ITV axes 'South Bank Show'

ITV has decided to axe the South Bank Show according to The Mirror.

Yesterday, it was announced that Melvyn Bragg had quit as series editor and presenter of the show.

He also confirmed that he is retiring as controller of arts for ITV studios.

"I've decided to leave ITV at the end of my contract," said Bragg. "The South Bank Show will not continue past the middle of next year.

"I have had the luck and privilege to work with fine programme-makers and hundreds of the best artists of the last half century. I wish ITV the best of luck."

ITV boss Michael Grade is quoted as saying: "The South Bank Show has become the benchmark for popular arts programming and has won the admiration of audiences and critics. None of it would have happened without Melvyn."