Libby Purves meets musician Jamie Cullum; Samaritans Sophie Andrews and Pam Blackwood; scientist and writer Professor Richard Dawkins and comedian and actor Greg Davies.
Jamie Cullum is a jazz singer and songwriter who has sold over four million albums worldwide. Primarily a vocalist and pianist, he also accompanies himself on guitar and drums. He hosts Radio 2's jazz show and is about to present Piano Pilgrimage, a Radio 4 series in which he explores the piano's place in modern life. His latest album, Momentum, is released on Island Records.
Sophie Andrews called Samaritans for help 30 years ago. Samaritans' volunteer Pam Blackwood answered her call and the two stayed in touch and became friends. Sophie now runs The Silver Line, a helpline for elderly people, and both Pam and Sophie work as volunteers for Samaritans which celebrates its 60th birthday this year.
Professor Richard Dawkins is a scientist and writer who found fame with his book, The Selfish Gene. In his memoir, An Appetite for Wonder, he revisits his childhood in colonial Africa and remembers his years at Oxford University's zoology department. In the book he considers the influences that shaped his life and intellectual development. An Appetite for Wonder: The Making of a Scientist is published by Bantam Press.
Greg Davies is a stand-up comedian and actor. Best known for his roles as teacher Mr Gilbert in BAFTA award-winning The Inbetweeners and Greg in We Are Klang, he worked as a teacher before becoming a comedian. His latest show, The Back of My Mum's Head, is at Southbank Centre as part of its Winter Festival.
Producer: Paula McGinley. Show less