Radcliffe, Maconie and Peter Salmon headline TV conference

DJ Mark Radcliffe will be interviewing the BBC’s new Head of BBC North, Peter Salmon in a session at the TV from the Nations and Regions Conference (19 and 20 January 2009) – Peter’s first public appearance since his high-profile appointment.

The Radio Two presenter will be quizzing the new BBC boss on his northern roots and his plans for the BBC’s move to MediaCityUK in 2011 during the Q&A session.

The event, held at the Lowry, Salford Quays, and organised by Salford University’s International Media Centre, will also see Mark’s co-presenter, Stuart Maconie speaking about how the UK must recognise television outside London.

The Pies and Prejudice author will be criticising the fact that, while 80% of viewers live outside London, the same percentage of all television content focuses on London and the south of England – and will call for the balance to be redressed.

The 16th annual conference is the only national event to focus on television outside London, and will feature the industry’s biggest names such as Channel 4’s Head of News and Current Affairs, Dorothy Byrne; Commissioning Editor of Channel Five, Sue Davidson; and Director of ITV Regions, Mike Jermey.

Salford University’s Professor Ron Cook said: “With the advent of MediaCityUK, there has never been a better time to be involved in TV production outside London.

“We’re delighted that Peter Salmon will be making his first public appearance at our event, and we are honoured to welcome Mark Radcliffe, Stuart Maconie, and our other prestigious speakers. It promises to be a fascinating insight into the future of television in the nations and regions.”