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6 Sep 2012
Popular Scottish soap River City is to be discussed at a members’ debate in the Scottish Parliament today, following a motion by Scottish Conservative culture spokeswoman Annabel Goldie.
The flagship BBC programme celebrates a decade on television this year, an achievement the West of Scotland MSP felt should be marked in Holyrood.
River City has an average audience of around 500,000 and employs 200 people in the course of a year.
As well as being a successful entertainment product, the show will also be praised at the debate for its willingness to confront a range of social issues.
Scottish Conservative culture spokeswoman Annabel Goldie MSP said:
“River City has been, and continues to be, a significant drama success for BBC Scotland and makes a very positive contribution to Scottish culture.
“It also provides an impressive showcase for our Scottish acting talent and gives an important economic boost for Dumbarton and the wider Scottish economy.
“That’s why I think it appropriate that the Scottish Parliament should acknowledge and celebrate the tenth anniversary of this Scottish success.
“River City has gripped the public imagination, pulled at the heartstrings and brought tears of sorrow and laughter to the watching eyes of Scotland, as we have shared the highs and lows of life in Shieldinch.
“And with half a million fans watching each week, BBC Scotland has found a winning formula which encapsulates urban life and the distinctive grain of Scottish character.
“The hard-hitting and gritty storylines have created a social commentary with which many people identify.
“That is an extremely important part of its success – reassuring people that they are not alone in the challenges which confront both communities and individuals, and providing useful signposts for help.”
