The Archers Feed

Tales of a Tiger: Kim Durham on Matt Crawford

2017-10-29T19:15:00+00:00

Kim Durham

Matt seems to have made a recovery from being run down by a car, but only in time to find himself with no option but to flee Ambridge again! What are you up to at the moment?

Having just finished being employed as a full time Acting Tutor at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, I myself am enjoying the world of the freelance Actor, rather keen to tread the boards, and get in front of the camera again.

Matt Crawford is hit by a car

How did you feel when you got the call inviting 'Matt' back to Ambridge?:

I was delighted to hear from Editor Huw so early in his reign. I always felt that there was unfinished business between Matt and Lilian.

What were you told about the circumstances of Matt’s return and the potential storyline?:

The bait was that there would be quite a meaty storyline. I wasn’t told the full extent of it - possibly the writers hadn’t worked out the details themselves initially, but I’ve very much been kept in the loop as the story’s developed.

Sometimes actors in long form drama seem to get left in the dark about forward planning for their characters. Not helpful. I’ve very much appreciated the openness.

What have been your highlights to date playing Matt?:

It’s not so much any particular highlight, though there have been some great stories over the years. The real pleasure has been playing Matt over a long period.

The Americans talk about the actor being the “co-author” of their character, an idea writers usually object to and one that’s rarely really true. But in an ever rolling drama like The Archers you do get an unusual freedom to develop a character.

You are given something on the page, you put your take on it, and the next time the writers come to write for you they are hearing you. Somehow you feel you are moulding the character together.That’s been particularly true of working with the wonderful Sunny Ormonde and developing, along with writers, the oh so complicated Matt and Lilian relationship in all its various ups and downs.

Did Matt deserve to pull through?:

Honestly? Of course he did! And that’s not just because I’d love to go on playing him. I’ve always looked for the good in him and, yes, sometimes you have to dig very deep to find it.

He’s hugely flawed, some might say thoroughly bad, but somewhere way back, and I’m glad we did have the chance to explore this a little, he’s very damaged. I think the only other human being he’s ever really connected with or cared about is Lilian.

Do you know who mowed him down?!:

Half of Ambridge was in the car, wasn’t it?

You’ve played more than one character in The Archers – tell us more:

One or two episode appearances. I played a Trading Standards Officer who closed down Betty Tucker’s farm stall on the bypass. I played him Welsh as I remember. And I played a radio journalist brought in by Lynda Snell, I think.

Tell us about working with Sunny Ormonde (Lilian) & Simon Williams (Justin):

What a great triangle! Matt and Justin are chalk and cheese alpha males - chippy Sarf Londoner versus patrician. Sunny has been a mate for years, even before Pusscat and Tiger got together. And Simon is just the loveliest of men, as well as being tall, funny and handsome. I hate him.

Clearly you and Sunny go back a long way – any highlights / memorable moments as an acting duo?:

We did so many radio plays together before The Archers. Didn’t we once play Spanish revolutionaries dancing a flamenco?

And whatever happened to a proper bed in the recording studio? I seem to remember Matt and Lilian rolling about on one in The Dower House, before we owned it, and being caught a bit in flagrante by Caroline Bone.

The Archers - Matt's shock return

What is the secret of the chemistry between Matt and Lilian? And do you think Lilian should stick with Justin or run off with Matt?:

They’re both growing old disgracefully, and they’re both more attracted to the fire than the hearth. Deep down, I think they’re both selfish, except when it comes to each other, and there the love is intense, on both sides.

Should Lilian stick with Justin or run off with Matt? Everything in her head should say Justin. But she’s never really been ruled by her head, has she?

In a shocking twist, Lilian seems to have cottoned on to Matt's scheming and scamming - and now she has confronted him. Is this the end of the road for Tiger? Listen to the clip from Sunday 12th November...

Is Matt fleeing Ambridge again?

Re-read our interview with Kim from 2013.

More about Matt in our Who's Who.

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Huw Kennair-Jones steps down as editor of The Archers

2017-10-04T08:30:00+00:00

It has been announced today that Huw Kennair-Jones will step down as editor of The Archers. He leaves the world’s longest-running soap to join ITV as a drama commissioner.

"I’m delighted to be joining the ITV drama team at such an exciting time. ITV has always been at the forefront of TV drama and I’m thrilled to be getting the chance to work on Coronation Street and Emmerdale, two of the UK’s most iconic programmes. And though I’ll be away from Borsetshire, the fantastic cast and crew of The Archers in Birmingham will always have a special place in my heart and I’ll be listening as avidly as I ever have. I’ve loved being part of such a brilliant programme.”

Kennair-Jones joined The Archers in September 2016, having previously worked as a producer, commissioning editor and commissioning executive for independent production companies, Sky Drama, and the BBC.

Recruitment for Kennair-Jones’ replacement will begin shortly.

Gwyneth Williams, controller of BBC Radio 4 said:

“Huw Kennair-Jones has done a great job in Ambridge. It has been an eventful year in the village – Rob Titchener left for Minnesota, the cricket team admitted women for the first time, Jill Archer celebrated 60 years in Ambridge and Matt Crawford has returned to upset the apple cart. I would like to thank Huw and wish him well in his new role at ITV.”

The Archers fan who took a trip to Ambridge

2017-05-04T06:08:29+00:00

Through the first ever Birmingham Writer in Residence scheme, Caroline Horton has spent time learning how The Archers is made. Here, she shares her experience of going behind the curtain of the world's longest running drama.

"Are you a listener?" I nodded. I enjoy the sense of home that a room of like-minded addicts can offer. I was also quietly delighted that this particular guilty pleasure seemed to be a job for the next six months.

My Archers habit started early, as a kid, the first twelve minutes of dinner was eaten in deferential silence as we listened. I grew up in the Midlands village of Upper Longdon, so our nightly ritual also corroborated my assumption that we lived at the centre of the universe. I listened and recognised it all; Ambridge blurring with Longdon. I also remember my surprise that Borsetshire and Felpersham had been ‘missed off’ Mum’s road atlas, only somewhat reassured to spot Daventry.

I’ve listened ever since, covertly after leaving home, lowering the volume so my flatmates didn’t hear the theme tune. The familiar voices salved my bouts of homesickness and I missed it when I moved to Paris, the way other expats seemed to miss breakfast tea or Marmite. Back in 2005 you couldn’t listen abroad and phone calls home ran - how are you and what’s happened on The Archers?

Particular storylines have stayed with me: Helen’s anorexia; Ian and Adam’s love story; the foot and mouth epidemic as I watched it drive farms out of business around our village, and of course, more recently, Helen and Rob’s relationship as it slowly unravelled.

As with my time on Doctors and Home Front, the busy Archers team was incredibly generous with their time and energy. Over the months, I sat in on story meetings; shadowed the noting of synopses and draft scripts and watched recordings and edits in the Birmingham studios, before going on to write dummy synopses and episodes.

I saw first hand the collaboration between different parts of the team; the skill required to capture each distinctive voice and to keep different story threads alive, whilst not overloading individual episodes. Most of all, I saw the opportunity offered by such a long-running, continuing drama to explore issues over months and years; charting the ebb and flow of characters and relationships over entire lifespans.

The Midlands might not have quite the status that my ten-year-old Archers-addicted self imagined, but the hope, which I share, is that initiatives like this lead to more radio drama coming out of the Birmingham studios and more Midlands voices being heard on the BBC.

Matthew Holman - The Cream of Brookfield (?)

2016-01-19T15:30:00+00:00

Michael Winder, actor

Matthew Holman (played by Michael Winder)

He came, he saw, he milked - and did he also steal Pip's heart?...

Are Pip and Matthew (milk)made for each other? Vote now!

Who is Matthew?:

A contract milker from an agency, taken on at Brookfield to ease the burden.

How did he come (twice) to Ambridge?:

In the summer of 2015, Matthew was taken on at Brookfield as a contract milker, to replace Pip who was off to start her training before possibly travelling to Brazil and other exotic places as a Technical Manager with a top agricultural company. But in the aftermath of David’s momentous decision for the family to stay put at Brookfield, and not sell up and move North, Pip felt the pull of the farm and her family and ditched the new job virtually before she’d started.

This last minute change of heart saw Matthew back at the agency before his milking bucket could touch the ground (ok, we know the technique is a little more sophisticated, but you get the dramatic imagery).

Matthew wasn’t bitter, though, although Pip felt guilty about losing him money and remained keen to reimburse him (ooh er). Perhaps it was fate that Matthew would, just a few months later, be taken on properly in David and Pip’s hour of need, with Ruth away in New Zealand to clear her head.

From the moment he arrived in December, Matthew couldn’t wait to get stuck in. A single guy (it's such a mobile job and it's tricky to keep a relationship going), Matthew had done a National Diploma in agriculture (NDA) with dairy specialism. He always knew he wanted to work with cows. He's worked with a lot of different systems, including robotics for a couple of months in Suffolk.

Pip was clearly impressed by Matthew’s knowledge and ideas (blimey this rings a bell – Ruth and a certain herdsman called Sam?! - although at least in this case no marriages are under threat).

During Christmas 2015, Matthew and Pip enjoyed a kiss under the mistletoe. Since then they’ve spent odd furtive nights in each other’s company (we're still not sure whether David has cottoned on!), much to the chagrin of Toby and Rex Fairbrother.

Is Matthew the man for Pip?

Time will tell, but with Matthew set to finish up his work and head off for pastures new, he and Pip face a tough time keeping whatever they have going…

Pip hasn’t had much luck in love. Remember when she fell for a most unsuitable older man?...

Who's the man behind Matthew the milker?:

Michael Winder is a 30 year old actor who was born in Lancashire. Michael has recently completed filming Set The Thames On Fire, in which he stars with Noel Fielding and Sadie Frost. He has appeared in BBC TV dramas including George Gently and Tudors. Other credits include Channel 4’s Privado and E4’s Misfits.

Who are your ideal Ambridge Couples?

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BBC Audio Drama Awards 2016

2016-01-07T14:45:00+00:00

Eleanor Tomlinson, actor

Congratulations and "fingers crossed!" to Eleanor Tomlinson, who has been nominated for an Audio Drama Award.

The BBC Audio Drama Awards 2016 shortlist was recently announced. Eleanor, who also stars as Demelza Carne in BBC One's Poldark, is nominated in the category Best Debut Performance In An Audio Drama, for her sterling work as Ysanne Churchman and Grace Archer in the Radio 4 drama Dead Girls Tell No Tales, which is based on the behind the scenes story of the controversial death of Grace in The Archers in 1955.

The winners will be announced on 31st January.

Find out more about the BBC Audio Drama Awards 2016.

Writer Opportunity: Birmingham Writer In Residence Scheme

2015-12-02T14:00:00+00:00

BBC Writersroom - Birmingham Writer In Residence Scheme 2015/16

BBC Writersroom is sponsoring a six month part time residency for a produced Birmingham writer, sharing their time between BBC Television Drama, BBC Radio Drama, and Birmingham Repertory Theatre (The REP).

This is an exciting and unique opportunity to work on major dramas The Archers, Home Front and Doctors, as well as with Birmingham REP on their attachment scheme.

Find full details of the scheme, including eligibility and how to apply - from the BBC Writersroom.

IN A NUTSHELL...

You could spend quality time with The REP, as well as:

THE ARCHERS: Shadow the team, observe the recording studio, work with a producer and develop your own story pitch.

HOME FRONT: Work with a lead writer, the producer and editor, pitch and develop your own episode and observe in the studio.

DOCTORS: Shadow the filming and production process, working closely with the series’ producers. Contribute to several episodes of the serial, pitch and write an episode outline and receive feedback.

KEY DATES...

Opening date for submissions: Wednesday 2nd December 2015
Closing date for submissions: Wednesday 6th January 2016 at 5pm
Shortlisted writers notified: 25th - 27th January 2016
Selected writers notified: Mid-February 2016
Residency begins: Feb/March 2016 - TBC

Writers who are resident in Birmingham throughout 2016 should apply by submitting a script for stage, radio or screen, a CV and evidence of production (at any level) to The REP by 4th January 2016.

Eddie Grundy's World (Wide Web) of Turkeys

2015-10-13T16:45:00+00:00

Turkeys - by Emma Grundy

How do?! Welcome to Eddie Grundy’s World Wide Web (of Turkeys)!

Our Emma is putting together a spankin’ new website, so this is my attempt at a first post (I sound like a bugler, ha ha – do doooo!!)

So... Introducing Grundys’ finest turkeys! A traditional enterprise, carried out by the Grundy family for generations! (at least two (me and me Dad) - and with me grandkids Keira and George taking on some of the feeding, that’ll be four! so I ain't lyin').

The whole family will love a Grundy turkey this Christmas. We use the most natural feeds, just like we have since time immoral. It’s really healthy meat. And vegetarians can enjoy some good stuffing. (look out for some special recipes from me wife, Clarrie-love).

Just like our farm-fresh turkeys, we’re full o’ farm-fresh ideas to help you enjoy the Christmas season. Who could forget our Turkey Pardon and interactive exhibition last year? (we’re all still trying to forget me dad’s American accent, as he got all done up as Uncle Sam (or Joe)!) I’ve got a lovely drawing of a bunch o’ turkeys with their ‘eads chopped off somewhere, done by little George. I’ll upstage it to the website when I get a minnit.

Anyroad, a bit about me: I’m Eddie George Grundy. Some cheeky so and so once described me thus: “he’s got a finger in many pies and a gnome in every garden”. I've made a few connections - like that Alex Jones from the pop group Blur. And it's true to say I'm a real man of the community. I was even instrumental in helpin' save the old village hall when we had a hand from the loverley Anneka Rice back in '93.

Here's a pic of me signed photo - I've kept it for years in the workshop, next to the one of Britt Ekland:

Eddie's signed photo of Anneka Rice

So that's me. Eddie: poultry expert, hard worker, family man and man of the people. Your best bet when you're looking at placing an order for yer Christmas dinner. And don't let anyone tell you otherwise!

You may have heard of another, rogue outfit in the area - but steer clear. If anyone called Rex or Toby Fairbrother tries to flog you a bird, you tell 'em to sling their hook and let me know. I'll sort you out a treat. Might even throw in a rabbit as a goodwill gesture.

All the best!

Oh, by the way - some documentary people from Brum were asking me a few questions a while back. Here's what they had to say about me. (It takes all sorts)...

Joanna Toye on writing Dead Girls Tell No Tales

2015-09-17T15:30:00+00:00

Joanna Toye - writer

With more than 30 years experience writing for The Archers, and with it a wealth of knowledge about Ambridge, Joanna Toye has scripted Dead Girls Tell No Tales - a 60-minute drama which delves behind the scenes of one of The Archers' most controversial storylines...

Dead Girls Tell No Tales is broadcast on BBC Radio 4, on Saturday 19th Sept at 2:30pm. It will also be available to download as Radio 4's Drama of The Week.

How did the idea for ‘Dead Girls…’ come about?

Sean (O'Connor, Archers Editor) and I had talked for a long time about doing something to mark the 60th anniversary of the death of Grace Archer. We thought at first it might be a book, and then it occurred that the idea would be much better done as a play, because there were such fascinating characters to bring out.

How involved were you in the casting and production process?

Sean did an amazing job in bringing the cast together - I can’t claim any credit in suggesting people for roles. I was just responding to emails with ‘amazing’, ‘wonderful’ when I saw the names involved.

I went to the first day of recording and sat in on the read-through and some of the recording. I was fortunate enough to be there for some of the scenes which recreate the 1955 episode, and they were just as moving to hear re-made as it is when you hear the original.

You must have worked with a lot of archive material during the writing process…

I’m used to doing a lot of research for the several books I’ve written about The Archers, so a lot of the story was very familiar to me: I’ve novelised the Phil and Grace romance and her death, and I’ve worked with BBC Archives in Caversham.

How did you cope with the challenge of dramatizing real events and people?

It’s always quite difficult when you’re dealing with things that have really happened but you weren’t there for. So some of what is in the play is known to have happened and in other cases I have had to imagine. So in a sense it’s a drama based on fact.

For me, it was particularly interesting to find out about BBC Management and the Archers production office. I had great sympathy for the writers, as you can imagine. There were only two of them then and they were working under even more pressure than the current writing team does in terms of deadlines.

The programme wasn’t ‘pre-recorded’ at that time but done, as it were, ‘live’. It had to be done at a run and if the cast made any mistakes they had to go back to the beginning. They had endless rehearsal but when they did a take that was for real. Similarly with the writing, they only really got one shot at it. The particular week of Grace’s death was exceptional anyway because Godfrey Baseley - the quite extraordinary and inspirational editor at the time – had told the cast, and indeed the Press, that the Archers was going to be made in London that week , to show that it was relevant and because, of course, he knew that something was going to happen. The writers were writing the scripts on the day – the point of that week was that it featured topical references – and that was the excuse for doing it in London.

What did the Archers team look like in 1955?

It was enormous fun to imagine the script meeting at which Grace’s death was planned – I’ve attended hundreds of script meetings in my time, but this was a much smaller affair. The team then was tiny: it consisted of Godfrey Baseley the Editor; Tony Shryane the Producer; Valerie Hodgetts who was a production assistant/ continuity girl (she had the brilliant idea of starting the Archers archive); and the two writers. The bosses (the ’hierarchy’, as Godfrey called them) would join the meeting for lunch and rubber-stamp the stories. Fascinating.

Was it a mistake to kill off Grace Archer?

I think that for Phil, Jill has been the better wife. Grace, the character, was very headstrong, and quite spoilt. Whether she would have made an adequate farmer’s wife for Phil, down the years, I think is a very moot point…

What are your thoughts on the original Archers Editor, Godfrey Baseley?

Godfrey Baseley was an extraordinary man. I sadly didn’t ever meet him. He was a very big man, I understand, both in terms of personality and stature. The Archers got on-air entirely, really, through Godfrey’s sheer force of personality, and his determination that The Archers had a story to tell. The Archers owes everything to Godfrey Baseley.

What was it like to meet and work with Ysanne Churchman (the actor who played Grace Archer and who can be heard as herself in 'Dead Girls Tell No Tales')?

I think Ysanne was delighted to be involved in the programme. It’s her story that we’re telling. She saw the script before it went into studio and she’s heard the programme as recorded, and I’m happy to say is thrilled with it. When we took the microphone to her flat she absolutely rose to the occasion. It’ll be really amazing to hear her speak again, I think…

Listen to a clip: Joanna Toye shares her thoughts on Godfrey Baseley, Ysanne Churchman and the repercussions of Grace’s death for the nation…

Jo Toye on Godfrey Baseley and Grace Archer

'Passion's Plaything' - A Guide To Julia Pargetter

2015-09-04T10:57:32+00:00

Elizabeth (Alison Dowling) and Julia (Mary Wimbush)

"Julia loved it here..."

"Who?" you might ask. Elizabeth is of course referring to Julia Pargetter - mother of dear departed Nigel and mother-in-law to Elizabeth who has remained at Lower Loxley.

Julia’s Past:

On 29th September 1994, Nigel married Elizabeth Archer. At the reception, Julia’s estranged sister Ellen decided to tell the truth about Julia’s background:

Her name was not Julia but Joan. Their father was a greengrocer who had a market stall originally but went on to get his own shop. He had wanted both of his daughters to do secretarial training, but Joan saved up every penny and took dancing lessons. Joan had the looks and intelligence. Ellen always envied Joan her legs - they used to call her Lewisham's answer to Betty Grable.

Julia was playing in Bridlington in the early 40s when Gerald Pargetter was stationed near with his regiment. He went to see the show and fell madly in love. Before Gerald there had been a string of admirers. Ellen was very proud of her sister.

Julia and Nelson Gabriel:

In 1994 their friendship blossomed. They understood each other and went to the theatre together. There were occasions when Julia was being particularly vitriolic about Elizabeth, that Nelson was the only one who could handle her. However when Ellen came to visit the two sisters set a rivalry for his affections.

There was one time when Julia had been so upset by Nigel and Elizabeth that she walked from Lower Loxley to Ambridge. Worn out, she announced that Nelson was her only friend and moved into Honeysuckle Cottage. However she found it impossible to sleep in his spare room and had to have her own bed transported from Lower Loxley. When the bed didn’t fit through the cottage, it had to be lifted up to the first floor window.

Julia’s book:

In 1998 Julia decided to write her autobiography, so she went to Underwoods and spent £150 on a pen. The autobiography was to be titled “Without Bitterness: From Lemons to Lower Loxley” - Lemons because her father had been a greengrocer. However the autobiography turned out to be too problematic so she abandoned it in favour of a novel which was to be entitled “Passion’s Plaything”. (ooh er!)

Julia employed Susan Carter as her typist. The book was full of sex but sex doesn’t sell everything and Julia had problems finding a publisher. After one very carefully worded rejection letter Julia put the book into her bottom drawer. Could it be there still?

Julia and Lewis Carmichael:

From 1999 onwards Julia turned more and more for support from her friend and confidant Lewis Carmichael.

Then one Christmas Julia’s biggest fan, Douglas Prendergast, sent her a Christmas gift of a silk scarf with a card which said that the scarf was "Cornflower blue to match her eyes”. As his fan letters had become more than a little intense, Julia began to find his attentions disturbing. Worse was to come - on the anniversary of the first time he had seen her on stage, Douglas sent a large bouquet of flowers and a letter requesting a meeting. Julia decided to share her worries with her old friend Lewis. Lewis reassured Julia that she had nothing to worry about but asked her if he could take the letter.

Lewis phoned Douglas and arranged a meeting the following week. Lewis found Douglas to be an amiable chap: a widower who was utterly devoted to Julia, but entirely harmless. Douglas was pleased to meet Lewis, assuming that he too must be a fan. However Lewis went on to explain that he was in fact Julia’s husband and, as such, asked Douglas to stop sending Julia letters. Douglas was mortified, and agreed to cease contact immediately.

A few days later Julia received the last letter from Douglas apologising for bothering her: he didn’t realise that she was married.

Julia asked Lewis if he knew what Douglas had meant. Lewis was forced to tell her the truth. Julia was charmed that Lewis went to such lengths to protect her. She became coy when Lewis explained that he had had to say that they were married.

On St Valentines Day Lewis took Julia out to Stratford to see a play and on for a meal. They had a lovely time and at dinner Lewis proposed. Surprised but very happy, Julia accepted.

Julia and Lewis were married on 26th May 2005.

Julia Mary Pargetter Carmichael died in November 2005. Nigel and Lewis shared the readings at her funeral service.

Meet Lewis Carmichael - and Robert Lister who plays him

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Debbie! (our woman in a crisis)

2015-07-16T18:15:00+00:00

Tamsin Greig - The Archers

"Debbie!" -

Definition: An exclamation or cry of great joy. Used in multiples and/or capitals to express ever greater quantities of pleasure.

Well, so says the Archers’ Listener Guide to Euphemisms.

Tamsin Greig on Debbie:

Debbie Aldridge is the sharp-witted, independent, farmer business-woman, step-daughter of a wealthy capitalist farmer philanderer. She likes to ride her horse, her life and her family with expert control.

Find out more about Debbie – and Tamsin – in our Who’s Who.

Low points?:

Debbie has been called in by Brian to sort things out between him and Adam. She's had her own crises, of course, not least in her love life:

The abusive Simon Pemberton: The Grundys suffered a disastrous fire in their milking parlour, losing equipment and 34 cattle. Simon Pemberton, now the Estate owner, seized the opportunity to get rid of them on the pretext that it was through their own neglect. When he lost at a tribunal, he savagely turned on his then girlfriend Debbie Aldridge.

Shula encouraged Debbie to report the assault. To general dismay, Simon escaped with a £200 fine. But it spelled the end of his association with Ambridge.

The irresistible Simon Gerrard: An on-off relationship with older lecturer Simon resulted in marriage. They divorced after three years and his affair with a woman called Jeanette - the wife of his Head of Department. Simon had managed to crawl back into Debbie's arms, saying he wanted to start a family - but kept the affair going until he was caught out. Brenda Tucker was also attracted to Simon, and for a time Brian and Debbie suspected them of seeing each other - this was all cleared up though.

...perhaps dating men who aren't called Simon was a step in the right direction for Debbie (no offence to any lovely Simons out there).

Highlights?:

These obviously include her successful career and opportunities to travel. For us, though, it's her quick wit and turn of phrase - a call back to Home Farm usually includes a stinging or sarcastic one-liner to Brian.

And here's one Brian didn't see coming:

Debbie hands over the arable

Four things you might not know about young Deborah Aldridge…

1- Adam and Debbie’s joint management of the land started early: In 1977, 7 year old Debbie and her 9 year old half brother were both given a corner of the garden to cultivate (they started with lettuces, one of which Debbie gave as a gift to Peggy).

2- Debbie's first pony was called Moonbeam - bought for 63 guineas at the Horse Fair by Brian and Jennifer.

3- Debbie seems a bit more certain than Tamsin Greig when it comes to making career decisions. Here’s an interview from BBC Radio 4’s Front Row (listen from 6’30 for the whole feature/ from 14’10 for Tamsin on her own career choices).

4- Debbie was briefly in love with Gary Horrobin - brother of Susan Carter. Whatever happened to him?...*

*Gary has always lived at home with dad Bert. He enjoys a drink at the Dog and Trumpet. Ah, Debbie - think of the life you might have had... oh wait, we've covered that story haven't we:

"I'm related to a Horrobin!"

- Jennifer Aldridge (Aug, 2010)

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NEC Livestock Event - an Archers Writer's take

2015-07-08T18:30:00+00:00

Milking demo

My first impressions were pretty overwhelming: high tech gadgetry, expensive machinery and big industry. Over the course of a few hours I met some inspirational women, caught a persuasive demo of robotic milking and took away plenty of information.

Livestock Event sign, NEC Birmingham

Four things I learned at the NEC Livestock event:

1 - Even cows need a Pedicure!

At the Healthy Feet zone I was treated to a fascinating demonstration involving a cow flipped on its side in an electronically controlled crush, having her hooves trimmed by what looked like an industrial sand blaster and being told about the dangers of white-line disease (a condition rather than an actual disease, apparently). It looked brutal, but the cow walked out happily enough at the end and so I moved on…

2 - Farmers get useful leaflets at shows too:

I stocked up on leaflets that might come in handy when writing future episodes, and picked up several on paddock and grassland weed control - plus innovations in livestock housing and milking parlour technology…

3 - Women Farmers Rock (well, I knew this already of course):

I went along to the launch of an initiative called ‘Women In Dairy’ – just the sort of thing Pip and Ruth would be interested in becoming part of, one suspects. Their aim is to support women involved in dairy to achieve and celebrate success, raising awareness of the huge role women play in the industry and promoting their future involvement with a raised profile.

A key element of this is increasing awareness of how critical resolving inheritance issues can be to the continued survival and success of family-owned dairy farms – something the Archer family knows only too well.

The passion and commitment shown by Sarah, Becky and the others about the role of women in dairy farming (and in the Archers too!) was truly inspirational.

Here's a clip from an interview we gave for The Archers:

4 - Cows kind of have their own beauty pageant:
Cuddly Charolais, gorgeous Guernseys and heavenly Herefords in the livestock show section – they were all there. Beautiful, and another reason why I come to these shows to see such magnificent animals.

Livestock at the NEC, 2015

Interview with Patricia Gallimore (Pat)

2015-07-01T17:00:00+00:00

Patricia Gallimore (aka Pat Archer)

She may not have made Woman's Hour's, but Pat Archer would be sitting near the top of our Archers Power List.

Patricia Gallimore (aka Pat Archer) shares her thoughts about life, playing Pat, and the big changes in store at Bridge Farm …

Last year we did an indepth interview with Patricia on 40 years of Pat and Tony. You can also read our Q&A with Patricia from 2013.

Since then, a lot has happened to the Bridge Farm Archers. Not least, the big announcement that Pat and Tony are stepping back and handing control of the farm over to their children Helen and Tom...

How do you feel about Pat and Tony ‘stepping back’?:

It’s an interesting time for Bridge Farm. I suppose it is the end of an era. But it could also be a time for new beginnings, new ideas. In the handover, there may be ups and downs. It wouldn’t be like Bridge Farm not to have ups and down, would it?! It has been a disaster-prone farm over the years.

We seem to be in another process of farms going through change, now that Pat and Tony have told Tom and Helen that they’re handing over the reins. I hope that even if they have taken a step back, their voices will still be important on the farm. It’s all about surviving and coming through.

What do you think about Pat’s evolution as a character?

Pat has been part of my life for a long time. Of course you bring a lot of your own life and experiences in to it. I was newly married when I came into the programme – then Pat married. I then had two children - Pat had three. We have very different lifestyles of course (I’m an actor, not a farmer!)

Pat was very radical and freethinking, supporting women’s lib and Greenham Common. She has mellowed a bit, but I like to think she’s still got that fire and passion. These have helped her survive all the crises – the death of John, Pat’s mental health, Helen’s pregnancy… I think she’s great and I enjoy playing her. She can be maddening – but we all can.

Pat and Tony have had their happy moments as well. Finding their grandson - and the arrival of Johnny on to the farm - have been great, spicing things up and giving Tony another ‘son’ figure to bond with.

Pat certainly hasn’t lost her fire – she didn’t approve when Helen decided to stop working in order to spend more time at home. Here’s a clip from Oct 2014:

Pat Archer complains about Helen - October 2014

How have you found working with David Troughton (who took over the role of Tony from Colin Skipp 2014):

Colin and I had worked together for 40 years. It was very sad that he had to retire, but we’ve kept in touch and I know he had good reasons and it was the right time for him. I feel lucky that along came David to take over the role.

David had done a lot of research about the character. Over a long lunch he had a list of questions to ask me about Pat and Tony’s history – which put me on my toes! He came in to the role full of enthusiasm – he’s a lovely company man, having worked with theatre companies like the RSC.

Read a recent interview with David Troughton.

As actors, we all love our fictional families – we get on well. It’s nice that we’re not together all the time. We pick up with each other once a month, as with the recording schedule, and catch up on life.

What are the big storylines that have affected you recently?:

The big storyline, personally, was Tony’s accident and recovery. Just when you thought everything was all lovely, wretched old Otto nearly killed Tony. That was a good, emotional storyline. Also, it wasn’t so long ago we had the e-coli story and the farm was threatened. There are still problems to iron out after the bull attack. Pat and Tony are the great survivors.

For once, though, Bridge Farm seemed to be luckier than most during and after the flood – with the new developments around the Farm shop.

What have you been up to outside of Ambridge?:

While Pat and Tony were on holiday recently I went off to New York, where my daughter lives, and we welcomed a new grandchild into the world. So he (Oscar) is my third.

Work-wise, I’ve narrated well over 200 audiobooks and am delighted to have recently won my second award. The first one was for Queen Camilla by Sue Townsend, and the one I’ve just won is for an historical romance by Janet Wood called Tall Poppies. When I’m not doing The Archers and audiobooks, I’m involved with my family.

Finally, something we might not know about you?...

I’ve now worked with three generations of Troughtons. Way back in the late sixties I played Mary Yellan in a radio serialisation of Jamaica Inn with Patrick Troughton, David's father. It was my first lead in a classic serial and he was lovely!

Find Pat Archer in our Who’s Who.

Archers (down with the kids) at Glastonbury.

2015-06-28T18:14:00+00:00

Kate Aldridge and baby at Glastonbury (1998)

On 28th June 1998, amid heavy downpours of rain, teenager Kate Aldridge gave birth to Phoebe inside a tepee…

Kate always wanted a natural birth, but she was taken by surprise 3 weeks before her due date...

“My waters broke, can you imagine? In the middle of a field!...But I’d met this amazing woman, Morwenna. I dilated really quickly you see, but she helped me through with nothing but breathing…”

Listen to the scene - and Brian and Jennifer's reaction - here:

Kate Aldridge gives birth at Glastonbury (1998)

The Archers returned to Glastonbury in 2003 recording two special episodes on location. Here’s a little background…

Depressed Ed had feelings for Emma, who decided to go back to Will - so went along with Fallon to cheer himself up. Fallon, meanwhile, got her free ticket by helping Tom on his sausage stall. Kirsty also turned up and ended up sharing a tent with Tom (ah, happier times for T and K!)

Fallon and Ed weren't the only ones who knew how to let their hair down. On a hot day in the early '80s, Jolene rode topless on a motorbike at Glasto with her then boyfriend. (In case you were wondering, we don't have the audio - or visuals - to hand!)

John Peel…

In 2003 what Fallon really wanted was to meet record producers and get discovered as an artist for next year. It never really came off, although the cast were delighted to meet and be interviewed by superstar DJ John Peel!

The Archers at Glastonbury - John Peel

(picture shows (l to r): Tom (Tom Graham), John Peel, Kirsty (Annabelle Dowler), Ed (Barry Farrimond) and Fallon (Jo Van Kampen).

Read an article from the Guardian in 2003.

Not quite Glastonbury, but who could forget last year’s festivities at the inaugural Loxfest? The music and food festival at Lower Loxley was saved at the last minute by the arrival of headliners Pet Shop Boys…

Re-visit Loxfest 2014.

Follow The Archers on Facebook

Join the discussion on Twitter

Joanna Van Kampen on Fallon Rogers

2015-06-18T18:13:00+00:00

Joanna Van Kampen (Fallon) - Michael Wharley Photography

On the eve of Fallon's 30th birthday, actor Joanna Van Kampen shares a few thoughts about her time in Ambridge....

Jo, what are your first memories of working in Ambridge?

I remember being really nervous and not daring to go into the green room until a few minutes before the read-through started. I used to be quite shy. Buffy Davis took me under her wing straight away. She came round to my flat in Chiswick and told me all about the job. She’s always been amazing - my first scene was with her.

I remember thinking I won’t be around in Ambridge very long. But now, 15 years later, I’m so happy to still be here. I remember celebrating in the Park with my boyfriend and a bottle of champagne!

How has Fallon changed over the years?

I remember starting out she was this narky teenager, and I was told she’ll probably get pregnant or into trouble soon. From being rebellious and difficult I think the character has changed and matured into someone different.

Are you and Fallon very different?

When you play a character for so long, you do bring a lot of yourself into it. We’re quite similar in temperament. But I really don’t have a business head at all. I’m better at being told what to do! She’s very creative and makes things happen – I’m learning to be more like that.

I sort of based Fallon on a friend of mine - a fiery, staunchly Welsh girl called Malley. She’s really bolshy, but also playful and fun. She’s also emotionally intelligent and quite sensitive.

Can you recall any particularly controversial or challenging storylines?

I guess Fallon taking ecstacy was quite controversial. I also had some emotional scenes when Sid died. For me just playing the everyday is more challenging, though. Perhaps Fallon needs a bit more controversy.

Which characters and storylines are you grabbed by at the moment?

The storyline between Rob and Helen is so subtle. I also loved the build up to the flood – little clues, things that were going wrong. And now the fall out, with the blocked culvert.

Jennifer and Susan are brilliant and so funny. They’re both snobs in their different ways, such rich comic characters. Joe Grundy as well – the way he mutters is so cleverly done.

Can you tell us a bit more about your own life and passions?

Music and singing are a big part of my life. My dad, who died when I was 20, was a cellist and my mum is a violinist. It’s something I’ve always been around. Music has always been a part of Fallon, as it comes from Jolene. Maybe Fallon’s business could become a performance venue – I’d like to see her take to the mic herself.

I have two children. They used to complain but have recently got really into The Archers. They ask things like “why is Rob like that?” They sing happily along to the theme tune. Now that they’re such fans, we listen together in the evenings. I’m very into it.

Can you tell us about some of your more unusual experiences on The Archers?

Recording at Glastonbury in 2003 was pretty unusual – being interviewed by John Peel was amazing. I remember for one hungover scene I didn’t have to get out of my tent. I woke up a bit worse for wear myself to the site of Julie (Beckett, producer) sticking a microphone in to record with. Recording with Bradley Wiggins was another highlight. Most recently, I really enjoyed Blithe Spirit for Radio 4. It was a real treat, getting to work with Julian Rhind-Tutt, and also watching Eleanor Bron and Michael Cochrane being so brilliantly comic. We were encouraged to not try to be our Archers characters playing Noel Coward's characters, so I enjoyed doing the character work on Elvira.

Would you like to share any funny/ embarrassing moments from recording or ‘backstage’?

When Fallon and Harry the milkman had their first kiss, as actors we hadn’t discussed it. Michael (Shelford (aka Harry)) seemed a bit odd in the studio - he wasn’t looking at me. It came to the kiss and I went in. He didn’t offer his face and I ended up snogging his cheek. When we came out of the studio, it turned out that he’d been ill and had spent the whole recording desperately trying not to be sick.

There are lots of conversations and tomfoolery from the green room that I could tell you about, but it’s probably too rude. All I’d better say is that Paddy Greene (Jill Archer) is very good value!

How would you like to celebrate your next birthday?

I have this fantasy of going to a top jazz club, like Ronnie Scotts, and having a little table with a lamp.

And maybe getting up to sing?

Yes, that as well!

Find Fallon in our Who’s Who.

Follow The Archers on Facebook.

Join the discussion on Twitter.

Terry Molloy on Mike Tucker

2015-06-10T18:13:00+00:00

Terry Molloy as Mike Tucker, The Archers

The man behind Mike Tucker and Davros tells us about The Archers, radio drama, and learning the ukulele. We give you…Terry Molloy

Learn more about Mike (and Terry) in our Who’s Who section

Terry, what are your first memories of working on The Archers?

I was called in out of the blue by Tony Shryane to audition for Mike Tucker, who was coming in to the programme for about five weeks, and I was asked to start the next day. What I didn’t realise was that Mike had already been cast, but the actor had done one episode and then gone unavailable to join the radio Rep. So they cast me having matched the voice.

There were very few cast then – about 23 in total. My first real experience of the effect Ambridge has on the country was in touring a play. This lovely little old lady came up to me and said “you play Mike Tucker in The Archers, don’t you?”. I said “Yes I do” and suddenly got whacked round the head with her handbag. She raged at me about Mike being such a toe rag.

How do you get on with fellow actors?

It’s like a giant extended family – you get to know other actors but might not see them for months at times, depending on how stories go. We work very quickly but find time for a bit of joking around. Cocky (Michael Cochrane, Oliver) and I sometimes enjoy turning our lines in to musicals.

Can you tell us more about the evolution of Mike Tucker and a few high and low points?:

Mike came in as the new boy, taking over the herd at Brookfield for Ambridge Farmers. He was quite a lad at the time, a bit of a socialist, and got up Phil Archer’s nose. Betty his wife came in with him and they became a formidable pair. Betty may have appeared to be Mike’s doormat but actually ruled the roost. Mike didn’t suffer fools gladly and generally only opened his mouth to change feet. A bit of a moaner, he went off and got his own tenancy from Haydn Evans, taking on Willow Farm.

Mike has had his low points: we used to joke “how do you make Mike Tucker a millionaire? Start him off as a billionaire, ‘cos he’ll lose most of it." He went bankrupt, which led to a depression. He very nearly killed himself. It’s down to Vanessa (Whitburn, former Editor) who said she liked the character, so the writers found another way around it.

Mike lost his eye in a farming accident – it all looked as black and dismal as it possibly could. But he got compensation. Instead of doing what he wanted, which was buying loads of forestry gear, Betty insisted on putting down a deposit so they could buy Willow Farm – and they got it. So things started to go up. With Roy and Brenda they had a good family. Mike was madly working, and Betty was working in the shop. Part of Mike’s depression was seeing Betty doing all the work – what he felt was a man’s job. So over time we’ve seen Mike go from being an old man to a ‘reconstituted’ or ‘new’ man.

Betty dying was a massive deal. I remember being told that Pam (Pamela Craig - Betty) wanted to leave and they didn’t want to recast. Interestingly, we’d been there together for over 30 years – I’d been married to her longer than anyone in real life.

So then Mike drifts around and eventually gets together with Vicky who becomes a major maelstrom in his life. At first, the intention may have been that she was a bit of a money grabber, but the character worked so well and we worked well together that she stayed. Then of course we had the big story with Bethany…

Here's the interview with Terry Molloy and Rachel Atkins, incuding bonus audio.

This was a very powerful storyline which touched a lot of people – as do many storylines. A vicar came up to me once and thanked me for playing Mike’s depression – it was like therapy for him to listen and realise that he wasn’t alone in going through it. These stories do have a real effect on people out there.

Rachel Atkins and Terry Molly, The Archers

Can you tell us about your experience of radio drama in the Midlands?

I remember working with some fantastic characters: Philip Garston Jones who originally played Jack Woolley, and Charles Williams (The Archers' Haydn Evans) was also lovely - old school radio actors who knew their craft and were very supportive of a young man coming in. I’ve grown up alongside people like Carole Boyd (Lynda Snell), Brian Hewlett (Neil Carter), and Trevor Harrison (Eddie Grundy) – we were all there together as youngsters. I’ve had a great rapport with the crew as well – Mark Decker was the man of men, both as the audio supervisor for The Archers, and in the transference from Pebble Mill to the Mailbox studio. He made sure the new studio was made the way he believed it should be.

There was a vast amount of drama being made by directors including Philip Martin, Roger Pine, and also Vanessa Whitburn. There was a real love for the craft in the Midlands.

What do you love about radio / radio drama?

Audio drama is my life career, with and outside of the BBC. I enjoy pushing the envelope. I’ve worked on Doctor Who for TV and audio, Frankenstein, Survivors, The Avengers and more. Also a series called The Scarifiers – a totally mad, tongue in cheek thing set in the ‘30s. There’s a range of stuff out there which has been a delight to do.

More people are doing audio projects through Kickstarters. It’s happening now in audio, TV and Film in the same way it happened with music a few years ago – the studios are looking over their shoulders.

Tim Bentinck (David Archer) and I did a reprisal of Dick Barton special agent – a live audio recording for the BBC. It was like squaring the circle in that The Archers got rid of Dick but then two its actors brought him back to life! I've also been involved in a theatre production called Murder at Ambridge Hall. Touring around the country in the bus with Carole Boyd was hysterical.

What have you been up to recently?

I’ve been moving into film, working on a web series called Kosmos. It’s free to view and very dark, psychological and fun to play. I’ve also made a couple of films working with people like John Hurt and Eileen Atkins. And I’m chasing back and forward to the States doing Dr Who events. I’m doing workshops on acting for Radio, and what a lot of people won’t know is that I’m madly learning the ukulele and loving it!

How do you and Mike compare?

I know the character inside out having played him for so many years. They say you take a part of yourself in to the character – I don’t know how that works for Davros! Maybe it’s the one-eyed thing. I suffer fools with as little gladness as Mike does, and also sometimes only open my mouth to change feet.

As you get older you soften – that blazing ambition and drive you have in your 20s and 30s slowly softens. By the time you get to your 60s you just chill out and take each day as it comes and enjoy it. You begin to mellow, so the character has a bit as well.

Ambridge has always reflected the reality of living in a rural community - and that’s its success. Doctor Who was and still is a big part of my life. Somebody said to me “ you do realise you’ve been in two of the most iconic series in the last century?”. I said “yes, but less of the ‘last century’ please!” It makes me feel very old!...

Learn more about Mike (and Terry) in our Who’s Who section

The Archers Feed

Tales of a Tiger: Kim Durham on Matt Crawford

In a shocking twist, Lilian seems to have cottoned on to Matt's scheming and scamming - and now she has confronted him. Is this the end of the road for Tiger? Listen to the clip from Sunday 12th November...

Join us!

Huw Kennair-Jones steps down as editor of The Archers

It has been announced today that Huw Kennair-Jones will step down as editor of The Archers. He leaves the world’s longest-running soap to join ITV as a drama commissioner.

Gwyneth Williams, controller of BBC Radio 4 said:

The Archers fan who took a trip to Ambridge

Through the first ever Birmingham Writer in Residence scheme, Caroline Horton has spent time learning how The Archers is made. Here, she shares her experience of going behind the curtain of the world's longest running drama.

Matthew Holman - The Cream of Brookfield (?)

Matthew Holman (played by Michael Winder)

Are Pip and Matthew (milk)made for each other? Vote now!

Who is Matthew?:

How did he come (twice) to Ambridge?:

Is Matthew the man for Pip?

Who's the man behind Matthew the milker?:

BBC Audio Drama Awards 2016

Congratulations and "fingers crossed!" to Eleanor Tomlinson, who has been nominated for an Audio Drama Award.

Find out more about the BBC Audio Drama Awards 2016.

Writer Opportunity: Birmingham Writer In Residence Scheme

BBC Writersroom is sponsoring a six month part time residency for a produced Birmingham writer, sharing their time between BBC Television Drama, BBC Radio Drama, and Birmingham Repertory Theatre (The REP).

This is an exciting and unique opportunity to work on major dramas The Archers, Home Front and Doctors, as well as with Birmingham REP on their attachment scheme.

Find full details of the scheme, including eligibility and how to apply - from the BBC Writersroom.

IN A NUTSHELL...

You could spend quality time with The REP, as well as:

KEY DATES...

Opening date for submissions: Wednesday 2nd December 2015

Closing date for submissions: Wednesday 6th January 2016 at 5pm

Shortlisted writers notified: 25th - 27th January 2016

Selected writers notified: Mid-February 2016

Residency begins: Feb/March 2016 - TBC

Writers who are resident in Birmingham throughout 2016 should apply by submitting a script for stage, radio or screen, a CV and evidence of production (at any level) to The REP by 4th January 2016.

Eddie Grundy's World (Wide Web) of Turkeys

How do?! Welcome to Eddie Grundy’s World Wide Web (of Turkeys)!

All the best!

Joanna Toye on writing Dead Girls Tell No Tales

With more than 30 years experience writing for The Archers, and with it a wealth of knowledge about Ambridge, Joanna Toye has scripted Dead Girls Tell No Tales - a 60-minute drama which delves behind the scenes of one of The Archers' most controversial storylines...

Dead Girls Tell No Tales is broadcast on BBC Radio 4, on Saturday 19th Sept at 2:30pm. It will also be available to download as Radio 4's Drama of The Week.

How did the idea for ‘Dead Girls…’ come about?

How involved were you in the casting and production process?

You must have worked with a lot of archive material during the writing process…

How did you cope with the challenge of dramatizing real events and people?

What did the Archers team look like in 1955?

Was it a mistake to kill off Grace Archer?

What are your thoughts on the original Archers Editor, Godfrey Baseley?

What was it like to meet and work with Ysanne Churchman (the actor who played Grace Archer and who can be heard as herself in 'Dead Girls Tell No Tales')?

Listen to a clip: Joanna Toye shares her thoughts on Godfrey Baseley, Ysanne Churchman and the repercussions of Grace’s death for the nation…

'Passion's Plaything' - A Guide To Julia Pargetter

"Julia loved it here..."

Julia’s Past:

Julia and Nelson Gabriel:

Julia’s book:

Julia and Lewis Carmichael:

Debbie! (our woman in a crisis)

"Debbie!" -

Low points?:

Highlights?:

Four things you might not know about young Deborah Aldridge…

"I'm related to a Horrobin!"

NEC Livestock Event - an Archers Writer's take

Interview with Patricia Gallimore (Pat)

Archers (down with the kids) at Glastonbury.

Joanna Van Kampen on Fallon Rogers

Terry Molloy on Mike Tucker