Restore BBC and Absolute Radio services in the UK
Restore BBC and Absolute Radio services in the UK
The Issue
In a rapidly evolving digital world, it's easy to overlook the significance of traditional radio broadcasting. Yet, for many communities in North Yorkshire, Essex, Oxfordshire, North Wiltshire, and other regions across the UK, medium wave (MW) radio remains a vital source of local news, culture, entertainment, and emergency information.
Recently, we've witnessed the discontinuation of several beloved radio services, leaving a void that online alternatives struggle to fill. Among those dearly missed are BBC Radio York on 666 and 1260 MW, BBC Radio Stoke on 1503, BBC Hereford and Worcester on 738 and 1584 MW, and BBC Essex on 729, 765, and 1530. Moreover, Absolute Radio on 1197-1242 kHz has also disappeared in excluding regions, leaving listeners without their cherished companion.
The impact of these closures is deeply felt in our communities. For the elderly, and those in rural or digitally isolated areas, medium wave radio is often the most accessible means of staying connected. It offers a sense of community and companionship that internet-based solutions simply cannot replicate. It's more than just nostalgia; it's about preserving a lifeline in regions where digital inclusion is still an ongoing challenge.
In addition to restoring these services, we call for the launch of Magic Oxford on 1197 MW from the Oxford transmitter. This new station will feature local programming from Segensworth and utilize the nostalgic 2015 jingle package to provide a familiar and comforting listening experience. Magic Oxford promises to rejuvenate radio enthusiasm in Oxfordshire and North Wiltshire, fostering a renewed sense of community.
Restoring BBC and Absolute Radio's MW services and introducing Magic Oxford will not only address the immediate needs of these communities but will also uphold the cultural heritage and the role of radio as an accessible platform for information dissemination. Join us in urging the relevant authorities and broadcasters to take action. Sign this petition today to reignite the spirit of community through radio in the UK.
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The Issue
In a rapidly evolving digital world, it's easy to overlook the significance of traditional radio broadcasting. Yet, for many communities in North Yorkshire, Essex, Oxfordshire, North Wiltshire, and other regions across the UK, medium wave (MW) radio remains a vital source of local news, culture, entertainment, and emergency information.
Recently, we've witnessed the discontinuation of several beloved radio services, leaving a void that online alternatives struggle to fill. Among those dearly missed are BBC Radio York on 666 and 1260 MW, BBC Radio Stoke on 1503, BBC Hereford and Worcester on 738 and 1584 MW, and BBC Essex on 729, 765, and 1530. Moreover, Absolute Radio on 1197-1242 kHz has also disappeared in excluding regions, leaving listeners without their cherished companion.
The impact of these closures is deeply felt in our communities. For the elderly, and those in rural or digitally isolated areas, medium wave radio is often the most accessible means of staying connected. It offers a sense of community and companionship that internet-based solutions simply cannot replicate. It's more than just nostalgia; it's about preserving a lifeline in regions where digital inclusion is still an ongoing challenge.
In addition to restoring these services, we call for the launch of Magic Oxford on 1197 MW from the Oxford transmitter. This new station will feature local programming from Segensworth and utilize the nostalgic 2015 jingle package to provide a familiar and comforting listening experience. Magic Oxford promises to rejuvenate radio enthusiasm in Oxfordshire and North Wiltshire, fostering a renewed sense of community.
Restoring BBC and Absolute Radio's MW services and introducing Magic Oxford will not only address the immediate needs of these communities but will also uphold the cultural heritage and the role of radio as an accessible platform for information dissemination. Join us in urging the relevant authorities and broadcasters to take action. Sign this petition today to reignite the spirit of community through radio in the UK.
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Petition created on 5 December 2025