By Isle of Wight Observer
Angel Radio, the Island’s long‑running nostalgia station, is preparing for a major leap forward as it awaits final approval from OFCOM to begin broadcasting on digital radio. The move will allow the station to reach far more listeners across the Isle of Wight, through the Wight Digital Radio Network.
A spokesman for the station, which celebrates its 27th year on air and 19 years of full‑time FM broadcasting, says the digital upgrade marks one of the biggest developments in its history. Despite the expansion, Angel Radio will continue to be available on 91.5 FM.
Founded in 1999, Angel Radio became the Island’s first community radio station and began full‑time broadcasting on the Wight Fibre network (then Wight Cable) in 2001. After a lengthy campaign, it secured a full FM licence and launched 24‑hour broadcasting on 24 March 2007. The station remains entirely volunteer‑run.
Angel Radio is known for its distinctive mix of vintage comedy, drama, and music. Listeners can tune in to classics such as Hancock’s Half Hour, The Goons, Round the Horne, Life with the Lyons, Journey into Space, The Lone Ranger, Roy Rogers, and Hopalong Cassidy. The schedule also features American radio favourites, including Dragnet, The Shadow, Harry Lime, and Sherlock Holmes.
Alongside the drama and comedy, the station plays music from 1900 to 1969, featuring stars such as Bing Crosby, Al Jolson, and Nat King Cole, supported by a dedicated team of local presenters.
Angel Radio describes itself as “your station of nostalgia stars”, broadcasting across the Island and on-line to listeners around the world.
