MORE than 40 years after starting work at the BBC, Clinton Rogers, a familiar face from Points West, has left the corporation.

Clinton began his life in journalism at the Free Press’s sister title the Wellington Weekly News.

Now he plans to set up his own company – specialising in media training, corporate films and public relations.

Clinton said yesterday: “After 40 years I just thought it was time for a change. I have had a terrific career with the BBC and walking away was never going to be easy. But I think the time is right.”

Clinton was just 16 when he started his journalistic career on the Wellington Weekly News. From there he moved to the Somerset County Gazette and then on to the Bristol Evening Post – working in its Taunton office. After four years there he began his career with the BBC.

Some years later he was responsible for launching BBC Somerset Sound, Somerset’s first radio station.

“Looking back I would probably count that as the proudest moment of my career,” said Clinton. “And to see it flourishing now fills me with pride.”

There was a two-year stint with the old HTV West, before returning to the BBC to set up a Somerset operation for Points West.

Journalism has, he said, given him ‘everything he could wish for – and more’.

It has included assignments to war zones, interviews with celebrities, including Paul McCartney and the late Sir Roger Moore, as well as Prime Ministers and international sportsmen and women.

Clinton said: “If I could wind the clock back I wouldn’t change a thing. The career has been amazing. We’ve exposed wrongdoing, helped people in difficult situations and shone a light on some wonderful stories. It really has been a privilege and I owe Points West a debt of gratitude for putting up with me for so long!”

As for the future, he says he has no plans to be idle.

“I want to use my experience in print, radio and television journalism to help others now. So many people fail to understand how to make the most of the media – how to get their message across.

“Do it badly and you will fail. But if you do it well there are great rewards. My company will concentrate on public relations for local companies and organisations, as well as media training and corporate films.

“Lockdown may not be an ideal time to start a new venture – but you can’t have everything!”