BBC 6 Music Has to 'Strengthen Appeal'

The BBC Trust, the governing body of the licence fee-funded BBC have concluded that digital music radio station BBC 6 Music is "distinctive and well-liked by its listeners" -- and so is unlikely to be shut down despite recent fears that it might be recommended for closure.

The Trust review however did admit that the station needed to "reach a bigger audience" and "strengthen" its appeal without losing "its unique selling point" to music fans. It was revealed in the review that 6 Music is the fastest growing digital-only station at the BBC of the last four years, but yet apparently only 20% of the UK population are even aware of its existence.

Bob Shennan, 6 Music controller said, "I'm pleased that the trust has recognised that 6 Music is a distinctive service with a loyal audience, but we understand that the network needs to increase its reach."

He continued, conceding there is still work to be done, "The network is attracting new listeners and I hope that by offering a rich mix of presenting talent, including Lauren Laverne and Jarvis Cocker, and leading radio coverage of musical events such as Glastonbury, the station will broaden its appeal."

Shennen, who is also controller for BBC Radio 2, was also informed that he needs to target more older listeners to that station, to appeal to more listeners over 65 years old.

Radio 2 also needs to "break out of the routine with its programming, in particular to be more distinctive during peak time", the review found.

The BBC have responded to the review by saying it would "thread arts, documentaries and comedy into the peak time schedule."