BBC comedy chief leaving for indie role

Kenton Allen, the BBC's creative head of comedy, is leaving to join Big Talk Productions, the indie which produced Shaun Of The Dead and Black Books.

Allen has developed shows including That Mitchell And Webb Look and Johnny Vegas's Ideal and established the BBC Comedy North division, which has in turn produced series such as The Visit and Scallywagga. Before joining the corporation in 2003 he won a BATFA for producing The Royle Family.

Allen has been made joint chief executive at Big Talk, where he will develop its TV business and oversee production. "I leave behind a terrific slate of shows and a talented team, but I feel that the time is right for new challenges," he said.

Peter Salmon, chief creative officer at BBC Vision, said Allen had played a vital role in championing BBC comedy production.