Catch up TV

Series 1: Episode 1

This series comes live from the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, revealing the hidden treasures of British beaches. It hopes to inspire people to look beyond sandcastles and ice creams, and be motivated to discover more about Britain's fascinating and varied shoreline. Presented by historian Dan Snow, with wildlife experts Lucy Cooke and Niall Strawson.\n\nFrom crabs and bats to owls and cormorants, this episode investigates how much wildlife is living on the beach. The strandline's hidden world of sandhoppers and seaweed is magnified, while specialist underwater cameras give a view of sharks and crabs lying deep in the ocean.\n\nDan Snow examines the royal origin of beach huts and sees how varied their use is in modern-day Britain. Lucy Cooke demonstrates how a humble mollusc helps to train racehorses in Devon. Niall Strawson is in charge of the Discovery Centre, where a panel of experts examine and assess the significance of beach finds from all over the country.\n\nA crustacean experiment aims to work out whether mackerel or bacon is a crab's favourite meal, and Beach Live goes deep into the making of a rock pool. How do barnacles feed and how far does a limpet move? The 'how to' guide provides tips on how best to understand what makes a rock pool 'rock'.\n\nAlso, the creation of the unique geological make-up of the Jurassic Coast is seen through the medium of cake! Earth scientist Dr Anjana Khatwa talks Niall through the layers as seen from the sea.\n\nPlus a retired couple who have become obsessed with the undulate rays that lurk on the seabed, and how their passion is changing scientific understanding.\n\nThe team hears from viewers all over the country: from the artefacts they have found to their weird wildlife photos, questions and comments.

Source: BBC 4