Boy, Oh Boy, He's Going Down

Sean Street examines those moments where Radio forgets itself, when laughter, alcohol or sheer emotion well up.

Traditionally the wireless has been somewhat formal, but occasionally reporters have been overwhelmed by what they're witnessing, contributors so passionate in argument and commentators overcome by mirth - or drink - that the conventions are dropped.

Then communication comes pure, direct and unselfconscious: a Battle of Britain dogfight sounds like sport, sport like war, a naval fleet becomes fairyland, the author of a fairytale about rabbits attacks another guest.

Hear the moments when Radio reveals far more than what is being said.

Producer: Julian May

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2000.