BBC extends BBC Wales director search

BBC director general Mark Thompson has confirmed that the search for a new boss of BBC Cymru Wales has been extended, with an interim director appointed.

Last November, BBC Wales director Menna Richards announced her intention to step down from the post this year after more than a decade at the corporation.

While the BBC searches for a permanent replacement, the head of Welsh programmes and interactive Keith Jones will take on the role on an interim basis. He will join the BBC Direction Group from April 1 and report to Thompson, according to BBC News.

In an email to staff, Thompson said: "Keith is well known to many of you and has had experience of working in a variety of roles in BBC Wales.

"His support and assistance is much appreciated and I look forward to working more closely with him in the coming months."

Thompson also confirmed that Adrian Davies, head of factual and music, will be acting head of English language programmes while Clare Hudson is on adoption leave.

Elsewhere, Phillip Moss will become acting commissioning executive for factual programmes and Judith Winnan will be acting head of factual and music.

Last month, workers completed the first phase of construction on the new BBC Wales drama production village in Cardiff Bay, which will be home to Casualty and Doctor Who.