Hits Radio boss says York radio station is 'not closing but evolving'

Bauer Media announced earlier this week that Minster - along with dozens of other local radio stations - was to be absorbed into the Hits Radio Brand Network.

The decision was condemned by politicians as a 'kick in the teeth' and an 'act of breathtaking cultural vandalism' and more than 4,500 people have since signed an online 'Save Minster FM' petition, which says the station, based at Dunnington, 'plays an absolutely vital part in our community and promotes the city and charitable causes.'

It claims: "To lose it now would be unthinkable. Let's keep the station on air and the presenters and studio staff in employment."

Graham Bryce, managing director of the Hits Radio Network, said the petition highlighted that there was 'clearly a passionate and loyal audience for Minster FM who care about the presenters and staff at the station, as well as the content that they produce.'

He said: "We want to reassure those listeners that the station is not closing, but is evolving to reflect the changing media landscape in order to ensure its future success matches its rich history.

“The station will retain local content that listeners highly value such as local news, information, traffic and travel, local charitable activity and will retain its presence in the community, as well as reflecting the major events and stories that are important to listeners.”

But now York Outer MP Julian Sturdy has revealed that he has written to Dee Ford, group managing director of Bauer Media's radio division, to raise residents' concerns.

He said that while acknowledging the challenges faced by the competitive radio industry, he had made it clear that decisions which affect such a valued local service cannot take place without public consultation.

"With much beloved disc jockeys and support staff at risk of losing their jobs, it is only more pressing to ensure that this sweeping decision has been carefully considered and its impact assessed," he said.

He said one of the main areas of concern was the loss of an independent, quality news source and a voice for local communities and he believed that now, more than ever, accurate public service broadcasting was essential and local residents deserved the highest standards.

He said he had asked Ms Ford to clarify a number of points, including whether there would be a dedicated local news bulletin, how frequent it would be and what area would it cover.

He had also asked her to outline what individual assessment was made of Minster FM that led to the decision when some local radio stations are remaining and whether local listeners could be consulted ahead of any changes being implemented.