New Sky comedy Bad Tidings is good, silly fun for the family. Plus: saying goodbye to cult hit Inside No 9. Here’s what to watch this evening
Bad Tidings
7.30pm, Sky Max
After winning hearts on Strictly, Chris McCausland ends the year on a mega high with this comedy about suburban neighbours at war. He plays Scott, who is much liked by everyone in the community apart from grumpy Neil (Lee Mack). But when they both join Neighbourhood Watch and have to deal with the aftermath of a power cut caused by Christmas lights, they must join forces against robbers. Good, silly fun. Hollie Richardson
Matthew Bourne’s Edward Scissorhands
5pm, Sky Arts
Tim Burton’s eccentric tale is in safe hands as renowned choreographer Matthew Bourne brings it to life on stage as a ballet. It features the original music of Danny Elfman, as the shy boy with scissors for hands is invited to live with a family in suburban America. HR
Alpine Train at Christmas
7pm, Channel 4
The Bernina Express transports passengers from Switzerland to Italy across the stunning Alps. Hugh Bonneville narrates a journey that takes in the majestic Morteratsch glacier, the Landwasser Viaduct and Lago Bianco, en route meeting local people including an artisan cheesemaker, a chocolatier, a toymaker – and a musical farming family. Ali Catterall
A Christmas Carol: The Read With Anne-Marie Duff
7.45pm, BBC Four
A delightfully old-school treat as Anne-Marie Duff gives a virtuosic reading of Charles Dickens’s deathless parable of Christian charity and seasonal goodwill. It’s a fine and versatile performance – Duff brings Fezziwig, the Cratchit family and, of course, Ebenezer Scrooge to life with skill and relish. Phil Harrison
Death in Paradise
8.30pm, BBC One
A special dose of escapism comes your way with a trip to the island of Saint Marie where a double Santa shooting has taken place. Don Gilet plays the lucky DI who gets to investigate the case just as he’s about to fly home. Will he link the two cases – and will he ever get home? Hannah Verdier
Inside No 9: The Party’s Over
9pm, BBC Two
Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith’s anthology series has reached cult status, thanks to its daring filming styles and brilliant guest stars. Or as Mark Bonnar describes it: “A fantastical journey through the dark … and the daft.” He helps to celebrate with other superfans in this tribute to the recent final series. HR
Live sport
Premier League Football: Fulham v Southampton, 2pm, Sky Sports Main Event Followed by Tottenham v Liverpool at 4pm.
