Leyburn switch on

From Easter weekend listeners in Leyburn will be able to tune in on 104.9 FM, as Dales Radio launches in Lower Wensleydale.

You may well have heard of Dales Radio – this small community radio station has been broadcasting in the Dales for just over five years, but until now has only been available in Leyburn and Lower Wensleydale on 936AM – the stations medium wave service and on your smart speaker. Dales Radio plays a mix of popular music, interspersed with local news, content and information. 

Station Director Julian Hotchkiss says this is great news for residents: “We are excited to be bringing FM radio to Leyburn, an area much underserved by local radio.  For the first time Leyburn will finally have a station to call its own.  You’ll be able to listen in FM Stereo in the car, at work and at home and enjoy some great programmes all produced in the Dales.”

The Station is a not-for-profit service licenced by Ofcom and is funded by grants, donations and advertising and run entirely by volunteers.  The core team is made up of experienced broadcasters who give up their time for free and are always looking for new people to train up and join the team.   If you fancy becoming a radio DJ or help in other ways, now is a great time get involved, as Julian explains: “As we prepare to launch in Leyburn, we are looking for local ambassadors and community correspondents who champion Leyburn.”

“We’re looking for people who keep their ear to the ground about local events, what’s new, the latest word on the street and the issues that matter.  Maybe you are a budding presenter or have other skills we could use? Every role is vital in helping the station to produce great local content.”

Dales Radio is a really great way to get across community messages.  Morning show host Lee Moulsdale features studio guests every day and will happily talk to anyone: “We like to get the low down from local folk – everything from the local community centres, sports clubs and associations with regular live radio interviews.  I’m always looking for new people to have a natter with and it give them a great opportunity to spread the word about what they’re up to.”

Julian, who also presents the station’s daily breakfast show, says they have been working hard in the background to get this ready: “A lot of work has gone into planning for our new transmitter in Leyburn.  We have had to negotiate with the new site owners, clear the frequency with Ofcom, the radio regulator and purchase all the equipment to get us on the air.”  

The switch on at Leyburn is part of a mammoth expansion plan for the station with additional transmitters across other underserved parts of the Dales on the way in Hawes, Kirkby Stephen and Sedbergh.

Dales Radio goes live over the Easter weekend on 104.9FM in Leyburn and Lower Wensleydale.  To get in touch or get involved, email studio@dalesradio.co and join the team as they launch in Leyburn.