The first of two plays celebrating one of Britain's best-loved poets.

1928. John Betjeman, aged 23, has left Magdalen College - sent down without a degree.

He's spent three years at Oxford being a class-conscious social climber, clowning his suburban way into the country house weekend set.

With his ambitions in ruins, he's reduced to acting as cricket master in a prep school. He knows nothing of cricket.

Starring Ben Whitrow and Philippe Edwards.

Written by Jonathan Smith.

Older Betjeman ...... Ben Whitrow
Younger Betjeman ...... Philippe Edwards
Bessie ...... Sophie Thompson
Ernest ...... Nicky Henson
Headmaster ...... Gerard McDermott
Boy 1 ...... Adam Thomas Wright
Boy 2 ...... Kedar Williams-Stirling
Boy 3 ...... Tom Cawte

Also being broadcast by BBC Radio 4 Extra is Jonathan Smith's accompanying play - Mr Betjeman Regrets

Director: Bruce Young.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2017. Show less