Top 5 television programmes of 2009

This is my top 5 list. A little unorthodox perhaps but it’s what works for me. Let me know what you think of these 5 and what your own top 5 would be. In no particular order: Lark Rise to CandlefordLark Rise to Candleford is a quality period drama series in its second year in 2009. A third series is due to start on 10 January. Anything set in the past is always a winner for me, and with great stories and great characters, what more do you want. Gossip GirlYou can have your Wires, Sopranos and your Madmens; Gossip Girl is the one for me. It may be teen drama but it’s the very best teen drama. I haven’t tired of it a bit in the last three seasons, which is more than I can say for anything else coming from the US.

Be in the audience for Jason Byrne’s new TV show, The Byrne Ultimatum

Fancy seeing some live comedy for free while contributing to a TV show - a panel quiz show with a difference - and having a laugh? Then this could be just the thing for you. Silly, that’s what the country needs right now and that’s exactly what it’ll get with this brand new panel show presented by Jason Byrne. The Byrne Ultimatum shows are being recorded in the Draiocht Theatre, Blanchardstown, on Tuesday and Wednesday July 28 and 29 and Monday and Tuesday 14 and 15 September. The series will be broadcast on RTE2 in the Autumn. If you would like to be part of the audience get in touch now - email the lovely Emer at [email protected]. Tell her Culch.ie sent you… but be advised… As this is a panel show with a twist, audience participation is requested. If you are up for the challenge and think you can … There’s more