ONE of the longest-serving scriptwriters for the BBC radio soap opera ‘The Archers’ is marking the programme’s 75th anniversary year by updating a book taking listeners behind the scenes.

Graham Harvey, who lives on Exmoor, has written more than 600 ‘Archers’ episodes and created some of its most memorable storylines across more than 30 years as the series’ agricultural story editor.

Episodes on the ‘great flood’, the destruction of Brian’s GM crop, and the loss of the Grundy family farm were all penned by Mr Harvey.

Now, he is publishing a revised and updated edition of ‘Underneath the Archers’, which reveals more about the scenes in the fictional village of Ambridge.

Blending personal recollections with script extracts, Mr Harvey reveals how characters and storylines evolved alongside real changes in rural Britain.

He explores ‘The Archers’ portrayal of farming, from the move toward industrial agriculture to the growing interest in more sustainable, nature-friendly approaches.

Alongside his insider’s account of a programme which has reflected the changing face of British life for 75 years is a deeply personal story.

Mr Harvey recalls discovering a dark wartime secret about his father, and considers its impact on his unsettled childhood.

Ambridge became a source of stability and helped shape his lifelong love of England’s land, soil, and farming traditions.

Witty, revealing, and affectionate, the special 75th anniversary edition offers listeners and newcomers alike a unique look at the stories, characters, and real life influences behind a British broadcasting institution.

Mr Harvey has worked as a feature writer at ‘Farmers Weekly’ and as a freelance journalist for a wide range of publications including the ‘Sunday Times’, ‘The Guardian’, ‘Daily Mail’, and ‘Country Life’.

For four years he also wrote the ‘Old Muckspreader’ column in ‘Private Eye’.

‘Underneath the Archers’ is published by Wilton Square Books, ISBN 9781806770830.