Search results for ""BBC Audio""

Maureen O'Brien reads an action-packed original adventure for the Twelfth Doctor, as played on TV by Peter Capaldi.When Professor Irene Hyde's Monday morning lecture at St Luke's University is rudely interrupted by a man named the Doctor, it's the beginning of an adventure she could never have dreamt possible.Soon they are hurtling backwards in time to 1806, where the crew of the trading ship Favorite, led by the 'Ice King' himself, Frederic Tudor, are being picked off, one by one, by a hideous monster that lurks in the shadows.A head frozen in ice provides a further complication to matters, as the robotic Nekkre awakes determined to vanquish all-comers. With the Doctor seriously weakened, Irene must tap into hidden reserves of courage if they are to have any hope of returning to 21st Century England...Maureen O'Brien, who played the Doctor's companion Vicki in the BBC TV series, reads Niel Bushnell's thrilling original tale.Produced by Neil Gardner.Sound design by David Roocroft.Executive Producer for BBC Audio: Michael Stevens.© 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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Alan Bennett reads three enchanting Doctor Dolittle storiesDoctor Dolittle has an extraordinary talent – he can talk to the animals! Taught by his parrot, Polynesia, he is soon able to chat to every kind of creature – and his skill leads him into all sorts of adventures.In The Story of Doctor Dolittle, the Doctor and his pets set sail for Africa to save the monkeys – but they face great danger and challenges, including a sinking ship and Barbary pirates...The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle finds Doctor Dolittle on the high seas once again, this time with his young friend Tommy Stubbins. The pair head for Spider Monkey Island, a mysterious place of magic and secrets... Doctor Dolittle’s Circus sees the Doctor in need of money, so he and his Pushmi-Pullyu join the circus. They’re such a hit with the other animals that Doctor Dolittle soon finds himself running the show!Brilliantly read by Alan Bennett, whose delightfully whimsical rendition brings Doctor Dolittle and all his animal friends magically to life, this charming collection of stories will delight listeners young and old.Duration: 6 hours approx.

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Paul Temple lives again in five BBC Radio 4 remakes of classic adventures, starring Crawford Logan as Paul and Gerda Stephenson as Steve. Paul Temple and the Sullivan Mystery (2006) A pair of spectacles spells danger for the suave sleuth and his wife as they embark on a trip to Egypt.Paul Temple and the Madison Mystery (2008) A murdered millionaire and a mysterious watch-chain sets the Temples on the trail of an international counterfeiting gang. Paul Temple and Steve (2010) On the hunt for notorious criminal mastermind Dr Belasco, Paul and Steve find trouble at every turn... A Case for Paul Temple (2011) Braving booby traps, bullets and blazing houses, Paul pursues a shadowy drug dealer known only as ‘Valentine’. Paul Temple and the Gregory Affair (2013) When a young woman disappears, Paul is drawn into a ruthless kidnapping racket run by the murderous ‘Mr Gregory’. These five dramas were originally broadcast in the late 1940s, but are now missing from the BBC archives. Using the same scripts, vintage sound effects and much of the original incidental music, these remakes have been engineered to sound as much like the lost serials as possible.Duration: 21 hours approx.

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'They like the shadows. You know them as Plague Warriors...' When the Doctor arrives in the 19th-century village of Klimtenburg, he discovers the residents suffering from some kind of plague - a 'wasting disease'. The victims face a horrible death - but what's worse, the dead seem to be leaving their graves. The Plague Warriors have returned... The Doctor is confident he knows what's really happening; he understands where the dead go, and he's sure the Plague Warriors are just a myth. But as some of the Doctor's oldest and most terrible enemies start to awaken he realises that maybe - just maybe - he's misjudged the situation. Read by David Warner, who played Professor Grisenko in the Doctor Who episode Cold War, with Nicholas Briggs as the Cybermen.6 CDs. 5 hrs 32 mins.

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Kenneth Williams and Hugh Paddick are the notorious resting thespians in this hilarious collection of sketches from Round the Horne.‘Oh, hello. I’m Julian, and this is my friend Sandy...’ Through four series of Round the Horne, Julian and Sandy graced each episode with an encounter with ‘that nice Mr Horne’. Each week they'd be up to new tricks, from filmmaking (Bona Prods) to a travel agency (‘something exciting in a cheap package’) and a ‘bijou restaurantette’ (La Casserole de Bona Gourmet). In these 48 lally-trembling scenarios, Jools and Sand cater for the intimate at ‘omey in Bona Caterers, shake hands with a prospective member in Keep Britain Bona, set themselves up as Bona Tax Consultants and teach the world to talk proper in Bona School of Languages. Plus, they reveal to Mr Horne just what Julian received on his last birthday… This fantabulosa selection of Julian and Sandy sketches is brimming with sparkling repartee, gloriously camp humour and outrageous innuendo. So don’t be strange – come on in, rest your lallies and let your riah down with two of the best pros in the business. Duration: 3 hours 40 mins.

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Clare Corbett reads this novelisation of the TV adventure featuring the Fifteenth Doctor and Ruby Sunday, as played on screen by Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson.In space, something can hear you scream. And that something is coming.On her first adventure in outer space, Ruby learns that the universe is bigger, more colourful, and crazier than she could ever have imagined. She also learns that even the Doctor can feel afraid and that certain nightmares are all too realClare Corbett reads Alison Rumfitt''s novelisation of Russell T Davies' first space adventure for the Fifteenth Doctor and Ruby.? 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

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Dan Starkey reads this novelisation of the TV adventure featuring the Fifteenth Doctor and Ruby Sunday, as played on screen by Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson.Earth's Regency era a time of culture, extravagance, sumptuous ballsand aliens?While Ruby is a popular new addition to the Duchess of Pemberton's ball, the Doctor's world is about to be forever rocked by a dashing visitor from space.With many party-guests facing an identity crisis like no other, it is up to the Doctor and Ruby to stop the menacing Chuldurs' plot.Dan Starkey reads Kate Herron and Briony Redman''s thrilling novelisation of their own BBC TV episode.? 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

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James Grout, Jimmy Mulville, Robert Duncan and Andy Hamilton star in six episodes from the third and fourth series of Old Harry''s Game, the comedy series set in Hell. Satan may rule the roost, but he''s beset by the poor unfortunates condemned to sit out Eternity with him. Amongst them are the Professor, who is convinced that societies evolve and mature until Satan introduces him to Bill Clinton. There''s also Scumspawn, who here finds himself trying to deal with a lager lout, and a new arrival in the form of a Health and Safety Officer - who soon announces that the lighting in Hell is inadequate. As for Satan himself, in this batch of episodes he is concerned about his image on Earth, persuaded to remake Casablanca (with Bogart, Bergman and a mutant alien), and determined to prove that the English are the worst nation on Earth. He also takes offence to W.B. Yeats'' verse description of him - and so pays a visit to the underworld''s own Poets'' Corner. The episode

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**Winner of the Gold Award for Best Drama in the New York Festivals Radio Awards 2018***A BBC radio adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Michael Cunningham, inspired by Virginia Woolf's Mrs DallowayThree separate women, living in different locations and eras, are linked by their passion for Virginia Woolf's novel Mrs Dalloway. As they each live through a Tuesday in June, their thoughts and experiences mirror each other and become interwoven.In Richmond in 1923, Virginia Woolf struggles to write a novel whose protagonist is Mrs Dalloway. In Los Angeles in 1949, Laura ignores her chores and small son to sit in bed reading Mrs Dalloway. In 1990s New York, Clarissa goes to buy flowers for a party, mirroring the start of the fictional Mrs Dalloway’s day. The party is in honour of her sick friend Richard, who long ago dubbed her Mrs Dalloway.As their stories intertwine, they converge to become one, weaving together themes of storytelling, domestic tension, friendship, love, loss, parental guilt, loneliness, bisexuality and the challenges of hosting social rituals.Adapted by Sony Award-winning dramatist Frances Byrnes, this affecting dramatisation stars Fenella Woolgar as Virginia Woolf, Teresa Gallagher as Laura and Rosamund Pike as Clarissa.'I am so thrilled by the BBC's production of my novel, The Hours, and - believe me - a novelist does not thrill easily' - Michael CunninghamDirected by Judith Kampfner and Polly Thomas Produced by Judith KampfnerA Corporation For Independent Media production for BBC Radio 4Duration: 2 hours approx.

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The brand new BBC Radio 4 full-cast series based on And Another Thing… the sixth book in the famous Hitchhiker’s Guide “trilogy”.Winner of the 2019 Audie Award for Science Fiction.Forty years on from the first ever radio series of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Arthur Dent and friends return in six brand new episodes, in which they are thrown back into the Whole General Mish Mash in a rattling adventure involving Viking Gods and Irish Confidence Tricksters, with our first glimpse of Eccentrica Gallumbits and a brief but memorable moment with The Ravenous Bugblatter Beast Of Traal.Starring John Lloyd as The Book, with Simon Jones as Arthur, Geoff McGivern as Ford Prefect, Mark Wing-Davey as Zaphod Beeblebrox, Sandra Dickinson and Susan Sheridan as Trillian, Jim Broadbent as Marvin the Paranoid Android and Jane Horrocks as Fenchurch, the cast also includes Samantha Béart, Toby Longworth, Andy Secombe, Ed Byrne, Lenny Henry, Philip Pope, Mitch Benn, Jon Culshaw and Professor Stephen Hawking.First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2018, the series is written and directed by Dirk Maggs and based on And Another Thing… by Eoin Colfer with additional unpublished material by Douglas Adams. This edition also includes over 50 minutes of unbroadcast bonus material.Listeners are reminded that the relaxed attitude to danger provided by Joo Janta 200 Super-Chromatic Peril Sensitive Sunglasses is no substitute for running around, screaming. Duration: 3 hours 35 minutes

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Julia McKenzie and Simon Carter star in this BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation of E Nesbit’s much-loved children’s novel. ‘an enchanting adaptation’ Independent on Sunday On a hot, Edwardian summer’s day, five children are playing in a gravel pit when they dig up something very peculiar: a funny, furry, fat litte creature with the feet of a monkey and bat’s ears! The Psammead is a magical sand fairy who has the power to grant wishes: but the children can only have one wish a day, and the wishes only last until sunset. As the children try to get their hearts’ desires, things go hilariously wrong, and they have a series of amazing adventures that will change their lives. But their last wish gets them into terrible trouble, and it will take all the Psammead’s powers to put things right...This delightfully whimsical drama, adapted by Malcolm McKee, stars Julia McKenzie as the older Jane and Mother, and Simon Carter as the Psammead. The wonder and excitement of much-loved children’s classics lives on in BBC Radio’s acclaimed full-cast dramatisations, complete with evocative music and sound effects. Duration: 1 hour 30 mins approx.

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Jon Pertwee, Peter Davison and Colin Baker are among the readers of these 7 stories from the worlds of Doctor Who. The Planet of the Daleks is read by Jon Pertwee; Warriors of the Deep is read by Peter Davison; Vengeance on Varos is read by Colin Baker; The Novel of the Film (the 1996 TV Movie) and Earth and Beyond (three original short stories) are read by Paul McGann. With original music. Duration: 10 hours approx.

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A collection of full-cast dramatisations and readings from the bestselling author ‘There’s nobody like Binchy for warming the cockles’ Times Maeve Binchy was one of Britain’s best-loved storytellers and this compilation of her finest fiction, as heard on BBC Radio, demonstrates all the warmth, wit and compassion that made her so popular. Firefly Summer is a moving, humorous novel about a sleepy Irish town facing monumental change, dramatised in six parts with a full cast including David Soul and Lorcan Cranitch. No Nightingales, No Snakes features full-cast dramatisations of five Maeve Binchy short stories, with a distinguished cast including Niamh Cusack, Sam Dale and Harry Towb. The Garden Party contains four short stories specially commissioned for BBC Radio 4, read by Niamh Cusack, Dervla Kirwan, Doreen Hepburn and Stella McCusker. The Homecoming comprises four more stories exclusively written for BBC Radio 4, read by Sean Campion, Joanna Myers, Patricia Hodge and Kate Binchy. Dealing with families, friendship, love, loss, sorrow and joy, these stories will delight all Maeve Binchy fans. Duration: 6 hours approx

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David Troughton reads this gripping classic novelisation of a Second Doctor TV adventure featuring the Yeti and the Great Intelligence “Attention to detail is a hallmark of this always excellent range” Doctor Who Magazine For 40 years Professor Travers’ Yeti has been quiet, a collector's item in a museum. Then, without warning, it awakes and savagely murders. Patches of mist begin to appear in Central London, those who linger in it found dead, their faces smothered in cobwebs. When the Doctor, Jamie and Victoria arrive in the London Underground, they find that the web is remorselessly spreading. What’s more, hordes of Yeti are roaming the misty streets and cobwebbed tunnels, killing everyone in their path. London has been gripped tight in a web of fear. The Doctor and his friends unite with the army, led by one Colonel Lethbridge-Stewart, in defence of planet Earth. But an old enemy is lurking in the shadows… David Troughton, who has played several roles in the BBC TV series, reads this complete and unabridged novelisation, first published by Target Books in 1976. Duration: 4 hours approx.

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Tom Baker reads Charles Dickens' timeless seasonal story. Charles Dickens' story of solitary miser Ebenezer Scrooge, who is taught the true meaning of Christmas by the three ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future, has become one of the timeless classics of English literature. First published in 1843, it introduces us not only to Scrooge himself, but also to the memorable characters of underpaid desk clerk Bob Cratchit and his poor family, the poorest amongst whom is the ailing and crippled Tiny Tim. In this captivating recording, Tom Baker delivers a tour-de-force performance as he narrates the story. The listener joins Scrooge on Christmas Eve, witnesses the visitation of Marley's ghost, and is given a glimpse of the many homes and lives which Scrooge has touched in his wretched life to date. With atmospheric sound design, this ultimately uplifting tale is a festive delight to be treasured and listened to again and again. Duration: 3 hours approx

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A BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation of the evergreen classic novel by Louisa May Alcott. With their father away fighting in the American Civil War, the four March girls are facing a lean Christmas with their mother. But the sisters’ close bond and determination to make the best of things enables them to find happiness despite their poverty.As the years go by we follow their fortunes as they journey into womanhood. Meg the beauty, Jo the tomboy, shy Beth and precocious Amy will encounter adventure, hardship, joys and disappointments, and learn to meet the challenges of life as they become independent and make their way in the world. While marriage and motherhood may beckon for the sisters, their most enduring love is always for each other. First published in 1868 and never out of print since, this iconic coming-of-age tale is a perennial favourite that has touched the hearts of generations of readers. This moving BBC Radio 4 dramatisation stars Natasha J Barnes, Julianna Jennings, Bryony Hannah and Samantha Dakin as Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy, with Tara Ward as Mrs March and Alex Lanipekun as Laurie. Duration: 2 hours 20 mins approx.

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Miles Jupp stars as James Boswell in four fantastic episodes of Jon Canter's BBC Radio 4 comedy. 'A work of genius' Radio Times James Boswell, Dr Johnson's celebrated biographer, turns time traveller to pursue other legends to immortalise in this award-winning comedy series. Hampered by his own pomposity and self-importance, he finds that his subjects get the better of him – with hilarious consequences.Interviewing Sigmund Freud, Boswell is wrong-footed when Freud asks all the questions, and on meeting Maria Callas (and her poodle) he becomes caught up in an opera of his own making. While talking to Harold Pinter he finds himself the victim of a betrayal, and Boris Johnson proves to be a formidable opponent – especially on the whiff-whaff table.Written by acclaimed comedy author Jon Canter, this hugely entertaining series won the Prix Europa for Best European Radio Series of the Year. It stars Miles Jupp as Boswell, with Henry Goodman as Freud, Arabella Weir as Callas, Harry Enfield as Pinter and Alistair McGowan as Boris Johnson. Duration: 2 hours approx.

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Matt Smith, Arthur Darvill and Meera Syal are among the readers of this exclusive collection of original audio adventures. Join the Eleventh Doctor on journeys in Time and Space in the stories The Runaway Train by Oli Smith; The Ring of Steel by Stephen Cole; The Jade Pyramid by Martin Day; The Hounds of Artemis by James Goss; The Gemini Contagion by Jason Arnopp; Eye of the Jungle by Darren Jones; Blackout by Oli Smith; The Art of Death by James Goss; Darkstar Academy by Mark Morris; Day of the Cockroach by Steve Lyons; The Nu-Humans by Cavan Scott & Mark Wright; The Empty House by Simon Guerrier; Sleepers in the Dust by Darren Jones; and Snake Bite by Scott Handcock. The readers are Matt Smith; Arthur Darvill; Clare Corbett; Meera Syal; David Troughton; Stuart Milligan; Raquel Cassidy; Alexander Armstrong and Frances Barber. Duration: 15 hours approx.

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An unabridged reading of an exciting classic novelisation, based on a TV adventure featuring the Second Doctor, as played by Patrick Troughton. Materialising in Outer Space, the TARDIS is attached by a missile fired from the dark side of the moon. Back on Earth, the newly-formed United Nations Intelligence Taskforce (UNIT), led by Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart, is disturbed by a series of UFO sightings over Southern England. Meanwhile, a large consigment of mysterious crates is delivered to the headquarters of International Electromatix, the largest computer and electronics firm in the world. These three seemingly unconnected events are in fact the preparations for a massive Cyberman invasion of Earth, with one aim: the total annihilation of the human race. Duration: 5 hours approx.

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Twelve classic Christie short stories are given a modern spin in these BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisations.Agatha Christie is the acknowledged 'Queen of Crime', and these twelve short stories showcase her skilful plotting and talent for producing compelling mysteries. First broadcast in the early 2000s, the stories were adapted and brought up-to-date for a contemporary audience.Among the star cast are Tom Hollander, Emilia Fox, Patricia Routledge, Julia McKenzie, Neil Dudgeon, Richard Griffiths, Rebecca Front and Andrew Sachs.Unconventional detective Parker Pyne features in two of the stories, all twelve of which are infused with Agatha Christie's trademark tension and suspense. These tantalising tales of revenge, jealousy, love and death will thrill her many fans.The stories are:Philomel Cottage Swan Song Magnolia Blossom Witness for the Prosecution The Gates of Baghdad The Hound of Death In a Glass Darkly The Dressmaker's Doll The Case of the Perfect Carer The £199 Adventure The Gypsy The Last SéanceDuration: 5 hours 30 mins approx.

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Three complete radio dramas featuring writer-cum-amateur detective Paul Temple, plus bonus archive material. When it comes to classic crime partnerships, Paul Temple and his wife Steve are the crème de la crème. Between 1938 and 1968 their glamorous exploits enthralled generations of radio listeners around the world. Here, presented in chronological order, are some of the amateur detective's earliest adventures. 'Send for Paul Temple' (1940) is an early remake of the now-lost original 1938 BBC production. 'Paul Temple Intervenes' (1942) finds Paul and Steve investigating a series of celebrity murders, whilst 'Paul Temple and the Vandyke Affair' (the original 1950 production, presented here for the very first time) concerns the strange disappearance of the Desmond baby and her sitter. Hugh Morton, Bernard Braden, Carl Bernard and Peter Coke play Paul in these episodes, with Bernadette Hodgson, Peggy Hassard and Marjorie Westbury as Steve. A bonus disc features rare archive material from otherwise lost productions, including the final episodes of 'Send for Paul Temple' (1938) and 'Paul Temple and the Front Page Men' (1938). Duration: 11 hours approx.

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June Whitfield returns as the deceptively mild spinster sleuth in three full-cast BBC Radio 4 dramatisations. Specially broadcast to mark the 125th anniversary of Agatha Christie’s birth, these brand new dramas are based on three of her best short stories. Tape-Measure Murder: When Mrs Spenlow is murdered in St Mary Mead, the village gossips all agree that her husband must have killed her – until Miss Marple is called as an alibi… The Case of the Perfect Maid: Miss Marple investigates the problem of a lady’s maid who has been mysteriously sacked – while also helping her crime writer nephew Raymond West to cure his writer’s block. Sanctuary: Miss Marple and her god-daughter Bunch are horrified when they discover a dying man in the local church. Can Miss Marple deduce his identity – and his killer – from his last words? First published in the collection Miss Marple’s Final Cases, these three delightfully clever tales will keep you guessing till the end. Starring June Whitfield – reprising her role as Miss Marple for the first time since 2001 – they are dramatised for BBC Radio 4 by Joy Wilkinson. Duration: 1 hr 30 mins approx.

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Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, Clive Dunn and Ian Lavender star in a collection of rediscovered Dad's Army gems. Published for the first time, these four instalments of Dad's Army have been brought together from a variety of archive sources, and in each case represent something unique. 'A Stripe for Frazer' is the surviving TV soundtrack from an episode whose film recording has long been missing in action; 'Santa on Patrol' and 'The Cornish Floral Dance' are two mini-episodes produced in 1968 and 1970 for BBC TV's Christmas Night With the Stars; finally, 'The Boy Who Saved England' is a mini-episode written by Jimmy Perry and starring Ian Lavender, recorded as part of BBC Radio 2's Last Night at the Paris programme in 1995. With a supporting cast including Arnold Ridley, John Laurie, James Beck, Bill Pertwee and Frank Williams, this is a fine quartet of episodes you're not likely to have seen or heard before. Don't panic! Duration: 1 hour approx.

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Clive Merrison and Andrew Sachs star in seven original BBC Radio 4 full-cast adventures for Holmes and Watson.How many times did Dr John Watson tantalise us with passing references to a mystery which his creator, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, never wrote about in full? In these original adventures Bert Coules, the chief dramatist of BBC Radio 4’s celebrated Sherlock Holmes canon, has imaginatively fleshed out seven such unrecorded cases. The Determined Client: Miss Addleton engages Holmes to save her father's good name.The Striking Success of Miss Franny Blossom: Holmes investigates a respectable gambling club. The Thirteen Watches: Bizarre events on an express train brings a railway baron to Baker Street. The Ferrers Documents: A slum landlord and a missing witness figure in a dark tale of hatred and revenge.The Remarkable Performance of Mr Frederick Merridew: A night at the music hall ends in tragedy.The Eyes of Horus: A priceless Egyptian artefact vanishes from a locked casket in a locked vault.The Marlbourne Point Mystery: Holmes and Watson discover death, treachery and betrayal on an isolated coastal headland.

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Bernard Braden stars in an original 1940 full-cast production of the very first Paul Temple adventureBetween 1938 and 1968 the exploits of amateur detective Paul Temple and his wife, Steve, enthralled generations of BBC radio listeners. Theirs was an exciting world of violence and glamour - car bombs and cocktail parties. In Paul and Steve’s very first adventure, starring Bernard Braden as Paul with Peggy Hassard as Steve, a spate of jewel robberies in the Midlands has left the police baffled. They are the work of a shadowy criminal mastermind known only as The Knave of Diamonds. But who is the Knave? And can he be stopped?All but one episode of the original 1938 BBC production of Send for Paul Temple are lost from the archives. However, this complete recording of a 1940 production - made for Canadian radio and based on the original BBC radio scripts - was recently rediscovered in the national Library and Archives of Canada. Digitally restored, all six episodes are now available for the very first time. Two bonus features are also included: the sole surviving sixth episode of the original 1938 production, starring the original Paul Temple, Hugh Morton, and an unbroadcast interview with the longest-running Paul Temple actor, Peter Coke.

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Geoffrey Beevers reads this exciting novelisation of a classic TV adventure for the Fourth Doctor.The Doctor is suddenly summoned to Gallifrey, the home of the Time Lords, where his ghastly hallucinations of the President’s assassination seem to turn into reality. When the Doctor is arrested for the murder, a hideous, dark, cowled figure is gleefully watching in the shadows.In a battle of minds, the Doctor faces renegade Time Lord the Master, inside a nightmare world created by his old enemy’s imagination. But the Master’s evil intentions go much further - he has a Doomsday Plan. It is up to the Doctor to prevent him from destroying Gallifrey and taking over the Universe!Geoffrey Beevers, who played an incarnation of the Master in the BBC TV series, reads Terrance Dicks’s complete and unabridged novelisation, first published by Target Books in 1977.

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Samuel West reads ten of Rudyard Kipling’s famous tales, as broadcast on BBC Radio 4.How the Whale Got His ThroatHow the Leopard Got His SpotsThe Beginning of the ArmadillosHow the Rhinoceros Got His SkinThe Cat That Walked By HimselfHow the Camel Got His HumpThe Crab That Played With The SeaThe Sing-Song of Old Man KangarooThe Butterfly That StampedThe Elephant’s ChildFirst broadcast on BBC Radio 4 as part of Just So Science, these charming tales are sure to delight listeners of all ages.

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Katy Manning reads this exciting classic novelisation of a Third Doctor TV adventure. The Doctor and Jo land on a cargo ship crossing the Indian Ocean in the year 1926. Or so they think. Far away on a planet called Inter Minor, a travelling showman is setting up his live peepshow, watched by an eager audience of space officials. On board ship, a giant hand suddenly appears, grasps the TARDIS and withdraws. Without warning, a prehistoric monster rises from the sea to attack... What is happening? Where are they? Only the Doctor realises, with horror, that they might be trapped...3 CDs. 3 hrs 33 mins.

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The first ever publication of a long-lost episode of Hancock's Half Hour, featuring Peter Sellers - plus bonus materialLegendary sitcom Hancock's Half Hour ran for 102 episodes on BBC Radio between 1954 and 1959. Over 20 shows were subsequently lost - but now one of the funniest and most sought-after, 'The Marriage Bureau', has been rediscovered. The penultimate episode of Series 1, it features a unique appearance from Peter Sellers, standing in for Kenneth Williams. Available for the first time since its original broadcast in 1955, it sees Hancock looking for a job - and a wife...Alongside it is a fascinating documentary, Raiders of the Lost Archive, in which Keith Wickham - the Indiana Jones of archiving - and fellow treasure-hunters discuss the thrilling, complex work of locating and restoring missing radio classics. Plus, there's a surviving extract from the lost Hancock's Half Hour episode, 'The New Year Resolutions', and a previously unreleased documentary, H-H-H-Happy Birthday Hancock, in which Andrew Sachs presents an affectionate tribute to The Lad Himself with contributions from Denis Norden, Ray Galton, Alan Simpson, John Freeman and Sid James.CreditsHancock's Half Hour written by Ray Galton and Alan SimpsonProduced by Dennis Main WilsonThanks to Tessa Le Bars, Martin Gibbons, Keith Wickham, Richard Harrison, the Radio Circle and the Tony Hancock Appreciation Society.'The Marriage Bureau'Starring Tony Hancock, Bill Kerr, Moira Lister, Sidney James and Peter SellersAnnouncer: Adrian WallerTheme and incidental music composed by Wally Stott. Recorded by the BBC Revue Orchestra conducted by Harry RabinowitzSound restoration by Keith WickhamFirst broadcast BBC Light Programme, 8 February 1955Raiders of the Lost ArchivePresented by Keith WickhamWritten and edited by Keith Wickham and James PeakWith special thanks to the Radio Circle, Richard Harrison, Roger Bickerton, Mark Ayres, Steve Arnold, Tom Hercock, Hannah Ratford and all at BBC Archives in CavershamProduced by James PeakAn Essential Radio production for BBC Radio 4First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 13 October 2022Extract from 'The New Year Resolutions'Starring Tony Hancock, Bill Kerr, Sidney James and Kenneth WilliamsSound restoration by Jon StreetFirst broadcast BBC Light Programme, 4 January 1956NB: Due to the age and off-air nature of this recording, the sound quality may varyH-H-H Happy Birthday HancockPresented by Andrew SachsWith contributions from Denis Norden, Ray Galton, Alan Simpson, John Freeman and Sid James, and excerpts from Hancock's Half HourProduced by Richard EdisFirst broadcast BBC Radio 2, 11 May 1999©2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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Five gripping full-cast adaptations of Patricia Highsmith's bestselling 'Ripley' series - plus bonus materialCharming, cultured and clever, Tom Ripley has a taste for the finer things in life. And he is determined to get them, by any means necessary...These five plays - The Talented Mr Ripley, Ripley Under Ground, Ripley's Game, The Boy Who Followed Ripley and Ripley Under Water - chart Tom's journey from impoverished conman to wealthy bon viveur and serial killer. His homicidal adventures begin when he befriends shipping heir Dickie Greenleaf: he wants money, success, and he's willing to kill for it. But when he attains the luxurious lifestyle he craves, he is always on the edge of being discovered. Will his shadowy past finally catch up with him?BAFTA-winning actor Ian Hart stars as Ripley in these tense, thrilling dramas. Also included are two bonus documentaries: Looking for Ripley, in which crime writer Mark Billingham unravels the mystery behind our lasting fascination with Tom Ripley, and A Passionate Affair, presented by Marcel Berlins, who asks whether Patricia Highsmith fell in love with her suave, amoral anti-hero.Text © 1993 by Diogenes Verlag AG Zurich, all rights reserved.© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (p) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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Jamie Glover reads this Beyond the Doctor story featuring Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright. It's Spring 1965, and at last two time travellers have returned home after many adventures with the Doctor. Yet the world has moved on in their absence, and settling back in proves harder than expected. For Barbara, salvation appears in the form of kindly Angela Leamann, who offers Miss Wright a roof over her head in return for a series of 'psychical sessions'. Ian, meanwhile, discovers a hidden talent and joins London's growing literary science fiction scene. He sees no harm in drawing upon his experiences with the Doctor - even when his ideas are picked up by a bigshot in television. Unsuspectingly, the ex-schoolteachers are being drawn into an invisible web... Jamie Glover, who played William Russell in the BBC TV drama An Adventure in Space and Time, reads this intriguing story by Paul Magrs, author of Doctor Who: The Nest Cottage Adventures. Reading produced by Neil Gardner Sound design by David Roocroft Script Editor & Executive Producer: Michael Stevens(P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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Six narrated TV soundtrack adventures starring Patrick Troughton as the Second Doctor - plus bonus features. These thrilling recordings of TV episodes, largely absent from the BBC archives, have been remastered with additional linking narration by original cast members. This set also includes bonus interviews with Wendy Padbury and Frazer Hines. In The Enemy of the World, recently returned to the film archives, the time travellers meet the Doctor's murderous double. In The Web of Fear the Doctor and friends find the London Underground tunnels overrun by Yeti! In Fury from the Deep something nasty is lurking in the gas pipelines of the North Sea. In The Wheel in Space the Doctor and Jamie confront some old adversaries in the far future. In The Invasion the Doctor battles to prevent the Cybermen from invading present day Earth. In The Space Pirates the TARDIS crew encounter the Interstellar Space Corps and a gang of murderous bandits. The collection also includes PDF files featuring high quality scans of the original BBC TV camera scripts.Duration: 15 hours 30 mins (P) & © 2021 BBC Studios Distribution For cast and credits see accompanying PDF booklet

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Adjoa Andoh reads a dynamic new story featuring the Ninth Doctor and Rose, as played on TV by Christopher Eccleston and Billie Piper.When the Doctor diverts an asteroid from its collision course with Earth, the TARDIS is invaded by an ancient menace: a Solonite. Racing to save her friend's life, Rose lands the TARDIS in Northumberland, Earth in 1986, and they find shelter in an isolated farmhouse.Teaming up with Peggy, a grieving artist, the travellers realise the terrible truth: the Solonite has accompanied them to Earth, and is now at large. As the terrifying entity seeks to possess them, its fearful purpose becomes clear - and it involves the TARDIS...Adjoa Andoh, who played Francine Jones in the BBC TV series, reads Niel Bushnell's electrifying original story, with accompanying sound design.(P) 2021 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReading produced by Neil GardnerSound design by David RoocroftExecutive producer: Michael Stevens

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Broadcast to mark the 3000th programme of the much-loved children's series Jackanory, The Hobbit was transmitted over two weeks and 10 episodes in 1979. It told the gripping story of Bilbo Baggins and his band of dwarves, who are on a quest for the treasure guarded by the fearsome dragon Smaug. As he leaves his cosy hobbit-hole and travels into the wild, Bilbo's adventures begin. On his journey, he will encounter trolls, goblins, elves and giant spiders - as well as a mysterious and magical ring and a strange, sinister creature named Gollum... Read by Bernard Cribbins, Jan Francis, Maurice Denham and David Wood, this rare audio soundtrack is sure to offer a treat for all fans of J. R. R. Tolkien.2 CDs. 2 hrs 28 mins.

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Cabin Pressure is set in the wing and a prayer world of a tiny, one-plane charter airline; staffed by two pilots, one on his way down, and one who was never up to start with. Whether it's dealing with a stuffed sheep, an angry princess or a rogue fruit tray, no job is too small, but many, many jobs are too difficult. Carolyn Knapp-Shappey, MJN Air's formidable boss, has employed two of the very cheapest pilots money can buy: Captain Martin Crieff, who's always wanted to fly and won't let a little thing like lack of ability stop him, and First Officer Douglas Richardson, smooth-voiced old sky god and eternal schemer. Passenger service is provided by the relentlessly cheery Arthur, proud inventor of both Surprising Rice and his own hat. Written by John Finnemore (John Finnemore's Souvenir Programme, The Now Show), Cabin Pressure stars Stephanie Cole as Carolyn, Benedict Cumberbatch as Martin, Roger Allam as Douglas and John Finnemore as Arthur. ‘The more I listen to John Finnemore's Cabin Pressure, the more I think what a stonking masterpiece it is. Perfect in every department.’ – Philip Pullman'Unexpectedly brilliant' - Time Out 'An inspired new sitcom' – Observer3 CDs. 2 hrs 48 mins.

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On Skaro, the home world of the Daleks, the Doctor encounters the militaristic Movellans - who have come to Skaro on a secret mission - whilst his companion Romana falls into the hands of the Daleks themselves. It soon becomes apparent that the Daleks have returned to their abandoned home city with a crucial objective, one which they hope will give them the advantage in a strategic war. When the Doctor realises what the Daleks are up to, he is compelled to intervene. But he has not bargained for the Movellans having a few secrets of their own, and soon he, Romana and the human refugee Tyssan are wondering who exactly they can trust. Moreover, will they be able to avert the Daleks from their self-proclaimed destiny? Lalla Ward narrates this classic full-cast TV adventure, written by Terry Nation, and in a special bonus interview she recalls her time as Romana in the BBC TV series.2 CDs. 1 hr 58 mins.

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The Cybermen - silver, indestructible monsters whose only goal is power - seem to have disappeared from their planet, Telos. When a party of archaeologists, joined by the Doctor, Jamie and Victoria, land on the Cybermen's barren, deserted planet, they uncover what appears to be their tomb. But once inside it becomes clear that the Cybermen are not dead, and some in the group of archaeologists desperately want to re-activate these monsters! How can the Doctor defeat these ruthless, power-seeking humans and the Cybermen? Michael Kilgarriff, who played the Cyber Controller in the original BBC TV serial, reads Gerry Davis' complete and unabridged novelisation, first published by Target Books in 1978. Cyberman voices are provided by Nicholas Briggs.4 CDs. 4 hrs 46 mins.

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The Dreaded Batter Pudding Hurler of Bexhill-on-Sea: No fewer than 38 Batter Puddings have been hurled at Minnie Bannister, the world famous poker player. (Give her a good poker and she'll play any tune you like.) A madman is at large so it's time to call in Scotland Yard! The Histories of Pliny the Elder: The mighty Julius Caesar has invaded Ancient Briton, only to be greeted by none other than Eccles. Undeterred, Caesar and the might of the Roman army prepare for battle, while the Britons prepare for a game of football. However, Caracticus Seagoon will never surrender to Rome - he will fight them up the hill and down Mrs Dale. Vintage Beeb: classic albums first available as BBC LPs, now on CD and download for the first time ever.1 CD. 56 mins.

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The Birling family are spending a happy evening celebrating the engagement of Sheila Birling to Gerald Croft - a marriage that will result in the merging of two successful local businesses. Yet just when everything seems to be going so well, they receive a surprise visit from an Inspector Goole who is investigating the suicide of a young girl. As the Inspector reveals more about the circumstances that led to the death of Eva Smith, each member of the family comes under the spotlight, and questions of guilt and responsibility are raised... Toby Jones, David Calder, Frances Barber and Morven Christie are amongst the cast in this BBC Radio 4 production from 2010. The Classic Radio Theatre range presents notable radio productions of much-loved plays by some of the most renowned playwrights, and starring some of our finest actors.2 CDs. 1 hr 30 mins.

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Four charming tales starring the marmalade-loving bear from darkest Peru. The stories are: ‘Please Look After This Bear’, ‘A Bear in Hot Water’, ‘A Disappearing Trick’ and ‘Paddington and the Amateur Dramatics.’ ‘Please look after this bear’ said the label around Paddington’s neck, so the Brown family take him home and do just that. Life with Paddington, however, is full of surprises –as you’ll find out in these four great dramatised stories!1 CD. 50 mins.

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When Kay Harker meets a mysterious Punch and Judy man on his way home for Christmas, he little realizes that he is about to be plunged into adventure. The old man entrusts Kay with a strange puzzle box - the Box of Delights - before suddenly disappearing. Kay soon discovers two things: the box can transport him through time and space, and there is a plot to steal it. He must battle heroically against terrifying forces of evil in order to win the day... This thrilling BBC Radio adaptation boasts a stellar cast, including Donald Sinden, Lionel Jeffries, Spike Milligan and Celia Imrie.3 CDs. 3 hrs.

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What is the connection between a Bear of Very Little Brain and a honey pot? Usually it's the very sticky paw of Winnie-the-Pooh, as he takes a break between adventures for 'a little something'. Alan Bennett gives A.A. Milne's characters the voices you felt they were always meant to have in this collection of stories about Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore and Owl. Hear all about the fun they have as they lay a Heffalump trap, celebrate Eeyore's birthday, invent the game of Poohsticks and welcome Kanga and Baby Roo to the forest - among many other entertaining escapades.6 CDs. 6 hrs.

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Katy Manning, Jon Culshaw and Tim Treloar read a dynamic trio of stories inspired by strips first published in Doctor Who Annual.In 'Dead on Arrival', Jo Grant finds out what it's like to be a ghost when she realises that no-one can see her. Even more alarmingly, the Doctor and the Brigadier appear to be mourning her death! Something has gone very wrong since her last trip in the TARDIS - but how can she tell the Doctor about it?In 'The Traitor', the Fourth Doctor and Sarah help rescue the survivors of a crashed spaceship, only to discover that they are scientists deliberately marooned on a distant planet. The people plead with the Doctor and Sarah for help - but what happens next is far from expected.In 'The Power', the Doctor and Leela are among those invited to the wedding of Princess Azula on the planet Shem. Yet barbarism still rules over a divided people, and the time travellers become embroiled in a bitter tussle for the secret of the mysterious Power.Adapted by Paul Magrs from strip stories first published in the Doctor Who Annuals of the 1970s, these stories are brought to life by three much-loved readers and some stirring sound design.Readings produced by Neil GardnerSound design by David RoocroftExecutive Producer for BBC Audio: Michael Stevens© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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Patrick Troughton, Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker star as the Doctor in these seven narrated full-cast TV soundtracks of classic Doctor Who TV serials. The stories are The Tomb of the Cybermen (narrated by Frazer Hines); Doctor Who and the Silurians (narrated by Caroline John); The Sea Devils (narrated by Katy Manning); The Curse of Peladon (narrated by Katy Manning); The Monster of Peladon (narrated by Elisabeth Sladen); The Pirate Planet (narrated by John Leeson) and Destiny of the Daleks (narrated by Lalla Ward). Also includes bonus interviews with the narrators in which they each recall their time as the Doctor's companion in the BBC TV series. Duration: 14 hours approx.

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June Whitfield stars as Miss Marple in seven suspenseful full-cast radio dramatisations. The Moving FingerMiss Marple must find out who is behind an outbreak of hate mail and a tragic death.They Do It With MirrorsVisiting an old friend at Stoneygates School, Miss Marple senses danger.NemesisA posthumous letter sends the spinster sleuth on a mystery tour to find a murderer.Sleeping MurderWhat is the dark secret behind Gwenda Reed’s uncanny intuition? Miss Marple investigates...Tape-Measure MurderA wife is killed, her husband is under suspicion – and Miss Marple is called to provide an alibi.The Case of the Perfect MaidThe sharp-witted sleuth looks into the problem of a lady’s maid who has been mysteriously sacked.SanctuaryAn unknown man dies in the local church – can Miss Marple deduce his identity fromhis last words?These BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisations, based on four novels and three short stories by Agatha Christie, showcase seven of Miss Marple’s most ingenious mysteries.The Moving Finger, They Do It With Mirrors, Nemesis and Sleeping Murder dramatised by Michael Bakewell and directed by Enyd WilliamsTape-Measure Murder, The Case of the Perfect Maid and Sanctuary dramatised by Joy Wilkinson and directed by Gemma JenkinsDuration: 10 hours approx.

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Dalek invasion is imminent! Attention: the war against the Daleks continues apace in this new collection of vintage stories from the pen of their creator, Terry Nation. Our successful defence of the galaxy depends on all Anti-Dalek Force agents staying informed of the latest events, in outer space and on a variety of alien planets. That information can be found here! Intrepid ADF agents Nicholas Briggs, Terry Molloy, Steven Pacey and Jon Culshaw relate a series of terrifying adventures - The Castaway, The Solution, The Secret Invasion and The Seeds of Destruction - and issue special briefings including Dalek Terminology, Dalography of Skaro, Recent Findings on the Moon and The Dalek War Machines. All material is authenticated from Terry Nation's Dalek Annuals and other books. Whether in present day London or on further-flung shores, the battle with the Daleks is all around us. Listen now or be exterminated! (P) 2020 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2020 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd Text © Terry Nation 1965, 1978, 1979 Cover images © BBC Studios Distribution Ltd 2020

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A brand new novel written by Bonnie Langford, featuring her Doctor Who character Mel Bush.

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Bonnie Langford reads a brand new novel adventure for the Fifteenth Doctor and Ruby Sunday, as played on TV by Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson.When the Doctor and Ruby arrive on Cavia, they meet a gentle local who is certain that she has been taken for study by creatures from the stars. The Doctor is concerned to find mysterious meteors appearing in the sky, while strange robotic creatures crowd the forests, watching everything and waiting for what?Who is interested in Cavia, and why? What is the sinister truth of the abductions? The Doctor and Ruby must discover the secrets of this mysterious world and those who would seek to destroy itBonnie Langford, who plays Mel in the BBC TV series, reads Una McCormack''s intriguing novel.? 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

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