Libby Purves meets former athlete Sir Roger Bannister; professor of cybernetics Kevin Warwick; actor Rachael Stirling and writer Diana Darke.

Kevin Warwick is a professor of cybernetics and deputy vice-chancellor for research at the University of Coventry. Since 1998 he has been implanting computer chips into his body, some directly communicating with his nervous system. He was dubbed the world's first cyborg when he had a silicon chip implanted in his arm and is currently attempting to get ethical approval to have a chip implanted into his brain.

Sir Roger Bannister CBE is a former Olympic athlete who is best-known for being the first person to run the mile in under four minutes in 1954. In his new autobiography, Twin Tracks, Sir Roger tells the full story of the dedication and talent that led to his unprecedented achievement and of his professional life as a distinguished doctor and neurologist. Twin Tracks is published by Biteback.

Diana Darke is a writer and translator who has specialised in the Middle East for over 30 years. In 2005 she bought and restored a house in the heart of Damascus. In September 2012, as fighting intensified and millions were forced to flee their homes, she offered her house as a sanctuary to Syrian friends. Up to 40 people continue to find refuge there today. My House in Damascus: An Inside View of the Syrian Revolution is published by Haus Publishing.

Actor Rachael Stirling is currently starring in Mike Bartlett's new play, An Intervention, about two friends who make very different decisions in life. Her acting credits range from The Bletchley Circle and Tipping the Velvet on television to theatre productions The Recruiting Officer and An Ideal Husband. Intervention is at the Watford Palace Theatre.

Producer: Paula McGinley. Show less