Running Before the Wind

A stunning family saga set on the banks of the River Clyde

Immerse yourself in this beautiful family story set in the heart of Scotland as stories old and new emerge from the banks of the river. Featuring a full-cast, this is a stunning drama from the BBC archives and a treat for any audio fan with a love of rich stories, beautifully told.

On a trip home, young Alison Lynn discovers an old wooden boat lying out of the water in the marina, named Isabella. Curious as to the origins of the boat’s name, she sets about finding the story of the elusive Isabella. Discovering that the boat’s namesake is still alive, an elderly lady of eighty-eight, Alison decides to track her down. The journey transports Alison back to the 1880s and she is immersed in her own family history, where the Lynns were a powerful force, building exquisite yachts with great craftsmanship. As a yachting fan herself, Alison is determined to bring Isabella back to her former glory with the help of her new found relative.

This is a story full of love and passion, sorrow and death. It weaves a tale of family history against a backdrop of turbulent times that echo down the generations. Will Alison and Isabella be able to find peace and will they be able to save this relic of the past and embrace a new future?

This listening treat is perfect for fans of immersive family stories from authors such as Anne Tyler and Joanna Trollope and is available as a complete download for the first time.

Cast and credits

Written by Catherine Czerkawska

Directed by Hamish Wilson

Isabella - Sybil Wintrope
Alison - Louise Beattie
Adam/Stirling - Allan Sharpe
David - Alec Heggie

Paolo - John Buick

Hetty - Monica Gibb

Ian - Liam Brennan

Maclehose/Luke - Gibert Martin
Annie - Sheila Donald
Sadie - Anne Downie
Malcolm - Alec Monteath

David - Mark McDonnell

Foreman/ Alexander - Tom Smith
Emily - Irene MacDougall

Jessie/Receptionist - Astrid Wilson
Archivist/Archie - William Armour

Matron/Young James - Mary Riggans
Nurse/Midwife - Susie Maguire

Cook - Ceit Kearney

Kitchen maid - Wendy Ronald
Young Hetty - Isabel Wright
James Lynn - James MacPherson

Bosun/Gardener - Stuart Davids

OldMan/Paolo’s Papa - Douglas Stiven

Episode titles

1. Casting Off

2. Hoisting the Sail

3. Still Waters

4. Weathering the Storm

First Broadcast BBC Radio 4, 16th March - 6th April 1994

©2025 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2025 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd