Meridian Broadcasting has set up a new 'multi-skilling' unit in which each of its team members will individually create and make a programme from start to finish, writes Tina Mistry.
The new unit will specialise in using lightweight digital equipment that allows each of its team members to make programmes almost entirely by themselves - from the initial idea, through research, operation of cameras and sound to final editing and production of the finished programme.

Staffed by individuals who have some experience of working in television but who are essentially new graduates of broadcast training courses, the multi-skilling unit will be jointly headed by multi-skilling unit editor Roger Livingston, formerly a Meridian editor, and executive producer Simon Walton.

The duo will report to Meridian director of programmes Richard Simons.

According to Walton, a team of eight programme-makers and one unit editor are being recruited to make a number of factual programmes for the Meridian television region, including a film and video review show.

He added that more programme-makers would be recruited if the unit's key priority of winning commissions from other ITV regional broadcasters and non-ITV broadcasters proved to be a success.

Walton also said he hoped that, although the new unit would principally be making factual programmes, it could also expand its use of new lightweight cameras and editing equipment to make comedy and drama productions.