The first-ever Inverness Broadcast Commissioners Day was held earlier this week on the 21st of June 2004 at the Holiday Inn Express, Inverness. Thanks to Skillsco, participants were given an enlightening insight into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the commissioning process by the program commissioners of networks such as STV, BBC Scotland and Grampian TV. Entry to the event was through the submission of a 'pitching' proposal for a broadcast slot and the top two proposals in the pitching session won grants for further script development. Ann Morrison of Lairg was awarded second place for her proposal for a gardening program and Neil Urquhart walked away with the top prize for a comedy sketch involving the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Neil is fast developing somewhat of a reputation as a pitchman, having previously sold an option to a Vice President of the Jim Henson Company at another aimhi event.

The event was such a success that the Commissioners present agreed to come back for an encore later this year. Here's hoping for an even better showing next time.