Eric Carle (pictured), Helen Murray Free, Michael Parsons, Evelyn McNicol

Matthew Bannister onThe children’s author and illustrator Eric Carle, best known for creating The Very Hungry Caterpillar which has sold fifty-five million copies.Helen Murray Free, the American chemist who developed revolutionary simple tests for diabetes and other serious conditions. Michael Parsons, the engineer who designed some of the world’s longest suspension bridges, including the Severn Bridge and the Humber Bridge.Evelyn McNicol, the pioneering Scottish mountaineer who was a member of the first all-female British expedition to the Himalayas. Producer: Rabeka NurmahomedInterviewed guest: Oliver Jeffers Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare Interviewed guest: Dr Bill Carroll Interviewed guest: Philip Parsons Interviewed guest: Kate RossArchive clips used: Open Book: Radio 4, TX 4.5.1999; The Severn Bridge at 50_A High Wire Act: BBC One Wales, TX 7.9.2016; Ladies Scottish Climbing Club: Radio Scotland, TX 20.12.2006