NEWS: Affinity Radio Wins "Radio Station of the Year" for 2025/26

 

Affinity Radio Wins "Radio Station of the Year" for 2025/26

Newcastle's Community Voice Recognised for Excellence in Local Broadcasting

Affinity Radio has been awarded the prestigious Radio Station of the Year (2025/26) honour by the Corporate LiveWire & LTG Regional Awards, marking a significant achievement for the North East's community broadcaster.

The award recognises Affinity Radio's outstanding commitment to local broadcasting, community engagement, and creative excellence across Tyneside. For those who tune in every Sunday, this success story includes the North East Theatre Guide, which features as part of the Jowheretogo Radio Show, broadcasting on Sundays from 1-3pm on Affinity Radio.

From Radio Shields to Regional Success

Operated by Affinity Media NE CIC, a community interest company founded by CEO Kyle Scott, Affinity Radio has deep roots in North East community broadcasting. Kyle's career began at Newcastle & Gateshead's first full-time FM community station, bringing years of experience to the venture.

The station's journey started in August 2019 as Radio Shields, becoming one of the first to join the UK's small-scale DAB network. In December 2024, the service expanded with the launch of Affinity Radio Newcastle & Gateshead. A pivotal moment came on 8th June 2025 when, following Ofcom approval, both services merged under the unified Affinity Radio North East brand, creating a stronger, more cohesive voice for the region.

A True Community Effort

Broadcasting from studios at Pride Media Centre in Pelaw, Affinity Radio operates with a dedicated team of volunteers who handle presenting, producing, and station operations. The station partners with RedArmy Group and Tyneside Community Digital to deliver diverse, locally-led programming to communities across Tyneside.

CEO Kyle Scott 

CEO Kyle Scott expressed his pride in the achievement: "This award is a huge milestone for Affinity Radio and a testament to the passion, creativity, and dedication of our entire team. We set out to build a station that truly serves and represents our community, and being recognised at this level shows that our hard work is making an impact. I want to thank our listeners, partners, and supporters — we couldn't have achieved this without you."

A Genuine Local Radio Station

The award represents more than industry recognition—it celebrates everyone who engages with the station, from loyal listeners to volunteers, partners, and advertisers. Affinity Radio views this honour as an opportunity to expand programming and strengthen its commitment to social inclusion, education, and local storytelling.

The station's mission remains steadfast: to be a authentic voice for the North East, reflecting the culture, stories, and issues that matter most to local communities.

How to Listen

Affinity Radio broadcasts on DAB+ Digital Radio across South Shields, Tynemouth, Newcastle, and Gateshead, and is also available via livestream online, mobile apps, and smart speakers.

Don't miss the North East Theatre Guide on the Jowheretogo Radio Show every Sunday from 1-3pm, bringing you the latest news, reviews, and insights from the region's vibrant theatre scene.

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For more information about Affinity Radio, visit their website https://www.affinityradio.uk/ or tune in via DAB Digital Radio across Tyneside.