BBC History Magazine will merge with direct rival Living History next week.
Greg Neale, editor of BBC History Magazine, is to take the new role of editor-in-chief, while Living History editor Dave Musgrove will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the title as editor.
The move follows the takeover of Origin Publishing, the owner of Living History, by BBC Worldwide and the subsequent transfer of BBC History, Wildlife and Music magazines to Origin’s offices in Bristol.
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The title has been restructured, incorporating elements from both titles. The masthead will read “BBC History Magazine” above a strapline “incorporating Living History”.
The June issue has been produced partly in London and partly in Bristol and is based on the theme of D-Day.
The events and exhibition listings have been expanded and rebranded under the Living History banner. The “Footsteps” section from Living History, which offers a guide to the best historic places to visit in the UK, has also been retained.
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Neale stressed the importance of maintaining the high quality of BBC History Magazine. He said the editorial advisory panel, made up of experts and historians, would continue its involvement from London.
Neale said: “We want to ensure we have the best elements of both magazines in what will emerge as a stronger package.”
He will be based in London so he can continue to forge links with galleries, museums and the BBC.
Neale denied suggestions there would be cuts to the editorial budget to make it a more cost-effective operation.
“One thing I was keen on was that there would be no cuts to the editorial budget and I have been assured that that will be the case,” he said.
By Ruth Addicott
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