Carl Chinn dropped from BBC radio show
Carl Chinn has been dropped from his BBC radio show after 19 years.
The historian and author announced it would be his last Sunday lunchtime show and said goodbye to his listeners.
The 56-year-old and author of 20 books has presented his show from New York after the 9/11 terror attacks, from Normandy for the 60th anniversary of the D-Day landings and from Romania where he was raising money for orphans.
In 2001 he was awarded the MBE for his services to local history and charity.
Speaking to listeners yesterday morning Professor Chinn said: "The decision to end the show wasn't mine, it was a management decision.
"Obviously I am disappointed, I wouldn't be human if I wasn't disappointed."
Professor Chinn's first contributor on Sunday's show, West Bromwich historian Terry Price said he was 'absolutely devastated' to hear the news.
He said: "So many historians in the Black Country and Birmingham owe their career almost to your support and of course Radio WM.
"I wouldn't have ever started my books if it wasn't for the encouragement you gave me."
A BBC spokesperson said: "Carl has been part of the BBC WM story for many years, although this particular programme is ending we very much hope we will work together again and this isn't the last time our listeners hear him on air.
"We are talking to Carl about future opportunities on the station."
