6. Hobs

Rhianna Pratchett hears tales of folkloric hobgoblin-like creatures nicknamed 'hobs' from the North York Moors. These small, hairy creatures might 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 such tales can tell us about our lives - past and present. The fantasy writer continues her trek across an enchanted British Isles to discover mythical creatures that lurk in all corners of the land. She's out to uncover what they can tell us about our history, our world and our lives today. Storyteller: Rosie Barrett Other Contributors: Bob Fischer Mark Norman Natalie Lawrence Original Music by Ben MacDougall Producers: Lorna Skingley and Sarah Harrison A 7digital production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in December 2023.