Charles Runcie has been appointed to the newly-created position of Head of Sport, BBC English Regions. He will start on 5 June.

Currently Production Editor for BBC Sport Online, Charles Runcie has been with BBC Sport since 1987. He had previously worked for local radio and BBC Scotland.

‘Sport is a really important part of the local broadcasting mix and Charles’ role will be to ensure that across England we make the most of our sports right and stories,’ says
Andy Griffee, Controller English Regions.

Runcie, 43, expands on his brief: ‘This job has been set up by BBC English Regions and BBC Sport and I’ll be ensuring that the relationship works – both ways. There are lots of regional stories about sporting heroes which deserve to make it to network, but seldom do. At the same time there are sports rights held by the BBC which just might have a regional or local dimension which we’re currently missing.’

Runcie has been in sport all his BBC career and confesses to a lifelong interest in sport. Away from work he is a passionate supporter of the Scottish Rugby team and also enjoys an occasional round of golf.

BBC Radio Solent sports producer Grant Coleman has been appointed to work as Charles Runcie’s deputy. He will have a specific responsibility to ensure that local radio, television and internet sites exploit big BBC sporting events like the Commonwealth Games, the Olympics and the Grand National.

For more details contact:

Charles Runcie
Head of Sport, BBC English Regions
Tel: x29503
External dial: 0121 432 9503
Mobile: 07740 445433
Website: www.bbc.co.uk/england