Start of Forces Programme

Arthur Askey, Florence Desmond and Jackie Hunter, stars of the new radio show Big Time which had its first performance on 15 February (BBC Forces Programme), 1942.

The Forces Programme began broadcasting on 7 January 1940 in an effort to maintain the morale of the British Expeditionary Force troops stationed in France. The content of the new radio station was decided after seeking the opinions of the troops, who wanted a light offering of music and variety, with no religious programmes, drama or talks. The announcers remained more staid however, with the BBC insisting they be "obvious gentlemen".

Among the light entertainment was Bill and Bob, which provided French lessons. Religious programmes were generally disliked, but the Sunday evening communal hymn singing proved as popular as any variety programme. News bulletins were an important part of the output too, listened to with great attention in France, especially once the German invasion began.

After the retreat of the BEF from Dunkirk the Forces Programme continued alongside the Home Service, which it soon overtook in popularity. Sincerely Yours made Vera Lynn a big star – though some seriously complained her singing would leave the troops enfeebled – and big tunes, like We’ll Meet Again, united civilians and military. In February 1944 The Forces Programme was replaced by the General Forces Programme, which in various forms had been broadcasting to British troops around the world. This saved on duplication and also put home and overseas audiences in step for the impending D-Day.