Radio Oldie

Nigel Planer speaking about his new book, Young Once: A Life Less Heavy, at the Oldie Literary Lunch, held at London’s National Liberal Club, on February 17th 2026.

Tom Hodgkinson speaking about his new book, How to Live Like a Stoic: a Handbook for Happiness, at the Oldie Literary Lunch, held at London’s National Liberal Club, on February 17th 2026.

Pru Leith speaking about her new book, Being Old and Learning to Love It!, at the Oldie Literary Lunch, held at London’s National Liberal Club, on February 17th 2026.

Charlotte Metcalf talks to Dr. Miriam Stoppard about her new book Sex, Drugs and Walking Sticks, a must-read bible for oldies, full of anecdotes and her personal tips on how to age well. She talks frankly about her views on sex and alcohol, about her life and motherhood and reminisces about her 20-year marriage to the late Tom Stoppard. 

Lady Antonia Fraser, 93 – Oldie of the YearLady Antonia Fraser wrote The House That Spoke: The History of a Home last year – 71 years after her first book, King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.Introduced by Gyles Brandreth.

Maggi Hambling, 80 – Oldie Finest ArtistNow aged 80, Maggi is still going at full blast. She is in her studio - or by the North Sea with her sketchbook - by 6am every morning.Introduced by Gyles Brandreth.

Michael Heath, 90 – Oldie King of the ToonsAt 90, Michael Heath remains our finest observational cartoonist. Since he first placed a cartoon in Melody Maker in 1955 – more than 70 years ago – he has drawn people with the clothes, hair and mannerisms of the moment.Introduced by Gyles Brandreth.

Stephen Frears, 84 – Silver-Screen Evergreen OldieOver a period of six decades and with remarkably little fuss, Stephen Frears has established himself as our pre-eminent film director.Introduced by Gyles Brandreth.

Anita Lasker-Walfisch, 100 – Oldie MaestraAnita Lasker Wallfisch, 100, a German-British cellist, was a member of the Women’s Orchestra of Auschwitz.  After the war, she co-founded ensembles including the English Chamber Orchestra and has been honoured for her contributions to music and Holocaust remembrance.Introduced by Gyles Brandreth

Susan Hampshire, 88 – Oldie Comeback KidSusan Hampshire starred in The Forsyte Saga as Fleur in the late 1960s. Then, last year, she returned as Lady Carteret in the prequel, The Forsytes.Introduced by Gyles Brandreth.