BBC to set up writers' bursary in his name

The BBC is honouring Felix Dexter by setting up a bursary in his honour.

The scheme is a  traineeship for 'high potential', non-white comedy writers, who will get to work with Paul Whitehouse on developing their skills.

Whitehouse said: 'This is a great tribute to Felix Dexter. It is much better that his legacy is used to encourage aspiring young ethnic minority comedy writers than to name a room after him in a corridor at the BBC.'

Two places will be available for black, Asian, or minority ethnic writers on the six-month scheme, which promises 'access to top tier production facilities where participants can learn and hone their writing craft across radio comedy, television comedy, panel shows and comedy entertainment shows'.

BBC comedy boss Shane Allen added: 'Felix Dexter is a beacon for all those who have a passion for comedy but need a kick-start to their careers.

'Two new comedy writers will get to see what it takes to get their work on television and then bring their stories and voices to the wider audience just like Felix did.  We want to find the new and exciting talents out there and this is a really practical way to achieve that.'

The BBC says the scheme addresses a 'a clearly identified under-representation in the workforce' – which is why it is only available to applicants from a certain background.

Chortle has asked the BBC how would-be writers should apply or when entries open, but has not yet received any response.

Whitehouse, who worked with Dexter on shows such as Down The Line, is chairman of the foundation set up in his honour. Dexter died in October 2013, at the age of 52.

Published: 28 Mar 2017