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End of an Era: BBC Long-Wave Radio Goes Silent
27 Jun
Summary
- BBC Radio 4's long-wave broadcasts ended after nearly 100 years.
- Long-wave radio was vital for rural listeners and during WWII.
- Age UK warns about leaving older, non-digital users behind.
BBC Radio 4's long-wave broadcasts have ceased after almost 100 years of service. The final transmission occurred at 1:00 AM on Saturday, marking a significant shift in broadcasting technology. This frequency, utilized by Radio 4 since 1978, played a crucial role in transmitting messages during the Second World War and has been a reliable service for communities in remote areas.
Age UK has voiced concerns about the closure, highlighting the importance of ensuring that older demographics and individuals who prefer analogue radios are not left behind. Charity director Caroline Abrahams stressed the imperative for government leadership in a national digital inclusion effort.
Radio enthusiasts also note the significance of this change, with the closure representing the end of the main UK long-wave transmission source from Droitwich. The BBC stated that long-wave technology is nearing the end of its lifecycle, and continued use would necessitate substantial investment for a platform used by a small listener base. Radio 4 will remain accessible via FM, DAB, television, and digital platforms.
