Product placement in Ambridge

THE Archers (Radio 4) stands accused of the most blatant piece of free advertising, writes Peter Rhodes.

Scriptwriters put in Ian's mouth the following words: "Have you not tried Duchy shortbread? I mean it's really very good."

This was a clear plug for the Prince of Wales's own brand of Duchy Originals food, linked to the storyline about the Duchess of Cornwall visiting Ambridge.

It was a shameful moment and we can only be thankful that poor Nigel Pargetter did not live to witness it, having tumbled off the roof of his stately home.

He should have gone to Specsavers.