Johnny Vegas stars in an adaptation of this inspirational novel, a moving fable in which hope triumphs over experience.

It follows a year in the lives of a band of builders, decorators and occasional undertakers.

The programme was nominated for a 2009 SONY Radio Academy Award in the drama category, the only nomination in the category by an indie producer.

Ragged trousered, poor, and ironically named philanthropists because they donate their labour for a barely living wage in order to contribute to the wealth of their 'betters'.

DRAMA & COMEDY

Broadcast on Radio 4  8th, 15th & 22nd June 2008

Picture BBC/Phil Fisk