Affinity Media Press Release (Affinity Radio)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
5th December 2024
Affinity Media Expands to Newcastle and Gateshead with New Community DAB Radio Service
Affinity Media is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded its second DAB licence, bringing Affinity Radio, a new community-focused station, to the residents of Newcastle and Gateshead. This exciting milestone follows the success of Radio Shields, which was established in August 2019 and became a key part of the UK’s first small-scale DAB network.
The station will officially launch on Tuesday, 10th December 2024 and will be available to listeners on DAB across Newcastle and Gateshead, as well as online.
Set to deliver high-quality local content, Affinity Radio will celebrate the culture, diversity, and stories of Newcastle and Gateshead. From news and entertainment to community initiatives, it aims to become the heartbeat of the region.
Broadcaster Steffen Peddie previously known as Host of BBC Newcastle’s late show is bringing his new show which is a 3-hour live phone in and will run Sunday – Thursday Nights between 10pm and 1am.
Local Champions Speak Out
Commenting on the power of local radio, Alfie Joey, a well-loved broadcaster and entertainer, shared:
“I really believe in the power of local radio. Affinity Radio and Radio Shields are doing everything they can to serve their local communities in the best ways possible. They have a fantastic, positive attitude and really are trying to make a difference and champion the places they reach. Give them a listen, see if you can get involved, and make this kind of local, community radio reach more and more people!”
Broadcasting veteran Pam Royle, former ITV presenter, also expressed her enthusiasm for the station’s expansion:
“I am very much looking forward to listening to Affinity Radio across Newcastle and Gateshead on DAB. It is wonderful to see the contribution Kyle Scott has made to keeping communities together over the airwaves since launching Radio Shields exactly three years ago. I first met Kyle 15 years ago, when he asked me if he could visit ITV TTTV for work experience. It has been a joy to witness Kyle’s dedication in achieving his goal of providing great listening and keeping the listener happy.”
Advertisers Seeing Real Results
Local businesses have also praised the impact of advertising with Affinity Media. A representative from JL Scents and Accessories noted:
“Since advertising with Affinity Media, we have seen an uptick in our social media following, and customers are coming into the showroom saying they’ve heard the ad. Just goes to prove that radio ads do work!”
T & G Direct Funeral Services noted:
I was put in contact with Kyle from Affinity Media as I was looking to advertise my business. I am absolutely over the moon with the professionalism shown by all involved within the radio station and I look forward to a long and prosperous working relationship with them. I would highly recommend”
Join the Team and Get Involved
As the station prepares for its launch, Affinity Media is calling on local businesses, organisations, and individuals to get involved.
- Local Businesses: Affinity Media invites businesses to support this initiative through sponsorship and partnerships that will help bring this new service to life while showcasing their brand to a loyal and engaged audience.
- Volunteers: Passionate about radio? Affinity Media is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to present shows, produce content, and contribute to the station’s programming. No prior experience is necessary—just a love for connecting with the community. Volunteers are welcome to visit the studio and learn more about how they can get involved.
- Events: The station will host a series of community events, through its own event management department “Showbiz “providing opportunities for residents to get involved, meet the team, and celebrate what makes Newcastle and Gateshead special and has been responsible for live performances such as; Ocean Road Mela and Great North Run. Directors Colin Rowell and Hope Harris said, “We are thrilled to be apart of this expansion and deliver real-local and live events, working with Affinity Radio providing a platform for our artists.
Studio Address
The Affinity Media studio is located at:
Affinity Media NE CIC
Pride Media Centre, Unit T1, Stonehills
Gateshead
NE10 0HW
Contact Details
For more information about volunteering, sponsorship opportunities, or upcoming events, please get in touch:
- Email: admin@affinitymedia.uk
- Website: www.affinitymedia.uk
| Affinity Media NE CIC – Providing community radio services to local communities. Welcome. We are Affinity Media NE CIC.. We pride ourselves as an organisation providing a ‘voice’ to the community. We are proud to serve our communities of Newcastle & Gateshead, and South Shields, Tynemouth. . www.affinitymedia.uk |
Building on a Legacy
Affinity Media’s commitment to fostering local talent and empowering communities through radio has already made a meaningful impact in other areas. This new DAB licence marks a significant step in the company’s vision to connect people across the North East.
Commenting on the expansion, Station Director & Manager Kyle Scott said:
“We are proud to extend our community radio offerings to Newcastle and Gateshead. This new service will build on the incredible foundation of Radio Shields, creating a platform where local voices are heard, businesses thrive, and communities come together. We encourage everyone to get involved and be part of this exciting journey.”
About Affinity Media
Affinity Media is a leading community-focused radio organisation, committed to providing high-quality programming that reflects and celebrates local communities. Its flagship station, Radio Shields, has been serving listeners since 2019 as part of the UK’s pioneering small-scale DAB service.