Racing brothers in arms

Golly me, what a thoroughly heartwarming conclusion we had to last week's RACE ACROSS THE WORLD (BBC1, 9pm).

- 

Sixtysomething siblings Brian and Melvyn, who'd found themselves close to bottom at the end of the first leg, opened the visitors' book at their next destination and could barely believe their eyes.

“We're in second place!” cried Melvyn, once he'd finished hyperventilating with joy.

“And look at the time!” his brother exclaimed, noting that they were now less than four hours behind the leaders. Almost as pleasing to witness was their celebration. Brian and Melvyn, remember, are of a generation that understands how to express joy in an appropriately restrained and dignified manner.