Blue Peter: Frequently Asked Questions
Find out answers to your most frequently asked Blue Peter questions right here. Check out the FAQ below to see if we've already answered your question.
Q. How can I get a signed picture of the presenters?
A. Simply let us know which one you want and send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to the following address:
Blue Peter
MediaCityUK
Salford
M50 2BH
Q. How can I become a Blue Peter presenter?
A. Our advice for anyone wanting to work in television would be to get as many qualifications as possible. Broadcasting is a very difficult career, and if you have qualifications you always have something to fall back on.
There's lots of competition and it's often a matter of luck as well as ability. However, many presenters start through doing work experience on a television programme. You can apply for this here but you must be 18 years old.
Q. Do you read every letter and email?
A. Yes - every single letter and e-mail is read and a very large number of the items on the programme come originally from viewers' letters.
Our office often handles many thousands of items of mail and e-mails a week, so please be patient if you do not receive a reply for some time.
Q. When was Blue Peter first broadcast?
A. Blue Peter began on 16th October 1958. In those days there was only one programme each week, lasting for fifteen minutes. The first two presenters were Christopher Trace and Leila Williams. In 1962 the first pet joined, a dog called Petra.
Q. Why is it called Blue Peter?
A. Blue Peter is named after the blue and white flag which is raised twenty-four hours before a ship leaves harbour.
The idea is that the programme is like a ship setting out on a voyage, having new adventures and discovering new things.
This is why a ship was chosen for our symbol way back in 1962.
Q. What is the Blue Peter theme tune called?
A. The name of the tune is "Barnacle Bill" and it was used on Blue Peter and has been rearranged several times.
Q. How do you judge Blue Peter Competitions?
A. To be as fair as possible, our major competitions are usually divided into three age groups:
We award first, second and third prizes in each age group, and give many runners-up awards. For some competitions, there is an overall top prize.
The judges normally include the editor of Blue Peter and a selection of experts connected with whatever the competition is about. They will judge your entry against various criteria relating to the competition.
The expert judges always have the casting vote. After the final judging, top prize winning entries are checked to make sure they are all the entrant's own work. Needless to say, entries must be completely original and never copies from other people's work.
You can find more information about competitions here.
Q. How can I get in touch with Blue Peter?
A. The Blue Peter postal address is as follows:
Blue Peter
2nd Floor, Bridge House
MediaCityUK
Salford
M50 2BH
You can also send an email to bluepeter@bbc.co.uk
We receive hundreds of emails a week so please don't be disappointed if we don't respond to your email immediately.
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