COUNTRY music fans staged a protest outside BBC studios in the region following the axing of a much-loved programme from the airwaves.

About 40 people from clubs across the North-East lined the pavement outside the BBC's broadcasting centre in Fenham, Newcastle, as the final Paul Wappat Saturday morning show went on air.

The three-hour show has run for the past seven years and featured a 25-minute country music slot presented by veteran broadcaster Sam Harris.

Although not given any official notification, Mr Harris has learnt that his services will not be required in a scheduling shake-up that starts next weekend.

After the programme, Mr Harris emerged from the studios to the applause of flag waving country fans, many dressed in cowboy and western apparel.

"It was a nice touch and it reflects the level of interest there is in country music across the region," he said.

"It is another example of country music being marginalised, despite the huge interest there is throughout the North-East. Between the Tees and the Tyne, there's probably 70-odd country and western, and line-dancing clubs.

"My show was a chance to mention local acts and to give listings of events in the wider area, and I know it was well-listened to by country music fans."

A BBC spokesman said the line-up changes were designed to stem the loss of listeners on weekend mornings.

He said that a country music show, broadcast from neighbouring Radio Cumbria, would remain on the station's schedules, at 9pm on Saturday.

Mr Harris, who will continue on Radio Newcastle as an angling expert, is organising a charity night featuring local country music bands at the Federation Brewery's Lancastrian Suite, in Dunston, Gateshead, on Monday, April 26, from 6.30pm.

Tickets, costing £5, can be obtained from the Lancastrian Suite, or via Mr Harris, on 0191-518 4561.

Published: 29/03/2004