There was a widespread anger and upset after the BBC announced it wold be cutting back its regional services.

BBC Radio Suffolk has been affected by the cuts with listeners now sharing a generic show, which includes BBC Radio Cambridge, Radio Norfolk and Three Counties Radio . 

The changes will also see job losses of 48 positions across local staffing in England, amounting to a total reduction of 2%.

Rob Dunger, a former weekend breakfast presenter with Radio Suffolk, was dismayed with the decision by the BBC. 

Cuts will affect local reporting

"Let's first remember that it's not just programmes we are talking about, we dealing with people." said Mr Dunger, whose current Felixstowe Radio show regularly features Shotley peninsula stories.

"Talented people with a deep love of the local area. Journalists, researchers and presenters who work with such pride and dedication.

"How will regional and national programming deal with a story in Erwarton or Bawdsey? 

"What possible interest would a Suffolk listener have in a story from Bedford or Cromer?

"BBC local radio always prided itself with its inclusivity. The target audience in BBC radio nowadays is a more digital, younger audience.

"How dare the BBC turn its back on an older audience. The audience that has supported you every step of the way."

Rob Dunger with Lisa Tyte reporting from Felixstowe

Rob currently presents the weekday lunchtime programme on Felixstowe Radio 107.5fm between 11am and 1pm and believes community radio is the way forward.

He added: "Where can this audience now feel valued and safe? 

"Try Felixstowe Radio, a community radio station for all of the community.

"Thank you BBC. Will Gary Lineker be reporting on this own goal?"

The issue was yesterday debated in Parliament, however Peninsula MP James Cartlidge was not in the chamber.

The morning show from 6pm on weekdays and for the weekend breakfast show will be shared with Essex, Cambridge, Three Counties Radio, Norfolk and Northants. 

Similarly on Saturdays and Sundays between 10am and 2pm Suffolk will also share a show with Essex, Cambridge, Three Counties Radio, Norfolk and Northants.

From 10pm on weekdays and 2pm every Sunday all 39 local radio stations will share one nationwide feed, with presenters yet to be decided/announced. 

The proposals come as part of the BBC's new strategy, announced in May, to create a "modern, digital-led" broadcaster.

Greater programme sharing will result in 139 fewer roles in audio teams, but there will be around 131 additional roles across local news services.

According to the broadcaster, changes will see around £19 million reprioritised from broadcast services towards online and multi-media production.

The BBC is also creating 11 investigative reporting teams across the country whose focus will be local issues across TV, radio and online.