91Èȱ¬

Spooks Ep 1/8

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Day and time to be confirmed 91Èȱ¬ ONE

• Feature

The team at Section D is in mourning following the tragic death of Ros Myers, who was killed in an explosion while trying to save the British 91Èȱ¬ Secretary, as the award-winning spy drama returns for its ninth series. Section Chief Harry Pearce is hit particularly hard by the loss and he's dismayed to learn that a trusted friend has blood on their hands. Harry wants revenge and will stop at nothing to get it.

One month later, Lucas North boards a ship in Tangier to track rising Somalian Al Qaeda star, Abib. Alongside Lucas is Special Boat Service (SBS) agent Dimitri Levendes, who is masquerading as the ship's captain. An unexpected interruption from what appears to be Somali pirates puts Lucas in mortal danger. His unlikely saviour is an Eastern European prostitute, who he later discovers is undercover mercenary Beth Bailey, also sent to track Abib.

The pirates are a much bigger threat than first anticipated – they are in fact an Al Qaeda cell who have smuggled explosives onboard and are headed for the UK.

After escaping the ship and returning to London, Lucas and the rest of Section D concentrate on stopping the floating bomb. Beth, who is keen for a job on the Grid, turns up unexpectedly with information about the boat. Harry remembers Beth from the past and is unsure whether she can be trusted but, with time running out, the team has no other option. Harry is forced into taking drastic action to prevent a terrorist attack that could hit Britain at its very heart – the Houses of Parliament.

Meanwhile, Lucas is shocked when he is visited by an unwelcome ghost from his past.

Harry Pearce is played by Peter Firth, Lucas North by Richard Armitage, Abib by Peter Bankole, Dimitri Levendes by Max Brown and Beth Bailey by Sophia Myles.

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Inspector George Gently – Gently Evil

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Day and time to be confirmed 91Èȱ¬ ONE and 91Èȱ¬ HD

Martin Shaw returns as old-school detective Inspector George Gently in the crime drama set in the Sixties, written by Peter Flannery.

It's 1966, and when a loose young woman is found murdered in an idyllic coastal village in Northumberland, Gently and Bacchus find themselves investigating a family with unimaginable secrets.

Initially it appears that the woman's estranged husband, Alan Charlton, father of their enigmatic young daughter Agnes, is responsible for the killing. Then they meet the child's uncle, Darren Paige.

With a rogue reporter, Max Osgood, desperate to get an exclusive story on the family, the police have their work cut out.

As Gently and Bacchus investigate the disturbed family, they discover an alarming truth.

In an added complication, Bacchus is having marriage problems and becomes jealous of Gently when he realises how close the older man has become to his wife, Lisa, and toddler Leigh-Ann.

George Gently is played by Martin Shaw, Bacchus by Lee Ingleby, Alan Charlton by Daniel Cassey, Agnes by Natalie Garner, Darren Paige by Shaun Dooley, Max Osgood by Paul Kaye and Lisa by Melanie Clark Pullen.

Inspector George Gently is simulcast on the 91Èȱ¬ HD channel – the 91Èȱ¬'s High Definition channel, available through Freesat 108, Freeview 50, Sky 143 and Virgin 108.

DG

SCHOOL SEASON
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Day and time to be confirmed 91Èȱ¬ TWO and 91Èȱ¬ HD

Excluded is a part-improvised topical drama which exposes the realities and struggles that some inner-city schools are facing today.

Ian is a newly qualified maths teacher in a London school, battling to control his unruly class.

He comes up against Mark, a troubled and unpopular pupil who is rejected by both staff and pupils, and at first the two clash. Mark's home life is tough and is impacting on his schooling. In time, though, Ian begins to connect with him and win his trust, discovering he has skills in maths.

Meanwhile, head teacher Amanda is under pressure to make improvements to her underperforming institution. She's hoping to form a partnership with a local Academy, but first needs to prove that her school is making progress. A mutinous teaching staff, investment cuts in the school and a growing problem with disruptive students, such as Mark, are forcing her to make some tough decisions. Should she exclude the problem pupils to help the school improve its performance?

When Mark gets into an angry confrontation with yet another teacher, Gary, it appears that his fate is sealed; he swiftly finds himself facing permanent exclusion. Ian must decide whether to put his fledgling career in jeopardy to try to save his unlikely protégé or stay quiet.

Excluded focuses on the hot topics and challenges in education today – exclusion, Academy schools and significant cutbacks in investment. It is a fast-turnaround factual drama: conceived, filmed and brought to the screen within six months.

Neither Bryan Dick nor Craig Parkinson, who play teachers Ian and Gary, had the easiest of experiences during their time at school, so they could relate to Mark's story and the characters' frustrations. Cast with young actors, some of whom have had experiences similar to those portrayed, this drama was also the first time onscreen for many of them, including George Whitehead (Mark).

The different backgrounds of the production team brought a range of approaches and skills to the piece. Careful research; incorporating a flexible way of working on set through the use of improvisation; and featuring music from new bands are some of the methods used to give the drama an authentic, contemporary feel.

Scripted by acclaimed writer Brian Fillis (The Curse Of Steptoe and An Englishman In New York) and created by Ben Bickerton (producer, The Curse Of Steptoe), Excluded is directed by Bafta-nominated Misha Manson-Smith (Stanley Park, La La Land) and produced by Caroline Levy (Cape Wrath, Apparitions, Rough Justice), with co-executive producers for the 91Èȱ¬, Meredith Chambers (editor, Cutting Edge, Between Life And Death, The Seven Sins Of England) from 91Èȱ¬ Knowledge and Eleanor Moran (Enid, The Deep) from 91Èȱ¬ Drama.

Ian is played by Bryan Dick (Shameless, Bleak House, Blackpool), Mark by George Whitehead, Amanda by Monica Dolan (Occupation) and Gary by Craig Parkinson (Misfits, Whitechapel, Control).

Excluded is simulcast on the 91Èȱ¬ HD channel – the 91Èȱ¬'s High Definition channel, available through Freesat 108, Freeview 50, Sky 143 and Virgin 108.

Excluded is part of 91Èȱ¬ Two's School Season – a range of programming, on air throughout September, encompassing documentary, drama and debate, with additional information at bbc.co.uk/schoolseason. This major season on education focuses on schools and the tough choices parents have to make.

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Luke, Dominic and Louis are Britain's Youngest Boarders

Britain's Youngest Boarders follows the lives of three boys as they leave home for the first time to begin boarding at a prep school. The film tells the story of Luke, Louis and Dominic during their first term at Sunningdale, a family-run prep school in Berkshire. It educates 100 boys, the vast majority of whom go on to top public schools such as Eton and Harrow.

With exclusive access to the school, the documentary offers a fascinating insight into a world many know little about. This story of modern boarding-school life is told through the eyes of the boys themselves.

Eight-year-old Luke is joining his older brother, James, at the school. The school's system of "fortnightly orders" – which ranks pupils in each class – reveals Luke's academic gift.

Eleven-year-old Dominic has travelled half-way around the world, from Shanghai, to come to the school. He thinks his mum will find being apart for the 10-week term harder than he will. His dream is to attend an English public school and, following his interview for Harrow, he hopes to be one of the lucky ones to be offered a place there.

Ten-year-old Louis starts at Sunningdale after leaving his state school in north London. Tearful and homesick, he struggles at first. Getting into the football team and being made captain goes some way to helping him feel better. The school staff and older boys offer advice on how to cope with missing his family.

From the daily chapel services to the headmaster's weekly dormitory check, and the boys' very first night, the film explores how the boys take to becoming boarders, a life-changing event for each of them.

This series is part of 91Èȱ¬ Two's School Season – a range of programming, on air throughout September, encompassing documentary, drama and debate, with additional information at bbc.co.uk/schoolseason. This major season on education focuses on schools and the tough choices parents have to make.

KA

Dan Walker, Mark Lawrenson and Martin Keown discuss the week's football action.

This week's eye-catching Premier League fixture is Sunday's lunchtime encounter between bitter rivals Manchester United and Liverpool. Both clubs are locked together on a joint record 18 league titles, but Liverpool have not been English champions for 20 years and are rebuilding under new manager Roy Hodgson.

United were among the leading European clubs to kick-off their Champions League campaign in the middle of the week. The Premier League sides are looking to re-establish their dominance after failing to provide an English presence in the semi-finals last season for the first time in seven years.

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Athletics – Great North City Games

Saturday 18 September

1.00-2.30pm 91Èȱ¬ ONE

One of sport's most enduring rivalries – England against Australia – takes to the streets of the Newcastle/Gateshead quayside in a unique athletics event. England were easy winners of the inaugural "Athletics Ashes" last year, winning 10 of the 11 events, but Australia have returned with a strengthened team led by Olympic pole vault champion Steve Hooker.

This will be the final outing for athletes of both nations before the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, and the English team is sure to comprise several medallists from the recent European Championships.

This programme marks a weekend of Great North Run activity on 91Èȱ¬ One which will also includes Michael Johnson's Great North Run and the Great North Run itself. There is also extensive coverage on 91Èȱ¬ Radio 5 Live.

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The Great North Run has grown to become the biggest half-marathon in the world and an event that captures hearts and minds. As final preparations are made to stage the 30th run, Olympic and world champion runner Michael Johnson travels to the North East to find out why people have such a love affair with the event.

Michael feels the buzz as veterans, fun runners and fundraisers talk of the pain and pleasure of taking part. One of the greatest long-distance runners of all time, Haile Gebrselassie, tells him of his pride at taking part this year for the first time; and Michael shares the intimate and sometimes heart-rending stories of those who have benefited from the millions of pounds the run raises for charity.

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Snooker – World Open 2010

Saturday 18 September

3.00-4.30pm 91Èȱ¬ ONE

A field of 128 professionals, amateurs and wildcards has been whittled down to 43, as the 91Èȱ¬'s new snooker season gets under way with the inaugural World Open.

A random draw for each round has thrown up some fascinating matches, including a re-run of this year's World Championship final. Neil Robertson and Graeme Dott kick off proceedings, with Dott hoping to avenge his defeat to the Australian last May.

Coverage will continue across both 91Èȱ¬ One and 91Èȱ¬ Two as the tournament progresses from the opening game on 18 September through to the final on Sunday 26 September with Hazel Irvine, Steve Davis and John Parrott on hand to guide viewers through the action from Glasgow.

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Merlin Ep 2/13

Saturday 18 September

Time to be confirmed 91Èȱ¬ ONE

The young warlock struggles to recover from the serket's poison, as the fantasy drama continues. Meanwhile, Morgana and Morgause are free to step up their plans for the invasion of Camelot.

Morgause continues her manipulation of Cenred, as he prepares to launch an attack on the citadel, but Cenred knows he cannot take the castle alone. Morgause promises him that they have an ally within King Uther's court who will ensure they win the day – no one can fight a battle on two fronts. Morgause gives Morgana a powerfully enchanted rowan staff to aid her in her magical treachery.

King Uther is still unable to rule as he recovers from the enchantment inflicted by the mandrake root. So, as Cenred's army attacks the citadel, Camelot's fate now rests on Arthur's shoulders. The young prince and his men fight bravely but, just as they think the tide might turn, Morgana plays her deadly card. In the vaults beneath Camelot she uses the rowan staff to summon a skeleton army to wreak havoc within the castle walls.

Arthur and his men cannot hold off both an army of the living and an army of the dead. Merlin knows that their only hope is for him to stop Morgana and vanquish the enemy within. Will he be able to do so without revealing his own magical powers?

Merlin is played by Colin Morgan, Morgana by Katie McGrath, Morgause by Emilia Fox, Cenred by Tom Ellis, King Uther by Anthony Head, Gaius by Richard Wilson and Arthur by Bradley James. The Dragon is voiced by John Hurt.

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Josie Lawrence stars as a headmistress with a school drug problem; Michelle Collins returns as the mother of troubled shooting victim Simone; and the team struggles to cope with new regulations in tonight's edition of Casualty – Chaos Theory.

As part of his mission to turn the beleaguered emergency department (ED) around in two months, Jordan introduces a new rule which states that patients should be in and out of the ED within two hours. As predicted, the team is unhappy with the rule. Charlie is annoyed that he wasn't consulted and Noel is confused by the system. Only Ruth, with her clipped bedside manner, finds the new regulations to her liking.

Schoolboy Taz is brought into the ED after falling from a school building and Zoe suspects he has taken LSD. Headmistress Mrs Haines, who happens to be the mother of Taz's girlfriend Julie, believes he's supplying LSD to other pupils. When 14 more students are reported with the same symptoms, Mrs Haines realises she has a big problem on her hands. Could the culprit be a little closer to home than she realises?

Shooting victim Simone is brought back into the ED after falling down the stairs and Kirsty suspects that she may have deeper psychological issues. But Simone's mother Camille refuses to listen to Kirsty and is furious about Simone's treatment. Already planning to sue the department over the previous incident in the ED, she now angrily confronts Jordan about the behaviour of his staff.

Ruth falls foul of the new rule system when a patient reveals that she's waited more than four hours for painkillers. But Ruth has greater problems at home. Confused by new husband Edward's lack of physical attention, she plans a night of intimacy for the two of them. Will Edward be seduced by Ruth's charms?

Jordan is played by Michael French, Charlie by Derek Thompson, Noel by Tony Marshall, Ruth by Georgia Taylor, Zoe by Sunetra Sarker, Mrs Haines by Josie Lawrence, Julie by Nikita Mitchell, Kirsty by Lucy Gaskell, Camille by Michelle Collins and Edward by Stephen Billington.

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Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow Ep 1/6

Saturday 18 September

9.30-10.30pm 91Èȱ¬ ONE and 91Èȱ¬ HD

Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow returns for second series

From the team behind 91Èȱ¬ One's Live At The Apollo, Bafta-nominated Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow returns to 91Èȱ¬ One for a second series.

Once again, Michael travels around the UK visiting six of the most prestigious live theatre venues and unearthing a raft of comedy's brightest new talent and finest comedians en route.

In each of the six new episodes Michael introduces a very special guest headline act plus three of the best stand-ups from the UK comedy circuit, all of whom will be new to a 91Èȱ¬ One Saturday night audience.

Michael begins his travels at the Glasgow Theatre Royal, where he is joined by special headline guest Kevin Bridges with stand-up performances from Daniel Sloss, Milton Jones and Craig Campbell.

Other headline acts to appear throughout the series include: John Bishop in Blackpool, Ardal O'Hanlon in Leeds, Sarah Millican in Sunderland, Noel Fielding in Bristol and Tommy Tiernan in Dublin.

Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow is simulcast on the 91Èȱ¬ HD channel – the 91Èȱ¬'s High Definition channel, available through Freesat 108, Freeview 50, Sky 143 and Virgin 108.

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Gary Lineker presents highlights from the day's Premier League matches, including Tottenham's home game with Wolves and Arsenal's trip to Sunderland.

Wolves beat Tottenham home and away last season, scoring an early goal at White Hart Lane and resolutely defending their lead. Spurs can ill-afford a repeat result as they seek to build on last season's top-four finish.

Sunderland have proved obdurate opponents in recent meetings against Arsenal. The Gunners were beaten by a Darren Bent goal at the Stadium of Light last season, forcing visiting coach Arsene Wenger to concede that it raised questions over his side's title credentials – concerns they have yet to dispel.

Other matches included the derby between West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City, Newcastle's trip to Everton, Stoke City's home match against West Ham, and the return of Fulham manager Mark Hughes to his former club Blackburn Rovers.

NA

Live 'n' Deadly hits the rapids in South Wales this week for a wet, wild and exhilarating edition of the show presented by Steve Backshall and Naomi Wilkinson.

Specially designed to get young viewers engaged with the great outdoors, this adrenaline-filled programme sees Steve and Naomi meet the British white water rafting team for some games on the water. Viewers can also discover what happened when Steve went mountain biking in the Nevis range and the studio audience will be challenged to try a spot of raft building.

This week's special guest is paralympian Ellie Simmonds, who dazzled the world with her amazing performances in Beijing where she won two gold medals.

Viewers will also get the low down on another British predator when a red kite swoops in to show off its deadly credentials.

The fun on Live 'n' Deadly does not stop after the show has ended. Every Sunday Steve visits different cities with the Deadly Day Out, giving viewers the chance to get up close and personal with British wildlife, try a new outdoor adventure and meet his collection of deadly animals.

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The Pope's Visit 2010

Saturday 18 September

10.00am-12.00noon 91Èȱ¬ TWO

91Èȱ¬ Two Daytime continues its coverage of Pope Benedict XVI's visit to Britain with a live relay of the Papal Mass from Westminster Cathedral.

The Pope will celebrate mass with the Bishops of England and Wales and representatives from Dioceses and organisations from across the country.

Huw Edwards presents with expert analysis on the Westminster Cathedral Mass provided by Monsignor Mark Langham.

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Former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe explores 19th-century British Roman Catholic Cardinal John Henry Newman's road to sainthood.

Ann meets Deacon Jack Sullivan, from Boston, who was apparently miraculously cured by the intercession of Newman. She also speaks to witnesses to his recovery, such as the back specialists and the lawyers who investigated the authenticity of the miracle.

Ann also travels to Rome, Oxford and Birmingham to meet ordinary Catholics, historians and specialists on the life of Newman to shed light on his life and work, as well as meeting leading figures from the Catholic and Anglican Church to explain Newman's importance to British Catholicism.

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James Holland (left) and Hans Ekkehard Bob, Luftwaffe fighter pilot

Writer and historian James Holland presents a fresh analysis of the extraordinary events of the Battle of Britain in the Summer 1940, focussing on the tactics, technologies and intelligence available to both sides.

The 91Èȱ¬'s season about the battle continues with an analytical insight from veteran British fighter pilots and James also travels to Germany to meet some of the few surviving Luftwaffe aces. He is also given access to diaries offering further first-hand testimony from those who fought in the battle. He also uncovers transcripts of unmediated conversations between captured German airmen, secretly recorded by Air Intelligence at Trent Park, North London, in 1940.

Examining the way in which Germany and Britain used their resources from air defence to firepower, James finally resolves a debate which has raged in the fiercest terms for seven decades: which was the better fighter plane, the Supermarine Spitfire Mk1 or the Messerschmitt Bf 109E?

Arguing that the battle should be seen as starting much earlier, in May 1940, James charts the shift in power between the two countries across a crucial five-month period. By examining the events of that summer from both sides, and through a longer time frame, he gets closer to understanding the real story of the Battle of Britain.

Battle Of Britain – The Real Story is part of the 91Èȱ¬'s Battle Of Britain season on TV and Online at bbc.co.uk/history.

The Real Story is simulcast on the 91Èȱ¬ HD channel – the 91Èȱ¬'s High Definition channel, available through Freesat 108, Freeview 50, Sky 143 and Virgin 108.

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The Special Relationship

Saturday 18 September

9.45-11.15pm 91Èȱ¬ TWO and 91Èȱ¬ HD

Nominated for five Emmy Awards, The Special Relationship starring Michael Sheen, Dennis Quaid, Hope Davis and Helen McCrory, takes a behind-the-scenes look at the unique and sometimes turbulent political relationship between newly installed Prime Minister Tony Blair (Sheen) and US President Bill Clinton (Quaid), as the two dynamic leaders become co-stars on the world stage. Davis plays Hillary Clinton and McCrory plays Cherie Blair.

The third in screenwriter Peter Morgan's trilogy about Tony Blair, following The Deal and the Academy Award-nominated film The Queen, The Special Relationship is directed by Richard Loncraine and is a 91Èȱ¬ and HBO film in association with Rainmark Films/Kennedy-Marshall Production. Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, Andy Harries, Peter Morgan and Christine Langan are executive producers and Frank Doelger, Tracey Scoffield and Ann Wingate are producers.

The Special Relationship follows Blair's journey from political understudy waiting in the wings of the world arena to accomplished Prime Minister standing confidently in the spotlight of centre stage.

It is 1996 and the Blairs and the Clintons are a unique foursome – each one an extremely bright lawyer – with a kinship forged in shared ideology and genuine affection. When world events and personal watersheds shake the very foundation of their relationship, the men and their wives must come to terms with the ephemeral nature of power and, often, friendship.

As the drama begins, there are many similarities between Blair and Clinton, both centre-left politicians driven by personal ambition, yet equally driven by a belief that they can change the world and do a great deal of good.

The world watches as the seasoned and charismatic President takes the less-experienced Prime Minister under his political wing and shows him the ropes.

In early 1998 the White House is rocked by the Monica Lewinsky scandal – one that changes the face of American politics. Later, the bond between Blair and Clinton is sundered over the festering crisis in Kosovo, as Blair's call for action clashes with Clinton's pragmatic approach. It becomes obvious that, at heart, these are two very different men, perched on a political see-saw as their positions change; one rising as the other descends. With the eventual power shift to the incoming presidential administration, a new special relationship is about to begin...

The Special Relationship is simulcast on the 91Èȱ¬ HD channel – the 91Èȱ¬'s High Definition channel, available through Freesat 108, Freeview 50, Sky 143 and Virgin 108.

AF

Great North Run

Sunday 19 September

9.30am-12.00noon 91Èȱ¬ ONE
1.40-2.25pm 91Èȱ¬ ONE

Sue Barker introduces live coverage of the world's most popular half-marathon, which is being held for the 30th time.

A record 54,000 people will take to the course from Newcastle to South Shields and, for the first time, the elite field will include the legendary Haile Gebrselassie, arguably the world's greatest-ever distance runner. The Ethiopian was forced to withdraw from the Great North Run a decade ago due to injury, and he makes his belated bow in an event won for the second time last year by Martin Lel of Kenya.

In the women's event, Mara Yamauchi is aiming to become the first British winner since Paula Radcliffe seven years ago. Yamauchi will have to do it the hard way as she faces former Great North Run winners Berhane Adere and Susan Chepkemei and defending champion Jessica Augusto of Portugal.

Many of the non-elite runners are raising money for charity and among the host of celebrities taking part are X-Factor winner Joe McElderry, chef Gordon Ramsay and 91Èȱ¬ Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills.

Steve Cram, Brendan Foster and Paul Dickenson are the commentators.

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BATTLE OF BRITAIN SEASON
Battle Of Britain

Sunday 19 September

9.00-10.30pm 91Èȱ¬ ONE and 91Èȱ¬ HD

• Press pack

Colin and Ewan McGregor and a Supermarine Spitfire

Seventy years ago a savage battle raged in the skies over Britain. Now Ewan McGregor and his RAF pilot brother, Colin, embark on a personal journey to find out what it was like to live and fight through the most significant air battle in British history. As part of the 91Èȱ¬'s Battle Of Britain season, they discover how a handful of determined young RAF pilots saved Britain from invasion by the most powerful war machine in the world – the Nazi Luftwaffe.

Both brothers have a passion for aircraft and flying. Colin is an RAF veteran of 20 years' service, and Ewan, star of the big screen, is a fledgling pilot himself. Together they present a timeline of events during the height of the battle, honouring the heroes of 1940 both on the ground and in the air, bringing the story of the Battle of Britain to life for a new generation. Both are extremely proud to be able to pay tribute to their childhood heroes who saved Britain from the brink of defeat.

Flying across the skies of England, the brothers get hands-on experience of the fighter aircraft of the time, sampling the excitement, pressures and strains of air combat. For Colin, it's a chance to see if his modern jet fighter training compares to the seat-of-the-pants skills needed to master a Spitfire.

They also explore the technology, tactics and strategy that led to victory. Along the way they meet some of the heroes who fought in the battle and reveal the inspiring personal stories of the few who were there and those still with us today.

Battle Of Britain is simulcast on the 91Èȱ¬ HD channel – the 91Èȱ¬'s High Definition channel, available through Freesat 108, Freeview 50, Sky 143 and Virgin 108.

CD4

The Pope's Visit 2010

Sunday 19 September

9.00am-12.00noon 91Èȱ¬ TWO

More than 80,000 worshippers are expected at Cofton Park in Birmingham today for the Beatification Mass of British Roman Catholic Cardinal John Henry Newman (1801-1890). 91Èȱ¬ Two Daytime provides full coverage of the Mass of Beatification, where Pope Benedict will declare Cardinal Newman "Blessed".

Huw Edwards presents the programme and Edward Stourton leads the commentary. 91Èȱ¬ Radio 4's Sunday Programme and a special edition of Sunday Worship will both also broadcast live from the scene in the lead-up to the main ceremony.

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MotoGP – Aragon Grand Prix

Sunday 19 September

12.30-2.00pm 91Èȱ¬ TWO

Jennie Gow presents live coverage of the Aragon Grand Prix, with Spain's Jorge Lorenzo guaranteed a rapturous homecoming as he seeks to extend his championship lead.

Yamaha rider Lorenzo is closing on a first world title, having built up a huge points advantage over fellow Spaniard Dani Pedrosa. The chance for both of them to perform in their home country this weekend is a bonus as the race was originally scheduled for Hungary until a delay in construction work prompted the change of venue.

Commentary comes from Charlie Cox, Steve Parrish and Matt Roberts.

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Colin Murray and guests look back at the day's Premier League matches and provide the last word on the rest of the weekend's action. Title challengers Manchester United and Chelsea were both playing today, with United hosting arch rivals Liverpool and Chelsea welcoming newly promoted Blackpool.

A highly charged atmosphere was guaranteed at Old Trafford as the two most successful clubs in England went head to head. Park Ji-Sung's winner for Manchester United in the corresponding fixture last season ended a run of three straight defeats by Liverpool, although United were ultimately unable to surpass Liverpool's 18 league titles.

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Joel Defries, Helen Skelton and Andy Akinwolere are full of festive cheer this week as Blue Peter prepares to celebrate Christmas in September. The garden is set to be transformed into a winter wonderland with a tree, decorations and snow. The reason for the early seasonal celebrations is that the programme is launching its annual appeal – and, this year, it has a Christmas theme.

For the appeal, Blue Peter is asking its loyal viewers to get out their glue sticks, glitter and cotton wool so they can make thousands of handmade Christmas cards to help raise funds for leading children's disability charity Whizz-Kidz. The completed cards will need to be sent in by the end of October so they are ready to be sold in selected Tesco stores across the country. All the proceeds will go towards the appeal target of helping to raise funds for 100 Whizz-Kidz wheelchair assessment clinics across the UK. These clinics will benefit 400 children by allowing them to obtain their wheelchairs more quickly, giving the child a more active and independent life.

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A familiar face returns to Albert Square in the week's first visit to Walford – but what have they got to hide?

For the first time, Minty finds himself torn between two women. Elsewhere, Jodie finally forgives her mother.

Minty is played by Cliff Parisi and Jodie by Kylie Babbington.

JM3

To look back at the state visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Britain, Huw Edwards presents a special highlights programme from St Mary's College, Oscott. Among the guests joining Huw to review the outcome of this historic visit are Archbishop Vincent Nicols, Leader of the Catholic Church in England and Wales; Lord Chris Patten, the Prime Minister's Personal Representative for the Papal Visit; and historian Diarmaid MacCulloch.

As the dust settles on the pomp and ceremony that comes with a state visit of this size and scale, the guests reflect on the significance of the visit not only to the UK's Catholics, but also to religion as a whole in a modern multicultural society where it is being challenged and tested.

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Antiques Master returns this week with a celebrity twist for the last show of the series. In this special edition, four famous faces, all with a passion for antiques, battle it out at Towneley Hall in Burnley for the title of Celebrity Antiques Master.

Hosting the show is Sandi Toksvig, and joining her to provide the all-important information, facts and figures is Antiques Roadshow expert Eric Knowles.

The contestants hoping to prove their expertise are EastEnders star Ricky Groves, who has a rare passion for antique fishing tackle; Embarrassing Bodies' resident doctor, Dr Christian Jessen, who loves the artistry of 18th- and 19th-century bronzes; Apprentice runner-up Saira Khan, who adores the craftsmanship of Victorian furniture; and World's Strongest Man Geoff Capes, who has a particular interest in the renowned work of French glass designer Lalique.

Antiques Master has searched museums, shops and private collections to provide access to some of the finest artefacts ever to appear on British television and, among others, this week's show features a 19th-century Baroda jar worth £8,000.

The show features four tough challenges, culminating in a thrilling head-to-head putting these celebrity hopefuls through their paces, and providing the ultimate test to determine who should be crowned Celebrity Antiques Master.

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(L-R) Naz (Emaa Hussen), Soloman (Tosin Cole), Asher (Heshima Thompson) and Stevie (Amanda Fairbank-Hynes)

It's the morning after the night before, in the latest omnibus edition of the online EastEnders spin-off series.

Stevie is broken hearted. Sol wants to practise the routine but Asher has other plans. Meanwhile, Stevie finds comfort in an older man. But what is Naz hiding?

Meanwhile, when Olly takes the furniture from the flat, Stevie is forced to get a job. Naz offers advice to flirt her way into employment. With Sol and Naz getting closer, Asher offers brotherly words of advice. But trouble in paradise is brewing.

Stevie is played by Amanda Fairbanks-Hynes, Sol by Tosin Cole, Asher by Heishma Thompson, Naz by Emaa Hussen and Olly by Joshua MacGuire.

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Sarah Solemani plays Becky

Paul's son, Little Luke, is out of hospital so he's having a fancy dress party to celebrate, as Stefan Golaszewski's comedy revealing the hilarious and often shocking truth of what really goes on behind the bedroom doors of today's 20-somethings continues.

Steve and Becky have to go to the party. They don't want to. Becky dithers over a spot on her chin. Steve can't get through to his bank. But when a furious Paul comes over to see why they're so late, and what's happened to the sausage rolls, it seems they have no option but to go.

Paul is played by Ricky Champ, Steve by Russell Tovey and Becky by Sarah Solemani.

RC

Women of the ATA

During the Second World War, a remarkable band of 168 female pilots fought against all the odds for the right to aid the war effort. Without them the Battle of Britain could never have been won and Britain's dominance in the air, which paved the way for ultimate victory, would never have been achieved. They were the Spitfire Women.

Continuing the 91Èȱ¬'s Battle Of Britain season, Spitfire Women tells the story of these trailblazers, who were part of the Air Transport Auxiliary – a thousand-strong organisation that delivered aircraft to the frontline RAF during Britain's darkest hours. Every day, responsibility fell on their shoulders to get the planes to the fighters, which often pushed them into dangerous, even deadly situations. They were expected to fly wherever the need was greatest in whatever aircraft was required, from state-of-the-art fighters to heavy four-engined bombers. They had no radios and no navigation equipment. One in 10 women pilots died flying for the ATA.

Using interviews with the last few surviving veterans, archive footage and dramatic reconstruction, Spitfire Women brings to life the forgotten story of the ATA. The resilience of these women in the face of open discrimination is one of the most inspiring and overlooked milestones in women's rights. Their story is one of courage, sexism and patriotism but, above all, a story about women who wanted to break the confines of the world they lived in – and reach for the skies.

CD4/EB

Camping, singing, swimming and pottery painting are on this week's menu as CBeebies' favourite Sarah-Jane Honeywell continues her mission to encourage youngsters to get off the sofa and get active in the high-energy series Mighty-Mites.

Encouraging children to get out and try something new – from go-karting to kite-flying and pond-dipping to circus skills – in each episode Sarah-Jane (Tikkabilla, Higgledy House) and excitable and inquisitive puppet Go-Joe take two children – the Mighty-Mites – on a journey to try an activity for the very first time.

On Monday children Callum and Macie are playing in a fabulous den they've built in the living room, using empty boxes and blankets. This gives Sarah-Jane a great idea of where to take them on their Mighty-Mites journey: to a campsite! Callum and Macie get to grips with the mallet for the tent pegs, have a race pumping up the air mattresses and learn how to cook outside.

There's no business like show business on Tuesday when Sarah-Jane, Go-Joe and friends Isla and Oliver join in with a group of children preparing for a performance. They learn to sing a song about going to the zoo and practise the actions to go with the words. The children also make brilliant animal masks to wear for their big performance on the stage.

The Mighty-Mites dive in head-first on Thursday to learn all about swimming. Sarah-Jane takes children Feena and Pablo to a swimming pool where they learn how to swim on their backs, fetch items that have sunk to the bottom of the pool and dive safely into the water.

And Friday is a creative and colourful day as Sarah-Jane takes Mighty-Mites Tegan and Sam for a pottery-painting lesson. The children get their hands nice and dirty as Sam learns to bubble paint and Tegan experiments with sponge shapes.

BW2

The Slater family find themselves in jeopardy, in the latest drama from Albert Square. Can anyone save the day?

Meanwhile, as one memorable face returns, another says goodbye to Albert Square.

JM3

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Linden is back from his religious retreat with more zeal than ever, as the medical drama continues. New F1 Lucy is starting her first shift and intervenes in a situation on the ward, which results in acid being thrown in her face. Linden stabilises Lucy in theatre.

Meanwhile, Faye has heard Linden is back and attempts a reconciliation. Linden is strong, however, and tells Faye he was wrong to start a relationship with her.

Michael is livid that Connie has been made joint director of surgery without his consultation. Connie is determined to prove her critics wrong and make the job-share work. Michael tries his best to set Connie up for a fall in a board meeting but Connie is triumphant – the battle lines have been drawn.

Jac gets a wake-up call when she realises that winning the respect of the team on Keller is harder than she thought.

Linden is played by Duncan Pow, Lucy by Anna O'Grady, Faye by Patsy Kensit, Michael by Hari Dhillon, Connie by Amanda Mealing and Jac by Rosie Marcel.

RC

John Humphrys examines why the education system is still failing so many children and why the attainment gap between advantaged and disadvantaged pupils has stubbornly refused to narrow.

Earlier this summer Michael Gove, Education Secretary, made the startling statement: "...Before they even arrive at school ... rich thick kids do better than poor clever children. And then when they arrive at school the situation as they go through gets worse."

This attainment gap is a problem that starts very early on, with experts saying that even before turning two, poor children have already fallen significantly behind in development. When they reach school age they are on average a year behind; by 14, two years behind; and by 16 half as likely to get five good GCSEs.

John examines the reasons behind these stark disparities, and why the attainment gap between advantaged and disadvantaged pupils has stubbornly refused to narrow, despite the pledge made by successive governments to put education at the top of the political agenda.

John travels the country visiting schools and meeting parents, teachers, pupils, tutors and researchers. He hears from teachers committed to finding ways to improve things; pupils who are hoping to achieve in ways they never thought to be possible; and head teachers who have managed to turn failing schools around.

But he also uncovers the battles that exist for the best available education and how an increasing number of parents are using private tutoring companies to top up their children's education. Lee Elliott-Major of The Sutton Trust tells how research still suggests that the overwhelming factor in who does well in school depends on who the parents are, and John hears how parental choice for schools and the option for private education often exaggerate the social divide between the rich and the poor.

In the film, John reflects on his own background and explores the dilemmas faced by parents wanting the best education for their children.

The film is part of 91Èȱ¬ Two's School Season, on air throughout September, encompassing a range of programmes from documentary to drama and debate, and online at bbc.co.uk/schoolseason.

LZ

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Later Live... With Jools Holland Ep 2/14

Tuesday 21 September

10.00-10.30pm 91Èȱ¬ TWO and 91Èȱ¬ HD

Jools Holland presents more musical exclusives in Later...

Scissor Sisters join Jools Holland on tonight's live show to perform tracks from their current album, Night Work; Nick Cave, Warren Ellis, Martyn Casey and Jim Sclavunos, aka Grinderman, showcase tracks from Grinderman 2; Rumer, a new British singer-songwriter whose music takes inspiration from Burt Bacharach and The Carpenters but adds her own distinctive lyrical honesty and intimate vocal stylings, sings tracks from her forthcoming solo album, Seasons Of My Soul; The Jolly Boys, veteran legends of Jamaican mento and ska, perform a cheeky cover from their Wall Of Sound album, Great Expectation; Brandon Flowers steps out of The Killers to make his UK debut as a solo artist; and, from Denver, John Grant plays a couple of numbers from his highly acclaimed Queen Of Denmark debut album.

The traditional longer version of Later... can be seen on Friday.

IW

Waterloo Road Ep 5/20

Wednesday 22 September

8.00-9.00pm 91Èȱ¬ ONE and 91Èȱ¬ HD

• Press pack

Janeece (Chelsee Healey) comes to blows with Ruby

The drama from Waterloo Road continues as Janeece and Ruby come to blows over the subject of motherhood, while Marcus's first day almost ends in disaster when his proactive approach to teaching uncovers a shocking secret about Ronan's home life.

After catching Ronan selling DVDs in class, and brimming with ideas about improving parent-teacher relationships, Marcus takes it upon himself to visit Ronan's father at home.

A seemingly upstanding businessman, Ronan's father is upset that his son is selling his possessions, and both he and Marcus assume Ronan must be in some sort of trouble. However, it soon becomes clear that Marcus hasn't grasped the full picture and Ronan is in fact saving the money to flee Rochdale and escape his father's illicit family business. Events reach boiling point in the corridors of Waterloo Road and Ronan is forced to make a decision that will change his life forever.

Meanwhile, Tom witnesses his son being picked on by Finn and persuades Josh to help out at his lunchtime self-defence class, an exercise that only serves to add to Josh's humiliation. Later, away from his father's interference, Josh is finally able to confront Finn and ask for his acceptance and friendship again.

Back at school, Ruby relentlessly scrutinises Janeece's diet and lifestyle, while Janeece does some digging for herself and discovers that Ruby may not be the perfect mother she pretends to be. The pair call a truce and agree to be totally open with each other from now on. However, there is one subject Ruby can't bring herself to talk about, leading to an embarrassing forfeit in the staff room. Finally, a jubilant Janeece proposes a radical solution to help her and Ruby through the pregnancy.

Janeece is played by Chelsee Healey, Ruby by Elizabeth Berrington, Ronan by Ben Ryan Davies, Marcus by Wil Johnson, Mr Burley by Martin Kemp, Tom by Jason Done, Finn by Jack McMullen and Josh by William Rush.

Waterloo Road is simulcast on the 91Èȱ¬ HD channel – the 91Èȱ¬'s High Definition channel, available through Freesat 108, Freeview 50, Sky 143 and Virgin 108.

JP2

Michael Wood's Story Of England –
Romans To Normans Ep 1/6

Wednesday 22 September

9.00-10.00pm 91Èȱ¬ FOUR and 91Èȱ¬ HD

Michael Wood and the villagers of Kibworth

Historian Michael Wood shines an intimate light on the lives of ordinary people over the last 2,000 years in this fascinating new series. Set in the Leicestershire village of Kibworth, the series tells the story of one place through the whole of English history, with the people – not the rulers – at the centre of the narrative.

Kibworth is modern Britain in miniature: located in the very heart of England and split now by the A6, it's the kind of place you could drive through without giving it a second thought. But, like most places in England, scrape just beneath the surface and you discover an incredibly rich historical tapestry.

The first episode delves into the roots of the Kibworth community, its ancestors and landscape, exploring the deep past that shaped the village and its people. With the help of the local people and using archaeology, landscape language and DNA, Michael begins to uncover the lost history of the first thousand years of the village.

More than 250 villagers unite in digging up their own back gardens to unearth artefacts and look into the history that's all around them. A staggering 55 test pits were dug over one weekend, the largest number ever in a single place, and a wealth of evidence discovered: pottery from the Roman and Anglo-Saxon periods all the way through to the Middle Ages; debris of Georgian coaching inns; frame knitters' workshops; and railway navvies' camps.

In Michael Wood's Story Of England the stage is set. From the Romans to the Vikings, from the Black Death to the civil war, this series lays bare a history peopled by fascinating real-life characters, including Tudor teachers, highwaymen, Suffragettes and First World War soldiers.

Michael Wood's Story Of England is simulcast on the 91Èȱ¬ HD channel – the 91Èȱ¬'s High Definition channel, available through Freesat 108, Freeview 50, Sky 143 and Virgin 108.

CD4

Darren's extreme measures to woo Jodie finally pay off and Heather tries to come to terms with her broken heart, as the action in Walford continues.

Alfie wants to prove himself to Kat but what will the future hold for them both?

Darren is played by Charlie G Hawkins, Jodie by Kylie Babbington, Heather by Cheryl Fergison, Alfie by Shane Richie and Kat by Jessie Wallace.

JM3

Alan Titchmarsh and HRH The Prince of Wales

HRH The Prince of Wales takes Alan Titchmarsh on a tour of the Highgrove Estate – one of the country's most important contemporary gardens and his own personal retreat and family home. Celebrating 30 years of Royal gardening at the estate, 91Èȱ¬ Two's Highgrove – Alan Meets Prince Charles features excerpts from a performance of The Highgrove Suite, commissioned by His Royal Highness and composed by Patrick Hawes. The music aims to encapsulate the essence of the garden.

Describing Highgrove, Alan says: "This is an estate of ravishing beauty, you might almost say Arcadian, and it's become iconic for all things organic. It's also the passion project of arguably the best Royal gardener in history. If you want to look into the heart of the future King of England then you want to look no further than his own private garden."

Prince Charles gives a remarkably informal, relaxed and candid interview about his sanctuary and the outlet for all his gardening aspirations, offering a rare insight into a Royal passion. "I think the fun is to try things that aren't normally done. That is what I've tried to do here, there are things that amuse me that other people may find eccentric," he tells Alan.

The Highgrove Estate has become synonymous with all things organic, and Alan finds out what inspired the beliefs of this hands-on Royal gardener. Head gardener Debs Goodenough and her team provide a unique insight into the 15-acre estate, when it is in its prime in spring and summer, and teeming with wildlife.

The Prince of Wales has never been one to shy from brave garden design – the prehistoric "stumpery" with its upturned tree roots and gladed temples is a modern interpretation of a classic Victorian approach. There are formal gardens with elaborate terraces and thyme walks. But the spirit of Highgrove is "managed wildness" and Debs takes Alan on a tour of the walled garden, wild flower meadow, reed bed garden that is a sewage treatment system, and even the huge but humble Royal compost heap.

BR/LS2

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Gareth Malone gives a drama lesson

Gareth Malone concludes his mission to tackle the gap between girls' and boys' achievement in the primary school basics of speaking, reading and writing, as he teaches some of the boys at an Essex primary school during the summer term.

His final task is to tackle what is seen by some of the boys as their No. 1 enemy – writing. Writing, the boys say, is really for girls and makes their hands hurt. Undeterred, Gareth sets them a daunting writing challenge, announcing that their end-of-year school play is not going to be held in the school hall but at the 400-seater Harlow Playhouse... and the boys – with the girls – are going to write the play themselves!

Gareth's approach is to give the boys a holiday from the nitty gritty of spelling, punctuation and grammar in an attempt to free their imaginations and get them excited about what they can achieve through their writing.

Over several weeks, he attempts to ensure that each and every boy has written a part of the play, and produced a piece of writing they can be proud of. As the night of the performance draws near, there are still reluctant writers who have evaded Gareth's grasp but can he manage to finally draw them in?

Gareth's regime then undergoes its ultimate test: The head teacher had set Gareth the target of improving the boys' reading age in just eight weeks. If Gareth's legacy is to have any chance of surviving at the school, he has to prove that he's made a difference. All is revealed when the results come in...

This series is part of 91Èȱ¬ Two's School Season – a range of programming, on air throughout September, encompassing documentary, drama and debate, with additional information at bbc.co.uk/schoolseason. This major season on education focuses on schools and the tough choices parents have to make.

KA

There are more crazy experiments and action-packed challenges as two teams battle it out for the chance to win prizes galore, or to blow them up, in Richard Hammond's scientific game show.

At their top-secret base BLASA, the Blast Lab Aeronautical and Space Association, the Lab Rats are attempting to find faster ways of delivering takeaway food. With the help of an expert and some high-powered rockets, the Lab Rats are hoping to make history as the quickest takeaway company in the world.

In fact, they hope that the rocket will travel faster than the speed of sound and create a sonic boom. The rocket is piloted during the attempt to fly at more than 767 miles per hour by a very special Blast Lab test pilot – one of the Lab Rats' teddy bears...

Back in the studio, the teams, The Bernards and the Random Exploding Bananas, use Newton's Third Law (that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction) in the Air Rocket Car Race. Each team must convert a toy car into a water-powered vehicle.

There's another gunge-filled end to the show in the Messy Messy Mess Test: Septic Tank, when each team has to find as many prize discs as possible in the horrible cesspit, while other mysterious objects appear out of the drain pipes to the sound of a flushing loo!

VT

In today's visit to Albert Square, Heather takes the first step in her new life while Glenda finds a way to make the working day a little bit more interesting. Meanwhile, Alfie has a surprise in store for Kat.

Heather is played by Cheryl Fergison, Glenda by Glynis Barber, Alfie by Shane Richie and Kat by Jessie Wallace.

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Samantha Bond plays left-wing activist Anne Gorton

Notorious paedophile John Davies admits to the abduction and murder of a five-year-old boy, 25 years ago, as the drama following a team of ex-policeman brought out of retirement to investigate unsolved cases from the past continues. UCOS are so suspicious of Davies's motives that they find themselves in the unusual situation of reopening the case to prove his innocence.

John Davies has only recently been released from prison and is struggling to adapt to life outside. His confession appears to be an attempt to return to the relative safety of a prison cell.

Five-year-old Yasser Blackledge disappeared while on a demonstration with his parents, left-wing activists Anne Gorton and Fred Blackledge. At the time, a media "witch hunt" against Anne and Fred clouded the investigation and, while John Davies was known to the couple through various freedom rallies and meetings, it couldn't be proven that he had abducted their son.

Fred and Anne separated shortly after Yasser went missing and, while they both followed different paths, they are clearly still living with the guilt of what happened that day.

Is John Davies telling the truth or does someone closer to home know what really happened to Yasser?

Amanda Redman plays Detective Superintendent Sandra Pullman, James Bolam plays Jack Halford, Alun Armstrong plays Brian Lane, Dennis Waterman plays Gerry Standing, Samantha Bond plays Anne Gorton, Kevin R McNally plays Fred Blackledge and Adrian Schiller plays John Davies.

AC

The Rob Brydon Show features Rob Brydon performing alongside a special guest and a first-class musical act each week. There is also stand-up from Rob himself and from a hand-picked guest comedian.

Tonight, Rob Brydon's guest is fellow Gavin And Stacey cast member James Corden. There's also music and chat from super cool Mark Ronson and stand-up comedy from the up-and-coming Carly Smallman.

ED

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Later... With Jools Holland Ep 2/14

Friday 24 September

11.45pm-12.25am 91Èȱ¬ TWO and 91Èȱ¬ HD

As always, Friday's Later... With Jools Holland offers a fuller buffet of performances and chat, with occasional surprises.

This week's artists include: Scissor Sisters; Nick Cave, Warren Ellis, Martyn Casey and Jim Sclavunos – aka Grinderman; Rumer; The Jolly Boys; Brandon Flowers; and John Grant.

Further shows in this series feature the likes of Robert Plant, Janelle Monae, Midlake, The Black Keys, Steve Miller Band, Kings Of Leon, John Legend & The Roots and many more.

For additional exclusive content, the Later... website features exclusive performances and interviews with acts on each week's show.

Since 1992, Later has featured performances from some of the biggest and hottest names in music, with 2010's spring series welcoming Gorillaz, Jerry Dammers & The Spatial Aka Orchestra, LCD Soundsystem, Alicia Keys, Joanna Newsom, Mumford And Sons, The National and Vampire Weekend.

IW

The Royal Ballet Celebrates Kenneth MacMillan Ep 1/2

Friday 24 September

8.00-10.00pm 91Èȱ¬ FOUR

Carlos Acosta helps to celebrate the genius of choreographer Kenneth MacMillan

91Èȱ¬ Four presents a two-part programme celebrating the genius of choreographer Kenneth MacMillan, staged in the year in which he would have turned 80.

Founder member of Sadler's Wells Royal Ballet and a protégé of choreographer, dancer and director Ninette de Valois, MacMillan created more than 60 ballets – including five full-length works.

The three contrasting works featured in these programmes showcase the beauty and dramatic power of his choreography. Concerto is an early work danced to the music of Shostakovich. In Elite Syncopations, brightly coloured dancers burst into life to the music of ragtime.

The second programme looks at The Judas Tree, the Laurence Olivier Award-winning ballet which was MacMillan's last work before his untimely death from a heart attack at the age of 62. Set on a building site in Canary Wharf, it is a highly charged ballet of brutal betrayal and tense sexual violence.

The programmes, narrated by Katie Derham, also feature interviews with the lead dancers in rehearsal, including Carlos Acosta, Sarah Lamb and Leanne Benjamin, as well as director of The Royal Ballet Monica Mason and MacMillan's widow, Deborah.

RK2