// BBC ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS — MODA & SOCIETÀ
Dame Judi Dench joins Archers Birmingham campaign
Dame Judi Dench is among more than 100 current and former cast and crew members calling on the BBC to keep The Archers in Birmingham
More than 100 current and former cast and crew members of The Archers, including Dame Judi Dench, have called on the BBC to keep the programme in Birmingham.
The appeal follows a decision to shelve plans for a dedicated studio at the broadcaster's new Digbeth headquarters.
Supporters say recording the drama elsewhere could affect its quality and future.
The BBC says the move is part of wider cost-saving measures and alternative options are being explored.
In a letter to director general Matt Brittin, actors, writers, directors and sound engineers argued that moving recordings away from the Midlands would have a "tangible impact" on the programme.
The letter compares the prospect to "Coronation Street leaving the north-west, or EastEnders leaving the south-east", adding that it risks "ripping out the heart of Ambridge".
Supporters say recording The Archers outside the Midlands could affect the programme's future
Signatories said Birmingham had been central to the show's identity since it began and warned that separating cast and production teams could affect the way the programme is made.
"A flagship show deserves flagship facilities, from which both the BBC and the city of Birmingham would benefit for decades," the letter said.