Portsmouth to get new DAB services

From a press release to news@media.info
Posted 12 June 2015, 6.00am edt

Ofcom, the Broadcast and Telecoms regulator, has today announced that Portsmouth has been selected as a location for a ground breaking trial to broadcast small scale DAB digital radio stations.

This means more choice on the digital airwaves for radio listeners in the city.

The trial, led by Havant based Angel Radio, will see six new digital radio stations broadcast to the City of Portsmouth from the end of Summer for up to nine months. If successful it is hoped that Ofcom will form a policy to enable long term broadcasts to be licenced.

The new services available will be:

Angel Xtra - a spin off service from Angel Radio broadcasting dance band music from the 1920s to 1950s by day and easy listening music from by night. The station will provide greater choice to the city's senior & discerning population.

Express FM - the popular local community radio service Portsmouth featuring music, talk and live Portsmouth FC commentary will be simulcast on digital radio.

JAMM Radio - a service from Highbury college playing chart hits with programmes made by students for students.

Mango Vibe - a dance music service for young adults playing upfront music with specialist dance programming.

The Flash - a classic rock service based in Havant, featuring blues and music from local bands.

Triple 100% Hits - a service aimed at 20 to 44 year olds playing current and classic hits.

A website provides information about the new digital services.

Nicola Phipps, Editor of Creative Learning Programmes at Highbury College, said:

"Highbury College prides itself on being a cutting edge educational establishment, and we are excited to showcase our student led radio service JAMM Radio to digital radio listeners in Portsmouth. We look forward to working with local broadcasters to broaden choice available to radio listeners."

David Harber, Commercial Manager of Express FM, said:

"With nearly half of adults nationally having access to a DAB digital radio, being on DAB digital radio in addition to FM, will enable our unique local programming to be heard in Portsmouth on as many radios as possible."

Tony Smith, Station Manager of Angel Radio, said:

"Angel Radio has worked hard with its partners to provide a range of stations that complement those already available in Portsmouth. We are pleased that Ofcom has acknowledged we have a sensible proposal by granting us just one of ten available trial licences for small scale DAB digital radio services in the country."

Hampshire based company Commtronix will provide transmission support for the stations.