This will be a chance to hear The Archers’ very first episode brought back to life, as the original recording no longer survives. A search for the culprit is now under way, and a New Year’s Day special drama at 7.15pm will delve deeper into the mystery, led by special guest Claire Skinner. This will be followed by The Archers Podcast at 8pm, where Emma Freud and guests will bring fans closer to the drama. Special episodes of Radio 4 programmes including Woman’s Hour and This Week In History will also celebrate the enduring appeal of the fictional village of Ambridge and its inhabitants. To mark the anniversary, episodes of The Archers will now be available on BBC Sounds for five years after broadcast, an increase from the previous 30-day window.

Source: The Times January 01, 2026 12:13 UTC