BBC Four controller takes six months off

BBC Four controller, Janice Hadlow, is to take six months off to write a book about George III.

Though on sabbatical, Hadlow will continue to consult on the wider BBC Vision strategy during this time.

Director of BBC Vision, Jana Bennett, said that the channel was performing well so it was a good time for Hadlow to take a break.

Bennett said: "I'm pleased that over the next six months she will also still be involved in developing the wider strategy for BBC Vision and I look forward to her returning to BBC Four towards the end of the year."

Head of TV current affairs, George Entwistle, will step into Hadlow's role from the beginning of May.

In his current role, Entwhistle has commissioned factual and arts programmes for the BBC Four. Creative director of in-house current affairs, Karen O'Connor, will cover his role over the next six months.