A launch event has been held for a new radio station that will cover Milton Keynes and Leighton Buzzard.
The new Horizon Radio is available on DAB Digital Radio, online and via smart speakers, which will broadcast live from an new custom-built studio in Midsummer Place shopping centre that will open this week.
The radio station plays a mix of music from the eighties to the present day from Whitney to Beyonce, Stevie Wonder to Harry Styles alongside everything that’s happening in MK.
The new station pays homage to the former Horizon Radio, which was the name of a station that covered Milton Keynes between 1989 and 2009. But although the name will be familiar, this is a brand new radio station, supporting local good causes, charities and community groups.
Behind this venture is Chris Gregg, who is a familiar voice in Milton Keynes’ radio scene with two decades of experience in the new city, including as the founder of MKFM and steering the programming of Heart and the former Horizon Radio.
Chris said, “We’re really excited to open our new radio, podcast and video studio in Midsummer Place. We’ve got some very exciting and ambitious plans for the station and we’d love to hear from anyone who’d like to get involved.”
“We listened to what people want to hear and we’ve carefully crafted a station for today’s listeners with a fresh sound, useful content, and a strong presence in our community.”
Simon Martin, Centre Manager at Midsummer Place, added, “We’re delighted to welcome Horizon Radio to Midsummer Place, bringing a vibrant new energy to the heart of Milton Keynes. Their commitment to supporting the local community aligns perfectly with our values, and we’re excited to see the station become a hub for creativity, entertainment, and connection with local people. The new studio is an exciting addition, and we’re proud to be part of this fantastic new chapter in Milton Keynes’ radio scene.”
Confirmed as presenters for the new Horizon Radio include former Chiltern Radio breakfast duo Tony Dibbin and Emma Saint, local comedian Dan Mayo on drivetime, theatre reviews from Steven Gordon-Wilson and Nancy Stevens’ award winning arts show plus coverage of grassroots sports as well as live broadcasts from local events.
Local artists are able to perform live on the radio from the new bandstand near the studio in the Central Boulevard at Midsummer Place and be featured on the weekly local music show with Jodie Erica.
As the flagship station of the new Milton Keynes DAB multiplex, Horizon Radio will be available alongside dozens of exciting new radio stations covering different local communities, music tastes and cultures. To find the new services, press the ‘rescan’ button on your digital radio.
Anyone interested in learning more can find out more at horizonradio.com