| BBC Local Radio stations will spearhead the service to communities under stress. Although disasters and major incidents attract national and often international interest, they are essentially local in nature. For over three decades, our local radio stations have been clearing houses for information. Today, with more than 8 million regular listeners, they are more effective than ever. The development of the BBC's Local and Regional Services gives us a reputation as broadcasters who get close to our audiences. BBC staff who live and work in your area have the local knowledge, contacts, accessible airtime and editorial discretion to respond with immediacy, flexibility and sensitivity. 'I would like to pass on my thanks to all the local radio stations for keeping local communities informed about the situation with the weather and floods. The weather conditions have obviously caused a great deal of distress, and up to the minute information provided by local media has kept people informed and allowed people to plan ahead. I was particularly struck by a story I heard in York about a journalist from the local BBC station, who, as well as reporting on the floods, was helping people to move furniture and other valuables to safety. Truly an example of a radio station at the heart of its community.' John Prescott, Deputy Prime Minister (Winter 2000) | 
