TODAY’S RADIO

Living World 6.35AM, RADIO 4

Ravens are seen as birds of ill omen, but they are intelligent creatures and, though in many ways solitary birds, they keep a beady eye out for each other. Lionel Kelleway visits a Shropshire roost, and hears how ravens share information about food sources in the hard months of winter.

The Food Programme 12.30PM, RADIO 4

Christmas pictures of Nigella Lawson show her doling out home-made pickles, carving whole joints of ham and tucking into edible decorations. Diana Henry joins the queen of Christmas cooking to find out – when the cameras have gone and the cookery books are sold – what Nigella really eats at Christmas.

Carpenters From A-Z 5PM, RADIO 2

Soft, sweet harmonies graced the music of Karen and Richard Carpenter, and their 1978 album Christmas Portrait – including the rather dreary Merry Christmas, Darling (co-written by Richard) – remains a seasonal favourite. Graham Norton takes a look at the Carpenters’ lives and career, and the often far from harmonious relationship between the siblings. Graham also plays some of their big hits, and includes a new interview with Richard.

The Shuttleworths 7.15PM, RADIO 4

With his portable Yamaha clutched to his side, John Shuttleworth (Graham Fellows) heads across the car park to pay a Christmas visit to a friend in hospital. He’s inspired on this short walk to write the song

I Love Visiting Time, with its poignant line: ‘Past the smokers in their dressing gowns I stride.’ There will be more songs from John, plus his friend and manager Ken, as they bring the healing power of music to the not always grateful sick. Very funny. SJ

Nigella Lawson (12.30pm, R4)