The BBC Blue Bus travels to a different part of the region each day, and they enlist the help of the audience in their search for the region's historical roots, the origins of words and phrases and the interesting lives of local people.

But, dear reader, you may be wondering how this strange partnership of Paul Wappat and Ian Robinson came about...

How it all began

Once upon a time there was a poor lad from Easington called Ian Robinson. After a lifetime of drudgery in London, City of Sin, as a stable boy, bell-hop and pump attendant, he decided that his future lay back in the North East.

One day, Ian found a toad. He scooped him up and, for reasons best known to himself, planted a kiss on the amphibian's rubbery lips...

BANG! The toad was magically transformed into something with a sticky tongue, webbed fingers and clammy skin: Paul Wappat.

Destitute and down to their last packet of tabs, they found shelter at the BBC.

Sanctuary

After months of washing Mike Parr's car and Julia Hankin's feet, the lads were given their own programme. The venture was unleashed on the public in September 2002 by way of a daily radio show, the likes of which had not been heard before on British radio...and many hope it never will again!

Somehow, the unlikely and unholy union worked. The scheme was a huge success, bringing music, entertainment and a unique take on life in the North East to the people of the region...generally, without offending anyone.

For a piece of fairytale heaven and a slice of North East humour, listen happily ever after to Paul and Ian, weekdays from 10am. It's a dream come true.

If you'd like to take part in the programme, you can telephone 0191 232 6565, text 07786 200954, e-mail or pop along to the BBC Blue Bus.

To find out when the BBC Blue Bus will be in your area, click below for a timetable:


BBC Blue Bus on Wearside


BBC Blue Bus on Tyneside

Alternatively, if you'd like to write to Paul and Ian, the address is...

Paul Wappat and Ian Robinson
BBC Radio Newcastle
Broadcasting Centre
Barrack Road
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE99 1RN