Ouse Valley Radio and Black Cat Radio launch on DAB+

Ouse Valley Radio and Black Cat Radio are now broadcasting on DAB+ across St Neots and Huntingdon following a joint project.

The two community stations worked together on a bid for the area’s small scale DAB licence, with technical support from Cambridge Digital Radio Ltd, which helped deliver the new multiplex.

Following approval from Ofcom, equipment was installed at sites in Godmanchester and on Paxton Hill overlooking St Neots, extending the stations’ availability through digital radio.

Ouse Valley Radio has served Huntingdon and surrounding villages since 2011 (previously as HCR104fm), while Black Cat Radio began broadcasting on FM in 2017.

The partnership brings two established community broadcasters together on a shared digital platform, although both stations will continue to provide their own programming.

Tony Obee, CEO of Ouse Valley Radio, said: “We are delighted to have worked alongside Black Cat Radio on this joint enterprise, bringing greater listener choice across the region through DAB+.”

Ouse Valley Radio’s output includes its Over to You community access programme, local current affairs show Ouse Valley Today, radio soap Huntsford and astronomy programme The Sky Tonight, alongside specialist music programming.

Black Cat Radio also offers specialist music, including folk, jazz, yacht rock and classical, together with its Your Voice programme, which has covered subjects including disability prejudice, domestic abuse, climate change and mental health.

Ste Greenall from Black Cat Radio said: “Whilst we are competing with each other and indeed with the BBC and independent sector, our strengths lie in engaging with our audiences.”

Steve Potter from Cambridge Digital Radio Ltd said the company had supported both stations throughout the application, planning, construction and installation stages.

He added: “It’s exciting to see the multiplex launch, and we look forward to continuing to provide the technical services and support needed to ensure its successful ongoing operation.”

The company will continue providing technical services and support for the multiplex following its launch.