Burial of Tom Nobody by Richard Vincent 
10 - Louisa's by Amanda Whittington 
11 - Night Terrors by Lizzie Nunnery

Comedians curate a line-up of their favourite performers

BBC Comedy Festival

Expect a summer festival with a difference as some of the nation's favourite comics turn curators and host a virtual festival featuring their favourite performers from the worlds of comedy, literature and spoken word. 
 
They'll be in control of everything (even the weather) as we're taken along for the ride to not only hear some great performances but also to get an insight into the cultural radars of our celebrity hosts. 
 
The six episodes are hosted in turn by Miles Jupp, Jo Brand, Daliso Chaponda, Jayde Adams, Sara Pascoe and Darren Harriott. 
 
Let them guide you around their bespoke festival sites to meet Val McDermid in the literary tent or Paul Sinha in the trivia tent. Daliso Chaponda puts on a Festival of Protest, Darren Harriott curates a Festival of the Unexpected, while Jayde Adams puts Sarah Millican in charge of the VIP tent and has Australian comic Rhys Nicholson as her designated driver. Stand-up legend Simon Munnery entertains from a field, there's performance poetry from Nafeesa Hamid and Hollie McNish, and much, much more. 
 
Also, there are vampires. 
 
Producer: Richard Morris, Carl Cooper, Hayley Sterling, Leila Navabi and Ella Watts 
Production co-ordinator: Caroline Barlow 
Sound design: Chris Maclean 
A BBC Studios Production

Celebrating Pride in the UK

Gay Britannia

A collection of non-fiction documentaries, interviews, history and comedy celebrating LGBTQ+ history and culture in Britain

A collection of insightful interviews, documentaries and comedy that celebrates LGBTQ+ in Britain, publishing to coincide with the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewallriots. 
 
The Ben Hunte Interviews: Presenter and journalist Ben Hunte interviews his LGBTQ heroes about their unforgettable gay moments. Guests include Paul O’Grady, Stephen K Amos, Peter Tatchell, Ruth Hunt (CEO of Stonewall), Stephanie Hirst, Youtuber Calum McSwiggan. 
 
The Essay: The Love That Wrote Its Name: Simon Callow, Stella Duffy, Gregory Woods, Neel Mukherjee and Louise Welsh explore and celebrate five gay relationships of writers and artists. 
 
Queer Icons: Plato’s Symposium: Shahidha Bari discusses LGBTQ in the history of philosophy. 
 
Who Decides if Gay is OK?: What brought about decriminalisation in the UK and why has it not happened in Zambia, which largely inherited the British legal system? 
 
Highlights from Front Row’s Queer Icons project: Celebrating LGBTQ culture from the poetry of Sappho to the songs of Frank Ocean, guests are asked to champion a piece of LGBTQ artwork that is special to them. Presented by Alan Carr, with guests including Mary Portas, Olly Alexander, Christine and the Queens, Stella Duffy, and the Oscar-winning writer of Moonlight, Tarell Alvin McCraney. 
 
Happy That Way: Special compilation programme made in 2017 celebrating the best out and proud BBC Radio comedy from the past five years. Features Susan Calman, Graham Norton, Stephen Fry, Sue Perkins, Al Porter, Mae Martin, Stephen K Amos, Suzi Ruffell, Paul Sinha and Sandi Toksvig.

13 chilling BBC Radio 4 dramas

Fear on 4

An unsettling collection of full-cast dramas and dramatisations from the long-running Radio 4 horror series

An unsettling collection of full-cast dramas from the long-running BBC Radio 4 horror series. 
 
Throughout five series of Fear on 4 from 1988-1997, Edward de Souza was The Man in Black, a sinister raconteur who introduced a weekly half-hour of terror and suspense. Here, he welcomes us to his house of horrors as he presents thirteen terrifying tales that will make your flesh crawl. 
 
The Snowman Killing by J C W Brook 
Green and Pleasant by Bert Coules 
Survival by John Wyndham 
Soul Searching by Martyn Wade 
The Beast with Five Fingers by William Fryer Harvey 
The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman 
By the River, Fontainebleau by Stephen Gallagher 
The Face by E F Benson 
The Monkey’s Revenge by Guy Jenkin 
Fat Andy by Stephen Dunstone 
The Journey Home by Bert Coules 
Dead Man’s Boots by William Ingram 
The Judge’s House by Bram Stoker 
 
With eerie sound effects that enhance the atmosphere of dread, these bloodcurdling adaptations run the gamut from the mysterious to the macabre. With superb casts including Imelda Staunton, Bernard Cribbins, Anna Massey, Thora Hird and Sean Barrett.

Adolescent musings from Series 1-8 of the hit BBC Radio 4 comedy series

My Teenage Diary

Forty-five episodes from Series 1-8 of the Sony Award-winning BBC Radio comedy show, hosted by Rufus Hound 
 
In this hilarious and revealing radio show, host Rufus Hound invites his guests to revisit their formative years by dusting off their intimate teenage diaries and reading them out in public for the very first time. From terrible poetry, musings on pop music and cringeworthy crushes, to fond recollections of schooldays and exotic holidays, to poignant and searingly honest confessions, these extracts reveal the secret thoughts, feelings and experiences of a host of well-known celebrities – before they became famous. 
 
This collection includes the complete Series 1, 4, 5, 6 and 8, plus the 2017 special and highlights from Series 2, 3 and 7. Among the contributors are Richard Herring, Shappi Khorsandi, Sheila Hancock, Meera Syal, Arabella Weir, Robert Webb, Caitlin Moran, Ken Livingstone, Terry Wogan, Robert Newman, Lionel Shriver, Ian Rankin, Debbie McGee and John Finnemore. 
 
As they delve into the past and reflect on their youth, will they be filled with nostalgia, or embarrassment? What would they say to their younger selves? And what song will they choose to sum up their teenage years? Find out all this – and a lot more besides – in these surprising, insightful and hugely entertaining shows.

Forty-five episodes from Series 1-8 of the Sony Award-winning BBC Radio comedy show, hosted by Rufus Hound. 
 
In this hilarious and revealing show, host Rufus Hound invites his guests to revisit their formative years by dusting off their intimate teenage diaries and reading them out in public for the very first time. From terrible poetry, musings on pop music and cringeworthy crushes, to fond recollections of schooldays and exotic holidays, to poignant and searingly honest confessions, these extracts reveal the secret thoughts, feelings and experiences of a host of well-known celebrities – before they became famous. 
 
Among the contributors are Richard Herring, Shappi Khorsandi, Sheila Hancock, Meera Syal, Arabella Weir, Robert Webb, Caitlin Moran, Ken Livingstone, Terry Wogan, Alex Horne, Lionel Shriver, Michael Rosen, Ian Rankin, Debbie McGee and John Finnemore. 
 
As they delve into the past and reflect on their youth, will they be filled with nostalgia, or embarrassment? What would they say to their younger selves? And what song will they choose to sum up their teenage years? Find out all this – and a lot more besides – in these surprising, insightful and hugely entertaining shows. 
 
Produced by Harriet Jaine 
Executive Producer: Aled Evans 
A Talkback production for BBC Radio 4 
 
Episodes: 
 
Series 1 
Richard Herring 
Russell Kane 
Shappi Khorsandi 
Steve Hall 
Josie Long 
Jenny Eclair 
 
Series 2 
Sheila Hancock 
Victoria Coren 
Meera Syal 
Rob Deering 
Phil Nichol 
 
Series 3 
Michael Winner 
Janet Street-Porter 
Jo Caulfield 
Arabella Weir 
 
Series 4 
Robert Webb 
Caitlin Moran 
Jackie Kay 
Toby Young 
Rhona Cameron 
Julia Donaldson 
 
Series 5 
Ken Livingstone 
Vanessa Feltz 
Sarfraz Mansoor 
Rachel Johnson 
Janet Ellis 
Kate Mosse 
 
Series 6 
Terry Wogan 
Chris Difford 
Oona King 
Robert Newman 
Lucy Worsley 
Alex Horne 
 
Series 7 
Robert Peston 
Lionel Shriver 
Michael Rosen 
Samira Ahmed 
Chris Packham 
 
2017 Special 
Ian Rankin 
 
Series 8 
Debbie McGee 
John Finnemore 
Anneka Rice 
Pippa Evans 
Gyles Brandreth 
Helen Lederer

Star Wars: From a Certain Point of View

The essential Star Wars gift of 2017, celebrating 40 years since A New Hope

This is the perfect book for Star Wars fans. It will speak to the inner fangirl/fanboy in all of us… It is the most enjoyable one that I have read in a long time

These stories range from laugh out loud funny to heartbreaking as some of the coolest voices in speculative fiction take their crack at some Star Wars side characters. I hope this series continues for each film – Featured as a Top Book of 2017

I was so excited about this book and it didn't let me down… If you love Star Wars and want to read some fun stories from the galaxy I can't recommend this enough! It will remind you why you love Star Wars and, you'll find some new authors along the way.

Not only answers a big question fans have been wanting to know the answer to for 40 years about why Luke has no cousins, but also is a step in the right direction with inclusivity

I was so excited about this book and it didn't let me down… If you love Star Wars and want to read some fun stories from the galaxy I can't recommend this enough! It will remind you why you love Star Wars and, you'll find some new authors along the way

Coming together to celebrate 40 years of Star Wars, Star Wars: From A Certain Point of View sees a stunning line up of authors and fans of the films explore what makes Star Wars so iconic. 
 
The fabulous line up consists of: 
Ben Acker 
Renée Ahdieh 
Tom Angleberger 
Ben Blacker 
Pierce Brown 
Meg Cabot 
Rae Carson 
Adam Christopher 
Zoraida Córdova 
Delilah S. Dawson 
Kelly Sue DeConnick 
Paul Dini 
Ian Doescher 
Ashely Eckstein 
Matt Fraction 
Alexander Freed 
Jason Fry 
Kieron Gillen 
Christie Golden 
Claudia Gray 
Pablo Hidalgo 
E.K. Johnston 
Paul S. Kemp 
Mur Lafferty 
Ken Liu 
Griffin McElroy 
John Jackson Miller 
Nnedi Okorafor 
Daniel José Older 
Mallory Ortberg 
Beth REvis 
Madeleine Roux 
Greg Rucka 
Gary D. Schmidt 
Cavan Scott 
Charles Soule 
Sabaa Tahir 
Elizabeth Wein 
Glen Weldon 
Chuck Wendic 
Wil Wheaton 
Gary Whitta

40 Years. 40 Stories. 
 
Experience Star Wars: A New Hope from a whole new point of view. 
 
On May 25, 1977, the world was introduced to Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, C-3PO, R2-D2, Chewbacca, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Darth Vader, and a galaxy full of possibilities. In honor of the fortieth anniversary, more than forty contributors lend their vision to this retelling of Star Wars. Each of the forty short stories reimagines a moment from the original film, but through the eyes of a supporting character. From a Certain Point of View features contributions by bestselling authors, trendsetting artists, and treasured voices from the literary history of Star Wars 
- Gary Whitta bridges the gap from Rogue One to A New Hope through the eyes of Captain Antilles. 
- Aunt Beru finds her voice in an intimate character study by Meg Cabot. 
- Nnedi Okorofor brings dignity and depth to a most unlikely character: the monster in the trash compactor. 
- Pablo Hidalgo provides a chilling glimpse inside the mind of Grand Moff Tarkin. 
- Pierce Brown chronicles Biggs Darklighter's final flight during the Rebellion's harrowing attack on the Death Star. 
- Wil Wheaton spins a poignant tale of the rebels left behind on Yavin. 
Plus thirty-four more hilarious, heartbreaking, and astonishing tales from: 
Ben Acker - Renee Ahdieh - Tom Angleberger - Ben Blacker - Jeffrey Brown - Rae Carson - Adam Christopher - Zoraida Cordova - Delilah S. Dawson - Kelly Sue DeConnick - Paul Dini - Ian Doescher - Ashley Eckstein - Matt Fraction - Alexander Freed - Jason Fry - Kieron Gillen - Christie Golden - Claudia Gray - E. K. Johnston - Paul S. Kemp - Mur Lafferty - Ken Liu - Griffin McElroy - John Jackson Miller - Daniel Jose Older - Mallory Ortberg - Beth Revis - Madeleine Roux - Greg Rucka - Gary D. Schmidt - Cavan Scott - Charles Soule - Sabaa Tahir - Elizabeth Wein - Glen Weldon - Chuck Wendig 
All participating authors have generously forgone any compensation for their stories. Instead, their proceeds will be donated to First Book--a leading nonprofit that provides new books, learning materials, and other essentials to educators and organizations serving children in need. To further celebrate the launch of this book and both companies' longstanding relationships with First Book, Penguin Random House has donated $100,000 to First Book, and Disney/Lucasfilm has donated 100,000 children's books--valued at $1,000,000--to support First Book and their mission of providing equal access to quality education. Over the past sixteen years, Disney and Penguin Random House combined have donated more than eighty-eight million books to First Book.

Stories Henry James Never Wrote

Tales from a Master's Notebook

A collection of stories from some of our best-loved writers, inspired by the ideas found in Henry James's notebooks.

[An] ingenious and entertaining collection... the stories could not be more varied in tone and approach, from Colm Tóibín’s beautifully measured “Silence”...to Amit Chaudhuri’s bouncily rhythmical “Wensleydale”...the individuality of the entries does not preclude entertainment – there is much playfulness and not a little comedy here

Wonderful short stories...It is fascinating to see how familiar writers such as Colm Tóibín, Rose Tremain, Tessa Hadley and Lynn Truss match their own style to quintessentially Jamesian themes: a father who isn’t who he appeared to be; a ghostly reminder of past loss; an affair that never quite caught fire. Each story is different, but the hand of the master is clearly detectable throughout, a gentle guide that shapes the telling.

In this volume, the appreciation of his unwritten tales by eleven fine contemporary authors pays handsome dividends

The short story should be a gem of bright, quick, vivid form

Henry James is as solitary in the history of the novel as Shakespeare is in the history of poetry

In the hands of these authors, James's plots are, if not quite infected with James's style, haunting. James haunts us, but these authors haunt him...  It's nice to feel the tick of his pen, drawn on in fresh print

A collection of stories from some of our best-loved writers, inspired by ideas found in Henry James's notebooks. 
 
When Henry James died he left behind a series of notebooks filled with ideas for novels and stories that he never wrote. Now ten of our best contemporary authors and James enthusiasts have written new short stories based on these 'germs' of ideas. Differing dramatically in setting and style, these stories are modern interpretations of the richly suggestive and enticing notes that Henry James left behind, offering a fresh and original approach to a canonical literary author. 
 
Professor Philip Horne, a renowned authority on Henry James, has edited and introduced this collection, which also includes transcripts of James’s original jottings allowing readers to trace the raw ideas through to their modern-day interpretations. 
 
Contains stories by Colm Toibin, Rose Tremain, Jonathan Coe, Paul Theroux, Amit Chaudhuri, Giles Foden, Joseph O'Neill, Lynne Truss, Susie Boyt and Tessa Hadley. 
 
WITH A FOREWORD BY MICHAEL WOOD

17 BBC Radio 4 full-cast crime dramas

Stone: The Complete Series 1-4

Seventeen stories from the gritty crime series created by Danny Brocklehurst, starring Hugo Speer as Manchester detective John Stone.

Danny Broklehurst has written numerous hit television drama series including Brassic, the Netflix smash hit The Stranger, Safe, Come Home, The Driver, Ordinary Lies, Clocking Off, Shameless and The Street; International Emmy winner Accused, comedy-drama Linda Green; serials Exile, The Stretford Wives, In the Dark and Sorted. He has been nominated for both BAFTA and Royal Television Society writing awards.

Seventeen stories from the gritty crime series created by Danny Brocklehurst, starring Hugo Speer as Manchester detective John Stone. 
 
This collection brings together Series 1 to 4 of this intelligent detective drama, tackling morally ambiguous, complex and challenging subjects. DCI Stone and his team investigate a series of brutal murders and missing person cases, among other grisly crimes. 
 
Starring Hugo Speer as DCI John Stone, Craig Cheetham as DI Mike Tanner and Deborah McAndrew as DS Sue Kelly. 
 
Directed by Nadia Molinari, Stefan Escreet, Charlotte Riches and Pauline Harris. 
 
Episode guide: 
 
Mary Shane by Danny Brocklehurst: Stone is investigating the high profile case of a missing teenage girl, when 80-year-old Mary Shane confesses to murdering three people 60 years earlier. 
 
The Ties that Bind by Damian Wayling: A body dredged up from a lake implicates an ex-police officer and a respected headteacher. 
 
Dead Fishes by Chloe Moss: A young man with Down's Syndrome admits to killing his mother. 
 
God’s Witness by Danny Brocklehurst: A woman witnesses the murder of a young boy by a notorious gang. 
 
The Deserved Dead by Danny Brocklehurst: Stone and his team investigate the brutal murder of a known sex offender. 
 
Collateral Damage by Martin Jameson: Stone investigates the death of Gary Taylor, a veteran of the Iraq War suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. 
 
The Bridge by Cath Staincliffe: When university student Matt falls to his death from a railway bridge, Stone and his team embark on a murder investigation. 
 
The Night by James Rye: Stone investigates the sexual assault of the wife of one of his team, and uncovers a dark secret. 
 
Sleep Tight by Cath Staincliffe: Two-year-old Brianna disappears one night from her family home. 
 
Demons by Martin Jameson: A young man, Emir, is fatally stabbed in a Manchester street in front of his twin brother, Jamal. 
 
Taken by Richard Monks: A man of Polish descent is attacked in the lead up to local elections. 
 
One of Our Own by Danny Brocklehurst: A fellow police officer is found critically injured on the notorious Marinduque Estate. 
 
Something to Do by Martin Jameson: A young boy is discovered badly injured and left for dead. 
 
Blood by Vivienne Harvey: DCI Stone gets in the ring to investigate the murder of a promising young thai kick boxer. 
 
Heart of Darkness by Gurpreet Bhatti: A schoolgirl's body is found in a park in the poor part of town. 
 
Mother Love by Richard Monks: Jean fights to defend her son Matthew after he is arrested for downloading child pornography.

Doctor Who Audio Adventures (Sampler Album)

A collection of highlights from selected Doctor Who stories.

For over 90 years the BBC's radio drama, comedy and talks programmes have been the envy of the world. Each day the output of BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 4 Extra, and the BBC World Service delights and informs listeners all around the globe.

Highlights from the AudioGO range of Doctor Who titles. Includes clips from: Doctor Who at the BBC, Doctor Who and the Daleks, The Tenth Planet, The Wheel of Ice, The Invasion, Doctor Who and the War Games, The Mind of Evil, Vengeance of the Stones, City of Death, The Stuff of Nightmares (Hornets' Nest 1), Babblesphere, Earthshock, Slipback, Paradise Towers, Tales from the TARDIS Volume 2, Only Human, The Last Voyage, Touched by an Angel, The Jade Pyramid and Genesis of the Daleks.

The Last Tycoon

F Scott Fitzgerald's last and unfinished novel, a gorgeous, excruciating, heady tale based on his painful experiences working as a Hollywood screenwriter.

F Scott Fitzgerald's last and unfinished novel, a gorgeous, excruciating, heady tale based on his painful experiences working as a Hollywood screenwriter. Haunted by the death of his wife, 1930s studio head Monroe Stahr works 18-hour days, crammed with meetings, set visits, script brainstorms and screenings. The "last of the princes", he's making the studio millions and seems bulletproof. Then one day, an earthquake breaks two water mains, sending a river of water through the studio. And with it, the huge head of the goddess Shiva - a film prop. Inspecting the damage, Stahr sees the head float by and on it two women, one of them the mesmerising Kathleen. It's the beginning of a love affair that will destroy him Stars Aiden Gillen, Jack Shepherd and Charlotte Emmerson. Producer: Laurence Bowen. Adapted and directed by Bill Bryden. Production Associate: John Tams. Sound Design: Mark Smith. A Feelgood Fiction production for BBC Radio 4.  "Gatsby may be great but this version of The Last Tycoon is awesome." (Jane Anderson, RadioTimes)

Simon Evans

Sanjeev Bhaskar

Dave Lamb

Various

Tracy-Ann Oberman

Chris Pavlo

Laura Shavin

Phil Cornwell

Fiona Allen

Full Cast

Every episode of the spoof news show

All 52 episodes of the cult spoof show set in a fictional newsroom 
 
An effervescent mix of satire and sketches, The Way It Is ran for seven series on BBC Radio 4 between 1998 and 2002. Performed by Sanjeev Bhaskar, Simon Evans, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Fiona Allen, Dave Lamb, Chris Pavlo, Laura Shavin and Phil Cornwell, it takes a long, hard look at the worlds of media and politics, parodying journalists, MPs and celebrities alike. 
 
Newscasters Richard Richard and Lolly Swain bring us round-the-clock headlines and rolling news, aided by a host of enthusiastic, if somewhat inept, roving reporters. Among them are showbiz hackette Jackie Trent (who tirelessly ferrets out celebrity secrets), on-the-ground correspondent James Gravadlax (who witnesses ‘scenes of terrible devastation’ wherever he goes), hapless traffic correspondent Charlotte Webb and excitable but clueless weatherman Martin ‘Twice-Knightly’. 
 
Together, they skip nimbly through the big stories of the nineties and noughties – from leadership battles to Cabinet reshuffles, trade wars, Posh and Becks and the perennial problems of England’s cricket and football teams. 
 
Though broadcast over 20 years ago, this classic comedy is still startlingly relevant and laugh-out-loud funny, and will appeal to fans of Dead Ringers, Week Ending, Have I Got News for You and On the Hour, 
 
NB: Some of the language and humour reflects the era in which it was first broadcast. 
 
With thanks to Keith Wickham of the Radio Circle for supplying the audio recordings. 
 
Cast and credits 
Performed by Simon Evans, Fiona Allen, Sanjeev Bhaskar, Dave Lamb, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Chris Pavlo, Laura Shavin and Phil Cornwell 
Produced by Anil Gupta and Alex Walsh-Taylor 
 
First broadcast BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
 
1 20 May 1998-8 July 1998 
2 4 February 1999-25 March 1999 
3 7 July 1999-25 August 1999 
4 6 January-24 February 2000 
5 31 August-19 October 2000 
6 15 February-22 March 2001 
7 21 February 2002-28 March 2002 
 
© 2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

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