A NUMBER of popular BBC shows are being permanently replaced in a major schedule shake-up, leaving fans furious.
The series of long-running specialist music shows on local BBC Radio stations have come to an end making way for a new networked programme.
The BBC has axed a number of radio shows in a major schedule shake-up[/caption]
Simon Logan’s 80s and 90s show on BBC Radio Newcastle and Tees has been brought to an end[/caption]
The Sunday afternoon slots on all 39 BBC local radio stations will now be replaced by The Make a Difference Show, launching on Sunday, 14th September.
The new show will air from 2pm to 6pm on all local stations that aren’t covering live sport. Its presenter is yet to be announced.
Ahead of the launch, a one-off special titled Award Winners aired yesterday afternoon.
Among the shows being dropped is John Leech’s Soul Show, which aired across the BBC’s Eastern stations.
John said the decision to end long-running regional shows in favour of a broader national programme “seems puzzling” and could reduce local flavour and engagement.
Other shows brought to an end include Simon Logan’s 80s and 90s show on BBC Radio Newcastle and Tees.
Simon told fans: “What is it they always say, all great things must come to an end.
“Whether you’ve ever got in touch with the show or whether you have just listened to our show, thanks to everybody on our Facebook group, thanks to Nathan for ‘putting it on the list.
“I couldn’t have done it without you mate.
“The time has come to say farewell, seriously, thanks for being there.
“We’ve had a blast, haven’t we? Hope to catch you really soon. “And whatever you’re doing tonight, always stay forever young. Ta-Ra”.
Simon played the Alphaville hit Forever Young as the broadcast ended.
It followed fans previously setting up a petition in a bid to keep his show on air, which racked up 600 signatures.
Angry listeners took to social media to share their outrage, one user said: “Last week when John Leech Soul show finished on BBC Eastern Counties was the final nail in the coffin for me the big switch off and find another decent specialist show on the dial.”
Another penned: “We have BBC radios 1,2,3,4 and 5 that are all national. Why do we need even more national output? The BBC is slowly demoting local radio.”
A third said: “Instead of wasting money on Radio 1 Dance, Anthems & Radio 3 Unwind they should put money back into LOCAL Radio, stations should have at least 12 hours a day of local programming!”
A fourth added: “BBC is ruining local radio again.”
Lancashire, BBC Merseyside and BBC Cumbria’s 80s and 90s show presented by Lisa Marrey also came to an end on Sunday.
In the Midlands, Paula White’s retro music show aired across five stations, while Sile Sibanda hosted a music and conversation show on BBC Radio Sheffield, BBC Radio York and BBC Radio Leeds.
John Leech’s Soul Show, which aired across BBC Eastern stations, is among the shows that will no longer be heard[/caption]
Fans previously set up a petition in a bid to keep Simon Logan’s show on air[/caption]