One Five Seven Years - Episode 4: Saul

Imagine you could live for two lifetimes. Would you want to? How would it change you and those you love? What would you do with all those extra years? What second chances might you get? Would this be a blessing or a curse?

This world is an alternative version of our own. Except in this world, a minority of people are discovered to have Extended Life Syndrome (ELS). The condition might give an "Elser" two decades in their thirties, two in their forties, double the time in their fifties, and so on. Little is understood of the biological factors that govern ELS except that it affects a random selection of people. It is the ultimate lottery of genetics, crossing class, race, culture and gender.

And if a simple test existed to check your DNA for this double life, would you take it? Would you want to know?

Now think again. Would you?

Retired couple Elia and Mark are celebrating their pearl wedding anniversary when they discover one of them has ELS. The bond between them is tested as they deal with the fallout and face up to a momentous decision.

Written by Vanessa Montfort

Cast: Elia ….. Raquel Cassidy Mark ….. James Wilby Simon ….. Ben Crowe Anne ….. Clare Corbett Keith ….. Jonathan McGuinness Carol ….. Rosie Cavaliero Saul ….. Joel MacCormack

Other voices played by the cast

Sound Design ….. Adam Woodhams and Steve Bond Theme Music ….. Ioana Selaru and Axel Kacoutié

Academic Consultants ….. Tamas David-Barrett & James Fasham Executive Producer ….. Sara Davies

Series created by Marietta Kirkbride Directed and Produced by Nicolas Jackson

An Afonica production for BBC Radio 4