Today’s Radio

NATUREBANG

9.30AM, RADIO 4 ★★★

Prairie voles are cute-looking rodents that mate for life. Bonded pairs work as a team to keep themselves and their offspring alive. Neuroscientists studying the brains of these voles found that, after the creatures mate, chemical modifications occur that have a powerful influence on their desire to form lasting bonds. Professor Larry Young, an expert in social behaviour, gives some insights into this little rodent.

WHAT IF WE STOPPED BUYING STUFF AND STARTED MAKING IT?

11.30AM, RADIO 4 ★★★

In a workshop in Cambridge, there are sewing machines, lathes, 3-D printers and other pieces of equipment for the community to use. They host make-athons there, give talks, share skills and repair stuff, as well as encouraging invention and creativity. We hear from the founders of the Cambridge Makespace and other craftsmen and women about finding an alternative to the throwaway society.

JO WHILEY’S ROCKSTARS AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE

7PM, RADIO 2 ★★★★

Jo invites various music stars to her Northamptonshire home. As the nibbles are distributed, Jamie Cullum takes his seat at the piano to accompany a chorus of angels, including Lucy Rose, Will Young and Youtube star Dodie. Snow Patrol are the house band, Alex James is the cheesemonger, and Kate Tempest is the resident poet.

THE FULL WORKS CONCERT

8PM, CLASSIC FM ★★★★

Jane Jones introduces this special concert, featuring the Boston Pops Orchestra, of Christmas songs and carols. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Rudolph The Rednosed Reindeer, Sleigh Ride and Holly Jolly Jingle are on the bill. SJ

Jo Whiley (7pm, Radio 2)