BBC launches Wolverhampton radio station to help people through latest lockdown

The BBC is to launch new temporary local output in Wolverhampton as the country continues to deal with the COVID crisis.

BBC Radio Wolverhampton and will provide more localised news and information to people living in the West Midlands city. It follows the launch of BBC Radio Bradford, which began broadcasting last month.

The new temporary output in Wolverhampton will be live on DAB radio and online, weekdays from 6am-2pm, and offer local content for both communities.

Wolverhampton, which has seen significant increases in COVID cases, is currently served by BBC radio stations based in surrounding cities. The move means the BBC can provide more localised information and news dedicated directly to communities in ‘Wolves’.

The initiative is also being introduced to Sunderland. BBC Radio Wolverhampton launches on Friday (January 15) and BBC Radio Sunderland launches on Monday (January 18). Both stations are planned to broadcast until March.

Chris Burns, head of BBC Local Radio, said: “We are here for people right across England in these extraordinary times and are determined to help communities stay informed, connected and safe during this most challenging period.

“Our new temporary local output in Wolverhampton and Sunderland means listeners will get more localised news and information from the BBC. They will get a better sense of what is happening in their area and will feel more in touch with their community even as they stay at home.”

As well as news, both will provide sport coverage, reflect life in each city, and celebrate the good news happening in communities.

BBC Radio Wolverhampton

Local presenter Elise Evans will be the host of BBC Radio Wolverhampton’s Breakfast show from 6am-10am, followed by Letitia George on mid-mornings at 10am-2pm.

Elise joined the BBC two years ago and has presented shows across the schedules of BBC Radio WM, which is based in Birmingham. She’s also a musical director at Wolverhampton-based Anthem Voices

“I am absolutely thrilled to be given the opportunity to wake up my home city every morning on BBC Radio Wolverhampton,” she said.

“Having grown up and spent many years here, I am excited to put Wolves firmly on the map and showcase what our amazing, vibrant city has to offer.

“From the fantastic people and diverse culture, to the outstanding theatre and football scene, this city has it all and I’m buzzing to be part of a passionate team bringing this station to life during such a challenging time. Let’s go Wolvo!”

Letitia George is currently a presenter at BBC CWR in Coventry and is also one of the voices of BBC Radio 5 Live’s podcast ‘The Sista Collective’.

Letitia said: “I could not feel more blessed, grateful, and excited to be joining the team for BBC Radio Wolverhampton.

“With such a fantastic local community who are passionate about their city, who wouldn’t jump at the chance to be involved. I can’t wait to take you through your weekday mornings and share your incredible stories.”

Similarly, presenters for BBC Radio Sunderland in the north include Gilly Hope and Tamsin Robson.

BBC Radio Wolverhampton will be available on weekdays between 6am-2pm, online at bbc.co.uk/radiowolverhampton or via FM and DAB digital radio.