BBC REGIONAL NEWS IN ENGLAND CANCELLED DUE TO STRIKE ACTION

The BBC local news bulletins at 1:30pm and 6:30pm will not air today, Wednesday 15th March, due to strike action.

A BBC spokesperson said: "We're sorry that audiences will experience some changes to local TV and radio services in England as result of industrial action by the National Union of Journalists. We have tried to minimise disruption as much as possible..."

"We are obviously disappointed that the strike has gone ahead. We have a plan to modernise local services across England - including more news journalists and a stronger local online service - which will see no overall reduction in staffing levels or local funding..."

"Our goal is a local service across TV, radio and online that delivers even greater value to communities. We will continue to engage with the trade union and do everything possible to minimise the impact on staff."