Mexico-born author Laia Jufresa, reflects on her experience of being a 'global European' and the connection between Spanish and British history that runs through her heritage.

She grew up in Mexico, studied in Paris and lived in Spain - but her dual citizenship comes from her grandfather's experience in the Spanish Civil War when he became a refugee in Mexico. Here she reflects on the feeling of being at home in Europe - but not quite - and how the somewhat alien nature of working in the English language informs her writing style and career, which began when she would eagerly await deliveries of Roald Dahl books as a child.

The programme also explores the allure of swinging London for a young British woman, the relief at finally finding a good cup of coffee as Britain developed a Latin cafe culture, and how the Brit image was transformed from the English gent to the lager lout and the Costa del Crime became a destination.

With contributions from historian Dr Graciela Iglesias Rogers from the University of Oxford and the University of Winchester, and Spanish author Lala Isla.

Across this series, five mainland Europeans give their take on Britain's historical relationship with their home country - the historical moments and popular culture that have created the image of the Brit in the mind of continental Europeans. Laia Jufresa is the critically acclaimed author of Umami. She was a writer in residence at Hay Festival 2015.

Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4. Show less