Use BBC.com or the new BBC App to listen to BBC podcasts, Radio 4 and the World Service outside the UK.

Find out how to listen to other BBC stations

Episode details

Radio Ulster,04 Apr 2026,116 mins

Hot Air Balloons, Irish Dancing and Easter Bonnets

Saturday with John Toal

Available for 27 days

Nuala McKeever fills in for John this week. Joining her in the studio is World Champion Irish dancer Tomi Elemide, who at just thirteen, has just claimed his fourth world title. He’s also the star of the new CBBC documentary My Life: Irish Dance Star. We’re taking to the skies with veteran hot air balloonist Robin Mercer, who has spent more than twenty-five years flying across landscapes at home and around the world. We’ll get the latest on the Artemis II mission, now more than halfway to the moon. Dr Kerem Cubuk from the Armagh Observatory explains what this journey means for the future of space exploration. Leading Irish stylist Cathy O’Connor joins us to explore the history and enduring charm of the Easter bonnet. Musician Ursula McHugh shares her inspiring story about following your dreams at any age. Clarkson’s Farm favourite Kaleb Cooper talks about his passion for farming and agriculture ahead of his upcoming tour, which is making a stop in Belfast. And in the kitchen, Paula serves up grilled leg of lamb with wild garlic and almond pesto, paired with carrot skordalia. Phone: 03030 80 55 55 (standard geographic charges from landlines and mobiles will apply) Text: 81771 Email: swjt@bbc.co.uk

Programme Website
More episodes

Tracklist

  1. Track
    Artist
  2. 1.
    Move On Up
    Move On Up
    Curtis Mayfield
  3. 2.
    Zara Larsson
    Zara Larsson
    Lush Life
  4. 3.
    Coco
    Coco
    Foy Vance