A RADIO station set up to inform Conwy residents about local lockdown restrictions has returned to the airwaves due to popular demand.

Bayside Radio was given a temporary broadcasting license that expired in September however as a result of continued local lockdowns and the success of the project media regulator Ofcom has given it an extension.

The Colwyn Bay radio, which has broadcasted 24 hours a day, seven days a week on the 87.7FM frequency since March, is run by volunteers to provide essential Covid-19 information and how it applies to communities in the county.

The radio will now run until the start of December but possibly for longer dependent on need.

“We are very pleased to be back serving our community in the Bay of Colwyn but hoped it could be in much different circumstances,” said Bayside Radio operations and content director, David Wynne.

“It will be our aim to reflect on what is going on in our community but most importantly to entertain and provide some companionship with our team of brilliant volunteers and presenters.

“I can promise everyone lots of laughter and music mixed in with the most important local news on how we can best tackle Coronavirus together.”

The radio has received funding from the Gwynt-y-Mor Covid-19 emergency fund, the National Lottery Community Fund and the Bay of Colwyn Town Council.

Its shows are compiled by former local broadcasters and volunteers such as former mayor of Colwyn Jeff Pearson, ex-Marcher Coast FM presenter and former Ysgol Pen-y-Bryn headmaster John Roberts, former editor of the North Wales Pioneer Phil Williams and director of music at Rydal Penrhos School, Pete Williams.

“It will be our pleasure to entertain and inform our communities for as long as it takes to overcome COVID-19 and we’ll have a few surprises in store coinciding with I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here at Gwrych Castle too,” said Mr Wynne.

“Our focus will always remain on the Bay of Colwyn and through our work, we hope to promote positivity and pride in our wonderful area.”