‘A fiercely bright, posh, confident chap’ . . . Ben Schott. Photograph: Francesco Guidicini / Rex Features Ben Schott, presenting Almanacs – The Oldest Guide to Everything (Radio 4), is a fiercely bright, posh, confident chap. He has reason to exude confidence, given that he... 

Death by cuts … the UK Film Council backed films such as Gosford Park It was nothing short of a hammer blow. This morning, word came through of John Woodward’s email to UK Film Council staff informing them that the government was planning to shut them down. Then the Department for... 

Reckitt Benckiser is to buy Durex condoms maker SSL International. Photograph: Linda Nylind Reckitt Benckiser, home to Cillit Bang, is set to acquire the firm behind Durex Condoms, SSL International, in a £2.5bn takeover. The Anglo-Dutch household goods firm, which is also behind Finish dishwasher... 

The Big Four (plus a few roadies). Photograph: Dariusz Kawka ‘It speaks to the core essence of the human psyche, bro,” says Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett, explaining thrash metal’s enduring appeal. “It’s true. There’s a beat and an energy that speaks...