In praise of Radio 4
Posted: Thursday 13 September, 2012
Victoria Harris
The other day someone questioned the fact that I listen to Radio 4’s ‘Today’ programme, implying that I was too young for that particular radio station. However flattering this may be, first thing in the morning all I can handle is minimal noise and intelligent conversation. In addition, there are so many levels on which I will defend this action as I am such an advocate for the news and current affairs show, and the channel as a whole.
Although it was always on in my home growing up, I took little notice, until my early 20s when I began working in PR. I had a boss who was a huge proponent of Radio 4 and I have him to thank. I believe – regardless of what discipline you are working in – that it is important for a PR professional to be aware of what is going on in the wider world. Many times I have come into the office having heard a story on the radio and thought about how a client could capitalise on it. The ‘Today’ programme sets the news agenda for the day and there will often be an opportunity for your client to piggyback on it.
I also must admit to getting a bit of thrill when I have a morning off, or am driving to a meeting and I get the chance to catch up on one of the other programmes, whether it is ‘Midweek’, ‘Woman’s Hour’ or a re-run of ‘Desert Island Discs’. It is very rare that the shows on Radio 4 do not enlighten me in some way or another. There is even the comedy half hour to entertain me on my drive home in the evening. I don’t think any other country in the world can boast a free (more or less) service of such high quality. Although I will admit that my occasional dabble into ‘The Archers’ might be a slightly embarrassing stretch too far.
