Radio Performs Strongly For Border

Profits at Border Television’s radio division grew by 94% in the year ended 30 April 1999, boosted particularly by the successful launch of Century 105 in Manchester. Century 105, launched in September last year, transmits to around 5.4 million, the largest potential audience for a single station outside London. In its first six months on air the station has achieved a 10% audience reach.

Border TV is developing its interests in radio through a joint venture with Chrysalis to bid for the London digital licence (see Chrysalis Announces London Digital Radio Bid) and a £3 million investment in digital broadcasting. Chrysalis, which owns the Heart and Galaxy radio brands, also sells airtime in Border’s Century stations.

Advertising revenue grew by 11% year on year in Border’s television operations; this is ahead of the ITV average of 7%. Pre-tax profit across the whole group was down by 63.9% from £2 million to £725,000 this time. At midday today Border’s shares were up 3˝p at 438˝p.

Border Television: 01228 525 101