BFBS Radio joins Digital One

BFBS Radio has joined Digital One, the national commercial digital radio multiplex, on a trial basis.

The station, one of many services provided by the British Forces Broadcasting Service, is already available in the UK on digital satellite and the internet. It is a contemporary hit radio formatted station, playing pop and rock music along with specialist programming aimed at service personnel and their families.

In a statement, station controller Charles Foster said: "Our overseas programmes remain a priority for BFBS Radio. But the majority of servicemen and women now have their home base in the United Kingdom, even if they are on regular deployment to operational areas. Our new DAB digital radio service means they'll always be able to keep in touch with family and friends back in the UK wherever they are in the world."

It is not known how long the trial will last but BFBS will be conducting research to determine "the impact of broadcasting nationally across Britain on DAB Digital Radio".

Digital One chief executive Quentin Howard said: "We are delighted to be helping to connect British Forces personnel, their families and other listeners across the country who may share past and present links with the Forces. If this trial proves popular and successful we would hope to be able to make the service permanent."