Can you fill a slot?

Sky TV is setting up a video portal linking Birmingham with several of its US namesakes to mark the launch of Joe Lycett’s new travelogue. 

Called ‘The Brum Hole’ the live streaming video link will ‘unite Brummies from different Mummies’, in the words of the broadcaster.

It follows a similar portal set up between New York City and Dublin last year – which was initially plagued by pornography and people exposing themselves until new filters were installed.

To avoid such scenes this time around, Sky’s publicity team are screening who gets to use the portal in Victoria Square – with hopefuls having to email BrumHole@multitudemedia.co.uk detailing what they would do with their 15-minute slot

Lycett won’t be at the launch on April 22 and joked: ‘I can’t be at the Brum Hole as that day I’m doing a needlework course with Adrian Chiles, but I’m delighted Sky are producing this unique opportunity to speak with other Brummies around the world. In my experience they are kind, charming and interesting folk, unless they’re called Alison Hammond.

He added: ‘I was not responsible for the title "Brum Hole" and do not enjoy saying things like "have a look in my Brum Hole".’

In  Joe Lycett’s United States of Birmingham, which also launches on April 22,  the comic, visits some of the 18 Birminghams in North America in search of  common culture.

Published: 7 Apr 2025