09 July 2005

A new radio station for the Island could be launched by the end of the year.

Energy Radio Ltd has announced plans for a new station aimed at over-35s
playing hits from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.

The new service Energy 2 will feature a format of music, news and local
features and will initially be broadcast online.

3FM launched last October, aimed at 34 to 55-year-olds with a BBC Radio 2
style, but managing director of Energy Juan Turner believes mature listeners
are still missing out.

'The Island's older audience is still not being musically catered for with
Manx Radio focusing mainly on speech and Energy FM and 3FM aiming at the
same musical targets,' he commented.

'It leaves a vast void for listeners wanting to hear music such as the
Beatles, Rolling Stones, Motown artists and even more easy listening artists
such as Neil Diamond, Carpenters and The Eagles.'

Energy FM launched in July 2001 aimed at 15 to 35-year-olds.

Its main frequency is 98.6FM, but also broadcasts on four other frequencies.
The company is examining the feasibility of splitting some of its
frequencies and reusing some to provide coverage for the new station,
similar to the way Manx Radio splits its FM and medium wave frequencies.

Subject to scheduling software and music being installed at Energy's
headquarters, Market Street, Douglas, the new station could be live online
by the autumn.

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