BBC at its best (Radio 4)

Member Name: steedandpeel

Product:	Radio 4
Date:	27/07/09 (56 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Quality broadcasting, news coverage, documentaries, classic comedy and no adverts!

Disadvantages: Some below par comedy and consumer programmes

I am one of the mythical Radio 4 listeners who is under 50! I'm only 30, but I have been listening to it everyday for the past ten years, despite its fuddy duddy reputation.

I value the BBC in general for its quality journalism and broadcasting (although it produces a lot of rubbish as well - BBC 3 anyone?), and I find that Radio 4 is the perfect showcase for the best of the BBC.

In terms of news, I rarely read the news sections of the newspaper, despite being very interested in current affairs and politics. I find that I manage to keep well informed by listening to the flagship Today programme in the shower in the mornings and during my daily commute, and by listening to PM during my drive home. The Today programme, in particular, is the highlight of the BBC's news broadcasting, with in depth articles and interviews by intelligent presenters who give politicians the grilling they so often deserve. The station also broadcasts many other news and politically programmes throughout the week, such as the Question Time-style Any Questions (presented by the other Dimbleby), as well as a daily highlights show from Parliament (when it is in session).

I usually listen to Front Row, Radio 4's daily cultural show in the evenings when cooking dinner. This is a very interesting show, covering all aspects of culture and the arts, from literature, to pop, film and classical music. There is usually something interesting to me and I've often been tempted to watch/read/listen to something having heard a review on this show. The station also serialises books and stories, often over a number of weeks which can be very interesting. In addition, there is a daily play. This can be a bit hit or miss, especially during the week. However, at the weekend, usually more popular plays or serials are broadcast.

Radio 4 is also quite prolific for comedy, having a daily comedy slot in the evenings, and other comedy programming dotted around the schedule. Firm favourites include The News Quiz (similar to Have I Got News for You), The Now Show, Just a Minute and I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue. A lot of very popular TV comedies started being broadcast on Radio 4, including The Mighty Boosh, and Dead Ringers. Although some of the comedy can be a bit unfunny, the majority of it is great, so it's worth a listen.

Probably the most famous programme is Radio 4's farming soap The Archers. This has been going for years, and although I don't make a point of listening to it, I generally know who the characters are and what is going on. There are a number of other serial programmes, but usually these are on during the day, so I tend not to hear them.

Radio 4 quite often produces very interesting documentaries and investigative programmes on a whole variety of subjects. I'm often surprised by how enjoyable these can be and make a point of tuning in, or listening again on BBC I-player to ones I'm interested in.

There are a number of consumer advice programmes, which can be useful, but are not my favourite style of programme. I do enjoy Money Box, the financial programme, as it offers practical financial advice.

There are many other quirky aspects to Radio 4 - where else would you hear the Shipping Forecast, or a programme dedicated to farming. Although these may not interest you, I usually find that there is something worth listening to if I'm driving, cooking, or just fancy a bit of background noise. I find that Radio 4 adds to my knowledge of various topics - I'm often saying "oh, I heard this thing on the radio" and imparting some opinion or obscure fact to my friends.

I used to feel a bit embarrassed about listening to a radio station with a reputation for appealing to older listeners, but I think this is not deserved. I'm always astonished how many of my friends my own age also listen to Radio 4 - probably about 50% of them. I do listen to other radio stations - occasionally Radio 2 and Radio 6 for music and Radio 5 if there is a sport event I'm interested in on. However, my radio is usually tuned to Radio 4. If you are interested in intelligent broadcasting and debate and loath zany presenters and adverts, it's worth giving Radio 4 a try!

Summary: The best radio station for quality broadcasting