The BBC is to launch new temporary digital radio services in Wolverhampton and Sunderland to support listeners during the COVID crisis.
BBC Radio Wolverhampton and BBC Radio Sunderland will provide more localised news and information to people living in the two cities, and follow the launch of BBC Radio Bradford, which began broadcasting last month.
The new temporary output in Wolverhampton and Sunderland will be live on DAB radio and online, weekdays from 6am-2pm and offer local content for both communities.
Wolverhampton and Sunderland have seen significant increases in COVID cases. Both places are currently served by BBC radio stations based in other cities, and the move means the BBC can provide more localised information and news to the communities.
Chris Burns, Head of BBC Local Radio, said: “We are here for people right across England in these extraordinary times and are determined to help communities stay informed, connected and safe during this most challenging period.
“Our new temporary local output in Wolverhampton and Sunderland means listeners will get more localised news and information from the BBC. They will get a better sense of what is happening in their area and will feel more in touch with their community even as they stay at home.”
BBC Radio Wolverhampton launches on Friday 15January and BBC Radio Sunderland launches on Monday 18 January.
BBC Radio Wolverhampton will be available weekdays 6am-2pm online at bbc.co.uk/radiowolverhampton or via DAB digital radio.
BBC Radio Sunderland will be available- weekdays 6am-2pm online at bbc.co.uk/radiosunderland or via DAB digital radio.