December 2011 – Page 2 – What Was Pebble Mill?

Radio Birmingham & WM, Christmas memories – Pete Simpkin

Here is a podcast from presenter and producer Pete Simpkin reminiscing on diverse experiences of working over Christmas on Radio Birmingham and Radio WM.

Andy Walters left the following comment on the Facebook page: ‘It’s not that much different today. This years WM Carol service was recorded last Monday. I have fond memories of being sat in what became known as Area 3 in Pebble Mill devouring Producers tins of sweets as they were bought in.’

Christmas lunch – photo by Peter Poole

Photo by Peter Poole, no reproduction without permission.

This photo was probably taken some time about 1980. It shows Sharon Pemberton, Stan Treasurer and David Furmage at the Pebble Mill Christmas lunch. I can’t remember the rest.

Peter Poole

Julie Hall, Midlands Today – photo by Peter Poole

: Julie Hall

Photo by Peter Poole, no reproduction without permission.

Julie was a presenter and journalist working for Midlands Today. I don’t know when the photo was taken. Anyone remember her?

Peter Poole

The Franchise Affair – photo by Dave Bushell

The ‘Franchise Affair’ was a 6 part serial, which I think was hosted at Pebble Mill from London. It was transmitted in 1988. Terrance Dicks was the producer, Leonard Lewis the director, and Phillippa Giles the script editor. Dave Bushell was the lighting director and Rob Hinds the production designer.

The story was about a mother and daughter, living in a house called The Franchise, who are accused of kidnapping a 15 year old girl and making her work as a servant. See BFI database: http://ftvdb.bfi.org.uk/sift/title/417012

‘Took this shot while we were shooting ‘The Franchise Affair’ at Bewdley station in 1988. I don’t think any work is going on – just three guys examining a very large ‘Boy’s Toy’. I think it’s Tom Beach (Props Buyer) on the left with Keith Moreton (chargehand electrician) and Eric Crouch (electrician).’

Dave Bushell

Andy Redfern, Audio Unit – photo by Peter Poole

Andy Redfern

Photo by Peter Poole, no reproduction without permission.

Andy was a senior audio supervisor. He worked on many TV and radio programmes. They include ‘Doctors’, ‘Howard’s Way’ and ‘Juliet Bravo’.

Peter Poole