50 YEARS OF THE ARCHERS

Early day motion 159, tabled 8 January 2001 by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 44 members.

That this House congratulates all associated with the BBC Radio 4 serial The Archers on its 50th anniversary on 1st January 2001; pays special tribute to actor Norman Painting who has played the part of Phil Archer for the entire 50 years, a world record for an actor playing the same role; recognises that the Archers, through more than 13,000 episodes, has brought to millions of listeners considerable enjoyment as well as informed commentary about changes in the life of rural England over the past half century; and wishes the programme continued success in the years ahead.

Signatures by party: Labour 27, Liberal Democrat 13, Labour/Co-operative 2, Conservative 1, Plaid Cymru 1.