Dylan Thomas worked on Under Milk Wood for eight years before he finally delivered the draft to the BBC in September 1953. Unfortunately, he was to die two months later and so never heard the first adaptation of his work. This was broadcast by the BBC in January 1954, with Richard Burton being assigned the role of First Voice. It is this recording that has become the benchmark against which all other versions of the play are considered. Richard Burton's role is still as fresh today as when originally recorded.