Mrs Pepperpot

Alison Steadman stars in this full-cast adaptation of the much-loved Mrs Pepperpot stories Mrs Pepperpot lives in a cottage in the countryside with her husband, but she has a big secret: She shrinks to the size of a pepperpot – and she can talk to animals! In these five magical stories, hear Mrs Pepperpot swim through the snow, ride on a cat and seek the help of a talking horse. There’s big trouble for the little heroine at a Christmas market and when her sister arrives for an unexpected visit, she brings a very handy handbag. There’s near tragedy when she falls headfirst into a baked potato and in the final episode the incredible shrinking woman brings home a troublesome bionic baby! First published in 1956, The Mrs Pepperpot books became a global phenomenon and an enduring children’s classic. This stunning adaptation stars Olivier Award winner actor Alison Steadman , perhaps best known for her role as Pam in the BBC comedy Gavin and Stacey, as Mrs Pepperpot . Geoffrey Hinsliff ( Coronation Street and Doctor Who) stars as her husband Mr Pepperpot. If you are a fan of Children’s classics such as Paddington , The Borrowers , The Railway Children or Peter Pan then you will love Alf Prøysen's adventures of the incredible shrinking Mrs Pepperpot . Cast and credits Written by Alf Prøysen Adapted by Lavinia Murray Directed by Melanie Harris Mrs Pepperpot - Alison Steadman Mr Pepperpot - Geoff Hinsliff Hannah - Jane Cawdron Herbert the Cat / Celia / Auntie Solamina - Alison Darling Gerry the Horse / Delia / Ronan Kitten / Margaret Anne - Sarah Parks First Broadcast BBC Radio 4, 6 th -10 th April 1998 Cover illustration © Hilda Offen ©2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd