Russell Davies looks at the 1930s with a clip-packed taste of the development of the BBC's Variety department. From August 1988.

Russell Davies remembers the earliest on-air comedians, with a clip-packed taste of pre-war humour. From July 1988.

Russell Davies celebrates the performers who helped boost wartime morale. Features Tommy Handley and Richard Murdoch.

Russell Davies surveys the 1950s - Hancock, The Goons, The Lyons, 'Beyond Our Ken', plus Joyce Grenfell and Basil Boothroyd.

The end of The Goon Show hailed a fresh decade of change. Russell Davies reveals how broadcasting in the 60s had a bona future.

Russell Davies reviews 1970s comedy hits, from 'I'm Sorry I'll Read That Again' to 'The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy'.

Russell Davies winds up his review, featuring 'Radio Active' and 'After Henry'. He also takes a 'look ahead'. From 1988.

Russell Davies celebrates post-war performers. Featuring Tommy Handley and emerging hopefuls Harry Secombe and Tony Hancock.

Russell Davies' survey of wireless mirth reaches the onset of the Second World War. Featuring Stanley Holloway and Arthur Askey. From 1988.

Russell Davies recalls how the radio improvisation of the 1950s gives way to the establishment-baiting of the 1960s.

Russell Davies recalls the early 1950s, with audience-led shows waning and the impending arrival of 'The Goon Show'.

Russell Davies reviews the BBC's variety artistes of the Second World War. Featuring Elsie and Doris Waters and Tommy Handley.