The BBC has moved to quash claims that it intends to axe local radio coverage of Norwich City away matches on BBC Norfolk, following a wave of backlash on social media, the Mirror can reveal.
A report from the Norwich Evening News had suggested that BBC bosses were plotting to cut radio coverage of Norwich's away fixtures, sparking outrage from high-profile figures including ITV's Ed Balls and Mark Pougatch.
BBC Statement on Coverage
It was claimed that BBC chiefs were planning to scale back local commentaries, meaning Chris Goreham, who provides commentary for the Canaries, would only be present at home matches. A number of prominent voices waded into the row, which has since been firmly dismissed by the BBC.
In an official statement, the corporation said: "This is not true. Home and away game commentary, analysis and coverage will continue at BBC Radio Norfolk. We are looking at ways to reduce duplication and showcase more of our Local commentary teams across the BBC, but no decisions have been made. Any updates will be announced in due course."
Reaction from High-Profile Figures
ITV presenter Pougatch labelled the prospect of scrapping Norwich City away game coverage 'an absolute disgrace' if the reports proved accurate. The original article suggested Norwich City supporters would be left relying on commentary from the home side's local BBC radio station as part of efforts to save millions of pounds over the next two years.
Taking to social media, Pougatch said: "I am proud to say I started my career in local radio. This would be an absolute disgrace if true. Where do I sign the petition? Local football coverage is EXACTLY the sort of thing the BBC should do. No one else will!"
Former Cabinet Minister and Good Morning Britain presenter Balls also weighed in. He said: "This can't be true - and it's not even April 1st - @CGoreham commentaries are peerless and relied upon by #ncfc fans around the world - and they are a hugely valued public service for many Norfolk based fans who can't go to games - they are what the @bbc should be all about.."
Former TNT Sports presenter and Norwich City supporter Jake Humphreys added: "This is literally what the BBC SHOULD be doing. The BBC are there for public service broadcasting. Thats exactly what this is... I hope this is an ill-founded bit of intel."
Cost-Cutting Context
Currently, BBC Radio Norfolk dispatches both Goreham and Rob Butler to matches, alongside a former Canary who resides near the venue. However, a BBC insider has firmly denied that any alterations to local radio coverage are on the cards.
The BBC has already scrapped much-loved programmes such as Blankety Blank, Celebrity Mastermind and Live At The Apollo as the broadcaster makes "really tough choices" in a bid to save £500million over the next three years. Bosses confirmed in June that 550 jobs would be cut and shows decommissioned. It also emerged earlier this week that the broadcaster is set to drop coverage of the World Indoor Bowls Championship as part of its ongoing cost-cutting drive, despite having aired it every year since the competition's inception in 1979. The Boat Race has likewise departed the BBC in favour of Channel Four, while the Rugby League World Cup has returned behind a paywall for the first time since 2017, and will now be broadcast on Premier Sports.
