The BBC has permanently switched off its Radio 4 long wave service, ending nearly a century of broadcasting. The service, which began in 1934 and was used to transmit messages during the Second World War, was shut down at 1am on Saturday. Presenter Al Ryan signed off with an emotional farewell, stating, "I shall miss her warmth and crackle."
End of an Era for BBC Radio 4 Long Wave
Radio 4 moved to the long wave frequency in 1978 and remained there until now. It was the home of iconic programmes such as The Archers, Desert Island Discs, and the shipping forecast, which served communities across the UK. In his final shipping forecast, Ryan said: "Before we leave you tonight, I just wanted to take a moment to mark the end of an era. For almost a century, the long wave transmitters have carried the BBC across the airwaves, from the iconic Droitwich transmitting station in Worcestershire to Westerglen in Falkirk in Scotland."
Why the BBC Closed the Long Wave Service
The BBC first announced plans to close long wave services in 2022, citing that the technology is "coming to the end of its life." In 2024, it ended separate scheduling for Radio 4 long wave. The corporation stated that continued use would require "significant investment" for a platform used by a small proportion of listeners. The BBC is focusing on "investing in platforms that best serve audiences and provide resilient coverage for the future" amid the rise of digital listening.
Impact on Listeners and Programmes
Long wave radio was frequently used by those in remote and rural communities, as well as mariners and fishermen. Prior to the closure, campaigners fought against the decision, citing its importance as a non-digital national communication network. However, the BBC confirmed that no Radio 4 programmes will be lost. The station continues to be available on FM, DAB, television platforms, and digital services. The corporation added: "We also work closely with organisations that support vulnerable audiences around platform closures, to ensure listeners are helped in a timely and sensitive way."
