BBC Radio 1 drops Nihal’s Asian show

BBC Radio 1 has responded to BBC�۪s Delivering Quality First policy by overhauling its specialist programming line-up resulting in the late night ‘Asian Beats’ show hosted by Nihal being axed.

The programme, which was initially co-hosted with Bobby Friction, has been a fixture on Radio 1’s schedule since 2002. It was the only show on the network to give mainstream access to Asian artists and music. It will stay on-air until September. Along with this, many other specialist shows on Radio 1 are being overhauled.

It will also mean that Radio 1 and 1Xtra will say goodbye to some familiar faces. Edith Bowman, Mike Davies, Rob Da Bank, Jen Long, Ally McCrae, CJ Beatz, Crissy Criss and Robbo Ranx, will all be signing off.

A statement from the BBC said, “These changes, which are due to begin on 1st September, enable Radio 1 and 1Xtra to deliver some of the savings they are being asked to make as part of the wider BBC�۪s financial challenges following the last Licence Fee settlement. Tough decisions have been made but the strategy remains for the stations to continue to innovate and invent new ways to reach their younger audience.”

Ben Cooper, Controller, Radio 1 and 1Xtra, said, ���These cuts to our budget are hurting, it means I have had to make some tough choices and say goodbye to some friends and respected colleagues. I believe these new schedules continue to innovate, reflect and celebrate the UK�۪s youth and music culture.�۝

Nihal will continue to present on BBC Asian Network with his weekday discussion show.