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The People's Post: A Narrative History of the Post Office

The People's Post: A Narrative History of the Post Office: Episode 5: Freepost

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Freepost

Episode 5

Episode 5: Freepost

BBC Radio 4 Extra - The People's Post: A Narrative History of the Post Office, Freepost

Dominic Sandbrook investigates how the post office improved efficiency in the 1800s.

Dominic Sandbrook investigates how the post office improved efficiency in the 1800s. From December 2011.

In the early 1800s the post office operated an expensive and illogical payment system. This forced letter-writers into ever more imaginative ways of avoiding postage, from using private couriers, to hiding letters in barrels of butter, to sending coded newspapers. MPs were allowed to send letters for free, but as only a signature was required it created a system that was ripe for abuse.

As Royal Mail faces an uncertain future, Dominic Sandbrook charts the development of the post office and examines it's impact on literacy, free speech, commerce and communication.

Writer and Presenter: Dominic Sandbrook

Historical Consultant: Susan Whyman

Musicians: Sam Lee, Bella Hardy, Mick Sands, Nick Hart

Actors:Morgan George, John Sessions, Simon Tcherniak, 
Malcolm Tierney, Jane Whittenshaw


Producer: Joby Waldman
A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4.

BBC Radio 4 Extra

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama. With recent favourites from BBC Radio 4.

Dominic Sandbrook charts the development of the post office

As Royal Mail faces an uncertain future, Dominic Sandbrook charts the development of the post office and examines its impact on literacy, free speech, commerce and communication

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The People's Post: A Narrative History of the Post Office

Episode 5: Freepost

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