Auntie offering host of stars to festive listeners

BBC Radio has unveiled its star-studded Christmas line-up, which includes Sir David Attenborough’s music collection from his travels, a festive cook-off with Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain and recordings of Ivor Novello works not heard for 100 years.

Director of BBC Radio and Music Bob Shennan has revealed the highlights for Christmas and New Year, with Carey Mulligan and Glenda Jackson also topping the bill.

BBC Radio 3’s Sunday Feature on Christmas Day will be Sir David Attenborough – World Music Collector, showing a new side to the nature presenter as he shares music from decades of global travel.

His collection includes recordings he made of harpists in Paraguay, songs from Borneo longhouses, drumming in Sierra Leone, gamelan music in Java, Aboriginaldidgeridooplayersandpalace music from Tonga – all made during expeditions for his wildlife programmes.

He said: “I’m delighted that the music I recorded, all over the world, half a century ago, is coming to light at last.”

Nadiya’s Festive Family Feast on BBC Radio 2 sees the Bake Off star welcome wine expert Olly Smith to her home, where they will talk through her favourite seasonal recipes.

From Boxing Day, BBC Radio 3 will feature Ivor Novello as its Composer Of The Week in a first in its over-70-year history, with special recordings from the BBC Concert Orchestra and segments from behind the scenes in Novello’s London theatre world.

Hollywood actress Carey Mulligan is one of BBC Radio 4’s Today programme festive guest editors. Her topics will include dementia and the effect of war on Iraqi children.

Glenda Jackson’s celebrated Old Vic performance as King Lear, her first stage role in 25 years, will be adapted for a Boxing Day airing on BBC Radio 4.

Sir David Attenborough is one of the stars of the BBC’s festive schedule.