THE BBC has apologised after broadcasting a spoof news item today (Tuesday) that said Soham killer Ian Huntley had been murdered in his cell. The mock news item was aired on Radio 2 s Jeremy Vine Show as part of a discussion about what would happen if the
THE BBC has apologised after broadcasting a spoof news item yesterday (Tuesday) that said Soham killer Ian Huntley had been murdered in his cell.
The mock news item was aired on Radio 2's Jeremy Vine Show as part of a discussion about what would happen if the country was run by editors of the tabloid press, and led to calls to the Home Office and the police after rumours circulated that Huntley had been killed.
A spokesman for the BBC told the Ely Standard: "The item was clearly labelled on air and Jeremy apologised on air for any confusion caused."
The mock news item was read aloud on the lunchtime show by a newsreader as an example of stories the show's producers thought tabloid editors would like to see.
It went on to say that Huntley's killer would be rewarded in the Queen's birthday list honours.
Ian Huntley was jailed for the murders of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in December 2003.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here