CLASSIC Hits Forest Radio, based in Epping, has launched on DAB digital radio, extending its coverage to Epping, Harlow, Bishops Stortford and the surrounding areas.

Epping Town Mayor, Councillor Janet Whitehouse, officially locked in the new frequencies during the Sunday Morning Request Show, presented by Chris Talylor. Councillor Whitehouse said, “It is a pleasure to launch a new local radio station for people in West Essex and East Hertfordshire”. The mayor then made her own request and asked to hear Magic Moments by Perry Como.

Run entirely by volunteers, the station offers a mix of classic hits, local news, community information, and health and wellbeing features, presented by people who live in the area. The station already broadcasts to three local hospitals, including St Margaret’s in Epping, and reaches more than 30,000 online listeners each week. The move to DAB will enable Forest Radio to connect with even more local people.

Paul Meader, Chairman of Classic Hits Forest Radio, said:
“We are delighted to bring our blend of great music, wellbeing content and strong community connection to a larger audience on DAB.”

The station’s DAB launch has been supported by a £3,976 grant from the Qualis Community Benefit Fund, delivered in partnership with Epping Forest District Council.

Classic Hits Forest Radio will join the new Xtra DAB multiplex for East Herts and West Essex, which hosts a diverse range of music, talk, cultural and hyperlocal radio services.