BBC looking for barmen for new programme

The BBC will explore how important a good memory is for a barperson in a new television programme set to air in August.

How to Improve You Memory, will delve into the science of memory by looking at different case studies and will train forgetful professionals who work in an environment that requires a sharp memory.

Melody Howse, associate producer of the programme, said that being a bar person is particularly taxing for a forgetful staff member.

"Being a barman is hard. You need to have a good sense of facial recognition, be able to remember and add prices in your head, remember orders, remember who's next at the bar. On top of all this there is often loud music playing and loud voices all around - it stretches the memory more than you would think," she said.

Howse added that the programme will aim to help a forgetful bar person cope with the pressures of the job by using some classic interventions. "We will help using a variety of techniques including phonemics, where you associate words with images, and mind mapping.

"Barmen aren't given much leeway if they make a mistake as people take for granted just how hard their job is. As well as delving into the science of memory, the programme will illustrate how difficult this job can be."

The BBC is looking for a forgetful barperson to appear in How To Improve Your Memory. If you know of anyone who might be suitable, please call 09011 223377 or email memory@bbc.co.uk.