AN ONLINE petition to ‘Bring Back Radio Borders’ has now secured more than 1,000 signatures.
On April 3 the popular station was rebranded to Greatest Hits Radio (The Scottish Borders & North Northumberland).
Breakfast show presenters Gregor and Lynsey, who now broadcast on TAY FM across Tayside and Fife, were replaced by Ewen Cameron and Cat Harvey.
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Former Radio 2 favourite Ken Bruce is on from 10am to 1pm and he is followed by Galashiels broadcaster Stuart Webster from 1pm to 4pm.
Simon Mayo hosts drivetime from 4pm to 7pm.
But despite the big names, not everyone is happy with the change.
Borderer Gwyn Wilson started a petition which currently has 1,133 signatures. And that number is rising by the minute.
He posted: “Radio Borders was a fantastic source of local news and entertainment. Yes, for some, it was cheese but it was our cheese and was a staple everyday listen whether it was morning drives, afternoon chill or after a hard day at work.
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“It has now been taken over by Greatest Hits Radio a nationally run station. The music isn't the same (think BBC Radio 2) and there's no good vibe from the presenters.
“The Borders wants their local station back! I believe from the Facebook comments lots and lots of people are going to alternative stations with original presenters of RB e.g. Tay FM.”
A spokesperson for Greatest Hits Radio – Scottish Borders & North Northumberland declined to mention the petition specifically but said: “We constantly review our offering to make sure we are providing the best service possible for listeners.
“Having reviewed our audience profile, we concluded that the format of Greatest Hits Radio, with its playlist of the biggest songs of the 70s, 80s and 90s and line-up of legendary broadcasters, was a great fit for the Scottish Borders & North Northumberland and saw it as a fantastic opportunity.
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“With the award winning Ewen & Cat At Breakfast, followed by Ken Bruce and his famous PopMaster, along with local lad Webster, The Simon Mayo Drivetime Show and Jackie Brambles we feel we have an unrivalled schedule of radio talent.
“We still have all the local news and information that we know is important to our listeners, including sport, weather and traffic and travel and are continuing to work closely with our charity Cash for Kids to support vulnerable and disadvantaged children across the region. There also continues to be a wide range of advertising opportunities for local businesses.”
To sign Gwyn's petition click here:
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