Michael Barton - BBC local radio founder

This is the story of one of the architects of the local radio system we know today. 

After a spell up North at the BBC, Michael was invited to contribute to the early ‘closed circuit’ trials in local radio in the early 60s which were to persuade of the merits in the approach. As the stations were rolled out formally, he was appointed to launch Radio Sheffield, in 1967. Michael rose to Controller of BBC local radio, playing a key role through the 70s and 80s as the pattern of local radio was being determined.

In his own words, this is the Michael Barton story.

Enjoy the whole Conversations series here. Music byLarry Bryant.