CBBC head defends Byker decision

BBC Children's boss Richard Deverell has reassured teens there will still be plenty of shows being made for them by the BBC.

Loads of you emailed us saying you were worried that because Byker Grove is being axed, CBBC might no longer be tackling young people's issues.

But on Friday Richard said CBBC shows like Tracy Beaker and Grange Hill would still cover these subjects.

He also said the BBC had big plans to make more shows for 12 to 16 year olds.

Click here to read your reaction to the Byker decision

Richard said: "I think there is a gap for 12 to 16 year olds and actually the BBC has recognised this and they've announced they are going to launch some new series aimed at exactly that age group."

'Sad'

BBC Children's boss Richard Deverell

The CBBC boss also said he was sad to see the end of Byker Grove, which was on screen for 17 years.

He said: "It's launched some great careers, some fantastically talented people and some great stories. But we felt it was the right time to end it."

Although it's the end of the road for the Byker, Richard said school drama Grange Hill is set to continue: "There are no plans to change Grange Hill," he said.