GREG Dyke was in robust form at the National Railway Museum last night, attacking the "vulture" of Rupert Murdoch, circling the BBC.

The corporation's former Director General said he will not be going back, but will continue to fight for its independence.

However, his influence there is already waning, it seems. Today the BBC announced it was increasing arts coverage, current affairs programmes and documentaries at peak times.

This contrasts to Mr Dyke's populist approach, which boosted ratings but led to criticism that the BBC was aping commercial channels.

For the corporation to survive, it must distinguish itself from the competition while appealing to the broadest selection of viewers. No easy task.

Updated: 10:32 Thursday, April 29, 2004