National Grid Wireless wins Bristol FM contract

13th Feb 2007

National Grid Wireless has further strengthened its position in the commercial radio sector after being awarded the transmission contract for the new Bristol radio station. Due to be launched next summer, Original 106.5 is aimed at a more mature male audience, providing "adult alternative radio".

This new FM local licence was awarded by Ofcom to Original Bristol FM Limited, which is backed by the international media company CanWest MediaWorks. Original already operates an FM service in the Solent region.

Tim Butler, senior account manager, commercial radio at National Grid Wireless, said: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to provide the broadcast transmission service for Original 106.5 in Bristol. The award of this twelve-year contract demonstrates that National Grid Wireless is providing a real choice for the commercial radio industry, bringing our experience of operating nine of the eleven national radio networks to more and more local radio stations."

Tom Hunter, MD of Original said "The package made complete sense to us - with an enhanced product at a reasonable rate. The launch programme for Original 106.5 is on time and on budget, and we can't wait to give Bristol an exciting alternative listen."

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