STV calls time on ratings flop The Hour

THE weekly magazine show The Hour, presented by Michelle McManus and Tam Cowan, is to end next week.

Elizabeth Partyka, deputy director of channels at STV, confirmed the show broadcast on Tuesday would be the last.

She said: “Television is all about taking risks and experimenting with programming and our schedule.

“On this occasion, the show isn’t delivering the ratings that we expect.

“We’re delighted with the performance of other STV shows including Scotland’s Greatest Album and we’ll be confirming plans for 2012 programming later this year.”

The Hour was launched in May 2009 with host Stephen Jardine, and went out five days a week from Pacific Quay.

McManus became a regular presenter later that year.

After Jardine left the show moved to a weekly format, with McManus joined by Cowan.

However, the new format did not prove popular with viewers.