Dame Judi Dench joins call to keep Archers in Birmingham

Speaking earlier this week, Brittin defended the decision, saying the BBC needed to make savings but remained committed to the programme.

“We’re going to explore how we can best house The Archers where they need to be,” he said.

He added there was “other studio space around the country” which could accommodate the programme, while alternatives in the West Midlands would also be considered.

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker also called for the show to remain in Birmingham, describing it as a key part of the region’s broadcasting heritage.

Equity general secretary Paul Fleming said cast members were “angry” at the proposals.

“It’s beyond offensive, I think, for any Midlander, the idea that you would record something that is so iconic and so ironically about the Midlands, anywhere other than in the region where it’s set,” he told BBC Radio 4.