Editor Sean O’Connor has revealed that he is leaving The Archers after two and a half years at the helm.
"It is a real wrench for me to leave Ambridge," he says. "The Archers is an extraordinary programme – a jewel at the heart of the BBC and in the hearts of the British public. Working on it, with the extraordinary cast, writers and production team in Birmingham has been an absolute privilege. The Archers has been a part of my life for much of my life - and though I’ll be away from Borsetshire, I’ll continue to listen to the villagers of Ambridge, who feel to me – as they do for millions of listeners - like family."
Sean rejoined The Archers as editor in September 2013, having previously been a producer on the programme. Since then, he's overseen a number of major stories - from the 65th anniversary episode in which David and Ruth agreed a new direction for Brookfield, the Ambridge Flood, Rob and Helen, Kirsty’s jilting at the altar by Tom, the return of Carol Tregorran and Kate Madikane, as well as full length dramas Calendar Girls, Dead Girls Tell No Tales and Blithe Spirit.
He leaves to take up the role of Executive Producer on EastEnders, but will remain with The Archers until late Spring.
Gwyneth Williams, Controller of Radio 4 says: “The Archers is a much loved British institution and Radio 4 been blessed with the ambition and creativity of its editors for the last 65 years, each bringing unique talent and commitment to the programme. Sean has been brilliant, a significant and literary figure in the Radio 4 firmament and his storylines are among the best I’ve heard. Crucially, he has stayed true to The Archers’ farming and countryside traditions. He will be much missed by all of us, including the cast and the excellent production team behind the show. We are pleased to be keeping him at the BBC and wish him the best of luck in his new role.”
