Newport-based, Vectis Radio is thrilled to announce the launch of its new DAB service on 18th April, bringing even more local music, entertainment, and community programming to listeners across the Isle of Wight.
Director Kelvin Currie said,
“This brings Vectis Radio up to date and guarantees its technical future. DAB is the way forward and our close involvement with Wight Digital Radio, who will run the DAB multiplex, has enabled this technology to be brought to the Island.
“DAB will give Vectis Radio potentially even greater coverage than now, and as the system expands across the Island, we can bring even more listeners on board. This will add to our already successful FM and online methods of listening.”
Background
Vectis Radio was launched in 2010 as an internet-only station, and made so much progress that in 2017 it launched its FM service on FM 104.6.
The station also was awarded the Queens award for voluntary service and achieved Gold as the ARIAS Community Radio Station of the year, finally launching on DAB this year.
Refreshed schedule of live shows
To mark the occasion, the station is introducing a refreshed schedule of live shows and familiar voices. Steve Cownley will take over the weekday breakfast show from 30th March, broadcasting live from Vectis Radio’s Riverside Centre Studios in Newport, Monday to Thursday.
Steve said,
“I’m absolutely buzzing to be joining the breakfast line-up at Vectis Radio. Mornings are such a special time — it’s when the Island wakes up, gets moving and sets the tone for the day.
“I can’t wait to bring plenty of energy, great music and a few surprises along the way. Most of all, I’m looking forward to connecting with our brilliant local community and starting every morning together with a smile.”
Other changes
Dominic Cole, who has presented weekday breakfast for over 13 years, will move to the weekend breakfast slot, continuing to bring his signature warmth and energy to early weekend mornings.
Kieren Thomson will present a new Friday teatime show from four to six, offering a fresh take on the weekend kick-off, while Maggie Currie will host a brand-new Friday breakfast show from seven to ten, as well as a new In-depth Interview show.
Vectis Radio’s DAB launch represents an exciting step forward, allowing listeners across the Island to enjoy clearer sound, more shows, and more ways to connect with their local community.
Mac: A real ‘pinch me’ moment
Station Manager, Ian Mac said,
“This is another important milestone on the Vectis Radio journey.
“On 18th April at 10am, it will be a real ‘pinch me’ moment and if I’m honest, I think we have had plenty of those moments since 2010.
“It’s another fantastic achievement for the whole Vectis Radio crew past and present.”
Surprise surprise
Finally, at the DAB launch, there will be a couple more surprises. The first play of an Isle of Wight song, My Diamond Home, written and recorded by Island musician Martin Clark and there will be a special guest pushing the button and starting the DAB service.
For more information, visit the website or tune in to discover the new line-up.
News shared by Kelvin on behalf of Vectis Radio. Ed
