'Blue Peter' ratings 'are in decline'

Viewing figures for flagship children's programme Blue Peter are reportedly in decline.

According to the BBC Trust, audience numbers for the show and Newsround are both falling, with recent schedule changes making this problem worse.

Last year, The Weakest Link was moved from BBC Two to BBC One after the channel lost Neighbours to rival Five.

BBC trustee Mehmuda Mian said: "We found that audience levels have fallen since children's programmes were moved earlier in BBC One's afternoon schedule.

"We have asked the executive to address this decline and, as far as possible, to make sure that programmes for children are given priority at times children are likely to be watching."

She added that the Trust believes the BBC must continue to provide high-quality children's content produced in the UK, a role it believes has become more vital because other broadcasters have reduced investment in this area.

Last year, former head of Blue Peter Biddy Baxter accused the BBC of trying to sabotage the show by altering its content.