1. A Higher Education

Producer John Lloyd explores the fascinating radio contributions of actor and comedian Rik Mayall to reveal a remarkable and eclectic mix of programmes and archives.

Rik was one of the first and foremost alternative comedians in the UK, best known for his work on TV's The Young Ones, Bottom and The New Statesmen which all had tremendous impact on British comedy. But he also made many captivating contributions to radio which are often overlooked.

This is the first of a two-part tribute made in 2018 - the year Mayall would have celebrated his 60th birthday

Featuring:

* A HIGHER EDUCATION - a comic drama by Lloyd Peters.

Panic strikes in a university drama department as a siege situation unfolds.

Starring:

Rik Mayall
Helen Lederer
Philip Glenister
Judi Earl
Gary Brown

Director: Polly Thomas. First broadcast in 2000.

John discusses the production with the writer Lloyd Peters - and Helen Lederer who co-starred with Rik.

Producer: Stephen Garner

Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in December 2018.