Wednesday 24 Sep 2014
Programme Information
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52:
19 December 2009-1 January 2010
Transmission details in the Network TV Programme Information 14-day version are not updated after publication. For updates, please see individual day pages.
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52: BBC ONE
- Big Top – Dad
- Big Top – Clown
- Big Top – Thief
- Casualty – All I Want For Christmas
- Casualty – Tidings Of Comfort And Joy
- Catherine Tate – Nan's Christmas Carol
- Celebrity Mastermind
- Cranford – Part One: August 1844
- Cranford – Part Two: October To December 1844
- The Day Of The Triffids
- Doctor Who – The End Of Time, Part One
- Doctor Who – The End Of Time, Part Two
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- Gavin & Stacey
- Gavin & Stacey
- The Gruffalo
- Holby City
- Holby City
- The Impressions Show With Culshaw And Stephenson
- The Impressions Show With Culshaw And Stephenson
- Merlin
- My Family Christmas Special 2009
- Outnumbered Christmas Special
- Paradox
- The Royle Family – The Golden Eggcup
- Spooks
- Strictly Come Dancing
- Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special
- The Turn Of The Screw
- Top Of The Pops Christmas Special
- Top Of The Pops New Year's Eve Special
- Total Wipeout – Celebrity Special
- Total Wipeout – Celebrity Special
- Victoria Wood's Mid-Life Christmas
- Waterloo Road
- Waterloo Road
- What Larks! – The Making Of Victoria Wood's Mid-Life Christmas
BBC ONE
Circus Maestro wins the contract to perform the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics, along with a £20,000 development grant, as the colourful, upbeat and heart-warming family comedy series set in and around a travelling circus and starring Amanda Holden, John Thomson, Sophie Thompson, Ruth Madoc and Bruce Mackinnon continues.
When the money mysteriously disappears, Lizzie is forced to resort to desperate measures to replace it. This means faking Plonky the Clown's death, springing her father from prison and tracking down some buried cash.
But when Lizzie's dad makes a short and timely visit to Circus Maestro, he has other plans for the money...
Lizzie is played by Amanda Holden, Plonky the Clown by John Thomson and Lizzie's dad by Kevin R MacNally.
Big Top is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
AN/KB
Plonky the Clown visits the local children's hospital to spread the healing power of laughter and is soon banned for traumatising the children, as the family comedy series set in and around a travelling circus continues.
When Plonky comes down with a mystery virus, Lizzie is forced to step into his clown shoes and, to her surprise, she and Helen (Plinky the Clown) are a big hit. Their only problem now is how to prevent Plonky from recovering too quickly and returning to reclaim the act.
Meanwhile, Boyco takes on three extra jobs to boost circus funds and Georgie sends David the dog on a sponsored swim across the Channel.
Plonky is played by John Thomson, Lizzie by Amanda Holden, Plinky by Sophie Thompson, Boyco by Bruce Mackinnon and Georgie by Ruth Madoc.
Big Top is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
AN/KB
Big Top – Thief Ep 6/6
Erasmus's criminal past comes back to haunt him when he is accused of a series of burglaries, in the final episode of the family comedy series set in and around a travelling circus.
Lizzie, quick to condemn, kicks Erasmus out of Circus Maestro but regrets it when the show collapses. In trying to get him back, she inadvertently contacts his old enemy, dangerous criminal Uncle Rico.
Now the troupe has to keep hold of Erasmus and also prevent Uncle Rico from destroying him.
Erasmus is played by Tony Robinson and Lizzie by Amanda Holden.
Big Top is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
AN/KB
Ruth faces a festive family crisis, Lenny considers the prospect of unwanted early Christmas leave and Zoe continues to enjoy a bit too much seasonal "spirit" in this year's festive offering of the medical drama.
As the competition for the fellowship continues, May is frustrated by always being regarded the least-promising of the F2s and plays a trick on Lenny which has far-reaching consequences. Acting on May's misinformation, Lenny mistakenly tells two sisters that their father, Barry, has died. He is severely reprimanded by a stressed and furious Adam and it looks as if Lenny's Christmas leave may be lasting a little longer than he would like.
Ruth, meanwhile, is looking forward to celebrating Christmas with a long-lost member of her family when she notices an heirloom has gone missing from her flat. As she's plunged into a world of stolen phones, heroin overdoses and male prostitution, Ruth realises that she's likely to face Christmas alone. Will this mean she's ready to accept the support of ex-boyfriend Jay?
As matters finally come to a head between Jordan and Adam over Jordan's role in the Emergency Department (ED), Jordan is forced to face the music over his future as a doctor. Meanwhile, Zoe continues to escape the stresses of her life through the bottom of a bottle.
Finally, the staff find out who is responsible for the string of disappearances in the ED. Is there a thief at large or could it be a secret Santa working in mysterious ways?
Ruth is played by Georgia Taylor, Lenny by Steven Miller, Zoe by Sunetra Sarker, May by Laura Aikman, Adam by Tristan Gemmill, Jay by Ben Turner and Jordan by Michael French. Keith Barron guest stars in this episode.
FW/BW2
It's Christmas party fever in the Emergency Department (ED) on Boxing Day as Noel heads to the celebrations at his father, David's, old people's home, and there's also the Dean's annual bash for the staff to look forward to.
After a tough night in the ED, Zoe offers Noel a lift to his father's party. Noel is devastated when he doesn't recognise him but seems very close to another visitor, Jimmy. He's further worried by the fact that his father and several other residents seem ill. He begs Zoe to help his father.
The F2s are on their way to help Noel's Charity Christmas visit but are suddenly called into action when they come across a car crash. Working together, they manage to stabilise their patients and get them to the ED. They are hailed as heroes by Adam in front of their colleagues and superiors at the Dean's Christmas party later that evening.
The Dean, Eddie, proudly boasts to Henry that May is his daughter but she then tells him that she wants to make it on her own. Henry blurts the news to the other F2s and Lenny is disgusted at her lies and Yuki disappointed at her cover-up.
Meanwhile, as Adam and Jessica's wedding day approaches, Adam completely loses his cool with a member of staff as the pressure builds at work and home. Ruth and Jay are thrown together to work on a medical case and Ruth finally admits that she's lonely after another family disaster. Letting down her guard, she accepts Jay's comfort and the pair head home together.
Tony Marshall plays Noel, Sunetra Sarker plays Zoe, Ram John Holder plays David, Sean Hughes plays Jimmy, Tristan Gemmill plays Adam, David Mallinson plays the Dean, Tom Chadbon plays Henry, Laura Aikman plays May, Steve Miller plays Lenny, Will Sharpe plays Yuki and Gillian Kearney plays Jessica.
FW/BW2
Nan is the star of this year's seasonal special from Catherine Tate.
The festive show sees Nan's acid-tongued insults catch up with her when the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future, along with a dead husband, pay an unexpected visit, in this comic re-telling of Charles Dickens's tale A Christmas Carol.
Is it too late for Nan to swap her Scrooge-like misery for some seasonal goodwill?
The Christmas special sees Mathew Horne return as Nan's grandson, Jamie, and features appearances from special guests including Ben Miller and Only Fools And Horses actor Roger Lloyd Pack.
TH
Celebrity Mastermind is back for a new series over the festive season. This time, 40 of Britain's top entertainers will take the lonely walk into the spotlight and to the black leather chair.
Contenders include actor John Thomson, who has Bond villains as his specialist subject; naturalist Steve Backshall on the subject of judo; and swimmer Mark Foster on New Romantics.
FD
It is late summer in 1844 and two years since Miss Matty Jenkyns lost her beloved sister, Deborah, in the first of a two-part Cranford special for Christmas. Matty's home is once again full of life and bustle. Not only has her brother, Peter, stayed on in Cranford, but also her dream of having a child in the house has been realised in the birth of Tilly, daughter of her maid, Martha, and her carpenter husband, Jem Hearne. Matty relishes every moment being the centre of such a busy household.
The shadow of the railway still looms over the town but, much to the relief of Matty and the town ladies – Miss Pole, Mrs Forrester, Mrs Jamieson and Miss Tomkinson – Lady Ludlow has steadfastly refused to sell the land that would allow it to come into Cranford itself. For others, however, this spells disaster: Captain Brown believes that modernisation is inevitable if the town is to survive.
When Cranford native Mr Buxton returns to town with his son and niece, William and Erminia, Matty can see that father and son's grief over Mrs Buxton's recent death has left them at odds with each other, and that William and Erminia are in need of company. Matty is also concerned about another young person whom she sees only at church: Peggy Bell, who lives in an isolated cottage outside the town with her inattentive mother, Mrs Bell, and domineering brother, Edward. So Matty decides to intervene and engineers an invitation that will bring the four young people together.
The surprise arrival of Lady Ludlow's son, Lord Septimus, leads to a chain of unexpected events. Captain Brown believes he has secured rights to bring the railway line into Cranford, but is shocked when he discovers that Mr Buxton holds its fate in his hands. Meanwhile, tragedy strikes in Matty's own house and she finds she must re-evaluate her opinions of the railway and think for herself. Can she change the course of events and, if so, should she?
Miss Matty Jenkyns is played by Dame Judi Dench, Peter by Nicholas Le Prevost, Martha by Claudie Blakley, Jem Hearne by Andrew Buchan, Miss Pole by Imelda Staunton, Mrs Forrester by Julia McKenzie, Mrs Jamieson by Barbara Flynn, Miss Tomkinson by Deborah Findlay, Lady Ludlow by Francesca Annis, Captain Brown by Jim Carter, Mr Buxton by Jonathan Pryce, William by Tom Hiddleston, Erminia by Michelle Dockery, Peggy Bell by Jodie Whittaker, Mrs Bell by Lesley Sharp, Edward by Matthew McNulty and Lord Septimus by Rory Kinnear.
Cranford is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
CD
Miss Matty and the ladies of Cranford are excited about the imminent visit of Lady Glenmire, as the two-part Cranford special reaches a conclusion. That is until the Hon Mrs Jamieson announces that none of them is of high-enough social standing to meet her. Deeply hurt, Miss Matty leads the Amazons in snubbing both the newcomer and her hostess. But sociable Lady Glenmire is quick to offer an olive branch by hosting a memorable Halloween party, which results in the forging of new friendships.
Impressed by Edward Bell's ambitions and hurt by his own son's defiance, Mr Buxton takes on Edward to act as his land agent. But Edward makes a disastrous decision that has dire consequences not only for himself but also for Peggy, whose fortitude and courage will be tested to the limit.
Meanwhile, Matty is distressed when a surprising discovery about one of their close circle results in a serious falling out among the friends. Mrs Jamieson and Miss Pole split from the group and Matty is uncertain about how to bring them all back together again.
Matty is also deeply affected by Peggy's crisis. Knowing painfully well the cost of sacrificing one's personal happiness for the sake of family obligations, Matty decides to intervene in events to help Peggy. But when tragedy strikes the town, she comes to believe that, unwittingly, she has opened a Pandora's box and fears that Cranford will never recover.
Cranford is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
Miss Matty is played by Dame Judi Dench, Lady Glenmire by Celia Imrie, Mrs Jamieson by Barbara Flynn, Edward Bell by Matthew McNulty, Mr Buxton by Jonathan Pryce, Peggy by Jodie Whittaker and Miss Pole by Imelda Staunton.
CD
Dougray Scott, Joely Richardson, Brian Cox, Vanessa Redgrave, Eddie Izzard and Jason Priestley star in The Day Of The Triffids, written by Patrick Harbinson. This epic, fast-paced futuristic two-part drama, shown on consecutive nights, is based on John Wyndham's best-selling novel of the same name, published in 1951.
In the not-too-distant future, man's search for an alternative fuel supply leads him to uncover the ominous Triffid, a crop now cultivated for its fuel that seems to have a life of its own. But when spectators gather worldwide for a much-anticipated solar storm, billions are left blinded and the few sighted survivors watch as society collapses into chaos. The Triffids, meanwhile, find their way out of captivity. Free to roam the planet with a fatal sting and a retributive taste for human flesh, the Triffids begin rapid breeding.
Now, Dr Bill Masen must lead the brave in their epic battle against the Triffids' reign of terror in what could be the last days of mankind...
Dougray Scott is Bill Masen, Joely Richardson is Jo Playton, Brian Cox is Dennis Masen, Vanessa Redgrave is Durrant, Eddie Izzard is Torrence and Jason Priestley is Coker.
The Day Of The Triffids is also simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
AF
It's the Tenth Doctor's final journey – but his psychotic nemesis the Master has been reborn, on Christmas Eve. With both determined to cheat death, the battle ranges from the wastelands of London to the mysterious Immortality Gate, while the alien Ood warn of an even greater danger approaching, as a terrible shadow falls across the entire Universe.
David Tennant stars as the Tenth Doctor and guest stars include John Simm, Bernard Cribbins, Catherine Tate, Timothy Dalton, David Harewood and June Whitfield.
The End Of Time, Part One is written by Russell T Davies and directed by Euros Lyn. The producer is Tracie Simpson.
Doctor Who – The End Of Time, Part One is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
TH
The Doctor faces the end of his life as the Master's plans hurtle out of control. With the sound of drums growing louder, and an ancient trap closing around the Earth, the Doctor and Wilf must fight alone. But sacrifices must be made, and the deadly prophecy warns: "He will knock four times."
David Tennant stars as the Tenth Doctor and guest stars include John Simm, Bernard Cribbins, Catherine Tate, Timothy Dalton, David Harewood and June Whitfield.
The End Of Time, Part Two is written by Russell T Davies and directed by Euros Lyn. The producer is Tracie Simpson.
Doctor Who – The End Of Time, Part Two is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
TH
Ronnie and Roxy try to work out how to deal with Archie, as life in Albert Square continues. The Mitchell family, however, do their best to reach compromises for Christmas.
Jean, meanwhile, is excited at the prospect of Bradley and Stacey's return from their holiday.
Ronnie is played by Samantha Womack, Roxy by Rita Simons, Archie by Larry Lamb, Jean by Gillian Wright, Bradley by Charlie Clements and Stacey by Lacey Turner.
JM3
Under pressure from Phil, Ian visits Archie and tries desperately to make amends for the mistakes he has made, as the drama continues. Meanwhile, Archie deliberates over his options.
Peggy's unfortunate situation, meanwhile, leads her to Pat, who offers words of encouragement and support which have an inspiring effect on Peggy.
Phil is played by Steve McFadden, Ian by Adam Woodyatt, Archie by Larry Lamb, Peggy by Barbara Windsor and Pat by Pam St Clement.
JM3
Overcrowding at Pat's house creates tension between Ricky and Bianca, in this visit to Walford. Ricky, however, reminds the family that his stay was only ever meant to be temporary, but Bianca is reluctant for him to leave.
Elsewhere, Christian takes matters into his own hands and makes dramatic plans – which, in turn, leave Syed in a state of indecision.
Pat is played by Pam St Clement, Ricky by Sid Owen, Bianca by Patsy Palmer, Christian by John Partridge and Syed by Marc Elliot.
JM3
Janine and Archie each find themselves rejected by their families at Christmas, as life in Walford continues.
Archie later has an unusual Christmas gift for Janine.
Janine is played by Charlie Brooks and Archie by Larry Lamb.
JM3
Max attempts to explain the family situation to a confused Abi in this visit to Albert Square, as they continue to celebrate their Christmas curled up together on the sofa.
Meanwhile, Archie's manipulative conduct catches up with him as he receives numerous visitors. One person in particular is seeking revenge and lays his evil ways to rest for ever.
Max is played by Jake Wood, Abi by Lorna Fitzgerald and Archie by Larry Lamb.
JM3
News of Archie's murder swiftly spreads across the Square, as theories and alibis become rife among the residents.
JM3
Infuriated by Janine's behaviour, Roxy shows her anger outside the Vic, as the drama in Albert Square continues, and only calms down once Ronnie arrives.
Elsewhere, Todd's endeavours to coax Whitney into going out with him are met with a frosty response.
Janine is played by Charlie Brooks, Roxy by Rita Simons, Ronnie by Samantha Womack, Todd by Ashley Kumar and Whitney by Shona McGarty.
JM3
During the lead up to the wedding, all eyes are on Syed and Amira. Syed proves a hit on the dance floor, while Amira's style is widely applauded.
Shirley and Phil, meanwhile, come to an arrangement that is mutually beneficial for both their futures.
Syed is played by Marc Elliot, Amira by Preeya Kalidas, Shirley by Linda Henry and Phil by Steve McFadden.
JM3
Darren's money worries continue to escalate as Libby piles on the pressure about their holiday. Manda, however, attempts to offer him some helpful advice.
With the countdown to the New Year looming, Ricky and Bianca host a house party.
Darren is played by Charlie G Hawkins, Libby by Belinda Owusu, Manda by Josie Lawrence, Ricky by Sid Owen and Bianca by Patsy Palmer.
JM3
The day of Amira and Syed's wedding has arrived, and Masood takes issue with Zainab over an omission on the wedding checklist. His enquiries, however, lead to a shocking revelation.
Elsewhere, Christian is forced into making some tough decisions.
Amira is played by Preeya Kalidas, Syed by Marc Elliot, Masood by Nitin Ganatra, Zainab by Nina Wadia and Christian by John Partridge.
JM3
Tamwar finds himself the focus of someone's affection, as the drama in Albert Square continues. To his surprise, a slight change of appearance has the desired reaction.
Darren and Libby's bickering, meanwhile, turns into an argument in front of family and friends.
Tamwar is played by Himesh Patel, Darren by Charlie G Hawkins and Libby by Belinda Owusu.
JM3
It's Bank Holiday Monday and the Essex contingent arrives for a sunny day out at the beach. Doris even puts her sun dress on, as the Bafta Award-winning comedy series continues.
Gavin's heart-to-heart with his dad gives him something more to think about and a dark cloud looms on the horizon when Dave arrives to find Nessa and Smithy enjoying all the fun of the fair.
Doris is played by Margaret John, Gavin by Mathew Horne, Dave by Steffan Rhodri, Nessa by Ruth Jones and Smithy by James Corden.
CS
Nessa and Dave's wedding is fast approaching and the preparations are in full swing, as the award-winning comedy concludes. Stacey breaks some life-changing news to Gavin. Smithy takes care of baby Neil and wishes Nessa all the best as she makes her way to the church to marry Dave, with some very special guests...
Nessa is played by Ruth Jones, Dave by Steffan Rhodri, Stacey by Joanna Page, Gavin by Matthew Horne, Bryn by Rob Brydon, Jason by Robert Wiltfort, Smithy by James Corden and Nessa by Ruth Jones.
CS
A half-hour animated film based on the classic children's picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, tells the magical tale of a mouse who takes a walk though the woods in search of a nut.
Encountering three predators who all wish to eat him – a fox, an owl and a snake – the plucky mouse has to use his wits to survive. He announces that he is meeting a monster with terrible features – a Gruffalo – and the three predators are each panicked into running away.
Mouse is now increasingly confident. There is nothing that can touch him ... or so he thinks. Then, he rounds a corner and comes face to face with the terrible creature of his imagination – the Gruffalo.
Mouse has to dig deep to escape the danger and manages to convince the monster that he is the scariest creature in the wood. The Gruffalo flees in fear. As quiet returns to the deep, dark wood, he finally finds a nut, and can eat it in peace...
Mouse is voiced by James Corden, Fox by Tom Wilkinson, Owl by John Hurt, Snake by Rob Brydon, Mother Squirrel by Helena Bonham Carter and the Gruffalo by Robbie Coltrane.
The Gruffalo is also being simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
MO
Linden and Holly prepare for a perfect Christmas at home together, as the medical drama continues. However, when Holly makes an innocent mistake over a surprise present, memories of Linden's past come flooding back to haunt him and completely destroy their plans.
When Father Thomas Logan, a priest and mentor, is brought in to Holby as a patient, Linden is forced to face up to the real problem that has been affecting his life for years – his guilt over his failure to save the life of his wife, Olivia. When he is able to come to terms with that, he and Holly will be able to start again.
Meanwhile, Donna reunites a dying mother with her daughter; Michael is busy discharging all his patients for the holiday; Daisha gets very cosy with Oliver before she leaves for the Philippines; and Chrissie announces that she is pregnant. Later that evening, everyone enjoys a karaoke singalong at Donna's charity event in Albie's bar.
Linden is played by Duncan Pow, Holly by Charlotte Wakefield, Father Thomas Logan by John Kavanagh, Olivia by Amy Shiels, Donna by Jaye Jacobs, Michael by Hari Dhillon, Daisha by Rebecca Grant, Oliver by James Anderson and Chrissie by Tina Hobley.
JM3
Lauren is desperate to keep a low profile and avoid Joseph, as the medical drama continues. When Joseph finds out that Faye has been charged with Archie's murder, however, Lauren's guilt overwhelms her and she confesses all to Thandie – who, in turn, tells Joseph. After hearing Lauren's confession, Vanessa calls the police and Lauren is arrested.
Oliver's resolve to party the New Year away, meanwhile, crumbles as he realises the team needs him. After assisting Jac in miraculously pulling off an emergency operation, Oliver takes team playing to another level by getting intimate with her in the locker room.
Elsewhere, Donna attempts to secure a New Year kiss before the night is over and she and Maria decide they will keep an eye out for any talent at the party.
Lauren is played by Riann Steele, Joseph by Luke Roberts, Thandie by Ginny Holder, Vanessa by Leslie Ash, Oliver by James Anderson, Jac by Rosie Marcel, Donna by Jaye Jacobs and Maria by Phoebe Thomas.
JM3
Jon Culshaw and Debra Stephenson bring viewers a compilation of the best moments from the series.
Eamonn Holmes, Bruce Forsyth, Tess Daly and Vernon Kay receive a ribbing, as do Ross Kemp, Amy Winehouse, Michael McIntyre and David Cameron.
Autumnwatch, Cheryl Cole, Wayne Rooney and The Apprentice also come in for the typical Culshaw and Stephenson treatment.
SM4
Viewers can enjoy a look back over the series highlights, which sees Jon Culshaw and Debra Stephenson impersonating favourites including Claudia Winkleman, Davina McCall, Michael McIntyre, Simon Cowell, Ricky Gervais, the Minogue sisters, Brian Blessed, Lorraine Kelly, Amanda Holden and Philip Glenister's Gene Hunt.
SM4
The Great Dragon is finally free and, full of rage, attacks Camelot with pitiless intensity, in the final episode of the magical family drama. The castle is crumbling and Arthur's men cannot hold out much longer. Only a Dragonlord can kill a dragon and Uther wiped them all out years ago – or did he? Gaius admits one such man could still be alive and in hiding.
The last Dragonlord is the key to Merlin's own past as well as the future of Camelot, but will Arthur and Merlin find Balinor in time to save the kingdom and can they persuade him to return to Camelot to save his enemy, Uther?
The Great Dragon is voiced by John Hurt, Arthur is played by Bradley James, Uther by Anthony Head, Gaius by Richard Wilson, Merlin by Colin Morgan and Balinor by John Lynch.
LH2
It's December 2039 and the Harpers gather together to celebrate Christmas. Thirty years in the future, the family's appearance may have changed somewhat but their love/hate relationships are still very much alive.
Ben is in now in his eighties, a little slower than he used to be but still as grumpy as ever and causing grief for Susan – who, thanks to "a little moisturiser", hasn't aged a bit. To say that Janey has gained a little weight is an understatement, as she now weighs in at a whopping 20 stone. Michael, meanwhile, is doing a very bad job of hiding his baldness with an unconvincing wig and, following a disastrous trip to the zoo, Roger is now merely a head in a glass dome.
Susan is put out by the fact that grandson Kenzo, now 38 years old, hasn't come to visit the family for Christmas Day. Ben is quick to point out that the Harpers have had some of the worst Christmases ever, and the family are reminded of some of their Christmas disasters.
Two years stand out in particular – back when they were all a lot younger, and Janey was a lot lighter, the usual arguments over presents were exacerbated by Susan's fun, new game – the Greed Gift Exchange. But, when Kenzo finally arrives, he points out that the year Uncle Richard came to stay was just as traumatic for him.
Ben is played by Robert Lindsay, Susan by Zoë Wanamaker, Janey by Daniella Denby-Ashe, Michael by Gabriel Thomson, Roger by Keiron Self, older Kenzo by Pascal Langdale and Uncle Richard by Nathaniel Parker.
FD
It's Boxing Day in the Brockman household and Santa has paid a visit, along with some burglars, in a special festive episode of the award-winning comedy that captures the turbulent chaos of family life, starring Hugh Dennis and Claire Skinner.
Seven-year-old Karen is obsessing about a missing hamster, nine-year-old Ben causes havoc with a mechanical hand, Jake and mum, Sue, are trying to find grandad Frank and dad, Pete, is preparing for dinner guests – some welcome, some not.
Karen is played by Ramona Marquez, Ben by Daniel Roche, Jake by Tyger Drew-Honey, Sue by Claire Skinner, Frank by David Ryall and Pete by Hugh Dennis.
AN
Witnessing a young father plummet to his death proved traumatic for Rebecca and her team and Dr Christian King has difficulty coping, as the high-concept, high-octane investigative drama concludes. He goes missing but, with another set of images to decipher, there is no time to lose and Rebecca is ordered by her superior to find him and bring him back to the lab.
The team recognises some of the images from previous cases, including one that is connected to rapist Stuart Taylor. However, more shockingly, the new pictures appear to implicate Rebecca in a potentially fatal scenario. Ben also recognises someone in an image featuring a dead teenager – Zac Hedley, a friend of his daughter, Leah. An unidentifiable female body also in the picture immediately panics Ben and both he and Rebecca fear what the images could mean for them and those they love – especially as they have only four hours and 23 minutes to put the clues together.
While the team works hard to solve the mystery, Callum goes to the nail salon to check on Sonia but discovers she has been murdered. He is convinced she has become Taylor's latest victim and finds it difficult to reconcile with the fact that, by intervening in the last set of images, he may have changed the future. He makes it his mission to get justice – he can't risk Taylor getting away with it again.
Rebecca, meanwhile, has a dilemma. If she tries to intervene, will she be able to stop a tragedy unfolding or will she help make it happen? The clock is ticking...
DI Rebecca Flint is played by Tamzin Outhwaite, Dr Christian King by Emun Elliott, Stuart Taylor by Jonathan Slinger, DS Ben Holt by Mark Bonnar, Zac Hedley by Michael Socha, Leah Holt by Katie Griffiths and DC Callum Gada by Chiké Okonkwo.
PPR
There's a new buzz in the Royle Family household as it is a special time for Jim and Barbara and a celebration (including Twiglets and scotch eggs) is planned.
Jim and Barbara have received the gift of money from their loving children but what to do with it? Barbara wants to go abroad for the first time, having only been away once on their honeymoon to Ormskirk. Will Jim persuade Barbara that a satellite HD box is a more appropriate way of spending their children's generous gift? Tension mounts, a family discussion ensues and the question is: Where will they go? Down to the shops as Jim suggests or on Barbara's dream holiday to the Bermuda Triangle?
The Royle Family – The Golden Eggcup stars Caroline Aherne as Denise Best, Craig Cash as Dave Best, Ricky Tomlinson as Jim Royle, Sue Johnston as Barbara Royle, Ralf Little as Anthony Royle, Jessica Hynes as Cheryl Carroll and Peter Martin as Joe Carroll.
JP2
The situation between India and Pakistan reaches crisis point when an Indian submarine ends up in Pakistani hands, as the spy drama concludes. The Indian Government has set a seven-day deadline before it retaliates and so the pressure is on to avert the first nuclear confrontation since the Second World War.
The British and Americans have to work quickly to organise a peace summit in London in a desperate bid to resolve the crisis. Section D is tasked with looking after security but, unbeknown to Harry and his team, Russell Price, the CIA agent in charge of American security, is part of secret power group Nightingale.
While Harry and Ros try to keep the peace talks on track, Lucas receives a surprise visit from rogue CIA agent Sarah Caulfield. She's been instructed to kill Lucas, but her emotions get the better of her and she warns him to leave the country to guarantee his safety.
Meanwhile, Nightingale forges ahead with its plan and Price has planted a bomb in the hotel room of one of the Indian delegates in order to kill the Pakistani president and further provoke the war.
Tensions mount as Ros and Lucas discover the bomb – they need to get the Pakistani president out alive if there is to be any hope of resolving the imminent conflict. An ambush by Price leaves Ros and Lucas in mortal danger and Harry fearing for the lives of his top spooks.
Harry is played by Peter Firth, Russell Price by Mark Aiken, Ros by Hermione Norris, Lucas by Richard Armitage and Sarah Caulfield by Genevieve O'Reilly.
PPR
Strictly Come Dancing
After 14 action-packed weeks, the grand final has arrived, as the remaining couples dance for one last time in a bid to take the title of Strictly Come Dancing Champions 2009.
Hosts Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly guide viewers through proceedings, live from BBC Television Centre, while judges Len Goodman, Craig Revel Horwood, Alesha Dixon, Bruno Tonioli and guest judge Darcey Bussell offer their constructive criticism as the couples take to the floor before the all-important viewers' vote.
The final will be tougher than ever as each of the couples will be required to do a mammoth four dances each: their highest-scoring ballroom dance, their highest-scoring Latin dance, a group Lindy Hop and their own “No-holds-barred show dance” – a freestyle routine that each couple will perform for their last chance to win over the public.
All 14 of the eliminated celebrities and their dance partners, including Jade Johnson, will return to Strictly for a “megamix” consisting of a group dance with three dance styles choreographed into a routine.
There is also a Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special over the festive period.
Strictly Come Dancing is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
RB/IV/KS3
Strictly Come Dancing returns to add a bit more sparkle this Christmas in a special festive edition of the show.
Strictly favourites from series past – Austin Healey, Gethin Jones and Rachel Stevens – are back performing versions of their iconic dances, and they battle it out against three of the celebrity dancers from the current series for the title of Strictly Christmas Champions.
Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly present and Strictly judges Craig Revel Horwood, Alesha Dixon, Bruno Tonioli and head judge Len Goodman will be on hand to give their verdicts on the competing couples.
Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
RB/IV/KS3
Strictly Come Dancing returns to add a bit more sparkle this Christmas in a special festive edition of the show.
Strictly favourites from series past – Austin Healey, Gethin Jones and Rachel Stevens – are back performing versions of their iconic dances, and they battle it out against three of the celebrity dancers from the current series for the title of Strictly Christmas Champions.
Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly present and Strictly judges Craig Revel Horwood, Alesha Dixon, Bruno Tonioli and head judge Len Goodman will be on hand to give their verdicts on the competing couples.
RB/IV/KS3
Michelle Dockery and Sue Johnston star in The Turn Of The Screw, a chilling ghost story about Ann, a young governess who is sent to a country house to take charge of two orphans. Unsettled by a sense of intense evil within the house, Ann becomes convinced that malevolent forces are stalking the children in her care.
Adapted from Henry James's novel by Sandy Welch (Emma, Jane Eyre), the drama, reset in the Twenties, when Britain is still imbued with the grief of the First World War, is a complex study of the interactions between the living and the dead.
Ann is sent to the country to take care of Miles and Flora. An idyllic summer follows, filled with picnics and boating trips, and Ann soon earns the trust and affection of the two young children and staff at Bly Country Estate – including Mrs Grose, the loyal housekeeper. But the idyll is soon threatened when Ann begins to see the figures of a man and woman whom she doesn't recognise. These figures come and go at will without ever being seen or challenged by other members of the household, and they seem to Ann to be supernatural.
To add to her anxiety she learns that her predecessor, Miss Jessel, and her lover, Peter Quint, a former servant of the household, both died under curious circumstances – could it be their ghosts she keeps seeing?
Ann soon becomes obsessed with the belief that malevolent forces are stalking the children in her care and that Quint and Jessel are manipulating Miles and Flora – even using them to continue their relationship from beyond the grave. As Ann becomes more convinced of the ghosts' licentious intentions, her behaviour appears increasingly erratic – are these apparitions truly supernatural or simply products of her own suppressed sexuality and overactive imagination? Ann determines to save Miles and Flora from these beings, confronting them and banishing them from Bly, but her final confrontation with the forces of evil comes at a huge cost to herself.
Michelle Dockery stars as Ann, Josef Lindsay as Miles, Eva Sayer as Flora, Sue Johnston as Mrs Grose, Katie Lightfoot as Jessel and Edward MacLiam as Quint. Mark Umbers also stars as the Master, Dan Stevens as Dr Fisher and Corin Redgrave as The Professor.
The Turn Of The Screw is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
GJ
Top Of The Pops returns for a special festive edition and features performances from some of the year's biggest stars.
Hosted by Fearne Cotton and Reggie Yates, and filmed at BBC Television Centre, the show also features the all-important Christmas No. 1.
Further details will be available closer to transmission.
TM
Top Of The Pops is back for a New Year's Eve special that reviews the year in pop, taking in 2009's greatest hits and brightest stars.
Hosted by Fearne Cotton and Reggie Yates, and filmed at BBC Television Centre, the show features special performances from some of the year's biggest acts and viewers can also see the final No. 1 of 2009.
Further details will be available closer to transmission.
TM
Richard Hammond travels to Argentina for the first-ever Total Wipeout Celebrity Special, in which 10 celebrities come face to face with the world's largest and most ludicrous obstacle course.
Reputations are put on the line as all the celebrity contestants vie to win a cash prize for their chosen charity. Over the past year, the international set for Total Wipeout has seen contestants from 23 countries competing on the course. The pressure is now on for the UK celebrities to prove they are just as daring as ordinary folk from around the globe.
Will comedian Tim Vine have the smile wiped off his face? Can Olympic legend Fatima Whitbread go for gold again and will Casualty star Luke Bailey be on top form?
Will the dodgeballers put a sock in vocal coach Carrie Grant's mouth, while Strictly Come Dancing's James and Ola Jordan dance their way around the sucker punch? Can dainty soap actress Adele Silva jump over the mighty sweeper and EastEnders favourite Joe Swash exchange glitz and glamour for bruises? How will fitness coach Kevin Adams fare against the massive course and just what will presenter Kaye Adams make of all that mud?
As always, Amanda Byram is course-side to offer her usual blend of sarcasm and support to the pampered celebrities.
Viewers can expect to see a host of wet and muddy famous faces bouncing off obstacles, all in a bid to be crowned Total Wipeout Celebrity Champion.
MM
Richard Hammond returns for a second Total Wipeout Celebrity Special, featuring the world's most ridiculous obstacle course.
Ten more well-known stars swap the red carpet for red faces as they battle foam and mud in order to clinch a cash prize for a charity of their choice.
There's no special VIP treatment as the celebrities, including Olympic champion Sally Gunnell, actor Chris Parker, comedian and presenter Kirsten O'Brien and children's TV duo Sam Nixon and Mark Rhodes, belly flop their way towards the final Total Wipeout zone.
Loose Women's Andrea McLean gives it her all on the qualifier and comic Joe Pasquale puts in a commendable performance.
It's not all plain sailing, though, with the course asking some big questions of the celebrities – questions such as will TV presenter Dominic Littlewood "get done" by the dizzy dummies? Will model Danielle Lloyd cope in the mud bath on the sucker punch? And, most importantly, can comedy actress Cleo Rocos survive the day with her make-up and hairstyle intact?
Amanda Byram is on hand once again to offer her blend of wit and sarcasm ringside, as these 10 famous faces make their way through the course – all in the hope of winning the title of Total Wipeout Celebrity Champion.
MM
Christmas is the time of year when friends and family gather round the television to exchange the traditional greeting, "don't bother, there's nothing on".
This Christmas, Bafta Award-winning actress and comedian Victoria Wood returns with a 60-minute special for BBC One featuring sketches, personal injury commercials, unlikely sporting events and a dance number bringing together the killer combo of midriff bulge and Busby Berkeley. There's also the further adventures of soap star Bo Beaumont, played by Victoria's long-term collaborator Julie Walters.
According to Victoria: "Christmas can be a difficult time for those struggling with that bonnet-free wasteland between the last Lark Rise and the next Cranford." So, Victoria fills the gap with Lark Pies To Cranchesterford, which tells the story of young Araminty as she leaves her rural hamlet for a job in the Post and Potato Office.
Among the host of stars joining Victoria Wood this Christmas are Julie Walters, Delia Smith, Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, Reece Shearsmith and Anton du Beke.
There's also a look behind the scenes of this programme in What Larks! – The Making Of Victoria Wood's Mid-Life Christmas.
Victoria Wood's Mid-Life Christmas is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
CS
Rachel accompanies Lindsay to court for her mother's trial, as the school drama continues, but Marion's case isn't going well.
In the observation gallery Michaela and Ros are horrified to learn about Lindsay's sexual abuse. After a grilling from the prosecution, Lindsay breaks down in the witness box and finally confesses to Rachel the real events of that fateful day.
Back at school, Steph warns Kim to be wary of men like Max Tyler. Hearing about the criticism, Max begins a campaign to have Steph sacked, while insinuating that it's actually Jo who wants her out. When Jo is nominated for an Outstanding Teacher Award she assumes it's down to Max. He accepts her gratitude, despite the fact that he had nothing to do with it.
Jo then discovers that Max lied about her nomination as part of a ruthless plan to bring about Steph's downfall. Infuriated by his deception, she backs Steph, even walking out in sympathy after Max has fired her. Max then tries to enlist Philip's help to spy on Steph in a desperate attempt to gather evidence of her incompetence. When Phillip refuses, events get out of control and a furious Max grabs Phillip and causes him to fall and hurt himself on a filing cabinet.
Elsewhere, Rose ends her relationship with Tom, realising that, as Head of Department with a new son to take care of, she can't fight to be one of his priorities any more. Rachel returns to school and, furious with Max, she reinstates both Steph and Jo. Max then trashes Rachel's desk – he's obviously starting to lose control.
Rachel is played by Eva Pope, Lindsay by Jenna Louise Coleman, Marion by Louise Delamere, Michaela by Zarrah Abrahams, Ros by Sophie McShera, Steph by Denise Welch, Max Tyler by Tom Chambers, Jo by Sarah Jane Potts, Philip by Dean Smith and Rose by Elaine Symons.
Waterloo Road is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
JP2
The governors have arrived at Waterloo Road to inspect the merger as the drama series set in a comprehensive school continues. Little does Rachel realise that Max intends to spend the day convincing them to fire her.
Rachel and Max have a showdown in front of the governors, each blaming the other for the merger's failings; it's clear that they're not capable of working together. Sick of fighting a turf war with Max, a defeated Rachel hands in her resignation, believing her departure will at least provide some stability at Waterloo Road.
Elsewhere, there's a carnival atmosphere as the pupils enjoy the last day of term and prepare for the Waterloo Road Has Talent contest. Denzil break dances, Josh and Luke play guitar and Philip's controversial comedy act hints at Max's temper.
Grantly reaches his 25th anniversary as a teacher but, upon learning that there is no planned celebration, is morose all day. Steph persuades Bolton to write a street poem about Grantly and his performance impresses the entire school.
After his act, Philip is dragged to the cooler where Max bullies him into keeping quiet about the physical assault. Kim is suspicious about Philip's behaviour and questions him until he reveals the truth – Max hit him. As Max smugly announces Rachel's departure, Kim storms into the staff room to reveal Max's methods. Could this be the end of Max's teaching career?
Rachel is played by Eva Pope, Max by Tom Chambers, Philip by Dean Smith, Grantly by Martin Brown, Steph by Denise Welch, Bolton by Tachia Newell plays and Kim by Angela Griffin.
Waterloo Road is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
The second half of this series can be seen in the New Year.
JP2
This searing in-depth documentary tells the story of how a lot of people, some of whose names the makers never really got to grips with, stood in a wet field trying to make a funny programme for Christmas.
Falling somewhere between the crusading zeal of Supersize Me and the revelatory insights of Bargain Hunt, What Larks! aims to expose the gritty reality behind the so-called laughter.
Filmed with a camera that wasn't so much hidden as plonked down and left running, What Larks! reveals working practices and conditions that can only be described as not bad at all. In one shocking scene, well-known actresses are forced to queue for their own lunch, and have to choose from only four main courses and a salad bar.
What Larks! is a story that had to be told. It's not comfortable to watch, especially if you're in it, but it's quite funny.
CS
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52: BBC TWO
BBC TWO
Marla has blackmailed her parents back together, her family life is back on track and now she is ready to share her darkest secret with Jay, as BBC Switch's multi-platform soap reaches its penultimate episode. But will Jay understand?
Packed full of drama with fast-paced storylines suggested by soap-loving teens, The Cut features a cast of rising stars and storylines broadcast online from Monday to Friday in five-minute episodes at bbc.co.uk/switch with an omnibus edition on BBC Two on Saturdays.
Marla is played by Lara Goodison and Jay by Samuell Benta. The cast also features Tilly Wood as Amy; Matthew Kane as Stephen; Dermot Martin as Mack; Billie North as Olive; Alice Southwood as Fin; Edward Green as Tommy; and Jessica Dickens as Toni.
ER
Tommy and Rosa fear their secret will be revealed and Stephen tries to work out how he can take two girls to the ball in the climactic final episode of BBC Switch's multi-platform soap.
Packed with fast-paced storylines and drama suggested by teens for teens, The Cut features a cast of rising stars and storylines. It broadcasts online in five-minute episodes from Monday to Friday at bbc.co.uk/switch with an omnibus edition on BBC Two on Saturdays.
Tommy is played by Edward Green and Stephen by Matthew Kane. The cast also includes Lara Goodison as Marla; Samuell Benta as Jay; Tilly Wood as Amy; Dermot Martin as Mack; Billie North as Olive; Alice Southwood as Fin; and Jessica Dickens as Toni.
ER
The Royal Shakespeare Company's award-winning production of Hamlet, directed by RSC Chief Associate Director Gregory Doran, stars David Tennant in the title role.
Made by Illuminations, this screen version of Shakespeare's great tragedy retains the quality and tone of the critically acclaimed stage production and was filmed on location. All key original members of the cast, including Patrick Stewart as Claudius, star in this special 180-minute production, which also has the same creative team. The film is directed by Gregory Doran and designed by Robert Jones, who also designed the stage production.
To support this new film of Hamlet, a rich online BBC website is being created in collaboration with the RSC, featuring behind-the-scenes stills and footage; specially shot interviews with the actors talking about their characters and their approach to the play; interviews with the director and other key backstage personnel; and a comprehensive range of links through to the full depth of BBC Learning's content on Shakespeare and RSC Education's content on Shakespeare in performance.
Hamlet is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
MO
James May concludes his quest to show just what is possible with old-fashioned toys by using them on a scale never seen before in attempting his biggest, most ambitious challenge – to build a full-sized house from Lego.
Enlisting hundreds of people to help build the house with more than three million Lego bricks, James attempts to do what no-one has ever managed; build a two-storey house using this colourful toy.
Such an ambitious undertaking is not without its problems and James soon has issues with planning regulations, an interior designer who can't get her Lego furniture to stay in one piece and a structural engineer who tries desperately to stop everything from crashing down.
TD
Jools Holland welcomes 2010 with his 17th annual Hootenanny. Recorded in Studio TC1 at London's BBC Television Centre, the Hootenanny features a host of stars and acts that have made their mark on the musical landscape in 2009, along with surprise turns and collaborations. Hootenanny has established itself as the ultimate way to say cheerio to the old year and bid good morning to the new one.
Joining Jools this year are Sir Tom Jones, Dizzee Rascal, Boy George, Kasabian, Paolo Nutini, Florence Welch, Rodrigo Y Gabriela, Kelly Jones, Paloma Faith, Dave Edmunds, Shingai Shoniwa of Noisettes, Rico Rodriguez and Ruby Turner.
Joining Jools's Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, with their massed horns, strings and backing vocalists, is a variety of big names old and new, with the cream of this year's biggest acts performing the big tunes from 2009, as well as an array of classics to get everyone into a swinging party mood.
As well as a fine array of musical entertainment, stars from the worlds of TV, film, stage, comedy, art and more will be dropping into the studio, sharing their thoughts on the old year and their hopes for the new. And the new decade will be brought in, as ever, by the pipes and drums of the 1st Battalion of The Scots Guards.
Jools's Annual Hootenanny 2009 is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
IW
The opera world's dream team, soprano Anna Netrebko and tenor Rolando Villazon, star in this feature film version of Giacomo Puccini's immortal opera, La Bohème. It is directed by Academy Award nominee Robert Dornhelm and Bertrand de Billy conducts the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra.
It is Paris in the 1830s and writer Rodolfo has agreed to join his friends later for a drink to celebrate Christmas Eve. But then there is a knock at the door; a neighbour, Mimì, whose candle has gone out, asks for fire and it is love at first sight.
However, the couple's happiness is cut short when Mimi develops a fatal illness and leaves. It is only when she is dying that the lovers are briefly reunited.
CF2
Following in the footsteps of its forerunner, Shooting Stars – The Inside Story, this one-hour special, hosted by Mark Williams, takes a quirky and unconventional look at the best of Steve Coogan's television work and character comedy.
With classic archive moments and some rarely seen early appearances, Steve Coogan – The Inside Story includes interviews with well-known collaborators, plus fans of Alan Partridge, Paul and Pauline Calf, Tony Ferrino and Saxondale.
Rob Brydon, Victoria Wood, Ben Miller and Simon Greenall are among the stars who offer their thoughts and there are specially filmed sketches featuring Coogan and Julia Davis.
As with the Shooting Stars documentary, Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer appear in character as cameramen and the chaps from the make-up department, among others, commenting on their time working with Steve.
PA/JD
Three Men Go To Ireland Ep 1/2
What do you get if you put an Englishman, an Irishman and a Welshman on a boat bound for Dublin?
Griff Rhys Jones, Dara O'Briain and Rory McGrath return to BBC Two for the fourth series of Three Men In A Boat, and this time the trio are making their way across Ireland via canal and river, taking in the sights on their way to the Limerick Poetry Festival.
With Irishman Dara obviously nervous that Griff and Rory's behaviour (and in particular their terrible Irish jokes) will embarrass him on home turf, his two companions are in their element. They see the trip as a perfect opportunity to irritate Dara, while exploring Ireland's off-the-beaten-track midlands.
Kicking off in Dublin, the Three Men are soon heading down the Grand Canal on Ireland's last original Guinness barge. They are only slightly hampered by the fact that it's more than 80 years old, very heavy, somewhat difficult to start and even more difficult to stop. It has no brakes or reverse gear.
The barge's lack of speed, temperamental engine and an endless succession of canal locks prove too much for the Three Men and they quickly abandon it to take to the Royal canal in a car with a difference...
The Three Men are more than a little surprised to be greeted in Mullingar (Ireland's geographical centre) by a huge street parade complete with marching band, cheering children and food fayre – how will they cope with all the attention? By the end of the first episode everybody has gone to the dogs as the boys turn out to watch Dara's greyhound, Snip Nua, compete in a race.
APR
Griff Rhys Jones, Dara O'Briain and Rory McGrath continue their voyages across Ireland via canal and river as the fourth series of Three Men In A Boat concludes.
Taking in the sights on their way to the Limerick Poetry Festival, Dara remains nervous that Griff and Rory's behaviour (and in particular their Irish jokes) will embarrass him in his homeland. His two companions are in their element, seeing the trip as the perfect opportunity to irritate Dara.
The trio begin by sailing down the river Shannon in the best weather Ireland has had in years, stopping off along they way to visit a friend of Dara's who happens to live in Ireland's most haunted castle. They must then face sailing through the terrifying Ardnacrusha, Europe's largest lock. Arriving in Limerick, Dara and Griff try a spot of power-boat racing, while Rory decides to host his own poetry festival for limericks only – the inaugural Limerick Limerick Competition.
The journey ends with a trip to the stunning Aran Islands, where the Three Men take a Galway hooker (a traditional sailing boat) to visit the megalithic fort of Dun Aengus.
APR
The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, is the venue for this performance of Tchaikovsky's opera The Tsarina's Slippers (Cherevichki), staged by The Royal Opera for the first time.
Based on a Christmas story by Gogol that mixes folktale with fairytale fantasy, the plot tells how, in order to win the hand of his beloved, Oxana, Vakula the blacksmith flies on the Devil's back to St Petersburg to request a pair of leather slippers worn by the Tsarina herself. On stage is an almost entirely Russian cast of singers directed in this new production by Francesca Zambello and conducted by Alexander Polianichko. The opera is introduced from Covent Garden by Katie Derham.
The Royal Opera House has brought together both their companies, Opera and Ballet, for this enchanting new production by director Francesca Zambello and choreographer Alastair Marriott.
CF2
Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May are dropped deep into the Bolivian rain forest in the latest in a line of Top Gear specials.
Following on from their epic adventures across Botswana, Vietnam and the Arctic Circle, this time the trio are equipped with three shabby 4x4s bought from local small ads for a maximum of £3,500 apiece.
In what is set to be their most extraordinary journey to date, Jeremy, James and Richard attempt to drive from the heart of Bolivia's Amazon basin to the coast of Chile, encountering local drug lords, the debilitating effects of high altitude and the terrifying sheer drops of the infamous 40 mile mountain pass El Camino De La Muerte – "Death Road" – along the way.
Before all that, they must escape from the deep, dark centre of the rain forest in what is, without doubt, the toughest and most unmissable challenge Top Gear has ever faced.
TD
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52: BBC THREE
BBC THREE
In a unique collaboration with the Balletboyz, BBC Three broadcasts a powerful new version of Stravinsky's The Rite Of Spring, commissioned as part of December programming on the BBC, marking the 100th anniversary of the Ballets Russes.
In a film combining documentary and performance, the Balletboyz, Michael Nunn and William Trevitt, hand-pick the most exciting talent from a dynamic mix of professional and amateur dancers, all drawn from radically different modern-dance styles, including the tango, street, contemporary and even pole dancing. Following a brief selection process, the boys put together a unique company for this radical interpretation of Stravinsky's classic.
The film traces the history of Stravinsky's seminal work, which famously provoked riots in Paris at its première in 1913. Presented by the Balletboyz, the film culminates in a version of the work and offers an insight into the entire creative process. It features interviews with the choreographers Paul Roberts and Freddie Opoku-Addaie and the dancers themselves, in addition to behind-the-scenes footage following the development of the project – from the selection process through to the intensive rehearsal period and the final performance.
CF2
Four dance acts have made it through to tonight's live studio final, hosted by Reggie Yates. Judges Jermaine Jackson, Jamelia and Mark Summers are, once again, on hand to give their expert views.
However, in this battle of the dancers, it's up to the viewers to vote for the dance act they think deserves to win. At stake is the chance to perform at the official Michael Jackson tribute concert in 2010.
CS
Move Like Michael Jackson, the unique contest in which dancers vied for the amazing opportunity to perform with the world's superstars at the Michael Jackson official tribute concert in 2010, concludes with a showcase of the best and most entertaining moments of the series.
In addition, there is plenty of previously unseen footage of dancers guaranteed to impress – or possibly appal – as the UK comes together on the dance floor to celebrate possibly one of the greatest performers in the history of pop music.
CS
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52: BBC FOUR
BBC FOUR
In the final episode of his groundbreaking history of Russian art, Andrew Graham-Dixon explores the great Communist experiment and how it impacted on art.
Smashing The Mould begins with wild optimism and ambition after the revolution of 1917. Andrew looks at the radical art of the Constructivists, who poured their energies into photography, posters and advertising, declaring that "painting was dead". He also uncovers a hidden treasure trove of works by the greatest of the Constructivists, Rodchenko, in the bottom of a cupboard.
Andrew examines the influence of Joseph Stalin in the Thirties, when any rebellious artists were treated as savagely as any political dissidents, and also explores the Moscow Metro, one of the few artistic wonders to come out of Stalinism.
With its rapid growth as an economic power in the last decade, Russia once again has the time, money and inclination to invest in art. But, as Andrew travels through this world of money and power, he discovers that the ghost of Communism hasn't disappeared entirely.
AH
Cranford – Under The Bonnet
On the surface, the 19th-century fictional village of Cranford is a world filled with bonnets and baking, ponies and pomade and gossiping spinsters – a world that is determinedly old-fashioned.
In the current era of social-networking sites and ever-diminishing attention spans, Simon Woods asks why audiences continue to treasure these visions of the past. He asks what viewers love so much about period dramas and finds out how a beautifully complex and utterly convincing mirage of 19th-century life is brought to the small screen.
Armed with a degree in English Literature from Oxford and an insider's knowledge of cast and crew, Simon, who starred in the most recent incarnation of Victorian classic, Cranford, takes viewers on an intelligent journey through the restorative power of Elizabeth Gaskell's novel.
This is a world run by women, struggling to maintain order and virtue in the middle of thumping change. Talking to historical consultant Jenny Uglow, Simon learns that Gaskell salutes her protagonists' achievements, while acknowledging that female independence is illusory.
Through a mixture of on-set interviews with leading cast members, behind-the-scenes footage and new material, Simon examines the desire to strip away the modern world in order to get to the heart of Englishness.
Cranford – Under The Bonnet is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
FD
Writer, comic and performer Neil Innes competes with presenter Kirsten O'Brien in this Christmas-themed episode of the anarchic comedy game show. Meanwhile, Alex Horne dresses as Father Christmas.
Each show also features a cunning physical challenge which pits the contestants against each other. This week's episode sees Neil and Kirsten in a Christmas wrapping contest.
Mark Watson hosts, Tim Key is in the question master's chair and Alex Horne provides expert analysis.
CS
Actress and comedian Tracy Ann Oberman takes on Jake Arnott – best-selling author of He Kills Coppers and The Long Firm – as the anarchic comedy game show continues.
This week's episode features Tracy and Jake attempting to write the longest sentence that they can in alphabet spaghetti.
CS
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52: BBC SPORT
BBC SPORT
BBC One brings viewers highlights from last night's Puissance at the London International Horse Show. The Puissance – best described as equestrian high jumping – is always one of the highlights of the Olympia show and last year's was an especially exciting competition between young cousins William and Ellen Whitaker.
Teenager William, riding Insul Tech Leonardo, cleared 7ft 2in but Ellen and Ladina B matched him in dramatic fashion, with one of the top layer of bricks teetering on the brink before eventually staying put.
Live coverage can be seen via the Red Button on Friday 18 December from 9pm.
Commentary comes from Michael Tucker and Andy Austin.
CH2
Clare Balding is at the Manchester Aquatics Centre where Europe – represented by Great Britain, Italy and Germany – are taking on the USA in what has been dubbed the "Ryder Cup of swimming". The main attraction is sure to be 14-time Olympic gold medallist Michael Phelps, who will be competing in Britain for the first time.
The USA have always been a strong force in the world of swimming and, with the likes of Phelps, Ryan Lochte and Aaron Peirsol on their team in Manchester, they will be hard to beat. But British swimming has been making big waves in recent years, as proven by the seven medals – including two golds – won in the pool at the World Championships earlier this year, on top of Olympic success in Beijing in 2008. Britain's double Olympic champion, Becky Adlington, is part of the European team, along with new world champions Liam Tancock and Gemma Spofforth.
CH2
Jake Humphrey hosts live coverage of the Championship clash between North-East rivals Newcastle and Middlesbrough. It's 18 years since these two teams met at the second tier of English football and both are desperate to bounce straight back into the Premier League.
Newcastle are going well in their efforts to make an immediate return to the top flight, despite the turmoil that plagued the club over the summer, and it is Middlesbrough who have had to deal with recent upheaval after Gordon Strachan replaced Gareth Southgate as manager.
Former Celtic boss Strachan will be used to visiting big grounds such as St James' Park but he will be hoping his players can reverse the club's recent form on Tyneside – Boro haven't won on their last eight visits to Newcastle.
NA
Clare Balding presents live coverage from the penultimate day of the London International Horse Show, where the feature event is the Rolex FEI World Cup.
Some of the biggest names in show jumping battle it out in the sixth of 13 legs, ahead of next April's global final in Geneva. Record crowds of around 80,000 flocked to Olympia during the course of the 2008 show and similar numbers are expected this year, with today's World Cup action bound to be a big draw.
There is live coverage of the whole of Monday's programme from Olympia, via the Red Button. This features the traditional final class of the week, the Olympia Grand Prix.
CH2
Graham Bell and Ed Leigh present coverage of the Men's Downhill from Val Gardena in the Italian Dolomites as the world's top racers tackle the infamous Camel Bumps.
Graham is on hand to see if Austria's Michael Walchhofer can once again hold off American rival Bode Miller to win on the Saslong piste.
Meanwhile, Ed catches up with some of Britain's Olympic medal hopefuls as they gear up for the Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver at the end of the season.
CH2
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52: BBC RELIGION
BBC RELIGION
The first Mass of Christmas is celebrated live in the spectacular setting of Westminster Cathedral. The homily is given by the Most Rev Vincent Nichols, celebrating his first Midnight Mass as Archbishop of Westminster, and a thousand-strong congregation sing well-loved carols including Once In Royal David's City and O Come All Ye Faithful. Music sung by the world-famous Cathedral Choir includes O Magnum Mysterium (Lauridsen), Lux Aurumque (Whitacre) and the Mass setting is Charpentier's Messe du Minuit pour Noel.
FD
The Glory Of Christmas –
Christmas Morning Live Service From Chester Cathedral
The Roman town of Chester is the location for BBC One's Christmas Morning service. The Cathedral's Christmas Eucharist is a family service for the whole community. Both of the Cathedral's choirs take part in this joyful celebration of the birth of the baby Jesus and children from the Cathedral's Sunday School re-enact the Nativity scene.
The Cathedral has played an important role in the walled city over the centuries and has a rich and fascinating heritage. It is a living community of prayer and worship and a centre of excellence in church music, and plays a key role for the Christian community across Chester, the Wirral and Cheshire.
FD
Aled Jones visits the Holy Land to discover what happened on that first Christmas night when Jesus was born in Bethlehem.
He meets people who live there now and discovers what life was like for Joseph and Mary, as well as for the Shepherds and the Wise Men who travelled from afar.
Aled also performs a festive song and joins singers at Christ Church in Jerusalem for some classic carols.
FD
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52: CBBC
CBBC
This enchanting, one-off drama tells the story of 11-year-old Sally, who lives on Ruby Farm in Alderley Edge with her grandmother and her friends, Spike and Patch. But all is not as it seems.
The children never imagine that the magical genies they read about in The Arabian Nights might actually exist, until they find an ancient glass bottle with something mysterious inside. Their new friend's arrival marks the beginning of an exciting adventure, a fast mix of the crazy and the curious, the magical and the mundane.
And something else is happening on Alderley Edge. The telescope at Jodrell Bank has been picking up strange signals and local author Lucas Summer thinks there may be a dragon around.
It is left to the three children, with some help from their new friends, to find the dragon, work out what he wants and save Ruby Farm.
Ingenious is simulcast on the BBC HD channel – the BBC's High Definition channel, available through Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media.
FD
There are more antler antics from the members of the Deer Club as they host their AGM in the clearing, and the Fearsome Vikings decide to take in a spot of laundry in the penultimate episode of the current series of the comedy sketch show the whole family can enjoy.
Free thinkers Timmy and his mother find an ecological way to beat the school run; Tammy's truthful storyteller puts her in a spot of bother at her cousin's wedding; and the dung beetles receive an uninvited visit from a famous naturalist.
Rounding off the programme, embarrassed Louise has a wizard time at a party, there are more language problems with the 40-year-old French-exchange student and it is prize-giving over on North Barrasay.
Sorry I've Got No Head features the comedy talents of Marcus Brigstocke, Mel Giedroyc, David Armand, Anna Crilly, James Bachman and Nick Mohammed.
VT
The current series of the comedy sketch show ends its run with a special edition featuring New Bits, Best Bits and Bits That Went Wrong.
New Bits finds the snowman getting a chilly reception when he gets a job as a waiter; Philippe the French-exchange student, who has stayed for 20 years, gets ready for the disco; and the dung beetles have a big surprise.
Finally, viewers get to see the props that misbehaved and the actors who failed to keep a straight face as they tried to deliver their lines.
Sorry I've Got No Head features the comedy talents of Marcus Brigstocke, Mel Giedroyc, David Armand, Anna Crilly, James Bachman and Nick Mohammed.
VT
Network TV BBC Weeks 51/52: CBEEBIES
CBEEBIES
There's a Christmas Eve treat for young story-lovers when Doctor Who star David Tennant swaps the Tardis for the Bedtime Story chair and breathes life into the enchanting seasonal tale of The Christmas Bear by Henrietta and Paul Stickland.
It's Christmas Eve and Bear Cub leaves his parents in their den to go out exploring. Falling into a big, bright hole in the snow, Cub finds himself in Santa's workshop and at the start of a wonderful Christmas adventure. From the post room to the wrapping room, Cub is given a whistle-stop tour of the Christmas present process – with a tantalising glimpse of the toy-testing room. But Cub is disappointed when it's time to leave – until Santa gives him the best present of all...
David Tennant reads four more stories during the festive season: How High Is The Sky by Anna Milbourne, illustrated by Serena Riglietti; Small Mouse, Big City by Simon Prescott; Emily Brown And The Elephant Emergency by Cressida Cowell and Neal Layton; and Miki by Stephen Mackey.
BW2
Programme information
Network TV
Network TV – Days
- Seasonal Highlights
- Christmas highlights feature –
interview with Jana Bennett - The Gruffalo feature
- Cranford feature –
interview with Dame Judi Dench - Casualty feature
- BBC ONE
- BBC TWO
- BBC THREE
- BBC FOUR
- BBC SPORT
- BBC RELIGION
- CBBC
- CBEEBIES
- All channel print version
- Christmas press release
Transmission details will be posted after final schedules for BBC Weeks 51 and 52 are confirmed.
Key
- New series
- Live event/outside broadcast
- Interactive programme
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