Judi: Crescendo of complaints grows
Just two posts on BBC Devon’s Facebook page about the departure of Judi Spiers have attracted almost 1,000 comments.
Meanwhile, another 1,000 people have backed a campaign called @bringbackjudi on Facebook and Twitter.
It appears that although BBC bosses had hoped the crescendo of complaints would die down after Judi’s last show, on Friday, they appear to be gaining momentum.
The target for most of the criticism is the station’s managing editor, Mark Grinnell.
He made the decision to axe Judi’s show just weeks after bringing in former Radio One DJ Simon Bates on what is reported to be a six-figure salary.
Among the comments were the following…
Rob Tibbles (via facebook): Having destroyed the early morning offering, you have now alienated a large swathe of listeners with the senseless decision to axe your one shining star. With her stories, jokes, interviews, occasional grumpy meltdowns, and snorty laugh Judi has become a friend to so many and a reason to turn the radio on. In my opinion I think you've really got this one wrong Mark Grinnell.
Gordon Greenwood (via facebook): My partner was diagnosed with terminal cancer 5 years ago and unable to work Judi with her witty and uplifting show has been her lifeline. We think the man responsable for this should be the one to get the sack.
Pat Baggot (via Facebook): I thought it was our Radio station? So, our views count? That's what the BBC are always telling us. Well it looks like our views haven't been taken into account at all! Very ill advised decision. I have also been irritated by the way Radio Devon has been heralding the arrival of Simon Bates Ad nauseam as if he is some sort of coup. In my opinion you've got it wrong, I love Fitz, Bill and Shep, but come on Judi is the only one for this time slot! She has everything!! She'll be very sadly missed!
#markTwitGrinnell huh how appropriate!
Penelope Elsey (via @bringbackjudi) First day without Radio Devon, not got the heart to listen for the foreseeable, even tho also enjoyed Pippa and Fitz, Byeeeee
Muscian Ellie Williams (via @bringbackjudi) really proud-featured on Judi's show today can't wait til she's back doing bigger and better #theirloss xxx big love Judi xxx
