What Bauer has said
In the interests of balance, Bauer’s press release issued ahead of the changeover is below. But I suspect many listeners, like me, are wondering just why we have waved goodbye to Wave.
It read: “Wave 105 is to enter a new era as it gets set to transform into Greatest Hits Radio – the home of Ken Bruce – from this spring. As well as becoming home to one of radio’s most iconic voices, under its new name the station will also feature legendary broadcasters including Simon Mayo at Drivetime and Jackie Brambles in the evenings.
“Current local Breakfast show host Rick Jackson will remain at the helm of mornings on the station, as well as Mark Collins on midafternoons.
“Greatest Hits Radio features a playlist of songs from iconic artists from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, including Blondie, Queen, George Michael, Madonna, Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie, Elton John and Whitney Houston. The station also has shows from muchloved radio presenters including Martin Kemp, Kate Thornton, Jenny Powell and many more.
“The station will continue to provide local news and information for the region, including traffic and travel, as well as commercial opportunities for local partners; and fundraising for disadvantaged young people within the community through its Cash for Kids charity will also carry on.”
Gary Stein, group programme director for the Hits Radio portfolio, said: “Wave 105 is a well-loved and recognised station identity within the south coast and we want to build on its fantastic success and secure its future by transforming it into a nationally recognised brand, bolstered by a national marketing campaign to ensure it has even more opportunity to grow.
“Unique to our other Greatest Hits Radio stations, it will have its very own Breakfast show hosted by the fantastic Rick Jackson in addition to a mid-afternoon show hosted by Mark Collins, and all the local news and information we know is important to audiences. This is all while offering a new look schedule and playlist that we know is loved by listeners across the nation.
“The changes do unfortunately mean that a small number of roles will be put into consultation and freelance contracts reviewed. Bauer Media is fully committed to supporting all affected employees throughout this period.
“The station will also contain local news and information for the area.”
The changes do unfortunately mean that a small number of roles will be put into consultation and freelance contracts reviewed