THE year has started in the best possible fashion for local radio station BBC Essex with a large increase in listening numbers, and a two per cent jump in its share of all listening in its transmission area.
According to the official RAJAR figures issued last Thursday for January 7 to March 24, BBC Essex attracted 281,000 listeners a week, 38,000 more than for the corresponding period last year.
The station's share now stands at 13.9 per cent, an all-time high.
The station's managing editor, Margaret Hyde, said: "BBC Local Radio audiences across England are at a record high of 8.42m listeners per week, and I'm delighted that we have played a role in this continuing success story.
"Our breakfast show, presented by Etholle Pegrum and John Hayes, has attracted huge audiences which is a great start for programmes the rest of the day. And our new Saturday morning presenter Ray Clark has quickly won a
loyal following."
The station's Helpline is another popular aspect of the station.
Mrs Hyde said: "We're getting more than 20,000 calls a year and bringing some really heart-warming stories to our listeners. It's one of our three most appreciated services."
June 20, 2002 16:00
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