6. Hobs

Fantasy writer Rhianna Pratchett takes us across an enchanted British Isles to discover mythical creatures that lurk in all corners of the land. She uncovers what they can tell us about our history, our world and our lives today.

Not all mythical creatures are found in the wilds of our landscape. Rhianna discovers there could be magical beings with us in our homes. She hears tales of helpful hobs in the North York Moors – small hairy creatures that do your chores while you’re asleep. Like many other friendly household spirits they can be useful but also temperamental. You need to stay on the right side of your hob! Rhianna, keen for some help around the house, takes notes on how to keep your hob happy, and what happens when it’s not. She also explores what stories of hobs and other household spirits can tell us about our lives past and present.

Storyteller: Rosie Barrett Other Contributors: Bob Fischer, Mark Norman, Natalie Lawrence

Presenter: Rhianna Pratchett Producers: Lorna Skingley and Sarah Harrison Executive Producer: Mel Harris Production Manager: Nikki Cannon Original Music by Ben MacDougall Sound Design and Mixing: John Scott

A 7digital production for BBC Radio 4