Extra slots to widen audience

Radio 4 is to boost its comedy output in a bid to appeal to a wider range of listeners.

The station traditionally broadcast comedy shows at 6.30pm every weekday, and 11pm Tuesdays to Thursdays.

Now controller Gwyneth Williams is adding an additional slot at 7.15pm on Sundays, immediately after The Archers, as from September 18.

She said: ‘I hope that listeners will enjoy the new Sunday night comedy. For many, Sunday evenings are rather gloomy as it's back to work on Monday. Comedy will lift that gloom.'

Among the programmes lined up for the new slots are Dilemma, a new panel show hosted by Sue Perkins, and a new sketch comedy series from John Finnemore, the Now Show regular and creator of the sitcom Cabin Pressure.

Rory Bremner is also launching a new satirical show called Tonight, which will first air at 11pm on Thursdays, then be repeated in the new Sunday slot. The show launches on October 13.

Published: 10 Jul 2011