RADIO

The British Broadcasting Corp. says its time to get mellow and let go of some of its trademark British reserve. Plans are in place to make the BBC’s legendary World Service news programming warmer, friendlier and less self-important. The World Service managing director, John Tusa, announced Wednesday some sweeping changes that, when they take effect beginning Saturday, will make the service’s presentation lighter and less formal while retaining its general air of authority. The World Service’s new sound--including programs for young people and on politics, music and the media--is aimed at fighting competition from other international networks like Voice of America and Deutsche Welle.