Registration has opened for IBC2026 ahead of the media and technology industry gathering in Amsterdam this September.

The four day event at the RAI Amsterdam from 11 to 14 September will bring together broadcasters, technology companies and production firms from more than 170 countries.

Organisers say this year’s event will focus on areas including AI, cyber security, cloud workflows, immersive experiences, sustainability and next generation production technology.

Future Tech, introduced in 2025, is being expanded by 30% for 2026 following increased exhibitor demand. The area in Hall 14 will include a new Start Up Zone featuring emerging companies, alongside the IBC Talent Programme, Hackfest and creator initiatives.

IBC is also introducing two new networking and collaboration features. IBC Exchange will host structured peer-led discussions in the Braindate Lounge, while IBC Connect aims to arrange meetings between exhibitors and senior decision makers.

The IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme will return to Future Tech, bringing together broadcasters, streamers and technology providers to work on collaborative projects. Google is returning as headline sponsor, with EIT Culture and Creativity joining as Innovation Partner.

Michael Crimp, Chief Executive Officer of IBC, said the event comes at “a defining moment for the global media and entertainment industry”.

Companies increasing their presence at the show include Avid, EVS, MediaKind, NEP and Vizrt, while more than 50 businesses will exhibit for the first time.

It’s free to visit and you can register here.

Mansfield 103.2 is under new local ownership after Paul Chadbourne and Nicola Chadbourne took over the station.

The independent commercial station has served Mansfield, Ashfield and Bolsover since 1 February 1999, with local presenters and advertising options for businesses across the area.

Paul and Nicola plan to grow the station while widening its commercial offer into video production, podcasts and social media. Paul has interests in other local stations including Rotherham Radio, Doncaster Radio and Derby One.

Paul Chadbourne, Managing Director, said: “We are a local business ourselves, and we’re here to help other local businesses grow.”

Tony Delahunty has left the role of Managing Director after 27 years with Mansfield 103.2, having first joined as temporary News and Sports Editor.

Tony said he leaves confident that Paul, Nicola, Programme Director Ian Watkins and the wider team will do “a brilliant job.”.

He added: “Thanks to everyone who made my careers master give me the advice ‘Delahunty your only chance is to surround yourself with people more talented than you’. It worked!”

New international research into in-car radio listening will be unveiled during WorldDAB Automotive 2026 in Frankfurt next month.

The event on 11 June will bring together broadcasters, car manufacturers and regulators to discuss the future of radio in connected vehicles, with a focus on prominence, discoverability and listening habits.

The new Car Buyer’s Research, conducted by Fifty5Blue, examines how drivers use audio in the car and what they expect from radio services. The findings will also explore how dashboard design, default settings and user experience influence listening behaviour.

Senior representatives from the automotive sector, the European Broadcasting Union, the Association of European Radios and WorldDAB are due to discuss the research during a panel session at the event.

The programme will also include updates on the Radio Ready initiative from Tomas Granryd and Bauer Media Group’s Tobias Nielsen, alongside sessions looking at DAB+ developments in Germany, Australia and Spain.

WorldDAB President Jacqueline Bierhorst said: “Radio’s role as a trusted, accessible and immediate medium is more important than ever.”

She added that the new research would provide “robust evidence for the automotive and policy communities on the continuing relevance of broadcast radio”.

Other sessions will focus on policy, media plurality and investment in broadcast infrastructure, including the launch of a new Public Policy Toolbox presented by David Fernández Quijada from South 180.

WorldDAB Automotive 2026 takes place in Frankfurt on 11 June and is free to attend.

Dana is presenting a Eurovision special on Boom Radio.

The 1970 winner will mark 70 years of the Eurovision Song Contest with a programme looking back at entries and winners from across its history.

The All Kinds of Everything singer will play music from the Swiss winner of the first Contest in 1956 through to Brotherhood of Man, ABBA, Johnny Logan, Sandie Shaw and Niamh Kavanagh.

Dana says Eurovision remains a platform where strong songs can still cut through. “Eurovision is a unique platform that gives a step up,” she said, adding that it gives writers and performers the chance to reach “a worldwide audience”.

She will also reflect on personal connections, including Johnny Logan, whom she has known since he was a teenager, and Sandie Shaw’s Puppet on a String, co-written by fellow Derry man Phil Coulter.

The programme airs on Boom Radio at 9pm on Thursday May 14th, during the week leading up to this year’s Eurovision final.

A allav vy kavos agas attendyans rag pymp mynysen may hylliv vy kewsel yn kever neppyth posek?

BBC Senior Head of Content Production for the West and South West Steph Marshall shares the story of a regional podcast for BBC Sounds with RadioToday.

Why am I writing to you in another language – or Kernewek, to be precise – you may ask? Well because, recently, Kernewek, the Cornish language, was upgraded to “top level protection” by the Government – alongside Irish, Scottish Gaelic, and Welsh. But Kernewek is more than just a language to people in Cornwall – it’s a community, an identity, a way of belonging. 

That is why BBC Radio Cornwall has created the fantastic Learn Cornish podcast for BBC Sounds. Hosted by Cornish presenter Danni Diston, each episode explores Kernewek language and culture – as well as its significance in British life. The BBC has a duty to support the minority languages of the UK and no other broadcaster can do this at our level. That’s why we’re overjoyed to bring this latest podcast to listeners – why not give it a go – it’s great fun.

This sits alongside BBC Radio Cornwall’s other Kernewek offerings – such as news bulletins in Cornish on Fridays and “The Cornish Weather Word” at weekends. Brand new content to help primary school children learn Cornish will also be included on BBC Bitesize soon. Bitesize is the most trusted media brand amongst children, parents, and teachers. By supporting authentic language learning on the site, we’re ensuring this traditional and culturally important content remains accessible for children. 

But that’s not all – historic regional traditions, such as the flaming tar barrels in Ottery St Mary (Devon) or the Cheese-Rolling in Brockworth (Gloucestershire) were all livestreamed on BBC iPlayer last year and proved very popular. Unique events like this are steeped in local heritage – and only the BBC, and its local services in the community – can capture these centuries old celebrations. 

This May Bank Holiday we’ll be back following those mad enough to chase a wheel of cheese down the incredibly steep Coopers Hill. We’re also back with those – young and old – as they carry flaming tar barrels through the packed streets of Ottery St Mary in a tradition that probably goes as far back as the Gunpowder Plot in 1605. And we’ll chase the sun as it rises for the summer solstice around the country – culminating in the traditional celebrations at Stonehenge in Wiltshire. 

The West and South West are vibrant, creative places – full of distinct cultures, unique traditions, and a powerful sense of community. I was born here and I’ve worked and lived here most of my life. It’s my job is to lead the BBC’s local news and audio services here. I am fiercely passionate about how important it is for the BBC to showcase and celeberate our regions; to reflect the diverse views of people who live there and to make sure they get the chance to tell their stories! It’s why this mission is enshrined in the BBC’s very own Royal Charter.

BBC Local Radio stations in region also make some of the UK’s most exciting audio projects – like The LGBT Sport Podcast (BBC Radio Cornwall) and Sport’s Greatest Underdogs (BBC Radio Wiltshire and Gloucestershire). Award winning programmes like BBC iPlayer’s I Was There on the Salisbury Poisonings, The Sex Detectives from Bristol, and BBC Channel Islands’s coverage of the Blue Islands Airlines collapse – all show the power of trusted, local journalism from the area. 

This year’s nominations for BBC Local’s Make A Difference Awards has hit a record-breaking 16,000 across the UK – as we celebrate the homegrown heroes, and untold acts of courage and kindness from across the region. I’m really looking forward to seeing all the amazing stories from across Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Devon, and Cornwall. There won’t be a dry eye in the house. 

As we approach the BBC’s Royal Charter renewal, it’s vital to ensure that audiences get the impartial, local content and companionship that matters to them – on whatever platform they choose. This is something that only the BBC, as a public service broadcaster, can do. By reflecting communities, supporting minority languages, being a part of local life – the BBC can continue to provide value for all and tell your story wherever you are. 

Greatest Hits Radio is asking listeners to share songs that improve their mood as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.

The Bauer Media station has partnered with the Mental Health Foundation for its Say It Through A Song campaign, encouraging audiences to submit tracks that bring them joy or positive feelings.

Listeners are being invited to send in their favourite songs through the Greatest Hits Radio website or by email ahead of the station’s Say It Through A Song Weekender, which begins on Friday 15 May.

The initiative will also feature contributions from presenters including Ken Bruce, Kate Thornton and Simon Mayo, who will share the music that lifts their own mood.

The station says the campaign is designed to encourage people to express emotions through music and highlight the positive impact songs can have on mental wellbeing.

Gary Stein, Director of Audio for Bauer Media Audio UK, said: “Audio, more than any other medium, has the power to connect, uplift and communicate.”

He added that the campaign would encourage listeners to “channel the music to help lift their mood, uplift others and express themselves”.

Mental Health Awareness Week runs from Monday 11 May to Sunday 17 May across the UK.

Ocean City Radio in Plymouth has stopped broadcasting with immediate effect after rising operating costs and financial pressures linked to its DAB expansion.

In a statement to supporters and listeners, the station confirmed the service had closed and outlined the challenges faced by the volunteer-run broadcaster.

The station began life in 2018 as Radford Radio, operating from a converted caravan designed as a community radio hub. Around 30 volunteers joined the original project after a public meeting in Plymouth.

Following an earlier closure, the station relaunched as Ocean City Radio with new technology and a new website before later securing a DAB+ licence from Ofcom in 2023.

Station founder Stephen Anniss confirmed the Plymouth broadcaster had stopped operating, describing the project as “an epic journey” with both “highs and lows”.

The founder said the move onto DAB increased listening but also significantly raised costs through platform fees and music licensing payments to PPL and PRS.

He blamed the closure on “money, hackers and ruthlessness” and revealed the station had also been affected by identity theft linked to a hack on its bank account.

According to the statement, the incident prevented access to the station’s JustGiving account within 24 hours of the attack, meaning donations from supporters could not be transferred. It adds that annual copyright fees were “in the region of three and a half thousand pounds a year”, while DAB platform costs were around £3,000 before rent and overheads.

The station also struggled with volunteer availability and maintaining a consistent schedule as it attempted to grow advertising income.

The founder said: “Maybe, just maybe, had the station had full commitment from its team, we may have secured longevity of the station.”

Ocean City Radio thanked listeners, donors and supporters at the end of the statement following the closure announcement.

Tim Burgess is joining Virgin Radio UK to host a new Sunday evening music series exploring influential indie and alternative tracks.

The Charlatans frontman will present The Mixtape every Sunday from 6pm to 8pm for a 13 week run starting on 17 May.

The two hour programme will feature music from Tim Burgess’ personal collection alongside stories linked to the records and artists that shaped different eras of British guitar music.

The opening edition, titled Manchester Mixtape, will focus on the city’s late 1980s and early 1990s music scene which helped launch The Charlatans. Artists featured will include Buzzcocks, New Order, Stone Roses and Oasis, alongside acts influenced by the Manchester sound.

Future editions will move through Britpop and the indie rock revival of the 2000s, with the station promising a mix of music and memories from across several decades.

Tim said: “I’m really excited to be bringing my mixtapes to Virgin Radio UK and taking over Sunday nights at the station.”

Dennie Morris, Director of Audio at News Broadcasting, described Tim as “a true pioneer of British music” while welcoming him to the Virgin Radio line-up.

The Mixtape with Tim Burgess begins on Virgin Radio UK this Sunday evening.

KISS has launched a major rebrand centred around a new “Mischief Amplified” positioning across its radio, digital and social platforms.

The Bauer Media station says the new look reflects how younger audiences consume content across streaming, social media and podcasts, while building on KISS’s long-standing reputation for rule-breaking radio and entertainment.

Created with NOT W+K, the refreshed KISS logo takes inspiration from the phonetic “x” kiss sign-off commonly used in digital conversations. The new identity has been rolled out across all KISS sub-brands as part of a wider redesign aimed at creating a more unified digital-first presence.

The campaign was developed with Wieden+Kennedy London and includes outdoor advertising, social campaigns, podcast activity and partnerships with Spotify, Uber and Tinder.

Launch activity included advertising on the Flannels building on Oxford Street and a special installation at Vinegar Yard where people could listen to KISS Breakfast presenters Tyler West and Chloe Burrows.

A giant perspex studio mounted on a neon pink truck also travelled through London, with Tyler and Chloe broadcasting live before evening DJ sets from Switch Disco and Altego.

Anne-Marie Lavan, Chief Marketing Officer at Bauer Media Audio, said the rebrand marked “the beginning of an exciting new era for the brand”.

Anika Ramani from NOT Wieden+Kennedy said the redesign aimed to “fully embrace” the station’s mischievous identity through a flexible visual system designed for every platform.

BBC Radio 4 long wave will close on 27 June after years of uncertainty over the future of its 198 kHz service.

The BBC says daily on-air reminders will be broadcast to help listeners move to other ways of receiving Radio 4.

The closure is being blamed on the age of the long wave broadcast equipment, which the BBC says is reaching the end of its life.

The corporation says long wave is an older broadcasting technology, with listener numbers declining in recent years as more people use FM and DAB digital radio.

It said: “Radio 4’s Long Wave (LW) service will close on the 27th June 2026.”

The BBC says upgrading the long wave equipment is not considered cost effective for licence fee-funded services.

Guidance is being made available online and through the BBC helpline, including a factsheet on how to continue listening to Radio 4 after long wave closes.

The BBC has also reminded listeners that some older electricity meters use the Radio Teleswitching Service, which is carried within the long wave signal.

That service is run by the energy industry, not the BBC, and listeners with questions about RTS meters are being directed to their energy supplier or regulator.

Commercial radio could carry shorter and clearer consumer credit adverts under new proposals from the Financial Conduct Authority.

Radiocentre has welcomed the consultation, which looks at simplifying the rules around financial promotions and how representative credit examples are presented in advertising.

The trade body says the changes would make audio adverts easier for listeners to understand while reducing the amount of airtime taken up by detailed terms and conditions.

Radiocentre has worked with the FCA on the issue for several years. Confirmed industry guidance covering radio advertising was renewed at the start of this year.

Research submitted by Radiocentre last year found that simpler credit examples significantly improved listener recall. The study by Differentology suggested that clearer and more concise wording could increase recall by three to four times.

The FCA has set out proposals to simplify parts of its handbook dealing with financial promotions as part of a consultation launched on 29th April. It is inviting discussion on how its cost disclosure rules, including the presentation of representative credit examples in ads, could be amended to promote better consumer understanding.

Radiocentre chief executive Matt Payton said: “These proposals are a real step forward. All the evidence suggests that listeners would welcome the simplification of ads that feature consumer credit.”

He added that more suitable rules for audio advertising would benefit both listeners and advertisers.

AIR Radio has opened its new studios in Weymouth during celebrations marking the station’s fifteenth birthday.

The community radio station officially launched its new base at Jeffery House in Maiden Street during a special event attended by civic guests, advertisers and local representatives.

The service was previously based at a local school but all that changed last year and was in danger of closing until local businessman Jamie Lyones joined and spearheaded a new studio build.

The new AIR Studios were formally opened by the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Professor Michael Dooley.

Guests at the launch included South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton, alongside the Mayor and invited supporters connected to the station and wider community.

AIR says it will now return to broadcasting live throughout the day, from the newly opened studios in Weymouth town centre.

Jamie Lyones told RadioToday it’s been a lot of hard work but the town deserves it.

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Smooth Country will provide broadcast coverage and sponsor the main stage at Country Calling Festival 2026.

The Global station has been confirmed as the official broadcast partner for the three day country music event in Chelmsford, Essex, taking place from 14 to 16 August.

As part of the agreement, Smooth Country will also become presenting sponsor of the festival’s main stage, The Outpost, where headline performances from Randy Houser and Parmalee will take place.

The partnership will see the station broadcast backstage interviews, digital content and behind the scenes coverage across the weekend, with content shared on radio and social media platforms.

Donna Zanetti from Country Calling said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Smooth Country as both our broadcast partner and presenting sponsor of The Outpost for 2026.”

Chris Chilvers from Global said: “As country music continues to grow, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect even more fans with the music we love.”

Country Calling 2026 will be the festival’s biggest edition so far, expanding to three days and introducing camping and glamping options for visitors.

More than 100 acts are expected to perform across six stages, with artists including James Johnston, Madeline Merlo, Tyler Rich, Twinnie, Janet Devlin and Jack Browning.

Organisers say the lineup will feature close to an even split of male and female artists. Families attending will also be able to access free child places for under 16s accompanied by a paying adult.

Alan Brazil has told listeners that a recent operation saved his life after being absent from his talkSPORT Breakfast Show for a few weeks.

In a message posted on social media today, Alan said: “Some of you will have noticed that I’ve not been around. I recently had a life-saving operation and I’m deeply grateful to the brilliant medical team who have looked after me.”

He said it would be some time before he was fully back to himself and that he is focusing on recovering in private.

Alan also thanked his family and those close to him for their support during his time away from the station.

He ended his update with a brief message to listeners: “I’ll see you all soon.”

Alan has hosted talkSPORT’s Breakfast Show for more than 25 years since the station launched.

pic.twitter.com/EkWWOhFMjh

— Alan Brazil (@alanbrazil) May 11, 2026

Podcast and audio companies will have their own business classification under the UK’s new SIC 2026 framework.

The change means podcasting and audio publishing will be formally recognised in the system used by government, lenders and support schemes to categorise businesses.

Until now, many companies in the sector have had to use broader classifications that did not reflect podcast production, publishing or other audio-led business models.

AudioUK, which played a key role in securing this change, says the new category, “Podcast and other audio publishing activities”, should help ensure the industry is measured more accurately and better understood across the wider economy.

The trade body worked with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the Office for National Statistics and the BBC to secure the update.

AudioUK Chief Executive Chris Baughen said: “This is a major milestone for the UK podcast and audio industry.”

He said formal recognition would help validate the sector’s economic contribution and improve how audio businesses are represented across government and finance.

The SIC 2026 framework will be introduced in stages, with full adoption expected by 2031.

BBC Radio Tees presenter Dave Llewellyn has died aged 57 following a short illness.

Dave spent more than two decades presenting traffic and travel updates across the North East.

Originally from Fishburn in County Durham, Dave lived in Yarm with his wife Ange and daughter Amy.

He began his broadcasting career reporting traffic from a light aircraft above Teesside before moving into studio-based presenting and production roles.

Dave most recently worked as a producer at BBC Radio Tees, including on Gary Philipson’s daytime show. He also co presented a Sunday morning gardening show alongside Brigid Press.

His daughter Amy described him as “incredibly modest and generous” and said he always found time for “friends and strangers alike”.

Away from radio, Dave was involved in the local music scene as both a producer and performer. Amy said his “true talent shone through” while playing keyboards, synthesisers and bass.

BBC Radio Tees breakfast presenter Amy Oakden paid tribute on air on Friday morning and said the station would “never ever forget his iconic voice”.

A tribute to Dave has been published on BBC Sounds by BBC Radio Tees.

KISS has named Three Mobile as headline partner for KISS Ibiza across its summer events and broadcasts.

The partnership arrives as KISS continues its wider rebrand and shift towards a more connected audio and social offering, building on its heritage while targeting how audiences consume music and entertainment today.

Three Mobile will sponsor KISS Pool Party Live events in Ibiza from May to October, including Bank Holiday specials in May and August, alongside live broadcasts, on air takeovers and social content capturing Ibiza energy.

KISS Breakfast presenters Tyler West and Chloe Burrows will head to Ibiza to front promotions, while listeners can win trips to join the station and Three on the island.

Three is also sponsoring Tatum McGreal’s 1pm to 4pm show from April through to December across the KISS network.

Paul Gerrard, Content Director, Hits Radio and KISS Network, said: “This partnership comes at an incredibly exciting time for KISS following the recent rebrand.

“The collaboration reinforces KISS’s position at the forefront of music and entertainment, while showcasing Three Mobile’s commitment to delivering unique, immersive experiences for its customers.”

South Africa’s main commercial radio body has become the first African organisation to join the Radio Ready connected car campaign.

Founded by Bauer Media Group, European Broadcasting Union, BBC and several European broadcasters and radio groups, now the National Association of Broadcasters South Africa has joined the industry initiative.

This extends Radio Ready’s reach beyond Europe and Australia as connected car distribution becomes a bigger priority for broadcasters worldwide.

More than 23 broadcasters, industry groups and associations are now involved in the campaign, which launched in summer last year to support radio’s visibility and accessibility in connected vehicles.

The latest addition follows increased industry attention on in car listening after the Connected Journeys campaign for World Radio Day earlier this year. Connected car strategy was also widely discussed during sessions at Radiodays Europe.

Nadia Bulbulia, Executive Director of NAB South Africa, said: “NAB South Africa is proud to join the Radio Ready campaign as radio remains vital in Africa and the evolving media ecosystem.”

Nadia added that the organisation was encouraged by the opportunity to contribute “an African perspective” to discussions around in car radio, particularly as listening continues across both private vehicles and commuter taxis.

Tobias Nielsen, SVP Digital at Bauer Media Audio, said the campaign was helping bring the industry together to ensure radio remains simple to access in connected cars.

“Welcoming NAB South Africa is a particularly important milestone, marking our first partnership in Africa and reinforcing the global relevance of this work,” he added.

Take That will perform at Capital’s Summertime Ball with Barclaycard at Wembley Stadium on 6th June.

The group has been added to the line-up, joining artists including RAYE, Niall Horan, Calvin Harris, Fatboy Slim and Lola Young for the day long show in London.

Jordan North, Chris Stark and Siân Welby revealed the news on Capital Breakfast this morning, adding Take That ahead of the band’s upcoming stadium tour dates later this year.

The line up also includes Jason Derulo, Bebe Rexha, Robyn, Myles Smith, Stephen Sanchez, XG, Sekou, Sienna Spiro, December 10 and MEEK. Capital has also confirmed a Barclaycard Out of the Blue performance on the day.

Jordan, Chris and Siân said: “We’re thrilled to announce Take That are joining the line-up. We’re absolutely buzzing for this year’s Ball.”

Tickets for the event are available through Global Player. Organisers are urging fans not to purchase anything which they believe to be a ticket on an unauthorised resale site as this will not be valid for entry. Full details and T&Cs are available at capitalfm.com.

Radiocentre has promoted Sarah Gregory to lead its PR and communications work.

Sarah moves up from Head of Communications and Membership Marketing, taking responsibility for all PR and communications activity across the organisation.

The remit includes strengthening confidence in commercial radio and audio, using research to support its position as an effective medium among advertisers, policymakers and broadcasters.

Radiocentre broadened its remit in 2023 to cover broadcaster-owned audio, including podcasts and on-demand streaming services, alongside traditional radio.

Since then, it has worked to build awareness of the wider ad-funded audio market, including through initiatives such as its Advertising Amplified campaign.

Client Director Lucy Barrett said: “Our industry has invested, innovated and grown while remaining one of the most reliable and trusted environments for both listeners and brands.”

Lucy added that Sarah’s “knowledge, energy and her attention to detail” make her well placed to develop how the sector communicates externally.

Sarah said: “I’m looking forward to helping amplify our voice further and ensuring the power of audio is even more widely recognised.”

During her time at Radiocentre, Sarah has worked across advertising campaigns, events and awards, as well as brand activity following the merger of the RAB, CRCA and RACC, and most recently on communications and membership marketing.

Wigan One will cease broadcasting at the end of May 2026 after losing its main funding.

The online station says Wigan Council had been its major funder, but the authority now has other priorities.

Wigan One said the change had happened too quickly for it to continue with its plan to become self-funding by 2027.

The station has served Wigan for four years with music, local information and listener interaction, while also working with local advertisers to support the service.

In its closing message, the team thanked Wigan Council for its support over the years, saying it had helped develop Wigan One into the brand it became.

The station also thanked clients, staff, presenters and freelancers, adding its “very, very best of luck” to those who will be losing their jobs.

Listeners were thanked for sending in requests and stories, and for spreading the word about Wigan’s only local radio station.

The team said it hopes Wigan gets its own local station again in future, adding: “Keep fettlin’. We’ll si’thy.”

Wynne Evans will now host weekend morning shows on both Saturdays and Sundays on Dragon Radio.

The presenter expands his current Sunday slot with a new Saturday morning show also airing from 10am to 1pm, after he joined the station at Easter. The new Saturday show will follow a similar format to the Sunday show.

Dragon Radio Programme Director Neil Greenslade said: “Dragon Radio listeners have told us they want to hear more of Wynne, and we are happy to oblige! We look forward to welcoming even more listeners to Dragon Radio to hear their favourite radio presenter.”

Wynne said: “Dragon Radio have been absolute heroes — they’ve just let me loose, which takes a certain kind of confidence and I’m enormously grateful. It’s been a joy to see so many familiar faces come with me.”

He added that audience growth had led to the second show arriving sooner than expected, describing himself as “thrilled” and “having the time of my life.”

Audio Always has appointed Lisa Solman to lead its commercial partnerships as the podcast company expands its slate and network activity.

Lisa Solman joins as Sales Director from WPP Media, where she worked within the Creative Futures team. In the new role, she will oversee the sales operation, focusing on connecting podcast talent with brand partners.

The appointment comes during a period of growth for the company, with recent additions including The Girls Bathroom, The Teen Commandments, Fact Up with Joe and James and The Jack and Ash Show. Audio Always has also taken on commercial responsibility for The Elis James and John Robins Podcast.

The Audio Always Originals network was recently nominated for Audio Brand of the Year at the 2026 ARIAs, reflecting wider activity across its portfolio.

Paul Fernley said: “This is the perfect time to be bringing in someone with Lisa’s commercial instincts. She understands podcasting, she knows what brands are looking for, and she has the track record to prove it.”

Lisa said: “I’ve admired what Audio Always has been building. The talent on this network is extraordinary. My ambition is simple: to connect those shows with brands who understand the value of great content.”

Before joining WPP Media, Lisa worked on partnership campaigns for publisher brands including The Guardian and Future, and previously helped develop media partnerships at Social Chain.

Six new areas across the UK will gain small-scale DAB coverage, expanding capacity for local and specialist radio services.

The licences have been granted to Niocast Digital Limited for Chester, North Wiltshire DAB Limited for Chippenham and Malmesbury, NIDAB Limited for Coleraine, Kennet DAB Limited for Newbury, Maxxwave Limited for Telford and Shrewsbury, and Craoladh Digiteach Iondail Limited for Ullapool.

In Ullapool only one service was listed in the application as a prospective service, and it was assumed by the applicant that BBC Radio Scotland and Radio nan Gàidheal would lease capacity. Coverage proposals means only half of the adult population in the advertised licence area would be able to receive the service.

All the areas mentioned are part of Ofcom’s Round 8 for the small-scale DAB rollout, and each licence award followed assessment against set criteria, although there was only one applicant per area.

Ofcom says 105 small-scale multiplexes are already on air across the UK, supporting a growing number of hyperlocal digital stations serving audiences in all four nations.

LBC will carry overnight election results with a new presenting role for Lewis Goodall, supported by extended programmes across the station’s schedule.

Global has confirmed a full multi-platform plan for the 2026 election results, centred on LBC and The News Agents podcast.

From 10pm on Thursday 7 May, Election Night Live with Lewis Goodall will run through to 6am, covering results from across England, Scotland and Wales.

The programme marks Lewis’s first time leading LBC’s overnight results coverage and will be broadcast from Westminster, as well as streamed on Global Player and YouTube, and simulcast on LBC News.

Nick Ferrari at Breakfast will air an extended edition from 6am to 10am on Friday 8 May, featuring reaction from callers and interviews with political figures. Later that day, an additional hour of Tonight with Andrew Marr will run from 6pm, focusing on analysis and commentary.

Across the day, presenters including James O’Brien, Shelagh Fogarty, Tom Swarbrick and Iain Dale will take listener views on the outcome.

A special episode of The News Agents podcast will also be released on Friday, with Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel and Lewis Goodall discussing the results and their implications.

Global’s political team and reporters will broadcast from counts across the UK, contributing coverage to stations including LBC, Heart, Capital, Smooth and Classic FM.