The Archers is the longest-running radio serial in the world. How did it start? Whose idea was it? How did it achieve its pre-eminent place on British radio? Its first trial episodes were heard on the Midland Home Service in 1950. This is an account of how the serial was born and how it evolved. The book reveals the behind-the-scene dramas, and the truth behind the many rumours and legends. What was the real reason why Grace Archer was killed in 1955? What happened to Doris Archer's secret sister? Why did radio chiefs complain about Dan Archer's indelicacies? What was the plot that nearly killed Peggy Archer? Who threatened resignation over Shula's sex life? Why was Princess Margaret unhappy at Grey Gables? William Smethurst was for 11 years, first writer and then producer of The Archers. Unauthorized by the BBC, this book contains photographs taken by Picture Post's photographer, Bert Hardy in 1950, and many interviews with those who have worked on the serial.