Following last weeks reports that BBC 6 Music had been given a stay of execution whilst further reviews are carried out; the BBC Trust announced its findings following the strategic review today.
The news is good:
"The Trust does not think a convincing case has been made, as presented, for the closure of 6 Music. The Trust does not agree that there is a consistent strategic rationale for closure on grounds either of promoting digital development or market impact" -- (BBC Strategy Review email 2010-07-05, 17:13).
The announcement that the station would be saved from the axe came at just before mid-day and spread like wildfire, with me becoming alerted to it mid-afternoon following a post by 6 Music on Facebook. The #save6music and #6music hashtags on Twitter have been buzzing and internet message boards have been alive with discussion.
There can be little doubt that the show of support from station staff, listeners, musicians and industry officials had an impact and it's good to see the Trust listen to those which it serves. But whilst 6 Music will not be closing, it's worth noting the following paragraph:
"the proposal has been helpful in highlighting the need for a further review of the BBC's digital strategy. If, as part of that review, the Executive wants to put together a different proposal for the overall shape of its music radio stations that they think could further increase the distinctiveness of the output, we would consider it." -- (BBC Strategy Review email 2010-07-05, 17:13).
This appears to mean that whilst the BBC has failed to put forward a convincing argument for closing 6 Music on this occasion, it does not mean that a new plan cannot be put forward, providing the distinctive output of BBC Radio is maintained.
Bearing that in mind however, today is excellent news for everyone who appreciates what 6 Music does. It's important that we all continue to listen to the station and to show that we do need it. Likewise it's important that 6 Music doesn't stand still and continues to ensure that it fulfils the remit for which we've all argued.
To round-up, I thought that a few quotes from 6 Music presenters would be appropriate. I've also compiled a small number of interesting websites which I've linked to this post.
I have just one thing left to say: Hooray for 6 Music and it's staff, hooray for the BBC Trust and a very BIG HOORAY for the station's supporters!
"A big heartfelt thank-you to all who got behind #save6music. Great day & all down to listener support. In the words of the band Yes: "Yes!" " -- Jon Holmes (@jonholmes1) via Twitter
"Trust report is great initial news received with tentative cheers. A huge thanks to all of you who expressed your love, we send it back x" -- Shaun Keaveny (@Shaun6music) via Twitter
"Just want to say thanks again for all your loveliness. Sort of gone a bit wobbly and overwhelmed here in the studio. X" -- Lauren Laverne (@laverneshow) via Twitter
"I didnt believe it would happen but the BBC has listened to its financiers! The British Public! You 'lot' (1 mil +) have been immense! Ta!" -- Marc Riley (@marcrileydj) via Twitter
"Its Official 6Music is saved. Top work everyone!!! #love6music -- Steve Lamacq (@lamacqshow) via Twitter
"We should do a toast and raise a glass to 6 Music and all who worked so hard to save her! #love6music #save6music #6music - To 6 Music! x" -- @Inside6music (Twitter)
The news is good:
"The Trust does not think a convincing case has been made, as presented, for the closure of 6 Music. The Trust does not agree that there is a consistent strategic rationale for closure on grounds either of promoting digital development or market impact" -- (BBC Strategy Review email 2010-07-05, 17:13).
The announcement that the station would be saved from the axe came at just before mid-day and spread like wildfire, with me becoming alerted to it mid-afternoon following a post by 6 Music on Facebook. The #save6music and #6music hashtags on Twitter have been buzzing and internet message boards have been alive with discussion.
There can be little doubt that the show of support from station staff, listeners, musicians and industry officials had an impact and it's good to see the Trust listen to those which it serves. But whilst 6 Music will not be closing, it's worth noting the following paragraph:
"the proposal has been helpful in highlighting the need for a further review of the BBC's digital strategy. If, as part of that review, the Executive wants to put together a different proposal for the overall shape of its music radio stations that they think could further increase the distinctiveness of the output, we would consider it." -- (BBC Strategy Review email 2010-07-05, 17:13).
This appears to mean that whilst the BBC has failed to put forward a convincing argument for closing 6 Music on this occasion, it does not mean that a new plan cannot be put forward, providing the distinctive output of BBC Radio is maintained.
Bearing that in mind however, today is excellent news for everyone who appreciates what 6 Music does. It's important that we all continue to listen to the station and to show that we do need it. Likewise it's important that 6 Music doesn't stand still and continues to ensure that it fulfils the remit for which we've all argued.
To round-up, I thought that a few quotes from 6 Music presenters would be appropriate. I've also compiled a small number of interesting websites which I've linked to this post.
I have just one thing left to say: Hooray for 6 Music and it's staff, hooray for the BBC Trust and a very BIG HOORAY for the station's supporters!
"A big heartfelt thank-you to all who got behind #save6music. Great day & all down to listener support. In the words of the band Yes: "Yes!" " -- Jon Holmes (@jonholmes1) via Twitter
"Trust report is great initial news received with tentative cheers. A huge thanks to all of you who expressed your love, we send it back x" -- Shaun Keaveny (@Shaun6music) via Twitter
"Just want to say thanks again for all your loveliness. Sort of gone a bit wobbly and overwhelmed here in the studio. X" -- Lauren Laverne (@laverneshow) via Twitter
"I didnt believe it would happen but the BBC has listened to its financiers! The British Public! You 'lot' (1 mil +) have been immense! Ta!" -- Marc Riley (@marcrileydj) via Twitter
"Its Official 6Music is saved. Top work everyone!!! #love6music -- Steve Lamacq (@lamacqshow) via Twitter
"We should do a toast and raise a glass to 6 Music and all who worked so hard to save her! #love6music #save6music #6music - To 6 Music! x" -- @Inside6music (Twitter)
It looks as though the BBC Trust are granting 6 Music a 'stay of execution' whilst further reviews of the service are undertaken.
This is good news. It means that the Trust are not simply going to rubber-stamp Thompson's proposal to close the station which, since the closure was announced, has gained over 1 million listeners and has heard protests from all corners - presenters, musicians, industry officials and listeners.
It doesn't mean it's safe though. This just means that a firm closure announcement is not imminent, but the station could still be at risk. It's important therefore for those who appreciate what the station does, to remain vocal in support and to continue listening. If the figures continue to grow, then the argument for keeping the station is stronger.
Of course, billboards like that in the picture found here: http://twitpic.com/1zj870 are a great idea. Can anyone get any more shown?
This is good news. It means that the Trust are not simply going to rubber-stamp Thompson's proposal to close the station which, since the closure was announced, has gained over 1 million listeners and has heard protests from all corners - presenters, musicians, industry officials and listeners.
It doesn't mean it's safe though. This just means that a firm closure announcement is not imminent, but the station could still be at risk. It's important therefore for those who appreciate what the station does, to remain vocal in support and to continue listening. If the figures continue to grow, then the argument for keeping the station is stronger.
Of course, billboards like that in the picture found here: http://twitpic.com/1zj870 are a great idea. Can anyone get any more shown?