Gervais Scoops Radio Gong Despite ‘Squish’ Censure

Comedian Ricky Gervais was honoured at the RAB’s Aerial Awards last night, scooping the gold award for charity and public service for his campaign to raise awareness for the Prostate Cancer Charity.

Gervais helped write and voice the advert, which courted controversy when a “squish” noise was removed at the behest of the Radio Advertising Clearance Centre (RACC).

The noise, originally intended to represent a physical examination by a doctor, was removed so the advert could be aired before 9pm.

Yvonne Kintoff, manager of the RACC, said: “The decision to ask for the sound effect to be removed was not taken lightly, and we were surprised at the strength of feeling as reported in the media. So naturally we’re pleased that our decision did not affect the campaign’s ability to win these awards for its innovative and humorous creativity.”

Andrew Ingram, director of the Aerial Awards, added: “It’s pleasing to see that, in fact, the RACC’s advice has helped to get award-winning work to air.”

The commercial was created by Publicis, written by Gary Turner and art directed by Jamie Marshall. Gervais then added his own touches to the script before recording.

RAB: 020 7306 2500 www.rab.co.uk