I am a huge fan of BBC radio – it is without doubt the best in the world – and the jewel in that crown is BBC Radio 4. One of the things that always amazes me is how many people actually listen to radio 4. As a youth you always consider it an ‘old persons’ radio station, but in actual fact their listener profile is much more varied than you might think (although it is not a Radio 1 replacement!)
The today programme is a very civilised way to wake in the morning and I often find Radio 4 on in the car when I am out and about. It’s easy to forget how long radio has been a part of our lives – this week sees the 70th anniversary of one of the best program’s – Desert Island Discs.
First broadcast on 29 January 1942, the programme was conceived and presented by playwright and novelist Roy Plomley, who each week asked a guest to choose eight songs, a book and luxury item for their imaginary stay on the island.
To celebrate there will be 44 different versions of the radio programme transmitted today across the BBC’s entire UK network. The special editions will feature the public’s favourite tunes and memories.
Over the 70 years the great and the good have imagined life on a secluded island; Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony has been the most popular musical choice, and Je Ne Regrette Rien by Edith Piaf has been the most frequently chosen non-classical tune.
Amongst the 2,881 luxuries chosen to be taken on the island are 183 pianos, five trombones, the Albert Memorial and a cheeseburger machine.
Since it started the programme has only had four presenters;
Roy Plomley (1942-1986)
Michael Parkinson (1986-88)
Sue Lawley (1988-2006)
Kirsty Young (2006-present)
My personal favourite is Kirsty Young, give it a listen you may surprise yourself!
