WHAT’S HOT TO WATCH TODAY

EVERYDAY life in parts of Africa can be a grim struggle. The arrival of a bunch of British comedians is unlikely to change that to any significant degree. But it can help.

Three pairs of them are seen setting off tonight – David Baddiel with Hugh Dennis in one vehicle, Russell Kane and Katy Brand in another, Reggie Yates joined by Michaela Coel in a third – in THE RED NOSE AFRICAN COVOY (9pm, BBC1), embarking on a 700-mile mission to deliver vital supplies to some of Comic Relief’s most important projects.

Needless to say, it’s an emotionally challenging task, and a timely reminder, ahead of tomorrow night’s marathon fundraiser, that every penny we cough up can help change lives. But the journey does have its lighter moments.

Also, to the huge credit of the locals, none of them approaches this visiting convoy and goes: “Hang on, you’re that Reggie bloody Yates! Since when have YOU been a comedian? On yer bike, pal…”

OVER on ITV, meanwhile, in PRIME SUSPECT 1973 (9pm), things are seriously hotting up between rookie copper Jane and the oddly robotic DI Len Bradfield. Jane’s mum is appalled. Can’t say I blame her.

Work-wise, meanwhile, a complaint has been made against DS Spencer Gibbs, the officer who attacked suspect Terrence O’Duncie. So Jane is under pressure to toe the line – by telling a pile of porkies to the guys looking into it.

Bradfield admits to her that Gibbs is a hothead, but warns that if this complaint is upheld, the guy they’ve got in custody could walk free.

“Do you want that on your conscience…?” he goes.

Don’t miss Mike’s exclusive column at www.dailystar.co.uk/columnists. Follow him on Twitter @mikewardontv.