Jeremy Clyde stars as Chief Inspector Alleyn in these BBC Radio dramatisations of two of Ngaio Marsh's much loved mysteries. The two stories, A Man Lay Dead and A Surfeit of Lampreys, where first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2000...

In A Man Lay Dead a game of 'murders' at Sir Hubert Handesley's country house party becomes far too realistic for anyone's liking. First a guest arrives with a dangerously lethal dagger and then, when the gong sounds to announce the start of the game, the victim plays dead in a very convincing manner. Chief Detective Inspector Alleyn believes the unusual dagger is a vital clue to the real-life murder, and soon he's on the trail of a Russian secret society.

In A Surfeit of Lampreys, like all good aristocrats, the Lampreys are charming but penniless - so a visit from the wealthy head of their family is greatly anticipated. However, their Uncle Gabriel isn't persuaded to part with his money and a row ensues. When a body is found in the lift leading to the Lampreys' flat, Chief Detective Inspector Alleyn finds a family immersed in hidden secrets and intrigue.

Both of these radio plays are incredibly well produced and feature some fine acting. There's even an appearance by Donald Sinden in A Man Lay Dead.

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Nick Smithson