Television Centre under siege

Last night the BBC's controversial Question Time programme came from Television Centre and as a consequence of this the site came under siege as upwards of 500 protestors came to demonstrate against the appearance of Nick Griffin the leader of the BNP.

The pressure on the Workplace team was intense and it peaked when approximately 25 protesters managed to breach the security cordon to gain access to Stage Door reception. Following the swift action of our Wilson James security team they were quickly and effectively ejected.

Demonstration at TV Centre (c) Mike Fleming

The night, as I witnessed, was a big challenge for the Workplace team, we were severely tested and were not found wanting. I'm very proud of everyone who contributed to operating Television Centre yesterday - we enabled several other shows to be broadcast including hosting their respective audiences and all in a safe and professional manner. I want to thank everyone who put in a lot of hard work and long hours, not only on the day itself, but into the planning for this event over the last few weeks.

This morning we pick up the pieces, start the debriefing process and return to normality, secure in the knowledge that when called upon to deliver, Workplace can come up with the goods.

The broken barrier at TV Centre this morning(photo:Teri Kuzminska)