Tag: Death in Paradise

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 16/01/2021

The Architecture The Railways Built (Yesterday | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Tuesday 19th January 2021)

Tim Dunn visits Weymss Bay Station in Inverclyde and also explores the engineering marvel that is Blackfriars station in central London.

The Truth About Improving Your Mental Health (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 20th January 2021)

Over the past 12 months, a team from Imperial College London, in collaboration with the BBC, have surveyed the mental health of over 350,000 people across the UK during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, clinical psychologist Professor Tanya Byron joins former England footballer Alex Scott to discover how the latest science can help us gain greater control over our state of mind and improve mental health and wellbeing.

Grand Designs (Channel 4/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 20th January 2021)

Kevin McCloud follows the progress of Nathan and Amye as they build a giant cathedral-like property modelled on Dutch barn style houses, but with a contemporary twist. It is a hugely ambitious plan, and with Nathan project managing and setting themselves just a year to finish the build, the pressure to pull it off is huge.

The Thames: Britain’s Great River with Tony Robinson (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 20th January 2021)

Tony goes behind the scenes at the iconic Cutty Sark in Greenwich, meeting with the passionate team who care for this historical tourist attraction. Later, Tony visits a metal recycling yard on the banks of the river, before heading out of London to the Hoo peninsula in Kent, where he discovers a rich history of military defence in one small fort.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 21st January 2021)

It seems money doesn’t buy happiness when lottery winner Cherry is found dead at her luxurious villa, much to the horror of her husband and their visiting friends. As usual, Neville and the team are presented with a real head-scratcher when it turns out no one was in the house at the time – and the mystery deepens when the victim’s body apparently vanishes into thin air. Meanwhile, JP is training unruly new officer Marlon, aware that his wife Rosey is due to give birth at any time. Kelvin Fletcher, Jason Manford and Faye McKeever guest star.

Hadrian’s Wall with Robson Green (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 21st January 2021)

The actor travels from Chollerford to Walltown Crags, and learns more about how the Romans took care of themselves so far from home. He samples natural cuisine and checks out the spa at Chesters Fort, before paying a visit to the latrines of Housesteads Fort, which were once the envy of an empire. He goes on to pit his fishing abilities against an angling rival, gladiator-style, before climbing Steel Rigg to reach the route’s highest summit.

Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 22nd January 2021)

The comedian ventures east of the Pennines on a 126-mile journey that begins at the North Yorkshire village of Runswick Bay, where she goes hunting for a rare gemstone called Whitby Jet. Susan samples the local cod and chips before exploring the gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey – famed for inspiring some of the most dramatic scenes in Bram Stoker’s Dracula. After a spell at Mother Shipton’s Cave – the oldest tourist attraction in England – she meets up with a group whose members reconstruct Roman gladiatorial battles in York. Finally, Susan ventures to Malham Cove, a huge curving amphitheatre-shaped cliff.

It’s a Sin (Channel 4/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 22nd January 2021) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

Russell T Davies’ drama, set in the 1980s during the Aids crisis, following the lives of a group of young gay men. September 1981 finds 18-year-old Ritchie leaving the Isle of Wight to go to university. In London, Roscoe walks out of parents’ home, while Colin arrives from Wales to start a new career on Savile Row. The three men meet, and along with fellow student Ash and best friend Jill form a gang and move into a flat, christened the Pink Palace. However, a distant threat on the horizon means that life in the 1980s might be all too precious. Olly Alexander, Omari Douglas and Callum Scott Howells star.

The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 22nd January 2021)

Luxury heritage train The Northern Belle, aka steam locomotive 6201 Princess Elizabeth, travels through England’s rural north west. Beginning in Preston, the passengers of its stylish 1930s Pullman carriages are soon whisked up through Cumbria and the spectacular landscapes of the Lake District. The train continues on to historic Carlisle, the site of a world-class medieval cathedral and home to supposedly England’s most haunted station. It then joins the Settle to Carlisle line, considered one of the most scenic railway routes in the world.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 09/01/2021

London’s Greatest Bridges With Rob Bell (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Wednesday 13th January 2021)

Rob Bell explores the extraordinary stories of four of London’s most iconic bridges, uncovering the history behind how – and why – they were built. In the second episode, Rob focuses on the story of London’s Tower Bridge, looking closely at he bridge’s ingenious engineering, and how this bridge has become entwined with the people of the east-end, the Blitz, and the end of Empire.

Grand Designs (Channel 4/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 13th January 2021)

Kevin McCloud meets Greg and Georgie who are taking on the highly ambitious task of converting a dilapidated, 35-year-old barn in Kent. The build will be a huge challenge involving the painstaking conservation of the existing rotten structure, building a new two-storey internal steel frame and recycling everything they can to stretch their £250,000 budget.

The Thames: Britain’s Great River with Tony Robinson (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 13th January 2021)

In the second episode, Tony explores the river’s role as a vital trade artery connecting the country to the outside world, going behind the scenes at London Gateway, the newest and largest container port on the Thames. Later, he visits Whitstable, famous for its oysters that come from the Thames estuary.

Saving Lives at Sea (BBC 2/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 14th January 2021)

A teenage paddleboarder is being swept out to sea off the coast of north Wales, so the crew of the Abersoch lifeboat race to reach him before he is lost for ever. The crew of the Lizard lifeboat station face two missions, as they are called out to a cargo ship taking on water and in danger of sinking with its crew still on board, followed by a small yacht being battered by a storm in the Atlantic.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | Thursday 14th January 2021)

In the second of two programmes, actor Iain Robertson treks the last 52 miles of the West Highland Way, joined by some familiar faces along the way. He and his River City co-star Lesley Hart begin with a six-mile walk from Crianlarich to Tyndrum, before he ventures into the mist-swirling valley of Glencoe, and a rained-off climb sees him reunited with Small Faces actor Steven Duffy for an unscheduled day trip. He then makes it across the Devil’s Staircase and visits the town of Kinlochleven, where his father grew up, before finally descending into Fort William and facing Ben Nevis.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 14th January 2021) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

An archaeologist is poisoned during a dig, and with only two suspects and a quick confession, it looks like this is going to be an open-and-shut case. However, it turns out the archaeologists were not alone – and the team realise they have little to no evidence. Meanwhile, Neville and Florence realise they might get along better than they originally thought, although the DI’s attempts to embrace island life do not find favour with the Commissioner.

Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 15th January 2021)

The comedian aboard her vintage camper van, explores the mountainous region of north-west England and the Lake District. She begins her 142-mile journey just south of Penrith, travelling down through the lakes, before heading west to finish near Keswick. Along the way she meets the people and visits the places that make this most scenic part of Britain unique. On Ullswater, Susan gets a chance to take charge of the oldest working passenger vessel in the world, the Lady of the Lake. Then she hears of Beatrix Potter’s love of the region before heading the spooky Muncaster Castle.

The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 15th January 2021)

A journey through Sicily that takes in seven Unesco World Heritage sites, with the first stop being a visit to a castle whose baron was inspired by Hampton Court. There’s a meeting in Modica with Sicily’s most famous chocolatier, a trip on the unique railway that travels around Etna, and a visit to Ragusa, a baroque-inspired city famous for its beauty and for its spiral railway that travels within a mountain.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 02/01/2021

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Monday 4th January 2021)

Celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria. Selina Scott enjoys a gentle walk around Wharfedale in the Yorkshire Dales. Along the way, she learns stories of extraordinary philanthropy, meets walkers and a fisherman, and ends her journey drinking local ale in a pub famed for ferret racing.

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Tuesday 5th January 2021)

Regional series in which celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria. Lemn Sissay walks along ancient drovers’ roads in Cumbria’s Dentdale, meeting locals, including a farmer who collects vintage tractors and a lone bagpiper, and making a challenging climb to England’s highest mainline train station.

The Cheetah Family and Me (BBC 2/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Tuesday 5th January 2021)

Wildlife film-maker Gordon Buchanan gets close to wild cheetah in the Kalahari, experiencing first-hand the very real dangers these beautiful big cats face. The programme follows two females, each with a litter of cubs, as they navigate a harsh environment, dangerous wildlife and dwindling prey. Part one of two. 

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

Celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria. Simon Armitage takes a coastal walk along Yorkshire’s enchanting and historic frontier with the North Sea. Starting in Ravenscar, Simon follows a disused railway line, passing former quarries and brickworks, before taking a beach walk from Boggle Hole to the picture-perfect Robin Hood’s Bay.

London’s Greatest Bridges With Rob Bell (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

Rob Bell explores the extraordinary stories of four of London’s most iconic bridges, uncovering the history behind how – and why – they were built. In the first episode, Rob focuses on the original, and for 17 centuries the only bridge across the Thames, London Bridge. Rob explores the multiple versions of this bridge over the centuries and charts how each has shaped Britain’s capital city, from the Romans who used it to control southern England, to the astonishing and raucous medieval bridge, designed by priests, inhabited by hundreds, and financed and managed by City merchants.

The Cheetah Family and Me (BBC 2/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

Wildlife film-maker Gordon Buchanan gets close to wild cheetah in the Kalahari, experiencing first-hand the very real dangers these beautiful big cats face. With the help of guides Richard Satekge and Julius Mkhize, this programme follows two female cheetah, each with a litter of cubs, as they navigate harsh environments, dangerous wildlife and dwindling prey. Part two of two.

Grand Designs (Channel 4/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

Kevin McCloud follows more of Britain’s most ambitious self-building projects, as intrepid individuals attempt to design and construct the home of their dreams. In this first edition, Kevin meets former army captain Justin, who has spent £1.8million on an abandoned neo-Gothic cemetery keeper’s lodge and adjoining ex-council toilet block in south-west London. Justin’s vision is to restore the lodge but demolish the ugly toilet blocks and replace them with an enormous luxury ground-floor extension, with an added moat and a giant basement with a swimming pool – all just metres from the nearest grave.

The Thames: Britain’s Great River with Tony Robinson (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

The actor and presenter discovers what makes the Thames one of the greatest rivers in the world. This time, Tony gains access to one of the most iconic landmarks to sit on – or over – the River Thames, the Battersea Power Station. He goes inside the famous Control Room A to see how it is being restored and even has a go at replacing one of the laylights in the ceiling. Upstream in Berkshire, he visits the Cliveden House, before learning more about a unique art installation project on the river.

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Thursday 7th January 2021)

Yorkshire peer Baroness Sayeeda Warsi takes time out from her political life to seek peace and calm in the Dales. On her ramble through Wharfedale, the former government minister meets villagers in Kettlewell, a farmer preparing for lambing and a long-distance fell runner.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 7th January 2021)

In the first of two programmes, Iain Robertson treks the 47 miles from Glasgow to Crianlarich, taking in Milngavie, Loch Lomond, a dog rescue and a spot of kayaking. Along the way he is joined by fellow actors Lesley Hart, Steven Duffy, restaurateur Guy Cowan and writer Donna Franceschild.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 7th January 2021) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

The Caribbean-set whodunit returns for its 10th anniversary series, which promises more murders and the return of one or two familiar faces. A TV news presenter is found dead in her pool at home. DI Neville Parker is convinced her co-host is responsible. But given he was live on air at the time, how could he have done it? The return of an experienced sergeant to the island could be just what Neville needs to crack the case.

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Friday 8th January 2021)

Celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria. The Rev Richard Coles walks through the North York Moors and along the Sutton Bank. His journey takes him to the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, once one of England’s most powerful Cistercian monasteries. where he reflects on the need for silent contemplation.

Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 8th January 2021)

The comedian explores Devon and Cornwall in her vintage camper van, taking in some dramatic scenery, unspoilt countryside and incredible historic sights along the way. She stumbles across one of the area’s more unique attractions, including The Gnome Reserve, where she meets a local who has a collection of more than 1,000 gnomes, and finds out where the term ‘stickler’ comes from by taking part in the ancient sport of Cornish Wrestling, before ending her journey at the stunning coastal viewpoint of St Bedruthan Steps.

The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 8th January 2021)

The West Highland Line is one of the world’s truly legendary train routes, crossing spectacular Scottish moors and mountains as it heads towards Skye. Starting in Glasgow, it glides towards Loch Lomond, the world’s largest inland stretch of water. It then sweeps north to enter the wild and windswept landscape of Rannoch Moor. After ascending to Corrour, Britain’s highest station, the journey passes Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain and then across the famous Glenfinnan viaduct. The coastal town of Mallaig is gateway to the Isle of Skye with its world-famous Highland cuisine and many breathtaking views.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 22/02/2020

Saving Lives at Sea - 26-02-2020 - YouView appCall the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 23rd February 2020)

Sister Julienne decides it is time to take matters in hand when a letter arrives from the council saying that it will cut funding to Nonnatus House and no longer pay for the accommodation, and goes to see Violet at one of her open sessions as a local councillor. At clinic, Nurse Crane meets and cares for heavily pregnant Bonnie, who is not married but committed to the baby’s father Eddie, while Kevin’s dependency on pain relief is discovered by the team and Dr Turner and Miss Higgins must find a way to help him.

Top Gear (BBC 2/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 23rd February 2020)

Paddy McGuinness, Freddie Flintoff and Chris Harris take the latest sports cars from Ferrari, Aston Martin and Porsche on a Yorkshire road trip. Back on the track, Chris tests out Volkswagen’s ID-R electric racer. YouTube star KSI is the studio guest.

Fish Town (BBC 1 Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 7:30pm to 8:00pm | Monday 24th February 2020)

During a trip, there is a celebration on board Westro as apprentice Stephen West turns 20 and officially receives his skipper’s licence, while fishing boat Sardonyx is on the hunt for squid in the Moray Firth. In Peterhead, part-timer Arthur James McKenzie is following in his grandfather’s footsteps fishing for lobsters just 50 metres from shore.

Saving Lives at Sea (BBC 2/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Wednesday 26th February 2020)

Documentary telling the story of the unpaid volunteers who sacrifice their free time to staff more than two hundred RNLI lifeboat stations across the UK. The volunteers race to the rescue of a shark attack victim, and two fishermen caught by the tide find themselves stranded in a rising sea. Elsewhere, two young boys are swept out to sea in a rip current.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 27th February 2020)

A blind actress is the only witness to her husband’s murder, but it remains to be seen whether she can really be trusted. Drama, starring Ralf Little, Aude Legastelois and Frances Tomelty.

The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 28th February 2020)

Paul Middleton, aka Piglet, and the team attempt to finish the restoration of a 9F locomotive that has taken more than 50 years, and also bring the monster King Edward IV engine to the branch line for its gala. It cost a small fortune to transport there, and Piglet doesn’t know if the huge engine will fit on the small branch line. Plus, the programme meets Beth, the railway’s first female loco driver, and follows Gill and Sammie on the Pullman dining train for their last afternoon tea service of the season.

Britain by Barge (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:20pm | Friday 28th February 2020)

Bill Oddie, Jennie Bond, Anne Diamond and Pete Waterman cross Scotland from the west coast to the east on its oldest canal, the Forth and Clyde. On their way, they learn about the role Clydesdale horses played on the waterway and find out how pleasure boats began to use the canal in the late-1800s, transporting people out of the city to the countryside on day trips.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 15/02/2020

Britain by Barge - 21-02-2020 - YouView appCall the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 16th February 2020)

After performing an excellent forceps delivery in final supervision, Dr McNulty’s next patient is a woman whose husband is a drunk and abusive towards her. At the clinic, the team finally receives the long-awaited incubator for the maternity home, while Trixie is keen to support new patient Marion, who has a rare form of retinitis pigmentosa that has left her blind.

Top Gear (BBC 2/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 16th February 2020)

Chris Harris and Freddie Flintoff tackle the Baja 1000t off-road race. On the test track, a showdown is held between a Renault hot hatch, a Porsche sports car and an old Lamborghini. Guests Laurence and Emilia Fox drop in to the studio.

Walking Britain’s Lost Railways (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 16th February 2020)

Rob Bell heads to the industrial heartlands of north-east England, beginning on Wearside, where he learns about the world’s first railway designed for steam locomotives. Rob also visits the ‘living’ museum at Beamish and rides a railway from George Stephenson’s day, following an old line into Hartlepool, where a medieval port was turned into a mega-centre of coal, rail and shipping in just one generation.

Fish Town (BBC 1 Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 7:30pm to 8:00pm | Monday 17th February 2020)

Davie Milne skippers trawler Faithlie to Norwegian waters to trial a new style of fishing net, and it doesn’t take long for first mate Jakey and the rest of the crew to get to grips with the new technology. In the waters off Orkney, Iain Harcus is aiming for high-value white fish on his boat Aalskere, while back in Peterhead a new scheme is under way to provide the vital skills needed to work in the fishing industry.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 20th February 2020)

The owner of a hair salon is killed in front of her family, leaving DI Neville Parker and his team stumped when it turns out no one actually saw what happened. Ralf Little stars as the British detective, with Aude Legastelois-Bidé, Tobi Bakare and Shyko Amos.

The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 21st February 2020)

The return of the behind-the-scenes look at the North York Moors Railway. Piglet’s been promoted, but seems to spend more time in his overalls than behind his desk as he grapples with an old American war-horse, the S160 Omaha. Elsewhere on the railway, lovable ticket inspector Bert Blower has a new trainee, and `king of the carriages” Kieran awaits a Flying Scotsman carriage returning to the railway after being vandalised two years earlier. Plus, there are antics from trainee driver Phil and budget-conscious big boss Chris.

Britain by Barge (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 21st February 2020)

Travelling along the Leeds and Liverpool canal, Bill Oddie, Jennie Bond, Anne Diamond and Pete Waterman eventually leave Yorkshire behind them and head into Lancashire. Pete and Anne discover a Polish war memorial and learn about the role canals played in the Second World War. Bill goes in search of an elusive kingfisher, while Jennie walks in Charlotte Brontë’s footsteps. Later, Anne samples a Fat Rascal, Pete tries to turn Bill into a steam engine nut and the entire quartet disappear into the dripping darkness of Foulridge Tunnel, where they find out about a famous cow who once swam it.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 08/02/2020

Walking Britain's Lost Railways - 09-02-2020 - YouView appCall the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 9th February 2020)

At the Turners, Shelagh receives a phone call from the Hong Kong adoption agency, which has the alarming news that someone from May’s past has arrived in the UK and wants to see the little girl. Meanwhile, Valerie’s cousin Maureen is heavily pregnant and hoping her baby will be born on Thursday, the same date as her father and grandfather. However, her due date isn’t so soon and keen to bring on the birth, Maureen takes a big risk by secretly taking castor oil – with potentially disastrous consequences.

Top Gear (BBC 2/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 9th February 2020)

Paddy McGuinness, Freddie Flintoff and Chris Harris are sent on a high-altitude mountain expedition across Peru in second-hand American cars. Plus, back at the track, Chris tests out the latest electric car from Porsche.

Walking Britain’s Lost Railways (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 9th February 2020)

Rob Bell explores more abandoned rail routes, beginning with one that cut an outrageous path through the dramatic hills and gorges of the Peak District – part of the 1860s express route between London and Manchester. From Matlock to the spa town splendour of Buxton, Rob unearths a tale of Victorian ambition, as he travels along a route filled with great engineering, which is now a beloved part of the Peak District National Park.

Fish Town (BBC 1 Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 7:30pm to 8:00pm | Monday 10th February 2020)

Mark and Adam Robertson finally get their trawler Zephyr back in the water after a break for repairs, but just 30 miles out they suffer an engine problem and have to turn back to shore. On the Reliance, David Clark is four days through his first trip as skipper when he faces an inspection by Marine Scotland.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 13th February 2020)

A desert island survival course goes wrong when the leader – a trained survival expert and ex-SAS soldier – is found dead in the forest of a remote island near Saint Marie. Having ventured off into the wilderness alone and with no other people on the island apart from the trip participants, suspicion soon falls upon them. But with all of the course members providing one another with an alibi, how could any of them have committed the murder? That’s what new detective inspector Neville intends to find out. Starring Ralf Little.

Britain by Barge (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:15pm | Friday 14th February 2020)

Bill Oddie, Jennie Bond, Anne Diamond and Pete Waterman travel along three of Britain’s most famous waterways. They begin on the Leeds and Liverpool canal, for a journey along the longest single canal in the UK. After getting to grips with their barges, they visit the model village at Saltaire and discover how a mill that was one the largest textile factory in the world has been reinvented as an art gallery and hi-tech production line.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 01/02/2020

Silent Witness - 03-02-2020 - YouView appCall the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 2nd February 2020)

Sister Frances is at a loss when she cares for diabetic and recovering cancer patient Albert Calthorpe whose fiercely independent wife Grace refuses to accept further help, despite caring for her husband, her elderly mother and her pregnant daughter. Meanwhile, Violet is given two tickets to new hit film The Sound of Music and decides to raffle them off with all proceeds going to the incubator fund, while Timothy, Angela and May want to give their parents a night off, but they’re not sure how. Samantha Spiro guest stars.

Top Gear (BBC 2/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 2nd February 2020)

Comedian Romesh Ranganathan joins the team in the studio. Chris Harris races the £2.5million McLaren Speedtail against the RAF’s latest fighter jet, and Paddy McGuinness tries out a cheap but luxurious off-roader.

Fish Town (BBC 1 Scotland & BBC iPlayer only | Monday 3rd February 2020)

John Clark steps aside as skipper to let his 22-year-old son David take the helm of fishing boat Reliance for the first time, while Michael Watt is on the hunt for squid in the Moray Firth in his trawler Sardonyx. Back on shore, the Robertsons are checking their boat Zenith into the dry dock for some vital maintenance work.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Monday 3rd February 2020)

Part one of two. Thomas investigates the case of John Sealy, a soldier who died during a military training exercise involving exposure to CS gas. It appears the victim died from an aneurysm, but when Thomas discovers the trace of a possible nerve agent in his system, the man’s family are desperate for answers. Was a chemical weapon involved, or is there a more innocent explanation? First of a two-part episode of the crime drama, starring Emilia Fox, David Caves, Richard Lintern and Liz Carr.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 5th February 2020)

Part two of two. Jack is rushed to hospital after collapsing at the scene of a car crash, which Thomas suspects could be the result of exposure to the same nerve agent that was used on John Sealy. With Jack’s life hanging in the balance, it falls to Nikki, Thomas and Clarissa to find the truth and save their friend.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 6th February 2020)

The celebratory launch of a new luxury resort is cut short when a woman is found electrocuted in her hotel bathtub – with the door locked from the inside. It looks like a simple case of suicide, but with Jack Mooney no longer around to confirm Commissioner Selwyn’s suspicions, DI Neville Parker is temporarily flown over from Manchester to close the case. However, he soon realises that island life is not for him, so when evidence of suspicious activity turns up, he is dismayed to realise he will have to extend his stay and investigate the case as murder. Ralf Little joins the cast, with guest appearances by Steve Pemberton and Samantha Bond.

Secret Scotland (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 7th February 2020)

Comedian Susan Calman continues her journey in Ayrshire, where she visits the birthplace of Robert Burns and gets to see a precious artefact normally kept in a fireproof safe. Moving on to the Isle of Arran, she learns the tricks of foraging and puts her sense of smell to the test, before heading to Culzean Castle and learning the story behind Peter Pan in Dumfries. The tour concludes by travelling in a kayak to Pladda Lighthouse.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 25/01/2020

Top Gear - 26-01-2020 - YouView appHow the Victorians Built Britain (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Saturday 25th January 2020)

Michael Buerk discovers how the Victorians spent their leisure time, heading to Blackpool to learn how the seaside mini-break was transformed from a perk of the wealthy to a British institution. He steps onto one of the town’s famous piers to learn how, thanks to architect and civil engineer Eugenius Birch, these humble loading aids became entertainment hubs. Michael also hears how a rivalry between two showbusiness giants resulted in some of the area’s most glorious architecture and how the advent of electricity fuelled the town’s tourist industry, via its world famous illuminations.

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 26th January 2020)

Sister Julienne volunteers to put up four trainee doctors at Nonnatus House while they undertake the practical aspect of their obstetrics diploma, hoping the exercise will remind the council how vital the home is to the community and help remove the threat of demolition. There is a lot of excitement about the new arrivals and the doctors don’t disappoint. On his CDC rounds, Fred comes across a street marked for demolition, with one house clearly showing signs of life. Period drama, starring Jenny Agutter.

Top Gear (BBC 2/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 26th January 2020)

Paddy McGuiness, Chris Harris and Freddie Flintoff go on a road trip in a trio of affordable second-hand convertibles. On the test track, Chris puts the new Ariel Atom through its paces, while Freddie goes bungee jumping off a dam in an old Rover.

Fish Town (BBC 1 Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 7:30pm to 8:00pm | Monday 27th January 2020)

Westro skipper James West and his have been in the North Sea for three days hunting prawns, but so far have struggled to find a catch so he decides to travel 120 miles in the hope of more luck. New recruit Gavin Burnett heads out on Peterhead trawler Ocean Endeavour, with the 17-year-old being given the responsibilty of bringing the fish on board and cooking for the crew. On the night of the Fishing News Awards, James is nominated for Fisherman of the Year, while rookie Gavin is hoping to land the Trainee of the Year award.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Monday 27th January 2020)

Teenagers messing around in a stolen car collide with a pillar in a multistorey car park. The joyriders escape, but within the smashed concrete, the unmistakable form of a skull is revealed. After painstakingly extracting the skeleton encased inside, Nikki and the Lyell team must investigate a suspicious death from 20 years previously. Meanwhile, Clarissa faces a difficult decision regarding her mother’s care. First of a two-part episode of the crime drama, starring Emilia Fox, David Caves, Richard Lintern and Liz Carr.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Tuesday 28th January 2020)

The concrete-encased remains have been identified and the victim’s family tracked down – but the team soon has another suspicious death on their hands when Clarissa’s investigation leads her to a cryogenics facility, where a body has been frozen. A post-mortem is required to discover how the victim died and who is responsible for having the remains put on ice.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 30th January 2020)

Christopher Williams’ body is found on a boat out at sea. All evidence points towards a deadly fall, but Jack is bothered by the victim’s strange appearance and the fact that his car was abandoned miles out into the woods. Suspicion fall on his wife and friends – but with everyone having an alibi, the police drift further away from the truth. Meanwhile, Jack’s daughter Siobhan visits and encourages him to accept Anna’s offer of joining her on her travels, leaving the DI with a big decision to make.

Secret Scotland (Channel 5/HD 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 31st January 2020)

Perthshire is known as Scotland’s `big tree country” and with its lush forest it’s easy to see why. Susan goes behind the scenes with Lady Mansfield at the magnificent Scone Palace, the historical crowning site of Scotland’s kings. She also explores the secrets of the Hermitage in Dunkeld, a purpose-built forest playground for the aristocracy. Then it’s on to the Birnam Oak, said to have inspired the writing of Macbeth. There’s a chance to learn the art of glassmaking as well as meet a colony of bees who create special honey from Scotland’s heather. Susan ends her journey in the city of Dundee.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 11/01/2020

Silent Witness - 13-01-2020 - YouView appHow the Victorians Built Britain (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Saturday 11th January 2020)

Michael Buerk learns how the Victorians built the biggest, fastest, most technologically advanced ships in the world, which helped the nation to dominate the high seas. In Portsmouth, he boards Queen Victoria’s flagship HMS Warrior to reveal surprising construction secrets and the ways the ship kept the peace in international waters, before following in Brunel’s footsteps aboard his luxury steamer SS Great Britain.

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 12th January 2020)

A woman is caught stealing milk from Nonnatus House, but she pleads for mercy from sisters Julienne and Monica Joan, explaining that she has been stealing milk as she is pregnant. As Sister Julienne learns more about her, she is convinced that this woman needs help becoming the mother she wants to be. Meanwhile, Dr Turner puzzles over a mysterious string of symptoms, and the blossoming romance between Miss Higgins and Sgt Woolf is thrown into jeopardy. Starring Jenny Agutter and Stephen McGann.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Monday 13th January 2020)

Michael Portillo explores the West Country between the wars, setting off from the Cornish seaside resort of St Ives and ending his first in the former mining village of St Day.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Monday 13th January 2020)

Part one of two. When a body is found in a field near the village of Hartford, Nikki and the Lyell team confirm it is that of missing teenager Jason Forbes. Working to the theory that most killers strike close to home, ambitious DCI Claire Ashby is committed to proving the guilt of her main suspect and sets her sights firmly on local locksmith Malcolm Wilde. Forensic crime drama, starring Emilia Fox, Richard Lintern, David Caves and Liz Carr, with Sophia Di Martino, Robert Pugh and Phil Davis.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Tuesday 14th January 2020)

Michael Portillo visits Cornwall’s county town, Truro, heading to the historic estate of Trewithen, whose gardens were stocked from China by professional plant hunters commissioned by its owner. The Atlantic Coast branch line carries Michael north to Newquay, where he discovers a pioneering surfer and braves the waves on a belly board. In the nearby village of St Mawgan, Michael is introduced to the ancient Cornish sport of `wrassling”, which surged in popularity between the wars as part of a Cornish Celtic revival.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Wednesday 15th January 2020)

Michael Portillo reaches Bodmin en route to Totnes, as he explores the West Country from St Ives to Salisbury Plain. Out on the rugged moor, Michael hears how the celebrated author Daphne du Maurier captivated readers between the wars with her tales of smuggling at the Jamaica Inn. In Devon, Michael takes the plunge at Plymouth’s beautiful art deco Tinside Lido, while at Ivybridge, he boards a vehicle like no other to cross the causeway to Burgh Island, where a 1930s playboy built a splendid art deco party palace.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 15th January 2020)

Part two of two. Investigating the murder of missing teenager Jason Forbes, Nikki and the Lyell team are forced to question police methods, as DCI Claire Ashby seems more concerned with building the case against her main suspect. With pressure building on the police to secure a conviction, the team must fight to ensure that inconvenient truths are not overlooked.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Thursday 16th January 2020)

Michael Portillo arrives in Paignton, south Devon, where the Dartmouth Steam Railway takes him to the home of Agatha Christie, in the company of her great-grandson James Prichard.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 16th January 2020)

DI Jack Mooney and the team are called to a workshop where acclaimed artist Donna Harman has been found dead. Suspicion immediately falls on the three people closest to the crime scene, but with no one entering the workshop between the time the victim returned to start on her next painting and being found dead, the scene paints a tricky picture. Only a solitary drink can seems to hold the answer, but matters are complicated when Donna’s art dealer and an art collector enter the fray. Meanwhile, Jack is confused by his blossoming feelings for Anna. Whodunit, starring Ardal O’Hanlon, with Nina Wadia, Barbara Flynn, Louise Brealey and Vivienne Acheampong.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Friday 17th January 2020)

Michael Portillo crosses the county line from Devon into Somerset, seeing first-hand how willow farmers sought to overcome the challenge from the production of synthetic plastics during the 1930s and hearing how tourism has spread across the region, especially amongst the young. In Bath, Michael visits the former home of a refugee emperor, whose country was invaded by the Italian dictator Mussolini, and in whose name a religious movement began that now flourishes worldwide. Travelling east into Wiltshire, he reaches the largest training area of the British Army, Salisbury Plain.

Secret Scotland (Channel 5/HD 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 17th January 2020)

Susan explores the city of Glasgow, and in its oldest building, Glasgow Cathedral, she discovers a seat fit for only a Queen. The comedian learns how centuries of craftsmen left their mark on the building. Donning her hard hat and climbing to the top, she is also given the opportunity to leave her own. Then it’s onto the home of Scottish football to meet the only Scot ever to have won a football world cup, before taking on the pros to score a goal herself at Hampden Park.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 04/01/2020

How the Victorians Built Britain (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Saturday 4th January 2020)

Michael Buerk returns with more stories of how Britain was transformed during the Victorian era, beginning by looking at the development of the railway network during the era. Michael hops on board an original Victorian locomotive at Tanfield Railway and discovers the role this former coal track played in the development of the national railway. He also learns about Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s bid to secure Bristol’s future, and his creation of the fastest engine in the world.

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 5th January 2020)

The return of the period drama about midwives and nurses in London’s East End, picking up the story in January 1965. After dealing with a power cut at the maternity home, Fred follows an unusual sound and finds a newborn baby abandoned in a dustbin. Meanwhile, Dr Turner and Nurse Crane must deal with an alarming outbreak of diphtheria, and Sister Julienne receives news of an ambitious redevelopment programme that potentially threatens Nonnatus House. Starring Jenny Agutter and Stephen McGann.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Monday 6th January 2020)

Armed with an interwar Bradshaw’s guide, Michael Portillo explores the Britain of the 1930s as he sets out on another adventure. Beginning just outside Newcastle in Jarrow, Michael uncovers the desperation that led 200 men to march 300 miles to Westminster in order to petition the government for work. The first leg of his journey ends Spennymoor, Co Durham, where he meets the son of a miner who became one of the most famous 20th-century artists of the region.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Tuesday 7th January 2020)

Michael Portillo is in Northumbria en route to the Highlands, heading to Kielder Forest to discover what lay behind a national initiative to plant one of the largest manmade woodlands in Europe. Crossing the border to Scotland, Michael arrives in the weaving town of Hawick to visit Lovat Mill, where, in the 1930s, tweed was big business, and also goes to the movies, sitting in the front stalls at the Dominion cinema in Morningside.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Tuesday 7th January 2020)

Part one of two. Nikki is called in when a private jet crashes in a forest outside London, and finds herself forced to be the bearer of bad news when she learns that the casualties include a former US ambassador who is also an old friend of Matt’s. Meanwhile, Thomas investigates the suspicious suicide of a successful businessman, and uncovers an unexpected connection to the plane crash – which suggests the two cases are linked, and that the plane may have been deliberately sabotaged as part of a coordinated attack.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Wednesday 8th January 2020)

Michael Portillo reaches the Westerglen Transmitting Station in Falkirk, before visiting Gleneagles and Berry Town on route to his final stop on this leg, the city of Dundee.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 8th January 2020)

Part two of two. Nikki and the Lyell team continue to investigate the plane crash, ruling out an explosion and engine failure. The investigation takes a turn when they discover a connection to a sinister online forum. Meanwhile, Nikki’s partner Matt is grieving following the death of his close friend, putting their relationship under strain. Starring Emilia Fox, David Caves and Richard Lintern.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Thursday 9th January 2020)

Michael Portillo travels from Dundee to Aberdeen, stopping off at Glamis Castle, where the Queen Mother grew up, and making an excursion into the Eastern Highlands.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 9th January 2020)

The return of the whodunit set on the Caribbean island of Saint Marie, where the sun shines all day and it seems half the residents are killers-in-waiting. And so it appears this week as the locals set out to celebrate the New Year – only for the festivities to be cut short when a masked man stabs a woman in her own home, providing Detective Inspector Jack Mooney and his team with yet another murder to solve. Ardal O’Hanlon stars as the Irish detective – although as has been widely reported, he will soon be leaving the lead role – with guest appearances by Adrian Edmondson, Nina Wadia and Samuel West.

Great British Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Friday 10th January 2020)

Michael Portillo is at Elgin’s port, the coastal town of Lossiemouth, where the Labour Party’s first prime minister James Ramsay MacDonald was born. Nearby, Michael finds a remote boarding school established in the 1930s and famous today both for its unusual ideas and its royal former pupils. His penultimate stop is Inverness, where he uncovers the work of female photographer MEM Donaldson, who documented a Highland way of life that was rapidly disappearing. Michael’s journey ends at Loch Ness, where he joins a Deep Scan research team scouring the deep for signs of the elusive monster.

Secret Scotland (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 10th January 2020)

The comedian traverses the North Coast 500, a 500-mile trip around the northernmost parts of mainland Britain. Beginning in the village of Golspie, Susan travels round the coast to Dunrobin Castle. There, she sees the 189-room property’s clock tower inspired by Big Ben, as well as its very own private train station. Further up the coast, Susan visits the Whaligoe steps, stunningly carved into the dramatic landscape, before getting a taste of the work of a real-life `herring girl”. After stopping off at John O’ Groats, the presenter heads to Dunnet Head for a spot of puffin-watching.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.