It's interesting how much the church is doing in these troubled times, as reflected by posts in recent months here. This isn't a holy blog, though I hope we're reasonably virtuous, but here's another example of the faith community in action.
It's an issue dear to my own heart. The threat of cuts continues to hang over local radio, although the Guardian had slightly more encouraging news last week. Now senior church leaders in West Yorkshire have spoken out strongly against the prospect of cuts to Radio Leeds, our excellent local station.
The BBC is certain to listen. Apart from its good record of holding genuine consultations and acting on them, it isn't often you get a letter from six bishops, six nonconformist regional chairs, ministers and moderators and the divisional commander of the Salvation Army.
They jointly tell Mark Thompson, the corporation's director-general:
Radio Leeds - like the churches - helps to bind our communities together and build a common identity. It encourages listeners to take an active part in their local community. It is a champion for the region, with all its diversity of faith and culture.
The Bishop of Bradford, the Right Reverend Nick Baines, says in particular
BBC local radio, with its warmth and local knowledge, plays a crucial role in fostering a common sense of place and belonging.
You can read the full text of the letter here.
The BBC's local radio stations are not perfect. Last time I blogged on the subject here, there were some cautionary comments in the thread and I accept those. There's a way to go to get back to the unforgettable and genuinely locally-run days of the great Phil Sidey, the station's first manager. But we all have reason to share the clergy's alarm at the possibility of 20 percent cuts. If you have time, send your views to the current consultation via this website here.
See also a thoughtful piece from the Observer on this subject by our great former editor Peter Preston.
