Search results for ""bbc audio, a division of random house""

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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Fabulous tales from the vintage pages of Doctor Who Annual, brought to life by a host of Doctor Who voices.In 'The Sons of the Crab' the First Doctor finds himself a prisoner on a nightmarish world in the Crab Nebula. The Second Doctor is faced with a dilemma posed by the bird-like Arcturans in 'Only A Matter of Time', and in 'War in the Abyss' the Third Doctor goes in search of Jo Grant's missing uncle.The Fourth Doctor and Leela try to help the victims of 'Famine on Planet X', whilst the Fifth Doctor, Tegan and Nyssa find themselves on a 'Night Flight to Nowhere' - courtesy of the Master!In 'Time Wake' the Sixth Doctor and Peri search for the entity behind a dangerous temporal corridor in London.Two short additional features ponder the 'Secrets of the TARDIS' and examine the conundrum that is 'One Doctor - Five Men.'Dan Starkey, Geoffrey Beevers, Anneke Wills, Jon Culshaw, Louise Jameson and Colin Baker are our guides through these weird and wacky stories from Doctor Who Annual.Readings produced by Neil GardnerSound design by David DarlingtonExecutive producer: Michael Stevens(P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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aye Griffiths reads this original adventure for the Twelfth Doctor and Clara, as played on TV by Peter Capaldi and Jenna Coleman.For Clara Oswald, life has fallen into a routine. By day she teaches the pupils at Coal Hill School, and by night - and at weekends - she travels in Time and Space with the Doctor.Clara's having the time of her life, enjoying all the thrill and laughter of being with the Doctor - until, one day, there's somebody else.To Clara's immense shock, the Doctor has acquired a new companion - and Arix is just as at home in the TARDIS as she has been. Suddenly, Clara's world has tilted on its axis.As the two companions size each other up, the Doctor is caught between them. And when they all wind up in an alien swamp, it's time for a reckoning of grievances, grudges - and bravery.Jaye Griffiths, who played Jac in the Doctor Who TV series, reads Steve Lyons's compelling and moving character piece.? 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReading produced by Neil Gardner/Ladbroke Audio.Sound design by David Roocroft.Executive producer for BBC Audio: Michael Stevens.

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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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23 November, 1963. It is the day after John F. Kennedy's assassination - and the faces of the dead are everywhere. PC Reg Cranfield sees his late father in the mists along Totter's Lane. Reporter Mae Callon sees her grandmother in a coffee stain on her desk. FBI Special Agent Warren Skeet finds his long-dead partner staring back at him from raindrops on a window pane. Then the faces begin to talk, and scream... and push through into our world. As the alien Shroud begins to feast on the grief of a world in mourning, can the Doctor dig deep enough into his own sorrow to save mankind? Shroud of Sorrow is read by Frances Barber, who played Madame Kovarian in the Doctor Who episodes A Good Man Goes to War and The Wedding of River Song.6 CDs. 5 hrs 42 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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**Neil Gaiman was the WINNER of the BBC Audio Drama Award 2015 for Outstanding Contribution to Radio Drama**Beneath the streets of London there is another London. A subterranean labyrinth of sewers and abandoned tube stations. A somewhere that is Neverwhere... An act of kindness sees Richard Mayhew catapulted from his ordinary life into the strange world of London Below. There he meets the Earl of Earl's Court, faces a life-threatening ordeal at the hands of the Black Friars, comes face to face with the Great Beast of London, and encounters an Angel. Called Islington. Accompanied by the mysterious Door and her companions, the Marquis de Carabas and the bodyguard Hunter, Richard embarks on an extraordinary quest to escape from the fiendish assassins Croup and Vandemar and to discover who ordered them to murder her family - all the while trying to get back to his old life in London Above. Contains over 25 minutes of additional unbroadcast material, including extended scenes, bloopers and outtakes.Adapted for radio by the award-winning Dirk Maggs, this captivating dramatisation features a stellar cast including David Harewood, Sophie Okonedo, Benedict Cumberbatch, Christopher Lee, Anthony Head and David Schofield. 3 CDs. 3 hrs 48 mins.

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'The Sunlight Worlds Offer You A Life of Comfort and Plenty. Apply now at the Dalek Foundation.' Sunlight 349 is one of countless Dalek Foundation worlds, planets created to house billions suffering from economic hardship. The Doctor arrives at Sunlight 349, suspicious of any world where the Daleks are apparently a force for good - and determined to find out the truth. The Doctor knows they have a far more sinister plan - but how can he convince those who have lived under the benevolence of the Daleks for a generation? But convince them he must, and soon. For on another Foundation planet, archaeologists have unearthed the most dangerous technology in the universe... A thrilling, all-new adventure featuring the Doctor as played by Matt Smith in the spectacular hit series from BBC Television. 6 CDs. 5 hrs 45 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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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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Dan Starkey reads this imaginitive original story featuring the Twelfth Doctor and Nardole."Time: the present. Place: Smalltown, USA. A town like any other. A sleepy world of white picket fences, front porch gliders and freshly-mown lawns, a Pontiac or Chevrolet in every driveway."But the streets are empty, with not a sound to be heard, and no-one to hear it if there was. Because this town is merely an empty stage, waiting for its players to take their parts. They're due to make their entrance any moment now, strangers in a strange land, somewhere in that timeless space known only as The Nightmare Realm."It's into this strange world of shifting sands that the TARDIS propels the Doctor and Nardole, who think they're in 1950s suburbia until an apparent nuclear attack takes them into far darker territory, with a series of terrifying consequences...Dan Starkey, who played the Sontaran Strax in the TV series, reads this unsettling original story by Jonathan Morris(P) 2021 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReading produced by Neil GardnerSound design by David RoocroftProject editor: John AinsworthExecutive producer: Michael Stevens

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Don’t panic! The Hitchhiker’s saga returns once again with a full-cast dramatisation of Mostly Harmless, the fifth book in Douglas Adams’s famous ‘trilogy in five parts’.‘A radio event... the great original cast has been reassembled’. Gillian Reynolds, The Daily TelegraphWhile frequent flyer Arthur Dent searches the universe for his lost love, Ford Prefect discovers a disturbing blast from the past at The Hitchhiker’s Guide HQ. Meanwhile, on one of many versions of Earth, a blonder, more American Trillian gets tangled up with a party of lost aliens having an identity crisis. And just when Arthur thinks he has found his true vocation on the backwater planet of Lamuella, the original Trillian turns up with more than a little spanner in the works. A stolen ship, a dramatic stampede and a new and sinister Guide lead to a race to save the Earth … again. But this time, will they succeed?Simon Jones returns as Arthur, Geoffrey McGivern as Ford, Mark Wing-Davey as Zaphod Beeblebrox, Susan Sheridan as Trillian, Sandra Dickinson as Tricia McMillan, and Stephen Moore as Marvin. William Franklyn is the Book, Rula Lenska is also the Book and Samantha Béart is Random. Guest stars include Miriam Margolyes, Griff Rhys Jones, John Challis, Roy Hudd, Saeed Jaffrey, and Jonathan Pryce.This extended CD edition features 40 minutes of material not heard on BBC Radio 4.Duration: 2 hrs 30 mins approx.

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Nicholas Briggs reads this epic novelisation of the Second Doctor's debut TV adventure. Following an encounter with the Cybermen, the Doctor's life appears to hang in the balance - until, before the eyes of his companions Ben and Polly, his physical appearance is transformed!Disoriented after his regeneration, the Doctor takes the TARDIS to the Earth colony planet Vulcan. Ben and Polly are disturbed - the Doctor isn't the man he used to be. The Doctor is also worried; the colonists have found the remains of two Daleks, which they plan to revive!Once reanimated, the Daleks claim that they are content to serve humanity. Can it really be true? Or do they have their own, more sinister plans?Nicholas Briggs, who is the voice of the Daleks in Doctor Who, reads John Peel's novelisation of the original 1966 TV serial by David Whitaker.(Contains some descriptions of violence.) Reading produced by Neil Gardner.Dalek voices produced by Nicholas Briggs.Sound design by Simon Power.Executive Producer for BBC Audio: Michael Stevens© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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Richard Briers, Adrian Scarborough and Terence Rigby star in this full-cast dramatisation, narrated by Alan Bennett.When Mole abandons his spring cleaning one morning, he surfaces into the sunlight and encounters the Water Rat. Mole stays with Ratty in his snug waterside home, and soon he meets Ratty’s friends: Badger, who lives in the Wild Wood, and the incorrigible Toad of Toad Hall. This timeless tale of waterside Britain has been loved by generations of children and acclaimed as a classic. The story of Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad and their escapades never fails to enchant. Many of the original cast from Alan Bennett's acclaimed National Theatre production appear in this Radio 4 dramatisation, including Richard Briers as Rat, Adrian Scarborough as Mole and Terence Rigby as Albert - with Alan Bennett as the narrator.

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Harriet Walter and Beryl Reid star in this full-cast adaptation of the much-loved children's classic. When spoilt young orphan Mary Lennox is brought back from India to live in her uncle’s house on the Yorkshire Moors, she finds the blunt ways of the staff at Misselthwaite Manor an unpleasant shock. Bored and miserable, it seems as though life in England will be awful. But Misselthwaite has hidden delights and, when Mary begins to discover them, nothing is the same again. First, there is the secret garden – and with it comes a boy who knows all the wonders of the country. He can even talk to the birds! Then, as the old house gives up its biggest secret, Mary forms a magical friendship. Frances Hodgson Burnett's charming story is played out with all the freshness and warmth of the original novel in this BBC Radio full-cast dramatization.

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An unabridged reading of this exciting novelisation of a First Doctor television adventure. It is ten million years in the future, and the Earth is about to plunge into the Sun. A gigantic Space Ark has been launched, to take the last of humanity to a new life on the planet Refusis II. Accompanying the humans on their journey are the Monoids, strange reptilian creatures from an alien world. When the TARDIS materialises on board, the Doctor and his friends are greeted with suspicion, which soon turns to open hostility when Dodo inadvertently infects the Ark's crew with a long-forgotten virus. It is an accident which will have a terrible effect on mankind, an effect which will last for seven hundred years... Duration: 4 hours approx.

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The award-winning BBC Radio 4 adaptation of Vikram Seth’s masterpiece‘The drama highlight of the year…this sumptuous production, wonderfully atmospheric, written with pace and performed, by an all-Indian cast, quite superbly. The novel may be vast but I was convinced by this version right from the start. Magnificent drama’ - Radio TimesA Suitable Boy is Vikram Seth's epic love story set in India. Funny and tragic, with engaging, brilliantly-observed characters, it is as close as you can get to Dickens for the twentieth century. The story unfolds through four middle-class families - the Mehras, Kapoors, Khans and Chatterjis. Lata Mehra, a university student, is under pressure from her mother to get married. But not to just anyone she happens to fall in love with. There are standards to be met and finding a husband for Lata becomes a family affair in which all the members are to play a part. The characters struggle, they try to buck the system, to break free of restraint, of interference - but ultimately their strength and sense of being comes from their family and friends. It is a celebration of ordinariness; a beautifully composed story that is an affirmation of family and friendship. In his sweeping epic, Vikram Seth has created an entire world filled with warmth, humour, pathos, tragedy - in short, life. Recorded on location in India, A Suitable Boy is made by the production team behind the award-winning Bleak House and The Handmaid's Tale.Shortlisted for the Irish Times International Fiction Prize, 1993.Winner of the Commonwealth Writers Prize, 1994.Winner of the WH Smith Literary Award, 1994.Dramatised and directed by John Dryden. A Goldhawk Production.Duration: approx. 6 hours on 5 CDs.

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Peter England, Una Stubbs and Crawford Logan star in this BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation of Philippa Pearce’s enchanting time-slip tale. When his brother catches measles, Tom is sent away to stay with his Aunt Gwen and Uncle Alan, and is thoroughly fed up about it. What a boring summer it’s going to be! But tedium turns to adventure when, lying in bed one night, he hears the old grandfather clock in the hall strike thirteen. What can it mean? As Tom creeps downstairs and opens the door, he finds a beautiful garden, and glimpses a girl in old-fashioned clothing. As he revisits the garden over the next few nights, he watches the seasons change from spring to autumn, and children come and go. But no-one seems to see him – until he meets Hatty, and the two become firm friends. With his new playmate, Tom embarks on the adventure of a lifetime... This magical drama stars Peter England as Tom, with Una Stubbs as Aunt Gwen and Crawford Logan as Uncle Alan. 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: 2 hours 15 mins approx.

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Nine more episodes from the fourth series of the popular radio comedy, plus bonus programme Forty Laughing YearsFull of whimsical witticisms, sketches, songs, puns and double entendres, Beyond Our Ken entertained the nation over seven series and 123 episodes. Published for the first time on audio, the nine episodes in this volume were initially broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in 1960-61.In these evergreen shows, Kenneth Horne’s escapades include trying to get his windows cleaned, recounting the story of Raffles, being offered the freedom of the city of Giggleswade, and dealing with some morning callers.Meanwhile, Hornerama investigates topics of immediate interest, including ‘Love and Marriage’, ‘Old British Customs’ and ‘The Film Industry’. There’s also musical interludes from the Hornets, Janet Waters and the BBC Variety Orchestra.The episodes include Room at the Top, The Horse Soldiers, All Quiet on the Western Front, The Charge of the Light Brigade, A Hatful of Rain, Twelve O’Clock High, Tea and Sympathy, Some Come Running and Tunes of Glory. Also included is the 1962 tribute programme Forty Laughing Years, hosted by Kenneth Horne.Duration: 5 hours approx.

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A 30-part landmark series for BBC Radio 4, written and presented by Neil MacGregor'The new blockbuster by the museums maestro Neil MacGregor ... The man who chronicles world history through objects is back ... examining a new set of objects to explore the theme of faith in society' Sunday TimesIn this major new BBC radio series, Neil MacGregor investigates the role and expression of shared beliefs through time and around the world.Using specially selected objects from the British Museum and beyond, talking to experts from various disciplines and visiting key locations from the river Ganges to Jerusalem, he examines how rituals and systems of belief have shaped our societies. Looking at communities from the distant past to the present day, both in Europe and worldwide, his focus moves from the beginnings of belief and the elemental worship of fire, water and the sun, through festivals, pilgrimages and sacrifices, to power struggles and political battles between faiths and states.Among the objects featured are the Lion Man, a small ivory sculpture which is about 40,000 years old; a 16th century ivory and gold qibla, used to find the direction of Mecca; and the Lampedusa Cross, made from pieces of a refugee boat wrecked off the Italian coast in 2013.Produced by BBC Radio 4 in partnership with the British Museum, this enlightening series explores humanity’s enduring need to believe, belong and connect with the cosmos.Duration: 6 hours 50 mins.

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Matthew Waterhouse reads this novelisation of a classic 1982 TV serial featuring the Fifth Doctor, as played on TV by Peter Davison. When the TARDIS materialises on an alien space craft, the commander of the ship - the reptilian Monarch - invites the Doctor, Adric, Nyssa and Tegan to continue their journey to Earth in his company. Monarch’s hospitality even extends to a generous offer to liberate the time travellers from the shortcomings of their bodies and replicate them as androids - so much more practical. Although Adric finds this proposal extremely attractive, the Doctor has good reason to be suspicious of Monarch's motives... Matthew Waterhouse, who played Adric in Doctor Who, reads Terrance Dicks's novelisation of a four-part TV serial by Terence Dudley.

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Jon Pertwee, Peter Davison and Colin Baker are among the readers of these 12 stories from the worlds of Doctor Who. The Curse of Peladon is read by Jon Pertwee; Kinda is read by Peter Davison; Attack of the Cybermen is read by Colin Baker; Out of the Darkness (three short stories) is read by Colin Baker and Nicola Bryant; and Short Trips (six short stories) is read by Nicholas Courtney and Sophie Aldred. With original music.

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Jon Culshaw reads the brand new novelisation of a classic Doctor Who adventure by Douglas Adams. The hugely powerful Key to Time has been split into six segments, all of which have been disguised and hidden throughout time and space. Now the even more powerful White Guardian wants the Doctor to find the pieces. With the first segment successfully retrieved, the Doctor, Romana and K9 trace the second segment of the Key to the planet Calufrax. But when they arrive at exactly the right point in space, they find themselves on exactly the wrong planet – Zanak. Ruled by the mysterious ‘Captain’, Zanak is a happy and prosperous planet. Mostly. If the mines run out of valuable minerals and gems then the Captain merely announces a New Golden Age and they fill up again. It’s an economic miracle – so obviously something’s very wrong... Duration: 10 hours approx.

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Stephen Fry narrates this BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation of the famous Victorian comic novel. Orphan Becky Sharp and wealthy Amelia Sedley are best friends at Miss Pinkerton's Academy for Young Ladies. On leaving school, ambitious, social-climbing Becky looks for a rich man to support her, while the sweet-natured Amelia meets her old friend Dobbin, who is instantly captivated. Becky takes a job in the service of Sir Pitt Crawley, and uses her charm to hook his dashing son. However, marriage to Captain Rawdon of the Guards does not provide the fortune she seeks. Meanwhile, Amelia rejects the faithful Dobbin and becomes engaged to the handsome George Osborne – but destiny has some shocks in store for her, too. As time goes by, the girls' fortunes rise and fall. War, financial disaster and the ruin of her reputation leave the resourceful Becky undaunted, but Amelia finds it harder to bear fate's blows. It will be many years before their story is played out, and their futures finally decided... William Makepeace Thackeray's classic satire of passion and ambition, first published in 1847 and 1848, is a deliciously ironic portrait of English society and its mores. This engaging 2004 radio production, published for the first time on audio, features a distinguished cast including Emma Fielding as Becky Sharp, Katy Cavanagh as Amelia and Toby Jones as Jos Sedley. Duration: 5 hours approx

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Three classic radio productions from the BBC archives starring Nigel Hawthorne, Miriam Margolyes, Geraldine McEwan and a host of celebrated acting talent.These three legendary plays, performed by some of the best-known theatrical actors of the 20th Century, are the perfect way to commemorate England's greatestdramatist. The Taming of the Shrew: The controversial comedy about the battle of the sexes and a very unconventional marriage, starring Fenella Fielding as Katherine, with Miriam Margolyes as Bianca and Paul Daneman as Petruchio. A Midsummer Night's Dream: One of Shakespeare'sbest-loved plays, this tale of warring fairies, eloping lovers and the magic and madness of love has bewitched audiences since its very first performance. Starring Nigel Hawthorne as Oberon with Maureen O'Brien as Titania. Twelfth Night: Mistaken identity and a tangled love triangle lead to confusion and, ultimately, happiness in this comic masterpiece. Starring Dorothy Tutin as Viola, with Geraldine McEwan as Olivia and Stephen Murray as Malvolio. Recorded at BBC Broadcasting House and featuring the BBC Drama Repertory company, with specially composed music including a score from the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, this is classic radio drama at its finest.Duration: 7 hours approx.

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Robin Soans reads this original adventure featuring the 12th Doctor and Clara, as played by Peter Capaldi and Jenna Coleman in the BBC TV series. The TARDIS is summoned to an ‘space cathedral’ by Shadrak Winter, the High Cardinal of the Cult of the Prime Self. Soon to be relieved of his post by way of assassination, Shadrak has used his family’s calling card to bring the Doctor to his aid. His followers have long fled the Sinful, highly contagious slug-like creatures which he himself has succumbed to - and which now imperil the Doctor and Clara. As Clara discovers more about the Cult of the Prime Self - currently the fourth most popular religion - the Doctor becomes infected, all but lost to appalling guilt and self-recrimination. As he seeks to absolve himself of his perceived sins, Clara must use all her survival instincts to escape the Sinful’s advances and rescue her vulnerable friend. Robin Soans, who appeared in the 1981 Doctor Who serial The Keeper of Traken as well as in Series 9 in 2015, reads this atmospheric original adventure by James Goss, part of the Tales of Winter quartet of stories. Duration: 1 hour 10 mins approx.

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Benedict Cumberbatch reads these four new Sherlock Holmes stories by John Taylor'An Inscrutable Masquerade'/ 'The Conundrum of Coach 13'/ 'The Trinity Vicarage Larceny'/ 'The 10.59 Assassin'Inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle’s original Sherlock Holmes stories, John Taylor has written four more mysteries featuring the world’s greatest detective. Read by acclaimed actor Benedict Cumberbatch, these new adventures share all the suspense of the original tales.In a drawer in his bureau, Dr Watson keeps a locked cedarwood chest – a ‘box of secrets’. It contains an archive of notes referring to some of Holmes’ cases that, for one reason or another, never saw the light of day. Now, for the first time, Watson has decided to reveal the truth to the world... In these four thrilling stories, Holmes experiments with the science of ballistics, locates some missing gold bullion, investigates the theft of a large amount of money and solves the baffling mystery of the Stovey murder.

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Dan Starkey reads this novelisation of the brand new adventure for Doctor Who’s 60th Anniversary, featuring the Fourteenth Doctor and Donna Noble, as played by David Tennant and Catherine TateA sinister toyshop. The Earth erupting in violence. Shockwaves travelling through history.With old friends powerless to help, the Doctor is drawn into a deadly duel against an old nemesis who can bend reality to his will – and change the Doctor’s life for ever…Dan Starkey, whose roles in the BBC TV series include the Sontaran Strax, reads James Goss’s novelisation of the 2023 television adventure by Russell T Davies.This edition includes some unique chapters specially adapted for the audiobook medium.? 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2024 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReading produced by Neil Gardner/Ladbroke Audio.Sound design by Oliver Denman.Executive producer for BBC Audio: Michael Stevens.

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Julie Hesmondhalgh read this new novelisation of the TV adventure featuring the Thirteenth Doctor and friends.Kerblam! is the biggest online retailer in the galaxy - but how did it become so big? When the Doctor's Kerblam! package includes a mysterious request for help, she heads straight to the company's warehouse moon to investigate.Going undercover as Kerblam! workers, the TARDIS fam find that several human employees have vanished in sinister circumstances. Could the automated workforce be to blame? Or has the whole operation been compromised by forces unknown? The Doctor soon learns that when it comes to wrapping things up, she has nothing on Kerblam!...Julie Hesmondhalgh, who played Judy in the BBC TV episode, reads Pete McTighe's novelisation of his 2018 TV episode.? 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReading produced by Audio Always.Sound design by David Darlington.Executive producer for BBC Audiobooks: Michael Stevens.

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Maureen O'Brien reads this new novelisation of a BBC TV adventure featuring the Tenth Doctor, as played on screen by David Tennant.The first human colony on Mars is destined for destruction in a nuclear explosion. This tragedy is a fixed point in history. The laws of time dictate that it cannot - must never - be changed. But as the Doctor's darkest hour comes calling, he resolves to break the rules as he never has before...Maureen O'Brien, who played Vicki in the BBC TV series, reads Phil Ford's novelisation of his 2009 TV episode co-written with Russell T Davies.? 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReading produced by Neil Gardner/Ladbroke Audio.Sound design by David Darlington.Executive producer for BBC Audiobooks: Michael Stevens.

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Silas Carson reads this new novelisation of a BBC TV adventure featuring the Tenth Doctor and Donna."The Ood came from a distant world, they voyaged across the stars, all for one purpose... to serve."The TARDIS lands on the Ood-Sphere in the year 4126. Here, human profiteers have subjugated the Ood: the gentle creatures are forced into servitude and sold across the galaxy as the perfect slaves. But now, some are fighting back. Their eyes turn red as they throw off their chains and kill their oppressors...The Doctor and Donna soon learn that the planet of the Ood holds cruel and awesome secrets. As they battle for justice and survival, the fate of the entire Ood race hangs in the balance. Will the outcome be salvation - or extinction?Silas Carson, who voiced the Ood in the BBC TV series, reads Keith Temple's novelisation of his 2008 TV episode.? 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReading produced by Neil Gardner/Ladbroke Audio.Sound design by David Roocroft.Executive producer for BBC Audiobooks: Michael Stevens.

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Seán Carlsen reads this original adventure for the Tenth Doctor and Martha, as played on TV by David Tennant and Freema Agyeman.The waters of the Pacific Ocean form the backdrop of this foray into Eighteenth Century seafaring for the Doctor and Martha, when the TARDIS materialises on board the Blue Groper sailing ship.Grudgingly accepted as stowaways by Captain Sadler's crew, the travellers learn that the ship is on a mission to Luna Puesta, 'the land where the moon has set'.There, just off the coast of New Zealand, Professor James Tomlinson hopes to locate a missing archaeological link between dinosaurs and man.But what the expedition finds on arrival is far beyond the Professor's wildest dreams...? 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReading produced by Neil Gardner/Ladbroke Audio.Sound design by David Darlington.Executive producer for BBC Audio: Michael Stevens.???????

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Hired assassin Doom is on a mission to save her own life before Death catches up with her. If she can find the Doctor they might be able to help her - but where in Time and Space are they?These four missions - The Steel Cascade, The Martian Dilemma, An Ood Halloween and Dark Space - take Doom to a Mediterranean cruise ship in 1966, the planet Mars in the distant past, San Francisco in 1999, and finally a desolate planet in a dying solar system.Along the way she meets former TARDIS travellers Ian and Barbara, the mighty Ice Warriors, and Brian the Ood. But when a mysterious stranger with silver hair and sunglasses turns up, will he be Doom's salvation?Written by Darren Jones and read by Sooz Kempner, Jaye Griffiths and Silas Carson, these four original stories form part of the multi-platform Doom's Day adventure to celebrate Doctor Who's 60th anniversary.? 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution LtdReadings produced by Neil Gardner/Ladbroke Audio.Sound design by David Roocroft. Project editor: John Ainsworth. Doom's Day Project Manager: James Page.Executive producer for BBC Audio: Michael Stevens.

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David Troughton reads this thrilling novelisation of a classic TV encounter between the Doctor and the Ice Warriors.Returning to Earth in the 21st Century, the Doctor, Jamie and Zoe immediately find themselves caught in the midst of a crisis. T-Mat, a form of instantaneous transportation essential to the smooth running of life on Earth - is going disastrously wrong.The Doctor discovers that the T-Mat base on the Moon has been taken over by a group of Ice Warriors, led by the villainous Slaar. With their home a desolate and dying planet, the Martian invaders see Earth as a world ripe for conquest.But before they can colonise Earth they must dramatically alter its atmosphere. And so they unleash the Seeds of Death...David Troughton reads Terrance Dicks's novelisation of the 1969 TV serial by Brian Hayles.©2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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A multi-voice retelling of historical events featuring the First Doctor, Ian, Barbara and Vicki.The TARDIS crewmembers have taken a break from their adventures and are enjoying a well-deserved rest in a luxury villa.But, in the gory grandeur that is Imperial Rome, things don't stay quiet for long. If the time travellers can save themselves from being sold as slaves, assassinated by classical hit-men, poisoned by the evil Locusta, thrown to the lions, maimed in the arena and drowned in a shipwreck, they still have to face the diabolical might of the mad Emperor Nero.As if that wasn't enough, they also discover that, although Rome wasn't built in a day, it burnt down in considerably less time...Tim Treloar, Jamie Glover, Dan Starkey, Clare Corbett, Jon Culshaw, Maureen O'Brien and Louise Jameson are the readers of Donald Cotton's epistolary novelisation, a shining example of the wit and drama of Doctor Who.© 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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Clare Corbett reads this new novelisation of the TV adventure featuring the Tenth Doctor and Donna. "My masters will follow the example of Rome... our mighty empire bestraddling the whole of civilization!" It is AD 79, and the TARDIS lands in Pompeii on the eve of the town's destruction. Mount Vesuvius is ready to erupt and bury its surroundings in molten lava, just as history dictates. Or is it? The Doctor and Donna find that Pompeii is home to impossible things: circuits made of stone, soothsayers who read minds and fiery giants made of burning rock. From a lair deep in the volcano, these creatures plot the end of humanity - and the Doctor soon finds he has no way to win... Clare Corbett reads James Moran's novelisation of his 2008 TV episode which starred David Tennant and Catherine Tate. Reading produced by Neil Gardner at Ladbroke Audio Sound design by David Darlington Executive producer: Michael Stevens©2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

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