A FIERCE critic of cutbacks in local television programming has warned that regional shows are still at risk despite a £2 million cash boost. Carlton Granada, the media giant that now owns most of ITV, including Meridian Broadcasting, approved additional money following pressure from a formidable alliance of church and state.

Peter Williams of Peter Williams Television, based in the Maidstone Studios, campaigned against the proposed cut, sanctioned by the Independent Television Commission (ITC). He claimed the watchdog's decision was bad for viewers and would lead to less work for local independent producers.

Sandy Bruce-Lockhart, leader of Kent County Council, and the Bishop of Dover, the Rt Rev Stephen Venner, backed Mr Williams with letters to the ITC.

Mr Williams hailed a "phyrric" victory. He welcomed the extra money but was disappointed that local programming hours would still be virtually halved.

"But we have more confirmation at all levels of the importance of regional programming," he said. "It's very important that we cling onto regionalism."

Despite the cash injection, he was still worried for the future of local programmes.

He warned: "Regionalism, which has always been the lifeblood of ITV, is at risk and we have to be vigilant."

Jean Young, head of ITC South, said it was too late to make any significant changes, insisting that it was good for viewers. "As far as we are concerned, the deal has been done, it's being implemented and our role is to ensure we get more money in the schedule for regional programmes at peak times when people can view.

"We take the view that it was better to have fewer programmes but well funded in peak time rather than a lot of material - as Meridian has - playing in the middle of night that nobody sees."