The BBC has apologised to viewers after a technical fault left its weather presenter barely audible on a broadcast. The corporation explained there had been problems with the levels, which made it hard for viewers to hear what she was saying.
Scottish broadcaster Judith Ralston is a recognisable voice on the airwaves for the BBC north of the border. She is best known for delivering the latest weather updates from across the Scottish Isles.
On Wednesday (August 12), the 58 year old presenter switched from the northern station to the London studios earlier this month, appearing on the BBC News at One. Some viewers struggled with the presenter's "hard accent" - but the BBC and other viewers have revealed that an audio issue affected the broadcast.
Viewers complain about audio quality
One person on X, claimed the presenter was "virtually incomprehensible". This was even with the TV volume cranked up to maximum during segments including the lunchtime bulletin, according to the Express.
Someone else wrote: "This new presenter on screens in England is terrible. She mumbles, is quiet, has a hard accent to always understand, not the best qualities for the job."
Another said that Judith "has a hard accent to always understand", but Scottish users were quick to rally behind her. One user insisted: "Her accent isn't the problem; her microphone, however, seems to be an issue as it fades in and out."
BBC confirms technical glitch
Now, the BBC has said there was a technical glitch that caused the microphone levels to drop drastically in the studio, before adding it has since been fixed. A spokesperson explained: "We received complaints regarding the audio quality during weather forecasts presented by Judith Ralston."
"Unfortunately, a technical issue affected some of Judith Ralston's weather forecasts during the first week of August, causing the audio levels to be lower than intended. We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused."
Presenter reflects on London stint
The former opera singer, who joined BBC Scotland in 1999 as a reporter before transitioning into meteorology, said she relished her time in London. She said: "It was great to get the opportunity to do it for once in my career.
"The presenters down there were really great fun, and I really felt at home with them," she added. Following the conclusion of her London assignment, Judith posted some behind-the-scenes photographs of her time working in the capital on Instagram, describing it as a "privilege" to collaborate with some of the finest teams.
Ms Ralston wrote in the post: "I have just had the most interesting week in London working at New Broadcasting House − the mothership, presenting the National weather. I had the privilege of working with the best teams who are kind and generous and very talented."
"Some of the pictures here are of the forecasters who work behind the scenes; we work with them too in Glasgow. It's one big weather family. Big love to Matt Taylor, he's a king amongst kings, simply thee best weather brother from another mother."
