Fans express dismay at historian Carl's exit from BBC radio show
Loyal listeners of historian and author Carl Chinn have written to the Express & Star to reveal their disappointment that he has been dropped from his BBC radio show after 19 years on air.
The Express & Star columnist presented his last BBC WM Sunday lunchtime show on Sunday and said goodbye to his listeners.
He had a contract to do shows 38 weeks a year which he said he had fulfilled by early March, despite bosses telling him that his show was not on often enough due to football fixtures. 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.
But since he was dropped, his fans have come forward in their droves to speak of their sadness.
Dave Reeves, a poet, historian and broadcaster, who used to edit Raw Edge Magazine, was a guest on Professor Chinn's final lunchtime programme.
He said: "Carl has long held a unique position in supporting and developing the cultural life and identity of the West Midlands. His regular programme will be sorely missed from the airwaves."
Dr Brian Dakin, a research associate of the West Midlands English Speech and Society, at Aston University, added: "The station has made a mistake and will come to regret it. He's a special man, a great human being and we thank him for all his support. I will always offer him my 'ond an 'eart."
Chris Lees, of Tildesley Drive, Willenhall, also wrote: "Carl is a versatile man that is not only a broadcaster that is very interesting listening to, but an author of some 20 books of local history. I for one shall miss his cheery voice on the air."
Arthur Roberts, of Primrose Close, Pelsall, Walsall, meanwhile said: "How can the BBC turn their back on such a well-loved local hero and pursue their steady march to becoming just another station for sports lovers?"
Professor Chinn, who is paid £270 per show but does all the research and preparation himself, said bosses had wanted him to present up to five 'specials' a year instead. During his last show on Sunday Mr Chinn told listeners: "When God made me, he gave me a great gift, he made me one of you, I'm grateful for that and I will always cherish the 19 years we've had broadcasting together. Goodbye and God bless."
