Ever wondered why the BBC, that giant of broadcasting, doesn't really do local news like your independent stations?
It's like, you want to know about the pothole on Acacia Avenue, and they're reporting on...parliament.
Don't get me wrong, important stuff! But sometimes, you just want to know if Mrs. Higgins' cat got rescued from the tree again.
Big Bird, Big Coverage, Big... National News?
The BBC, bless its heart, has a remit. A grand, sweeping, nation-focused remit. It's like they're aiming for the stratosphere.
Meanwhile, your local paper is reporting on the school bake sale. Which, arguably, is equally vital.
Maybe even *more* vital if you're craving a Victoria sponge.
But Why *Really*?
Okay, here's my mildly controversial theory: It's resource allocation, folks. Imagine the logistics!
Every tiny village needing a BBC news team? The licence fee would skyrocket higher than a pigeon on a caffeine buzz.
And let's be honest, the BBC probably figures that's what local newspapers and stations are *for*.
They leave the village fête coverage to others.
Which is a bit of a shame, isn't it? Imagine a beautifully shot, David Attenborough-narrated piece on the annual scarecrow competition in Little Puddleton.
Pure gold. Lost gold, sadly.
The Local Angle: Not Quite BBC's Cup of Tea
The BBC does dip its toe in local waters. Radio stations offer some regional programming, that's true.
But a full-blown, dedicated local news service across the whole country? Nope. Not happening.
Think about it: reporting on dog fouling in every postcode? Perhaps that's best left to the local rag.
The "Unbiased" Argument
Another thought: local news can get…well, *local*. Opinions, rivalries, the mayor's questionable expense account.
Navigating that minefield with *BBC levels* of impartiality would be... challenging. Like herding cats.
Especially if those cats have strong opinions about the new roundabout.
So What's the Answer?
Look, I'm not saying the BBC *should* become hyper-local.
But maybe a *little* more love for the smaller stories wouldn't hurt. A segment dedicated to quirky local events?
Or even just acknowledging that not all news happens in Westminster.
Perhaps a brief nod to the World Championship Gurning Competition in Egremont?
Because, let's face it, those are the stories that truly make Britain great. (And slightly weird.)
So next time you're watching the BBC News and thinking, "Why aren't they covering the badger sett dispute in my garden?" Remember this.
They're busy being globally important. But hey, at least you have your local newspaper.
They probably have a badger correspondent on staff.
