Folk music on local radio is under threat and if nothing is done, it could be lost. Proposed BBC cuts will bite deeply into the budgets and the programming ability of local radio stations. This in turn will force them to reduce output and to focus on what they perceive as mainstream items.
In the words of the BBC Trust, they want to; “Focus spend on peak-time programmes: breakfast, mid-morning and drivetime; sport; and faith on Sunday mornings”.
Savings will be made by the proposed sharing of programming. On weekday afternoons most stations would share programming with their neighbouring stations and on weekday evenings between 7pm and 10pm, programming would be shared across England, with all stations coming together except when providing local sports commentaries. This will allow a number of shows to be axed.
One area that is being eyed up by the axe-man is folk music. Shows like “Genevieve Tudor’s Sunday Folk” for the West Midlands and the “Johnny Coppin” show serving the West Country are all in danger. However, there is something that can be done.
There is currently a public consultation process underway called, “Delivering Quality First”, and an in depth review of BBC local radio. This allows you to express your views but you need to be quick as the closing date is December 21st with the results being published in late spring 2012.
For more information and to add your voice, go to: http://www.bbc.co.uk/bbctrust/consult/local_radio.shtml
To lose local acoustic music, singer/songwriter, folk and blues programming would be a very sad thing. So have your say and let’s show support for the secure future of folk on local radio in your area.
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