Long-established Portsmouth local radio station Express FM has been shortlisted for multiple national awards.
The broadcaster, which has been based in the city centre for more than 18 years, is one of six nominees for the prestigious “Station of the Year” title in the UK Community Radio Awards.
It is also competing with national broadcasters for “Best Radio Station” at the British Country Music Association Awards through its support for the genre on the weekly Express Country show.
Hannah Roper, Express Country presenter and Creative Director of Portsmouth’s annual Country On The Coast event has also been nominated for “Best Radio Presenter” and “Best Festival” at the BCMA Awards.
Express FM Content Manager Harrison RB said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been nominated and highlighted as what judges from across the UK radio industry have deemed to be one of the six best community stations in the entire country in 2024.
“It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our amazing team, most of whom are volunteers, but fundamentally recognition for the people of Portsmouth. Thank you for sharing your stories with us and for putting your trust in us. We look forward to proudly flying the flag for our city at the Community Radio Awards ceremony in Cardiff later this year.
“We’re equally excited to have been shortlisted alongside esteemed national broadcasters CountryLine Radio and Absolute Radio Country at this year’s British Country Music Association Awards. This is entirely down to the outstanding commitment of Hannah Roper who is so deservingly also shortlisted for her weekly show, Express Country. Congratulations Hannah and thank you also to her loyal listeners.”
Hannah Roper said: “It is such an honour to be recognised for the second year running for my contribution to the UK country music scene through my work with Express FM and with my festival Country On The Coast. To then have the station recognised too is the cherry on top!
“With the rise of the popularity of country music, and so much influence from the US scene, it is amazing to be able to celebrate our own homegrown talent from right here in the UK, and to be celebrated in the same space as so many artists and industry professionals that I admire is something to be proud of.”
Members of the Express FM team will attend the Community Radio Awards ceremony in Cardiff on Saturday 16 November. Full details of the British Country Music Association Awards ceremony, taking place later in the year, are yet to be announced.
