Mr Betjeman's Class

The first of two plays celebrating one of Britain's best-loved poets.

1928. John Betjeman, aged 23, has left Magdalen College - sent down without a degree.

He's spent three years at Oxford being a class-conscious social climber, clowning his suburban way into the country house weekend set.

With his ambitions in ruins, he's reduced to acting as cricket master in a prep school. He knows nothing of cricket.

Starring Ben Whitrow and Philippe Edwards.

Written by Jonathan Smith.

Older Betjeman - Ben Whitrow

Younger Betjeman - Philippe Edwards

Bessie - Sophie Thompson

Ernest - Nicky Henson

Headmaster - Gerard McDermott

Boy 1 - Adam Thomas Wright

Boy 2 - Kedar Williams-Stirling

Boy 3 - Tom Cawte

Also being broadcast by BBC Radio 4 Extra is Jonathan Smith's accompanying play - Mr Betjeman Regrets

Director: Bruce Young.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2017.