Head of Religion & Ethics named at BBC

Michael Wakelin has been appointed as the new Head of Religion & Ethics for the BBC.
Wakelin, 45, is currently Acting Head of Development for the Religion & Ethics Department and has been Series Producer of 'Songs of Praise' for the last five years.
Keith Scholey, BBC Controller of Factual Production, said: "Michael has a huge amount of knowledge and passion for the subject which, as Head of Religion & Ethics, will make him a fantastic advocate, not only for the religion production base but also for the BBC as a whole.
"He also has a range of experience across both radio, TV and new media which is extremely important when looking into the future of the new multi-media age."
Wakelin joined the BBC in 1986 as a researcher for the BBC Radio 4 series 'The Good Book' with Brian Redhead and went on to work on a variety of programmes across all radio networks.
His radio credits include 'Talk of the Devil', 'Sanctified Dance' and the Sony Award-winning 'The Dream' for BBC Radio 1.
He pioneered gospel music on BBC Radio 2 launching series with Gloria Gaynor, Deniece Williams and, most recently, Beverley Knight.
He has also worked on a range of multi-faith programmes and established Radio 2's acclaimed Faith in the World Week – now in its 15th year.
Wakelin said: "I'm very proud to be taking on this prestigious role.
"I've worked in the BBC's Religious Department for over 20 years and am passionate about the range and depth of its output.
"I'm committed to taking the department forward as a key part of the BBC's future and its Manchester base."
(GB)