Campaigners aiming to keep Radio Oxford's Bill Rennells in his job are shocked at letters from the BBC.

Popular: Bill RennellsThe popular broadcaster, who lives in Abingdon, is having his contract terminated by the BBC from the end of the year. Ann Flippance, from Lea Park Estate, Thame, who formed the Bill Rennells Appreciation Society Bras said he deserved better.

Mrs Flippance said: "Scores of members of Bras wrote to BBC radio stations across the region asking for an explanation.

"We all got the self-same letter back, just signed by different regional heads. It's an insult to a fine broadcaster.

"It shows they have made up their minds and are not prepared to listen or reconsider. It is scandalous and has shocked our members."

Mr Rennells, who joined Radio Oxford in 1970, will lose his weeknight slot, but will keep his Sunday night spot and take on a late-night show on Saturdays.

Mrs Flippance, 64, said his departure will make for lonely evenings.

She commented: "People all over the south of England listen to his programmes and enjoy them - they are really lovely.

But Mrs Flippance is not giving up yet. She fought this battle before - and won - when his contract was threatened three years ago.