Parsons’ day off sparks fears

Radio listeners questioned whether it was “the apocalypse” as Just A Minute was broadcast without its chair Nicholas Parsons for the first time in over 50 years.

The presenter, 94, has been on the BBC Radio 4 programme since its inception in 1967 but was absent from Monday night’s instalment.

Gyles Brandreth filled in for him, prompting an outpouring of worried messag- es from fans on social media. The BBC’S head of radio comedy Julia Mckenzie was quick to assure listeners that Parsons was just enjoying a rare day off.

She tweeted: “Just to reassure those listening to the very unexpected Just a Minute on @Bbcradio4 at the moment - the apocalypse is not upon us - @Gylesb1 kindly stepped in to give Nicholas Parsons a couple of days off.

“NP is totally fine and is still the guvnor as per the last 50 years.”