TODAY’S RADIO

KEN BRUCE 9.30AM, RADIO 2

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It’s Red Nose Day on Friday, so Richard Curtis, co-founder of Comic Relief, and his partner, Emma Freud, who has worked for the fundraiser for more than 30 years, join Ken to talk about some of the things that have been achieved since 1986. Richard and Emma also choose their Tracks Of My Years, including music from The Cars, The Hollies and Cher.

THE WHISPERER IN DARKNESS 7.45PM, RADIO 4 HHHH

Nicola Walker plays Dr Eleanor Peck, an academic who specialises in folklore and witchcraft. One of her old pupils, Henry Akeley (David Calder), has gone missing in mysterious circumstances, and alien beings appear to be involved. This creepy 15-part drama, inspired by cult author H.P. Lovecraft’s story, also stars Barnaby Kay as podcaster and investigator Matthew Heawood.

THE CLASSIC FM CONCERT 8PM, CLASSIC FM HHHH

Last October, the musicians of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra carefully took their socially distanced places and gave a concert that began with Pachelbel’s popular Canon In D Major. John Suchet presents this exclusive recording of the event.

FAITH, LIES AND CONVERSION THERAPY 9PM, RADIO 4 HHHH

Over the years, using various and awful techniques, so-called experts have tried to change or ‘fix’ the sexual orientation of victims who didn’t fit the perceived norm. Lobotomies were performed, electrodes employed and LSD administered. Aversion therapies that amount to torture and cruel rituals were used – and, shockingly, are still being used. Caitlin Benedict hears from historians and traumatised survivors about these horrific and continuing practices. SJ

Nicola Walker (7.45pm, Radio 4)