Radio First Launches Digital Stations

Radio First, the digital radio broadcasting company, is to launch its first two digital radio stations in August.

The first live broadcast of Big Blue, Chelsea football club’s digital radio station and The Saint, a station dedicated to Southampton FC will be on the 19 and 25 August respectively. The launch dates will coincide with the first home games of the season for the two Premiership clubs.

Both stations will be broadcast on Sky Digital, as part of a carriage deal secured with BSkyB in March (see Radio First Confirms 5-Year Deal With BSkyB). Big Blue will air on channel 898 and will broadcast to around 11 million people in an transmission area roughly the size of that of Carlton and LWT and the The Saint will go out on channel 899 to over 5 million people in a transmission area approximating that of East and West Meridian television.

Chief executive of Radio First, John Aumonier, said: “We are delighted with the launch of these first two digital radio stations. Radio First have put together expert teams who will work closely with our joint venture partners, to bring a professional and viable service both to our listeners and our shareholders.”

Radio First have further joint venture agreements to manage digital radio stations for Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Derby County and plans to announce their launch in the near future.

Premiership football is set to receive extensive coverage this season when ITV’s new highlights show The Premiership begins on 18 August (see ITV Brings Sport To Saturday Evenings).

Radio First: 01273 384260

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