UK Radio - Commercial

Real Radio and Smooth to Broadcast Team GB Stars Blackpool Lights Switch On

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 08:51:18 +0000

Team GB Olympic heroes Greg Rutherford (Gold medal winner), Luke Campbell (Gold medal winner) and Beth Tweddle (Bronze medal winner) will be flicking the switch for this year’s Blackpool Illuminations.

Real Radio, Smooth Radio and VisitBlackpool are delighted to announce that three of Britain’s greatest athletes will light up the town when they take to the stage at the 2012 Illuminations Switch-On event on Friday August 31st.

Liverpool gymnast Beth Tweddle secured a bronze medal on the uneven bars at the 2012 Olympics – making her the most decorated British gymnast in history, On ‘Super Saturday’ Greg Rutherford became the first Briton to win Olympic Gold in the long-jump since 1964 while amateur boxer Luke Campbell won Gold in the bantamweight division.
2012 marks 100 years of Blackpool Illuminations and the Switch-On is to be held on The Tower Festival Headland for the first time ever.

Real Radio, Smooth Radio and VisitBlackpool, organisers of this year’s Illuminations, are delighted to bring three of Britain’s 2012 sporting heroes to Blackpool for the town’s event of the year. They will take to the stage at the climax of an evening’s entertainment from some of the country’s most popular artists, including X-Factor winning girl-band Little Mix, Lemar, Amy MacDonald, Lawson, Paloma Faith, Scouting For Girls, Noisettes, Blackpool singer-songwriter Karima Francis, boyband Loveable Rogues and girl group Vanquish.
Team GB Olympic star, Beth Tweddle said: “I’m really looking forward to turning the lights on in Blackpool at the end of the month. It is going to be an amazing night and something special as I am a local North West girl. I hope everyone can join us for what is going to be a fab evening.”

The North West Managing Director for Real Radio and Smooth Radio, Michael McIntyre, said: “After an exciting build-up we are delighted to announce our clutch of Team GB Olympic Medal winners as the Switch –On stars for the 2012 Illuminations. What better way for Blackpool’s Illuminations to celebrate its centenary than with three of our nation’s sporting heroes. Once again Smooth Radio and Real Radio are proud to be a part of the event and to capture the excitement of the night for its 5.5 million listeners* across the UK.”

There will be a big screen erected on the promenade by Central Pier for those who do not have wristbands to enter the main arena on the night. The concert will also be broadcast live on both Real Radio and Smooth Radio's national networks from 7pm and can be heard online at www.realradio.co.uk and www.smoothradio.co.uk

Natalie Wyatt, Managing Director of Marketing Blackpool, added: “2012 is a platinum year for Blackpool Illuminations as it is the Centenary of our world-famous Lights, so it is only fitting that some of our British Olympic heroes kick off the celebrations for us.
“We couldn’t be more delighted to be welcoming such an incredible group of people to officially Switch-On the Lights.

“2012 is a year which the whole of Great Britain will remember so it is wonderful that Blackpool’s historic year will also be celebrated with such inspiring people.”

Smooth and Real Radio Launch Help for Heroes Day 2012

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 08:12:39 +0000

Smooth and Real Radio will once again be highlighting the sacrifice, resilience and dedication of British troops and their families by dedicating a day of programming to raise funds for Help for Heroes next month.

Timed to coincide with the fifth anniversary of the charity, the groups Help for Heroes Day 2012 will take place on Friday 28th September. Smooth and Real stations across the UK will be asking listeners to help them achieve their goal of raising a total of over £1 million for the injured servicemen and women’s charity in their fourth year of support for the cause.

Throughout the day troops and their families will tell their heroic stories while stars of stage and screen will join the stations on the day, many of whom will donate money- can’t-buy items to the auction, which traditionally boosts fundraising by several hundred thousand pounds.

This year’s auction will offer the chance to grab holidays, event tickets, days out, signed memorabilia and some incredible once in a lifetime experiences, including an all-expenses paid cruise with the band KISS at Halloween which will include live performances on deck plus concert tickets and return flights to Miami.

Across the stations eight sites in England, Wales and Scotland fund-raising initiatives will also include county wide pub quizzes, an army tank race in Scotland, tandem bike rides across Wales and a 3500 mile staff spin-bike relay at the group’s North West HQ – the distance from London to Afghanistan.

Real and Smooth Group Programme Director John Simons said: “Our listeners have been incredibly generous over the last three years and it would be fantastic if this year we could reach that magic million. Help for Heroes does such an incredible job and even when our troops are all home from Afghanistan, their work in helping rehabilitate soldiers into the community will continue for many years to come.”

In addition to the auction, accessed via www.smoothradio.co.uk or www.realradio.co.uk listeners and supporters will be able to text £5 donations to 70900.

Chris Baughen Appointed as Xfm's Managing Editor

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 10:28:01 +0000

Global Radio has announced the appointment of Chris Baughen as Managing Editor of Xfm.

Reporting to Director of Broadcasting and Group Executive Director, Richard Park, Baughen will be responsible for Xfm’s entire programming and output from both its London and Manchester bases.

Baughen already has a successful and proven track record with Global Radio, having been Senior Producer at Xfm, before becoming Executive Producer of Capital Breakfast on London’s 95.8 Capital FM. He will join Xfm in late September.

Chris Baughen said: “Xfm has always been special to me both as a listener and a programmer and I can't wait to get stuck in! It's my aim to take the station to even greater heights, building on the past twenty years of fantastic music and groundbreaking presenters.”

Chris is replacing Andy Ashton who is leaving the station to take up a new role with an online and digital media company. Ashton has been Programme Director of Xfm for nearly two years and part of the team that brought Mary Ann Hobbs to the network and recruited Danny Wallace to the London breakfast show. More recently, Xfm won a coveted Gold Award for the station’s Naked Breakfast show at this year’s Sony Radio Academy Awards.

Andy Ashton said: “I've had an absolutely fantastic time at Xfm and Global Radio over the last twenty months. It's an amazing company and I will miss the people greatly. I am extremely proud to be handing over a network with a revitalised energy, a strong identity and a roster of talent to die for. The culture of creativity and innovation we have built will benefit the network for years to come.”

Global Radio’s Director of Broadcasting Richard Park said: “Chris is a highly experienced and dedicated programmer with a real passion for radio and especially Xfm. His leadership and commitment will be a tremendous asset to everyone at the station. I would like to thank Andy for all his hard work and enthusiasm during his time with Global Radio and we wish him every success with his new ventures.”

Global Radio Looks to Fast Track GMG Radio Takeover

Mon, 02 Jul 2012 09:58:27 +0000

Further to the announcement of the acquisition of GMG Radio, Global Radio has signed the standard OFT Hold Separate Undertakings as requested by the OFT.

Global will also formally request a fast track reference from the OFT to the Competition Commission.

Global Radio is confident that the OFT will confirm the fast track reference to the Competition Commission in the coming weeks.

As is normal with a Competition Commission reference, a monitoring trustee will be appointed during the hold separate period.

Global Radio Partners with Vodafone for Capital FM Summertime Ball

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:25:42 +0000

Global Radio will partner with Vodafone UK this summer when the hugely anticipated 95 – 106 Capital FM Summertime Ball returns to Wembley Stadium on Saturday 9th June 2012.

The date and venue of the 95-106 Capital FM Summertime Ball with Vodafone were revealed on air today across the Capital network.

The partnership will focus on promoting Vodafone VIP and Vodafone Freebees. As part of the deal, Vodafone customers will be able to buy tickets 48 hours before they go on general sale.

As headline partner to the Summertime Ball, Vodafone will be promoted on-air throughout the lead up to the Ball, with teaser tag lines and live reads which will also be echoed digitally across the Capital FM website. Vodafone will also be supported at the event itself with extensive branding and experiential activity.

Mike Gordon, Managing Director Commercial at Global Radio said: “It’s great to have Vodafone as our partner this year. We’ve developed a great ongoing relationship with them and they know the results we deliver. We’re really excited by this year's event and we’re sure Vodafone's customers and our listeners will be too.”

Danielle Crook, Director of Brand Marketing at Vodafone UK said “We’ve been working with Global Radio for a number of years now through our sponsorship of the Vodafone Big Top 40. This latest partnership builds on that, giving our customers early access to one of the biggest music events of the summer. It’s yet another great reason to sign up to Vodafone VIP.”

The Summertime Ball supports Capital’s flagship charity, Help A Capital Child, with a donation being made from the proceeds of the event.

Some of the world’s biggest artists will be flying in from around the globe to perform at the Summer’s best party - listeners will need to stay tuned to 95-106 Capital FM over the coming weeks to find out more about the Summertime Ball with Vodafone.

Joan Bakewell to Present Sunday Night Series on Classic FM

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 13:41:46 +0000

Global Radio’s Classic FM has announced that Joan Bakewell will present a brand new series of three Sunday night programmes, starting on Sunday 15th April at 9pm.

Joan Bakewell’s Lovers will explore some of the passionate, intriguing and often bizarre love lives of classical music’s great composers and performers. In her first programme, Joan begins with one of the greatest love stories of them all - Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde, before looking at the musical marriages of composers Robert Schumann and his wife Clara, along with Jacqueline du Pre and Daniel Barenboim, as well as asking why unrequited love led Mozart to compose some of his finest music.

With a career spanning decades, Joan is a renowned and much-loved broadcaster, writer and journalist. She will be joining a host of other high-profile presenters and musicians on Classic FM including John Suchet, who hosts the station’s flagship morning show, Alan Titchmarsh, Myleene Klass, Alex James, Nicholas Owen, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen and Margherita Taylor.

Celebrating its 20th Birthday this year, Classic FM was launched in 1992 and now attracts an audience of 5.4 million people each week*.

Joan Bakewell said: "I’m very excited to be joining Classic FM with this intriguing series. Love has inspired so much of the world’s greatest music-making and I’m happy to celebrate that.”

Global Radio’s Director of Broadcasting Richard Park said: “Joan is one of the UK’s most respected and acclaimed broadcasters. We are delighted to welcome her to the Classic FM family as she hosts this unique, new series which will offer a fascinating insight into the love lives of the world’s best-known composers and performers.”

Tune into Joan Bakewell’s Lovers, starting on Sunday 15th April, from 9pm to 10pm on Classic FM, available across the UK on 100-102 FM, digital and online at classicfm.com

Donny Osmond Joins Smooth Radio

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 20:13:31 +0000

Singing Sensation Donny Osmond is set to bring his US radio show to the UK’s national radio market for the very first time, when he joins the Smooth Radio line up on Sunday 8th April 2012.

From his Las Vegas studio Donny will entertain Smooth Radio’s national UK audience every Sunday with his four-hour lifestyle show from 8pm -12am, produced by Blue Revolution. Each week listeners will get an insight into the life of one of the world’s best loved artists, interspersed with great music, including, of course, some of the Osmond’s greatest tracks.

Donny has been performing for over 35 years as a singer, musician, actor, dancer and radio personality. He is currently performing at The Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, with younger sister Marie.

Smooth Radio’s Brand Programme Director Steve Collins said: “It is great to be able to bring an artist such as Donny to Smooth Radio. Our listeners have grown up with his music and have followed his life story so we are delighted that he will be joining our line-up each Sunday evening.”

Donny Osmond added: “I'm really looking forward to getting on the air in the UK. So many people fly over to Las Vegas to see my show but this now gives me the opportunity to have a presence once again in a country I love by being on the radio every week to entertain my massive UK fan base.”

In addition to this schedule change, weekday hosts David Jensen and Carlos are switching seats. From 26th March David moves to the weekday drivetime show from 4-8pm while Carlos moves to the afternoon show (1-4pm) when he returns from his holiday on 2nd April.

Fatboy Slim to Join Xfm Presenter Line-up to Host 'On The Road To Big Beach Bootique 5'

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 20:01:34 +0000

Global Radio’s Xfm has announced that Norman Cook - aka Fatboy Slim - the British DJ, record producer, and pioneer of electronic music, will present a brand-new and exclusive Saturday night mix show across the network, starting on 31st of March.

Fatboy Slim, On The Road To Big Beach Bootique 5 will see Norman tailor-make hour long mixes each week in the lead-up to the Amex Stadium BBB5 show. Featuring Norman’s selection of the latest new music floor fillers, classic breaks and beats, mash-ups, old skool anthems and of course Fatboy Slim classics, the series will be broadcast in ten parts with the last show hitting the airwaves on the weekend of the Big Beach Bootique (1st and 2nd of June).

Over his career, Norman has garnered worldwide critical acclaim as apart of The Housemartins, Beats International, and Freak Power. Under the hugely popular Fatboy Slim pseudonym, Norman enjoyed international success with the 1998 album ‘You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby’ which featured global hits such as ‘The Rockefeller Skank’, ‘Right Here, Right Now’ and ‘Praise You’. During this time, he was also responsible for crafting hit remixes for Beastie Boys, A Tribe Called Quest, and Wildchild, whilst picking-up ten MTV Video Music Awards and two Brit Awards along the way.

Norman Cook said: "If I was allowed to play a ten hour set at BBB5 this would be just about it.
From the old and the gold to the brand new and good for you, I'll be mixing in everything to whet your appetite for the party of the year.”

Xfm Programme Director Andy Ashton said: “Norman’s position in Xfm’s history is unquestionable, with so many amazing records and mixes over the years supported by our network. I’m extremely excited to announce this new show as part of our 20 year celebrations and I cannot wait to see the impact Normanwill have on Xfm’s weekend offering for the spring and early summer season.”

In the latest industry results by RAJAR, the Xfm network attracts anaudience of over 800,000 people across the UK each week*.

Tune into ‘Fatboy Slim, On The Road To Big Beach Bootique 5’ on Xfm, Saturdays from 6pm-7pm on 104.9 FM in London, 97.7 FM in Manchester and across the UK on digital, mobile and online at xfm.co.uk

Classic FM Live Returns to the Royal Albert Hall

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 22:39:50 +0000

Global Radio is bringing its acclaimed concert Classic FM Live back to Royal Albert Hall as the UK’s biggest classical music radio station celebrates its 20th birthday this year.

Sponsored by Nissan, Classic FM Live promises to be an evening of the world’s greatest classical music and stunning performances from internationally renowned musicians, hosted by Classic FM presenters John Suchet and Margherita Taylor.

The first-class line-up features The Orchestra of Opera North conducted by Jac van Steen, alongside a host of star soloists. Classical chart-topping soprano Laura Wright will give the premiere performance of music from her new album; young trumpet sensation Tine Thing Helseth promises to dazzle with highlights from her latest disc; and pianist Behzod Abduraimov, winner of the London International Piano Competition in 2009 and a recent signing to the prestigious Decca Classics label, promises to electrify the Royal Albert Hall with a complete performance of Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No.1.

Plus – there'll be a guest appearance from multi-award-winning British clarinettist Michael Collins, and a selection of orchestral favourites – including Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, complete with a firework finale.

Tickets to Classic FM Live are now on sale and can be booked by visiting www.classicfm.com or by calling the Royal Albert Hall on 0845 401 5034.

Classic FM’s Managing Director Darren Henley said: “We are delighted to announce the return of Classic FM Live in London, as we celebrate our 20th birthday this year. It will be another spectacular celebration of the finest classical music performed by outstandingly talented musicians. We are looking forward to a night to remember.”

Global Radio Acquires Atlantic FM, Rebands to Heart

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 19:23:00 +0000

Global Radio has announced the acquisition of Atlantic FM which will extend its successful national Heart brand into Cornwall.

The Cornwall station will be rebranded progressively over the coming months and will be supported by a promotional campaign on and off air, guiding listeners through the switchover.

Breakfast and drivetime shows will continue to be produced in the South West, with local news continuing on the hour and local advertising sold locally. An additional investment will be made in the local sales teams giving them new systems and hardware later this year. The station’s St Agnes offices will remain as the headquarters for the sales division whilst programming will move to state of the art facilities in the Heart ‘centre of broadcasting excellence’ in Exeter.

Heart is the UK’s largest commercial radio network, now covering multiple regions including London, Bristol, the West Midlands, Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Dorset, Devon, Norfolk, Suffolk and now Cornwall. According to the latest radio industry figures released by RAJAR, 7.5 million people now tune in across the Heart network each week, listening for a total of 53 million hours.

Global Group Founder and Executive President, Ashley Tabor said: “This is an exciting development for Heart. We’ve wanted to achieve this for some time and we warmly welcome Cornwall to the Heart family!"

Atlantic’s Deputy Chairman, Jeremy Scott said: "We are delighted to conclude the sale of Atlantic to Global Radio. Very few local stations get the invitation to join a network like Heart, where they care about the localness of their output and offer high quality network programming in a challenging new digital era. For listeners and advertisers right across the county, it'll soon be time to upgrade - to the brand new Heart Cornwall."

As the largest commercial radio network in the UK, Heart attracts a 25 – 44 year old audience, with the station featuring on air talent such as Toby Anstis, Emma Bunton and Jason Donovan, all complemented by the best in local programming to local audiences.

Jacqui Smith Replaces Ken Livingstone on LBC 97.3

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 20:49:59 +0000

Global Radio’s LBC 97.3 has announced that the former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith will be joining David Mellor to present the station’s Saturday morning programme from 10am, starting on Saturday 3rd March.

Over the last year, Jacqui has presented a number of programmes on LBC 97.3 and will be taking over from Ken Livingstone as he prepares for the London Mayoral election. Ken has been co-presenting Saturday mornings with David Mellor since 2010.

In the latest official radio industry figures released by RAJAR, 1.15 million people* are tuning into LBC 97.3 each week.

Jacqui Smith said: “I’m very excited to be joining the great team at LBC 97.3 and hearing what listeners have to say about the big issues of the day. Although David Mellor and I come from opposite sides in the House of Commons, I’m looking forward to us being on the same side of the mic on Saturday mornings – even if not usually on the same side of the argument!”

LBC 97.3’s Managing Editor James Rea said: “Jacqui Smith has brought her unique insight and experience to LBC 97.3 and quickly established herself as a popular presenter. Now with David Mellor, the pair will be a straight-talking, must-listen double-act for Saturdays mornings.”

Classic FM Signs Alan Titchmarsh to Front New Saturday morning Show

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 22:24:28 +0000

Global Radio’s Classic FM is delighted to announce that Alan Titchmarsh is joining its presenter line-up as the station prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary next year.

Headlining a new weekend schedule on Classic FM, Alan will host his show every Saturday morning from 9am to 12pm, starting on the 7th January 2012. One of the UK’s best loved broadcasters and writers, Alan will be playing the finest selection of classical music, including a few of his own favourites, providing the perfect start to the weekend.

Classic FM’s new schedule also includes Saturday Night at the Movies with Howard Goodall - a new show celebrating the very best film music and scores - as well as Natalie Wheen's Great Performers, every Sunday evening from 9pm to 10pm, featuring some of the legendary classical musicians from the last 70 years. In addition, The A-Z of Classic FM Music with Alex James moves to a prime time position on Saturday evening at 7pm, while The Classic FM Chart with Mark Forrest has a new time slot on Sunday afternoon at 5pm.

Alan will be joining a host of other high-profile presenters and musicians on Classic FM including John Suchet, who presents the station’s flagship morning show, Myleene Klass, Alex James, Nicholas Owen, Laurence Llewelyn Bowen and Margherita Taylor.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary next year, Classic FM was launched in 1992 and now attracts an audience of 5.4 million people each week.

Global Radio and Microsoft Partner for Capital's Jingle Bell Ball for Third Year

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 06:58:31 +0000

Global Radio and Microsoft will join forces again for this year’s hit music concert, the Jingle Bell Ball.

The event will see the return of Windows 7 as the headline sponsor for a third consecutive year, maximising the entire Capital Network for the first time as part of the campaign.

Windows 7 will use the partnership to raise awareness of its products and services, as well as support their ‘Great time to be with your family” campaign. The six figure deal has been orchestrated by leading media agency UM London, who earlier this year rewarded Global with their first Most Valued Partner Award.

The partnership will include significant on air and online activity in the build up to the Jingle Bell Ball with Windows 7, with a strong emphasis on interaction with Capital’s listeners. This multi-platform campaign will drive people to 95-106 Capital FM’s Facebook page, where users will be encouraged to take part in Capital’s biggest Secret Santa give away. People will be able to play Santa, by selecting seven friends to send surprise gifts to. The presents will be revealed when the recipient virtually unwraps them – and it could be anything from Jingle Bell Ball tickets, Windows 7 PCs, to shout-outs from a Capital presenter live on air, or virtual badges to use on their Facebook profile page.

There will also be considerable brand activity at the venue during the event, with experiential pods showcasing Microsoft’s latest product range, such as the Windows 7 laptops, Windows Phone 7, Kinect for Xbox & Microsoft’s Office. In the run up to the ball, Capital’s Street Stars team will also be out and about around the UK inviting families to compile their Christmas wish list for their chance to win more amazing Microsoft prizes.

The date, venue and artists for this year’s event will be announced during Dave Berry’s Saturday morning show. Tickets go on sale on Monday.

Mike Gordon, Global Radio’s Managing Director – Commercial said:

“It’s great to have Windows 7 as our headline sponsor for the third year running. Across this time we’ve worked together to create incredible, award winning campaigns and I’m sure this partnership will take it to another level again. We’re very excited by this year's event and we’re sure Windows 7 and our listeners will be too.”

James Graver, Ideation, UM London said: “The Jingle Bell Ball is the perfect platform to showcase the whole of Microsoft’s portfolio and amplify the multi-product campaign currently running across TV and online. It’s also now firmly established as one of music’s best family events – and this partnership puts Microsoft at the very heart of the experience.”

Paul Davies, Director of Marketing Communications at Microsoft UK commented:

“We are thrilled to be working with Global Radio again and see the Jingle-Bell Ball as a great platform to show some of the myriad ways people use Windows PCs, Windows Phones, Kinect for Xbox and Office to connect with their friends and family at the festive time of year. By focusing on familiar situations that are shared by our audience, this is a great time to show how our users can get the most out of our technology.”

Vodafone Big Top 40 Grows Year on Year, Most Listened to UK Chart Show

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 06:54:50 +0000

The Vodafone Big Top 40 is now listened to by 2.6 million people each week across the UK - an increase of 185 000 since last quarter and 200 000 year on year.

Richard Park, Global’s Director of Broadcasting said “Another great result for The Big Top 40 – we are storming ahead of the competition and showing that a real time chart is the way forward!”

Other Highlights Include;

- 500,000 unique users visit the Big Top 40 website every month.

- The website has around 1.8 million page views each month.

- The Big Top 40 app has been downloaded over 400,000 times

- The chart show has 45,000 fans on Facebook and around 13,000 Twitter followers.

The show, fronted by Rich Clarke and Kat Shoob, broadcasts on over 140 commercial radio stations each Sunday and now attracts 1.2 million more listeners than the BBC Radio 1 rival chart.

Global Radio Stations See Success in Q3 2011 Rajar

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 17:00:53 +0000

Global Radio stations across the country have seen success in the latest RAJAR figures for the 3rd quarter of 2011.

Amongst the highlights, the Capital network broke through the 7 million listener mark, and the Heart network saw in increased listener loyalty as it saw a surge in listener hours. The Heart network did however lose slightly in terms of reach for the period.

Capital FM Network

- Capital Network exceeds 7 million weekly listeners for the first time, an increase of 157,000 listeners in comparison to last quarter.

- Listening to the Network is up, with total hours rising to nearly 46 million per week.

- Around the country, Capital London, Scotland and Manchester have also recorded impressive increases in reach.

Capital FM London

- 95.8 Capital FM records its highest Q3 score for 8 years as it gains over 100,000 listeners quarter on quarter, with a weekly audience of 2.18 million.

- Johnny Vaughan and Lisa Snowdon retain their crown as London’s favourite commercial breakfast show duo with 1.13 million listeners a week.

Heart Network

- The Heart Network now attracts 7.65 million listeners every week.

- The network records a near 4 million total hour increase quarter on quarter; proving listeners are staying tuned to the ‘more music variety’ station for a lot longer.

- Listeners are also tuning in for longer in areas such as London, Essex, Kent and East Anglia.

- Meanwhile in London, Heart 106.2 is the number 2 favourite commercial radio station with over 2 million people tuning in.

- Heart Breakfast with Jamie and Harriet, also increases its audience by 51 000 quarter on quarter in London.

Other Global Stations

- Choice FM records a surge in popularity, with figures showing an increased weekly reach of 765 000 (111 000 more listeners than this time last quarter).

- LBC 97.3 is in 4th spot for commercial share in London, giving Global Radio three out of the four top spots!

- XFM increases its reach year on year, with nearly a million listeners a week, tuning in for 5.19 million hours per week.

- Gold has also experienced a strong quarter, with 1.55 million people tuning in every week.

Ashley Tabor, Founder & Executive President said: “It’s a good day for Global – Capital at number 1 in London, our Capital Network breaking through the 7m listener barrier and the Heart Networks’ significant increase in hours. Today’s figures show our strategy of national brands delivered locally is working very well for listeners and customers alike.”

Richard Park, Director of Broadcasting at Global Radio said: “It’s great to see cities and regions across the UK enjoying the output of the Heart and Capital networks, and to be number 1 and 2 in London is a fantastic achievement.”

Jazz FM Profits from Switch to Digital with Record Listening Hours

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 16:52:54 +0000

Jazz FM reported a 27% rise in total hours year-on-year to reach its highest ever total of 2,371,000.

The record levels have been announced in the latest set of audience research, RAJAR Q3 2011, just two quarters after the station went national (Source RAJAR/Ipsos Mori/RSMB: October 2011), which also reports that Jazz FM is still No. 1 DAB only commercial station in London with a reach of 258,000 listeners and 1,443,000 hours.

Earlier this year, Jazz FM announced its national launch on DAB, and can now be reached across the UK as well as at www.jazzfm.com.

Richard Wheatly, Jazz FM’s CEO, says, “The latest RAJAR figures continue to demonstrate an increase in listening hours for digital radio we have been seeing throughout 2011. We are particularly proud that Jazz FM continues to be part of an ever-growing trend for ABC1 audiences to listen to radio online, on mobile and now on iPads and other tablet devices.”

Global Radio Appoints Matt Rennie as Enterprise Director

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 16:43:17 +0000

Global Radio has announced the appointment of Matt Rennie in the new position of Enterprise Director, with effect from 31st October 2011.

Reporting into Mike Gordon, Rennie will oversee a team of 10 people and will be responsible for driving new revenue streams as well as expanding on existing business ventures. He will bring together several elements of Global, such as the partnership with iTunes and the gaming and directory businesses as well as CRM and publishing capabilities within the group. His brief will also include the development of new commercial digital and broadcast opportunities.

Rennie joins Global from the position of Commercial Director at Seesaw, the internet TV and video site, which he helped launch and run for over two years. Previously he headed up Business Development and Content Distribution at Channel 4, where he was responsible for on-demand content distribution relationships and advertising sales.

Mike Gordon, Global’s Managing Director – Commercial said: “This appointment will help drive the business forward, exploiting our radio brands and seeking other commercial opportunities. With over a decade of experience we are absolutely delighted that someone of Matt’s calibre is joining Global.”

Matt Rennie said: “I’m looking forward to starting my new role on Monday and working with the dynamic team at Global. The opportunity to develop Global’s enterprises is really exciting and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Capital FM Raises 180k for Teenagers Living with Cancer

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:11:15 +0000

95-106 Capital FM’s Help a Capital Child has raised a phenomenal £180,500 for its first national appeal - launched by multi-MOBO Award winner Jessie J on last Friday’s Capital Breakfast Show with Johnny Vaughan & Lisa Snowdon.

JLS, The Wanted, Ed Sheeran, James Corden and The Xtra Factor’s Olly Murs and Caroline Flack, are just some of the hit-music and celebrity guests who stopped by Capital FM studios around the UK to lend their support to the appeal over the weekend.

Tens of thousands of pounds have been raised through amazing auction lots, including £2,250 for Jessie J’s handwritten lyrics to her hit-single Price Tag, a framed platinum disc of her debut album Who You Are, the first pair of shoes she ever wore on stage, and the first lock of hair from when she shaves off her trademark black tresses next year. Olly Murs and Caroline Flack auctioned off six tickets to one of the live X Factor shows for £8,000 whilst the chance to sit in on a Capital FM interview with new pop sensation One Direction went for a whopping £10,005.

The Help a Capital Child Appeal was launched to help young people with cancer by funding cancer units and staff. Teenage Cancer Trust provides these specialist units within NHS hospitals across the UK, treating young people with cancer in an environment designed just for them.

Capital FM listeners across the UK can still donate to the appeal. Tune into 95-106 Capital FM or visit capitalfm.com/give for more information.

Dalton Leong, Managing Director of Help a Capital Child said: “We’re thrilled that we’ve been able to raise such a staggering amount for the appeal. The £180,500 is going to make a real difference to the lives of so many teenagers living with cancer throughout the UK. Huge thanks must go to our brilliant listeners and guests for being so generous and helping us to create a weekend to remember.”

According to the latest radio industry figures released by RAJAR, 6.9 people are tuning into 95-106 Capital FM every week.

Bauer Media Launches New Dance Show Across Scotland

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:51:02 +0000

Bauer Media is breaking down the barriers to new music in Scotland with the launch of a third new In:Demand show.

The updated In:Demand programming sees In:Demand Dance join the hottest music show in the country, In:Demand Scotland, bringing the most relevant and up-to-date music to listeners across Scotland.

Krystle’s In:Demand Dance joins Romeo’s No.1 music & entertainment show In:Demand Scotland, and Jim Gellatly’s, In:Demand Uncut, to showcase the newest, freshest emerging pop, indie and dance sounds, alongside the big hits and the classics to satisfy Scotland’s insatiable musical appetite.

Continuing it’s run of massive exclusives with the biggest stars in the business, In:Demand Scotland is creating an exclusive competition to find Scotland’s biggest undiscovered music talent.

In:Demand’s Romeo, has teamed up with The Saturdays to offer one lucky listener a once in a lifetime opportunity to perform as a support act for The Saturdays at their forthcoming Glasgow gig at the SECC in December.

The lucky listener will live and breathe the pop star lifestyle for the day and perform a song of their choice on stage to 10,000 people at the SECC in Glasgow on December 13, 2011.

The winner will get the full pop star treatment with their own dressing room complete with hair and make-up artist to finish off their celebrity look, whilst rubbing shoulders backstage with their new celebrity friends, The Saturdays.

Budding artists who think they have star quality should submit a recorded cover song to be judged by The Saturdays ‘artist and repertoire guru’, Jordan Jay and In:Demand’s Romeo.

All entries must be submitted via MP3 or YouTube link at www.indemandscotland.co.uk by Friday, October 28.

A shortlist of five acts will be announced on Friday, November 4. It’s then up to the public to vote on the website www.indemandscotland.co.uk for their favourite act with voting opening on Monday, November 7.

The prize will definitely be In:Demand, so get the creative juices flowing and get to work on those entries – In Demand wants to find Scotland’s biggest undiscovered music talent.

Check out indemandscotland.co.uk to find out more or visit the In:Demand Scotland Facebook page for further information.

Bauer’s listeners on Clyde 1, Forth One, Tay FM, Radio Borders, West FM, West Sound FM and Northsound 1, can tune in six nights a week to hear the most up-to-the-minute music, gossip and celebrity news and hear more about this exclusive competition.

Graham Bryce, Managing Director of Bauer Media Scotland, said:

“In:Demand just keeps getting bigger and better and we’re thrilled to be able to give our listeners such unrivalled musical choice. We’re committed to bringing our audience new music first, from the biggest names in the music industry to the best emerging talent across all genres.

“The In:Demand presenters are the most informed, most passionate and best connected in the music scene meaning we get the biggest and best stories to our listeners first.

“Our multi-media approach ensures that we make a deeper connection with the audience and stay relevant to them by ensuring our content is where they want it, when they want it and how they want it.”

Bauer Media Secures Four Top Creative Awards

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 12:55:49 +0000

Bauer Media has triumphed at a host of award ceremonies, receiving four top accolades for its ground breaking ‘Live on Location’ project with radio station, Clyde 1.

The flagship station of the media powerhouse was recognised at three separate events for its innovative week of outdoor broadcasts, which saw Clyde 1 engage directly with its listeners from a temporary studio set up within Glasgow Central Station.

The unique ‘Live on Location’ project was acknowledged at three business award ceremonies, each judged by a panel of industry experts. At the Scottish Creative Awards, Clyde 1 took the title of Best PR Strategy. The station also secured the Creative Marketing award at the Glasgow Business Awards. These prestigious titles follow on from those awarded to Clyde 1 at the Scottish Event Awards for the Best In-House Event and Best Marketing Strategy.

Clyde 1’s creative team devised the five day live broadcast in partnership with the Grand Central Hotel and Network Rail. ‘Live on Location’ saw star presenters and the production team from the hit radio station take up residence in the ‘pop up studio’ while live music sets were held a few meters away in the Grand Central Hotel.

Each day Clyde 1 showcased its entertainment, hit music and showbiz credentials in the Central Station studio including celebrity guest interviews and performances.

Over the course of a week the station achieved direct interaction with more than 550,000 commuters, engaging with the public in the heart of the city whilst showing how relevant Clyde 1 is to listeners.

Stuart Duncan, Head of Brand and Marketing for Bauer Media Scotland, said: “All the staff and presenters at Clyde 1 are thrilled that Live on Location has been recognised with four industry awards. The company continues to dominate the Scottish commercial radio market place and Live on Location was part of our wide reaching strategy to further cement this position.

“It’s great to see the team receiving the recognition they deserve for all their hard work on such a high-profile event for Clyde 1. As a company, we are focused on delivering a distinctive blend of locally relevant music, entertainment, news and sport across the entire range of media platforms that are now available. Bringing the breakfast show to the very heart of Glasgow with Live on Location was a huge success; we were able to make it possible for our listeners to connect with us in a novel way and provided a unique environment for the show.”