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Available for over a year

Alexandra Harris tells the story of how the weather has written and painted itself into the cultural life of Britain. When the rivers froze: frost fairs and merry making on ice. The winter of 1608-9 was so cold that the Thames froze over. The great highway of London was at a halt. Then, tents were being thrown up and barrels of ale rolled out. Soon there was bowling and skittles, musicians were playing, there was dancing, drinking, eating. The out-of-work ferrymen set aside their oars and took charge of the impromptu carnival. A British History in Weather is a celebration of the British climate and a life story of those who have lived in it. Music by Jon Nicholls. Producer: Tim Dee First broadcast on ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Radio 4 in May 2016.