A familiar landmark has vanished from the M3 motorway: the plaque dedicating the Fleet Services bridge to radio personality Scott Mills is no longer there. Commuters noticed the change on April 2nd, sparking questions about its sudden removal.
The plaque’s installation in 2016 was a direct result of Mills’ own passionate campaign. He successfully lobbied for the bridge, adjacent to the service station, to bear his name – a testament to his popularity and connection with his listeners.
The timing of the plaque’s disappearance coincides with a significant upheaval in Mills’ career. He was recently terminated from his position at the BBC following the emergence of serious allegations concerning his conduct.
Welcome Break, the company operating the service station, reportedly made the decision to remove the dedication. They sought to distance themselves from the former Radio 2 DJ amidst the unfolding controversy.
The allegations against Mills first surfaced in 2016, triggering a police investigation into claims of serious sexual offences involving a teenager. The reported incidents allegedly occurred between 1997 and 2000.
Despite a thorough investigation, the Crown Prosecution Service and police closed the case in 2019, citing insufficient evidence to pursue charges. The BBC was reportedly informed of the investigation in 2017, though the extent of their knowledge regarding the victim’s age remains unclear.
The BBC released a statement on April 1st, confirming Mills’ dismissal was prompted by “new information” regarding his behaviour. This revelation ignited a wave of speculation and public discussion.
Mills responded through his legal representatives, confirming his full cooperation with the initial 2016 investigation. He acknowledged the allegations and reiterated the previous decision not to press charges due to insufficient evidence.
In his statement, Mills expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he received from colleagues and listeners. He acknowledged missing his audience and thanked those who had reached out with kindness.
The fallout from Mills’ departure has already begun to reshape the BBC’s programming. Sara Cox has been announced as his replacement for Eurovision commentary, while Tyler West will take over hosting duties for a new podcast.
