BBC’s director-general Tim Davie’s warning over media future

Published

1 year ago

November 21, 2023

THE CURRENT global media landscape poses a “profound” threat to democracy, the BBC’s top boss has warned.

MSs on the Senedd’s culture committee took evidence from the BBC and ITV about public service broadcasting in Wales.

Blaenau Gwent MS Alun Davies highlighted a lack of media coverage of devolved politics, suggesting it is damaging Wales’ democracy.

The Labour backbencher raised concerns that the BBC is becoming increasingly London-centric, both structurally and culturally.

Responding, Tim Davie – the BBC’s director-general – described the threat to democracy as profound as he recognised the need for transformation.

“I’m pretty obsessed by it, this threat to democracy,” said the media executive.

Mr Davies told MSs the BBC is becoming less focused on London, not more, arguing that the evidence for this is overwhelming but stressing that the broadcaster is not complacent.

He said: “I couldn’t be more personally proud of what we are doing in this area.”

Mr Davie also raised concerns about research showing many people are disengaged.

He said: “I think we have really got to work hard on relevance as much as some of the stuff we’ve done for years. I think that is a real challenge.”

The director-general told MSs that the BBC can use artificial intelligence and data for good, citing the example of serving up content based on location.

“That could transform, I think, the relevance of the BBC in a wonderful way,” he said.

Mr Gruffydd asked why radio listening in Wales has declined more than the UK average.

Ms Richards explained that Wales started from a higher level: “The good news is that this year we are seeing the beginnings of that recovery.”

Acknowledging competition from streaming and digital music providers, she said investment into network radio in Wales has doubled.

Elan Closs Stephens, who was appointed acting chair of the BBC in June, pointed to a trend of people being less likely to listen to talk radio.

Pointing to competition from Spotify, Dame Elan said: “That’s the choice of the individual – there’s not much anyone can do to bring them back.”

Peter Fox, for the Conservatives, asked why the BBC spent less in Wales in 2022-23 compared with what was raised from Welsh licence fee payers.

Ms Richards said it was an unusual year and the gap of about £2 million was due to Covid.

She pointed out that the licence fee also pays for S4C and told MSs that 95 per cent of commissioning money in Wales is spent with Welsh companies.

Ms Richards raised concerns about the tough financial climate with a flat licence fee amid hyperinflation in drama and other parts of the production industry.

She told committee members she does not want to see a separate BBC Wales channel similar to BBC Scotland, preferring to invest in Welsh content instead.

Begelly man sentenced for carrying metal bar during nightclub fight

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A MAN has been sentenced after approaching a Pembrokeshire nightclub armed with a metre-long metal bar.

Just after 2:30am on July 21, police were called to Main Street, Pembroke, following reports of a large fight involving around 100 people outside ‘Out’ nightclub.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week: “Officers were told it was a large fight. They saw Walter Probert, 27, march purposefully towards a parked van.

“The van’s lights were on, and they saw the defendant pull out a long, green metal pole. He took ten steps back towards the nightclub and transferred the pole from one hand to the other.”

Another man approached Probert, removed the pole from his hands, and placed it inside the van.

“Because of the manner in which the pole was used by the defendant, it became an offensive weapon,” added Ms James.

CCTV footage of the incident was shown to magistrates.

Probation officer Julie Norman said Probert had no recollection of the incident.

“He doesn’t remember what he was doing, but he accepts everything that has been said. He was very drunk,” she said.

“He was brought up in the gypsy travelling community and doesn’t have an alcohol issue; he’s just a social drinker. He’s thankful to his friend who took the pole and placed it back inside the van.”

Probert, of the Caravan Site, Kingsmoor Common, Begelly, pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. He was represented in court by Mr Tom Lloyd.

“No threats were made by the defendant when he picked it up, but it was a stupid decision,” said Mr Lloyd. “As soon as he was challenged and asked what he was doing, he ceased.”

Probert was sentenced to a 12-month community order, requiring him to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 court surcharge. Magistrates imposed a destruction order on the metal bar.

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

5 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

5 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.