Southern Television

“To Southern Television, a fine company, a very fine company” proclaimed Charles Wilson, the chairman of Southern Television. Wilson didn’t mince words, particularly when addressing the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) and Television South (TVS).

Southern Television launched on August 30, 1958, and its broadcast area spanned from Kent to South Somerset and East Dorset, reaching as far as the Thames Valley and the Isle of Wight. The network was a pioneer in regional programming, with distinct broadcasts emanating from its Dover studios for the South East and separate content for the South produced in Southampton.

Over the years, Southern made significant contributions to children’s programming, offering shows like ‘Runaround’, ‘Noah’s Castle’ and ‘Freewheelers’. Its portfolio also included dramas and comedies such as ‘Armchair Thriller’ and ‘Take A Letter Mr. Jones’.

During the 1980 franchise renewal process, Southern submitted a 16-page application that the IBA found lacking in detail, accusing the network of complacency. Consequently, the franchise was awarded to TVS, a decision that infuriated the board at Southern Television.