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Stornoway-based radio station, Isles FM, has launched an appeal to finance the renewal of their broadcasting licence.

 

The present right to run a commercial radio station in the Western Isles has been held by Isles FM for the past 21 years.

 

The present licence ends in December next year and regulator Ofgem is to grant a further licence for this area from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2027.

 

Declarations of intent are sought from prospective radio broadcasters and Isles FM intends to apply.

 

If it is the only applicant, then it has a clear run to keep the licence for the next 12 years.

 

The radio operator has launched an appeal to pay for the £5000 licence fee.

 

 

Radio station appeal for licence finance

24 November 2014

Station managing director David Morrison said: "The licence is for another 12 years and is a major hurdle for us to overcome to ensure we progress and develop things for the future.

 

"We tried a couple of appeal nights but there is so much on just now with other national appeals for good causes.

 

“We backed off last weekend because of Children in Need, which raises a phenomenal amount locally.

 

“Then there was also the Shoebox Appeal and this week, there's Band Aid 30.

 

"But we are a local and voluntary non-profit group and we really do need urgent assistance. Without a licence, Isles FM, who are viewed as a vital communications medium in the islands, cannot continue broadcasting, and that would be a tragedy for our community. This is, now, the community’s opportunity to get behind the station, and ensure its long term future.