91Èȱ¬

91Èȱ¬ Radio is pleased to announce the launch of two new national DAB digital radio transmitters in Stanton Moor, Derbyshire and Penmaen Rhos in north Wales.

The new transmitter in Stanton Moor provides DAB coverage for north of Derbyshire, including Matlock and Bakewell. In total it adds 30,000 people to the national DAB network and improves coverage for a further 15,000.

It will be followed by a new transmitter at Quarndon serving the south of the county and Derby this summer.

The new transmitter at Penmaen Rhos serves Rhyl, Prestatyn and Colwyn Bay on the north Wales coast and adds around 4,000 to the national DAB network and improves coverage for a further 17,000.

The launch of the two new transmitters is part of the 91Èȱ¬'s ongoing investment in the DAB network, fulfilling its commitment to reach around 92% of the UK population by the end of the year. They are the eighth and ninth national DAB transmitters launched in 2011.

Digital radio listeners can now tune in to the 91Èȱ¬'s portfolio of digital-only stations – 1Xtra, 5 Live Sports Extra, Radio 6 Music, Radio 7 (to be renamed 91Èȱ¬ Radio 4 Extra in April) and Asian Network – as well as the 91Èȱ¬'s existing national radio stations – Radio 1, Radio 2, Radio 3, Radio 4, Radio 5 Live and the World Service – and enjoy the benefits of digital audio broadcasting (DAB).

"The 91Èȱ¬ is committed to broadening the availability of digital radio and we are delighted to further expand and improve coverage," said Mark Friend, Controller, Multiplatform & Interactive, 91Èȱ¬ Audio & Music. "We hope more listeners will discover the range of programmes and services offered by DAB."

Notes to Editors

The 91Èȱ¬ has five digital-only radio networks, all launched in 2002:

• 1Xtra – Radio 1Xtra – playing Xtra RnB, Xtra Hip Hop;
• 5 Live Sports Extra – the home of live sport with exclusive coverage of live events;
• 6 Music – celebrates the alternative spirit in popular music, from the sixties to current day;
• Radio 7 (to be renamed 91Èȱ¬ Radio 4 Extra in April) – the best of 91Èȱ¬ comedy, drama and books from the archive;
• Asian Network – the sound of Asian Britain.

Listeners can also receive Radios 1 to 5 Live (and World Service) on DAB, along with more than 30 of the 91Èȱ¬'s English local radio and nations services.

The 91Èȱ¬'s national digital radio coverage currently stands at more than 88% of the UK population.

There are now more than 12 million DAB sets in the UK (GFK).

Digital radios are available that offer users the opportunity to record and rewind their favourite programmes. Some DAB radios also offer an EPG letting users select and record their favourite programmes when they want.

Digital radio offers improved reception and does not suffer from the interference and fading that can happen with AM and FM radio.

Digital radio is a more efficient means of broadcasting. More networks can be transmitted, offering more choice for listeners.

Digital radio can transmit text and data with the audio signal. A small screen on digital radios carries rolling text telling listeners what music they're listening to, who's being interviewed, and giving phone numbers and email and website addresses.

DAB digital radios are available from £25 from a range of retailers.

Digital radio can also be received via digital television (satellite, cable and Freeview) and the internet.

Listeners are advised to check their coverage by visiting .

DL