TV PICKS OF THE WEEK
THE LANCASTER BOMBER AT 80 WITH DAVID JASON Tonight, Channel 4, 7pm
In this one-off documentary, Sir David Jason narrates the stirring tale of how one of the most iconic aircraft in history was created. He explores how, as Bomber Command’s most destructive weapon, it went on to become instrumental in the defeat of Nazi Germany during the Second World War.
The programme also sheds light on the contributions from the brave, multi-cultural aircrews who flew the bomber, and offers a portrait of the celebrated but controversial figure, Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris.
ESCAPE TO THE CHATEAU Tomorrow, Channel 4, 8pm
We’re back for the eighth visit to Dick and Angel Strawbridge’s 19th-century chateau, and winter has the place in its grip.
After making snow angels, taking part in snowball fights and collecting the season’s first goose eggs, the duo turn their attention to the original coach house, now home to Angel’s parents Jenni and Steve.
It’s got two small windows and a low ceiling, and the Strawbridges have big plans to turn the 150-year-old granary store into the ultimate sanctuary: with the perfect balance of light and space.
THE LONG CALL Monday, ITV, 9pm
There’s a haunting quality to this crime drama, which is based on Ann Cleeves’ novel, and showing over the next four nights.
After a body is found on a beach in
North Devon, DI Matthew Venn (Ben Aldridge) and his team, Detective Jen Rafferty (Pearl Mackie) and DC Ross Pritchard (Dylan Edwards), search for a way into a case that has no witnesses, no forensics and no motive. Matthew is also dealing with the recent death of his father and the complications of being thrust back into a community he was forced to leave.
AUTUMNWATCH Tuesday, BBC2, regions vary
We can only say autumn has definitely arrived when this programme makes a
welcome return to our screens.
Stripped across the back end of the week, Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan settle into their base in Wild Ken Hill in Norfolk to find out what has changed in the British natural world since the spring.
The presenters also revel in the Snettisham Spectacular – an autumn highlight in the bird-watching calendar.
Plus, in this edition, we scoot over to Northern Ireland where Gillian Burke discovers how moles hide and store worms for the cooler months, while Megan Mccubbin is on the Isle of Mull, famous for its eagles, red deer and otters.
UNIVERSE Wednesday, BBC2, 9pm
Professor Brian Cox takes us on a journey to places we didn’t even know existed 10 years ago, revealing awe-inspiring wonders and recreating dramatic moments that defined Earth’s destiny.
He begins with a hymn to the great luminous bodies that bring light and warmth to the universe – the stars.
AUTUMN GARDENING WITH CAROL KLEIN
Thursday, Channel 5, 7pm The inclement weather sends Carol heading to the potting shed, where
she demonstrates how to divide ranunculus before offering tips on choosing and cultivating peonies after the skies clear.
Carol then takes a trip to the local train station to have a look at its clematis, known as Traveller’s
Joy, comparing it with the variety she has growing in her garden.
MRS BROWN’S BOYS LIVE Friday, BBC1, 9.30pm
Brendan O’carroll’s smash-hit comedy is back for a live one-off special to mark its 10th anniversary.
It’s Halloween in Finglas, and Agnes gets a surprising visitor from her past. When no one else can see her ghostly guest, naturally they think she’s gone a little round the twist.
Luckily, Father Damien is on hand and with a little help from Grandad, they are just in time to head down to Foley’s for a fancy-dress party.