Truths withering on the vine?

I am alarmed that the BBC is ending Home Truths simply because it is unable to find a suitable presenter to replace John Peel.
I immediately sent an email to the Controller of Radio 4 Mark Damazer

Dear Mark,

I have just read an article in The Times that reports the demise of Home
Truths because you are unable to find a suitable presenter. The stars of
Home Truths are the listeners who submit and tell their own stories.
John Peel made the format work because he gave the most prominent voice
to his audience. If subsequent presenters have failed it's because they
want it to be their show when in fact in belongs to the storytellers.

It will be a sad day if you allow the show to fail - there are many more
stories to be told and very few genuine opportunities for people to tell
them on national radio or TV. I won't say anymore at this stage - but
would happy to continue the discussion if it sheds any light.

Yours home truly


He replied immediately:

Dear Mr. Stevenson

The programme that will take its place will feature the audience too. It
won't be done in exactly the same way but it will feature the audience !

Best wishes

Giving people their true voice is an important part of broadcasting if it to be saved from the distortions of the media elite. Home Truths went part of the way to addressing the issue - I trust the new show will give listeners a louder voice.