Devon’s new independent local radio station – DevonAir – will make history as the first of its kind in the world.
It will be the first to run a “twin” operation –with the service for the Exeter area on one side and the Torbay area on the other.
As far as was known, no other radio station in the world had yet to run this kind of queen operation said the station’s chairman, Mr. Norman Devonport, of Buckfastleigh, when he unveiled DevonAir’s plans in Exeter yesterday.
The station will be run by Radio Haldon Limited, the company which is just been awarded the operating franchise by the Independent Broadcasting Authority.
Mr. Devonport declared “It is our aim that the station will bring an extra dimension into the lives of the people of our area.
“We accept completely the directive to inform, educate and entertain, and would take particular care that the religious, cultural and social needs are fully met.
“We intend to build two genuine community radio stations unifying the areas and becoming an integral part of the lives of our people.
“It is our wish that we become the central point of all forms of activity, totally involved and committed, a challenge readily accepted as her programming clearly indicates.”
Advertising revenue would provide the running costs and the service would not cost the listeners a penny.
“No part of the licence goes towards independent local radio, it isn’t entirely free service.” commented the chairman.
The company wanted to be involved in the life of the community and there will be opportunities for people to buy shares in Radio Haldon if they wished.
The non executive vice president vice Admiral Sir Ronald Brockman, would header community advisory committee to work closely with the company in advising on relationships with the public.
Speedway beliefs
Mr. Devonport praised Radio Haldon’s two competitors in applying for the franchise; Bay City Radio and Riviera Radio. He said they had both present it could cases in a sporting manner and it must have been difficult for the IBA to choose between the three groups.
A Sunday morning programme to interest the younger generation in Christian matters is planned by DevonAir.
The station said that are clergyman would interview various celebrities such as footballers and speedway stars about their personal problems and beliefs, and music of their choice would be played.
The programme would be entitled “Rock Of Ages”.
