A million more listeners on BBC local
radio
BBC Radio
13th May 2010
www.bbc.co.uk
BBC Local Radio in England
has made strong progress in delivering for audiences adding
a million more listeners compared to the previous quarter,
new RAJAR figures show today.
Across the 40 local radio stations in England weekly reach
for Q1 2010 was 18.6%, up 2.4% on the previous quarter (Q4
2009) and 0.9% on the equivalent Q1 last year. On average
7.7m listeners tuned into BBC local radio in England each
week, up by 1m on the previous quarter and up by 430,000
on the equivalent Q1 last year.
Evidence suggests that a significant proportion of the rise
is attributable to people tuning into BBC local radio for
information during the severe weather conditions this winter – suggesting
that people continue to look to the BBC for vital information
in times of crisis.
The BBC is also placing greater focus on quality journalism
through its Strategy Review which includes measures to refocus
resources towards breakfast shows.
David Holdsworth, BBC Controller of English
Regions, welcomed the figures saying: "It is encouraging
that people feel they can trust and turn to the BBC, particularly
during times of crisis such as the heavy snowfalls that affected
much of the country this winter. This is partly why local
radio is such a valuable asset.
"However, we cannot be complacent as BBC local radio has
been grappling with longer term challenges to our audience
figures for some time as the media landscape has changed.
We know we have to continually work hard and focus on providing
quality and independent journalism – such as our recent
General Election coverage – outstanding programmes
and content that local people can identify with to best serve
our audiences." |
