The BBC has apologised after a technical issue affected audio quality during weather forecasts presented by Judith Ralston, leading to complaints from viewers. The issue caused audio levels to be lower than intended during the first week of August, and the corporation confirmed it has now been corrected.
Viewer complaints and social media reaction
Viewers in London struggled to understand the Scottish presenter's accent, with some taking to social media to express frustration. One person said Ralston was "virtually incomprehensible" even with the TV sound turned up, while another complained she "has a hard accent to always understand."
However, her Scottish fanbase defended her, with one user arguing: "Her accent isn't the problem; her microphone, however, seems to be an issue as it fades in and out." Another echoed: "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."
BBC's response and apology
A BBC spokesperson said: "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."
Despite the criticism, Ralston, who joined BBC Scotland in 1999 as a reporter before moving into meteorology, said she enjoyed her stint in London. She stated: "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."
Ralston's background and reaction
After her time in London, Ralston shared behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram, calling it a "privilege" to work with the best teams. She captioned 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."
Before broadcasting, the Edinburgh-born presenter worked as a professional opera singer, but her music career was cut short after developing problems with the muscles in her voice box due to poor teaching.
