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Margaret Forster - Lady's Maid

1844: The complex story of Lily Wilson, who worked as Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s maid for many years. Stars Jane Whittenshaw.

The story of how shy Lily Wilson became maid to the poet, Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

Arriving in 1844, Lily's employment in the large Victorian London household lasts for many years.

The friendship between the two women is tainted by Elizabeth's selfish demands.

Yet Wilson learns much from her employer, not least about the vicissitudes of love...

Margaret Forster’s much-acclaimed novel, first published in 1990.

Starring Jane Whittenshaw and Kate Buffery.

Dramatised by Ed Thomason.

Lily Wilson .... Jane Whittenshaw
Elizabeth Barrett Browning .... Kate Buffery
Robert Browning .... Julian Wadham
Timothy .... David Thorpe
Ferdinando .... Andrew Wincott
Lizzie Crow .... Linda Regan
Mrs Robinson .... Zulema Dene
Sarah/Henrietta .... Patience Tomlinson
Tilly .... Sandra James Young
Landor .... Geoffrey Whitehead

Director: Cherry Cookson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1995.

1 hour, 30 minutes

Last on

Sun 19 Feb 202301:00
BBC Radio 4 Extra

Broadcasts

  • Sat 18 Feb 202306:00
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Sat 18 Feb 202311:00
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Sat 18 Feb 202317:00
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Sun 19 Feb 202301:00
    BBC Radio 4 Extra