Joining Tom Jackson to discuss the postcards from their pasts are actor and writer JULIAN DUTTON (Truly, Madly, Bletchley, The Big Impression, Pompidou, Do You Think That’s Wise?) and broadcaster CORRIE CORFIELD (Radio 4, World Service). In this extra-long episode, Julian reveals his family’s enduring relationship with postcards that goes back almost 150 years, and we discover how Corrie’s postcards are a celebration of chance encounters. Along the way we discover the correct way to pronounce Le Mesurier, the true meaning of High Rise, and why High Wycombe may be the next big holiday destination. Wish you were here?

Butlins, Skegness, 1957: “Dear Roger, We’re having a lovely time at the camp. I’m now in the rock and calypso ballroom, listening to a disc programme. All the redcoats (boys and girls) are absolutely smashing. We’re already chasing around after half of them. Love, Jill” 

Paignton, 1954: “There is the clock that was in Battersea Park for the coronation. We had a walk to Goodrington yesterday, which is a children’s paradise. Trixie licked my mother and I all over.”

Corrie’s home-made Alpine card from her in-laws. Customised for a special event, and now a treasured memento.

The paper mill at High Wycombe. Why did Julian’s ancestor spend a fortnight there?

A postcard sent by comedian Arthur Smith to Corrie after they had worked together on the BBC Radio 4 programme Sentimental Journeys, during the time that she was living in South Africa.

Polish airmen. This card was bought by Julian’s Polish grandfather and brought to the UK with him after the war. The images appear to be a photo-montage.

A card sent to Julian from postcard enthusiast and comedy writer, Andy Riley. Don’t be fooled by the canoe – the card contains a report of Andy’s recent coracle journey.

Lake District, 1960: “We went for a climb. It was not long before I discovered that leather soles on the shoes are no good. I had to slide down the mountain.”


A musical card from the mountains