I’M IN THE MOOD FOR...
ANIMATED ADVENTURE The Snail and the Whale, BBC One, 2.30pm
It wouldn’t be Christmas without an animated adaptation of one of writer Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler’s muchloved childrens’ books. This one tells the tale of an ambitious snail who wants to set off and see the world — but just can’t get there quick enough.
A chance encounter with a humpback whale is just the thing to kickstart an adventure.
CHRISTMAS CALLING Call the Midwife Christmas Special, BBC One, 7pm
The hard-working midwives of Nonnatus House are under a lot of pressure as they deal with an outbreak of influenza in this year’s festive return of the period drama. Meanwhile, Mother Mildred feels as though she has been given a divine calling, and must set up a branch house in the Outer Hebrides. The clear air could be just what the doctor ordered, as a few of the group agree to go with her. However, their accommodation — a freezing cold, converted church — isn’t the most ideal living situation.
FESTIVE BAKES The Great Christmas Bake Off, Channel 4, 7.10pm
In the first of two seasonal specials, Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood set baking challenges for a number of familiar faces — Tom and Yan from 2017 and Briony and Terry from 2018.
MUSICAL LEGACY Phil Coulter — Mo Shaol, TG4, 9.30pm
This one-off special looks back at the remarkable life and career of Northern Ireland’s legendary songwriter, producer and performer, Phil Coulter. It features rarely-seen archive material captured throughout his time in the limelight and offers an eyeopening glimpse at his journey.