Understand
Worcestershire village fears losing its connection to The Archers if the BBC moves the show
Overview
Residents and business owners in the Worcestershire village of Inkberrow are concerned they could lose their tourism trade and cultural link to BBC Radio 4's The Archers. The concerns follow the BBC's decision to shelve plans for a purpose-built studio in Birmingham, raising the possibility that the 75-year-old soap opera could be recorded outside the West Midlands for the first time.
Key points
- Inkberrow is widely believed to have inspired Ambridge, the fictional village in BBC Radio 4's The Archers.
- The Old Bull Inn in Inkberrow is closely associated with the show's pub, The Bull, and attracts international visitors and tourists.
- The BBC recently shelved plans for a purpose-built studio in Birmingham, raising fears that the programme could be recorded outside the West Midlands.
- Local residents and the landlord of The Old Bull Inn expressed sadness and disappointment at the prospect of the show losing its regional connection.
- The entertainment union Equity and cast members have also criticised the proposals and expressed anger over the potential move.
- A BBC spokesperson stated that the production team will move to the Tea Factory in early 2028 as planned, with no final decision yet made on the show's recording location.
