Conkers, Pop Ups and Paddy McDonnell

Available for 28 days

Rigsy sits in for John, with a packed Saturday morning programme featuring music, comedy, creativity, nature and fascinating conversations with an eclectic mix of guests. Comedian Paddy McDonnell joins the show to talk about this year's Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, which brings some of the biggest names in stand-up to Belfast and Derry. One of Northern Ireland's most popular comedians, Paddy reflects on the enduring appeal of live comedy, life on the road and what audiences can expect from the festival's star-studded line-up. Acclaimed singer Andrea Begley, joins Rigsy alongside fellow performers Joe Kenny and Future Her. The trio discuss Label Me Live, a special concert at Belfast's Black Box as part of the disabled-led Bounce Arts Festival. They share their experiences as artists, the importance of accessibility in live music and the role creativity has played throughout their lives and careers. Joe also performs live in the studio. As conker season arrives, Rigsy explores one of autumn's most cherished traditions. He speaks to St John Burkett, spokesperson for the World Conker Championships, about preparations for the annual contest, the enduring popularity of the game and concerns that this year's dry weather may have affected conker supplies. Illustrator Neal McCullough discusses his remarkable pop-up book celebrating the extraordinary life of songwriter Allee Willis, the creative force behind classic hits including "September" and the theme tune to Friends. Neal reveals how he brought Willis's colourful imagination to life through an ambitious and highly detailed artistic project. Award-winning naturalist, author and wildlife filmmaker Eoin Warner talks about his memoir, Through the Long Grass: Love, Loss and Belonging in Nature. He reflects on personal loss, his lifelong connection to Ireland's natural world and how nature helped shape his journey through grief, healing and belonging. The programme also catches up with Scottish folk-punk and indie-pop band Brogeal ahead of their appearance at the Other Voices Festival in Derry. Members of the band discuss their beginnings, influences and growing fanbase, as well as the distinctive sound that blends Scottish and Irish musical traditions. And in the kitchen, Paula prepares a delicious pear and blueberry buckle. Phone: 03030 80 55 55 (standard geographic charges from landlines and mobiles will apply) Text: 81771 Email: swjt@bbc.co.uk