When radio goes wrong

BBC North's Head of Audio and Music Production, based at the innovative MediaCity, will visit Edge Hill University to talk to students about challenges in the profession.

Ian Bent, who runs a department that makes a wide range of programmes in the North of England for Radio 4, Radio 3 and 6music, will be visiting the Ormskirk campus on Friday 7^th October.

Ian started his career in BBC local radio as a journalist. He moved to BBC Radio 5 where he produced the UK's first national daily phone-in programme and at the launch of 5Live he became their news producer in the north-west. He has produced and presented investigative documentaries exposing corruption and mismanagement in sport. He now edits Radio 6.

He will talk to media and music students about ‘when radio goes wrong' and will give tips and advice on producing successful radio programmes. He will also highlight the exciting developments happening at MediaCity, the BBC's new centre of excellence outside London for production, technology development, training and digital media.

Richard Witts, Senior Lecturer in Media, Music and Sound at the University and ex leader of 1980s band The Passage, organised the visit. He said: "Ian Brent is a very experienced professional within his field and I'm sure he will provide an insight into the world of radio and the challenges to take into consideration to ensure that programmes are aired as smoothly as possible, which isn't always easy.

"He will also talk about the latest developments at MediaCity and careers. BBC North will lead the way in training and developing talent, building on the rich mix of skills and experience already available in the North of England. As the University is already working in partnership with the BBC we want to ensure that our students grasp the opportunities out there."

The event starts at 2pm and takes place in room M46 in the Main Building.