Local radio station Bournemouth One has joined the DAB digital radio platform in Dorset – just in time for its first birthday.

The station, which launched on New Year’s Day 2024, has been granted a broadcasting licence from regulator Ofcom and is now available on DAB across the county.

It’s a big step forward for the locally owned and operated company, opening the door to half a million potential listeners.

Bournemouth One has also just finished giving away a smart speaker a day during December to celebrate 12 months of online streaming.

Now it’s looking forward to welcoming even more listeners around the area.

Co-founder Sophie Greenwood said: “Our first 12 months online has been so much fun and is valuable in helping us welcome many loyal listeners, partners and advertisers to Bournemouth One.

“But even though we’re now officially Ofcom licensed to cover the whole county, we remain loyal to the local area and will continue to provide more real and relevant news bulletins, travel reports, what’s on and essential local information than all the other local stations combined.

“The future of radio is digital, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of changing listener habits as we continue to cover half a million people in the area – now with added DAB.”

Fellow co-founder and CEO Roy Martin added: “Our Ofcom licence specifies we can officially super-serve the whole of BCP, plus our neighbouring towns of Wimborne, Ferndown, Verwood and Ringwood.

“It’s also fantastic news for any local businesses who want to target a local family audience, as the service is aimed at 30-plus adults living and working locally.

“We’d like to thank all our partners so far and look forward to making new friends in 2025.”

• Bournemouth One continues to stream online via bournemouthone.com and on smart speakers.