Renowned broadcaster and accomplished writer Clare Balding is gearing up to host a brand-new quiz program on BBC Radio 4. The show, named “Bookmarks,” will see two teams go head-to-head in a challenge that tests their knowledge across both fiction and non-fiction genres.
Expressing her excitement, Balding, aged 55, shared, “I’m delighted to lead Bookmarks on Radio 4. Reading is a true joy in life, and I am eager to engage with the audience nationwide and celebrate the love for books.”
Scheduled to air on May 31 and June 7 at 4:30 pm, “Bookmarks” is being produced by the creators of the popular game show QI. This program is part of a series of quiz pilots set to be broadcast on Sunday afternoons on BBC Radio 4 throughout the summer.
Another intriguing quiz, “Deja News,” hosted by actress and comedian Lucy Porter, is slated to air on June 14 and June 21. The show will feature teams tackling questions derived from a century’s worth of BBC archive news materials. Porter expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The quiz combines two of my passions – quizzing and the rich BBC archive. I look forward to meeting the talented contestants who will delve into the history of the past century.”
Furthermore, a quiz program titled “Your Number’s Up,” to be presented by comedian Max Fosh, is set to broadcast on June 28 and July 5. Participants will engage in a range of general knowledge questions, brain-teasers, and calculation challenges. Fosh humorously remarked, “I may lack math skills, but perhaps my glasses give the impression of intelligence, landing me the hosting gig. Regardless, I am thrilled to offer listeners an engaging half-hour of quizzing.”
“Around The World In 80 Ways,” hosted by Simon Reeve, is another captivating quiz scheduled to air on July 12 and July 19. The show will involve two competing teams racing virtually around the globe, answering questions on various topics such as national anthems, local delicacies, nature, and global sports and politics.
Julia McKenzie, the commissioner for comedy and entertainment at BBC Radio 4, emphasized the network’s strength in quiz programming and the value it holds for listeners. She expressed hope that the new lineup of quiz pilots will deliver fresh ideas, unique formats, and a stellar presenter roster, enriching Radio 4’s already impressive quiz offerings.
Clare Balding, known for her award-winning memoir “My Animals And Other Family” and a series of popular children’s books, continues to captivate audiences with her literary ventures. Join Dr. Aimée Walsh and fellow book enthusiasts in the Mirror Book Club on Facebook to delve deeper into the latest buzz-worthy reads.