BBC Radio 4 meltdown as show fails and broadcaster says 'we're sorry'

BBC Radio Four listeners were baffled when the Six O'Clock news failed to air. The radio station usually delivers its news round-up at 6 p.m. daily, but on Monday evening, there was silence, and there appeared to be a technical issue.

Following the six chimes from Big Ben, there was no sound, and this prompted a radio presenter to say: "We do apologize, we are having problems delivering the Six O'Clock news. Please bear with us; we will be with you as soon as possible."

The radio then played documentary adverts while the station attempted to fix the problem. Around a minute later, the same radio presenter returned on air to deliver the news—but once again, there were technical problems.

There was more silence on air, and after a short period of time, another apology was issued to listeners. The presenter then announced that they could not deliver their scheduled service and were doing everything they could to fix the issue.

The radio station was then able to deliver the scheduled news programme with Alan Smith around five minutes past 6 p.m.

In similar news, a BBC radio legend died last month after working on the station for almost 30 years. BBC Radio Merseyside posted an emotional Facebook statement: "We’re sad to have to tell you that our friend and Colleague Andy Ball has passed away.

"Andy worked for BBC Merseyside for nearly 30 years as a presenter, reporter and was part of the management team. He loved the river and enjoyed nothing more than getting out into the communities right across the whole of Merseyside.

"We will miss him dearly and send all our love and condolences to his wife Lynn and family." [sic]

Many fans have paid tribute to Andy in the comments section. One listener said: "I am so sad to hear this news. Having worked at Radio Merseyside for a few years, Andy was always so generous with his time and patience with everyone.

"He truly loved Liverpool, the station, and all the people in it. Such a lasting impact that he will have had. Sending my best wishes and all my thoughts to his family and the RM family, as I know that you all will be hurting too. -x-." [sic]