What's a Press Pack?

In the pre-internet age, broadcasters provided the press with print information about forthcoming programmes. Whilst the identities of the BBC and ITV were well-established in the public consciousness and reinforced by dedicated listings and features magazines, Radio Times and TV Times, from 1982 the new fourth channel arguably had to work a good deal harder to establish its own distinctive profile.  Chris Griffin-Beale’s weekly press packs gave the newspapers plenty of useful copy. They included full listings, programme reviews, highlights features, publicity photographs, production credits and staff contact details.