Local BBC: Here in extraordinary times when you need us most

• BBC launches new temporary local output in Wolverhampton and Sunderland to help people through lockdown
• BBC Radio Wolverhampton launches on Friday 15 January while BBC Radio Sunderland launches on Monday 18 January

The BBC is to launch new temporary local output in Wolverhampton and Sunderland as the country continues to deal with the COVID crisis.

BBC Radio Wolverhampton and BBC Radio Sunderland will provide more localised news and information to people living in the two cities. It follows the launch of BBC Radio Bradford, which began broadcasting last month.

The new temporary output in Wolverhampton and Sunderland will be live on DAB radio and online, weekdays from 6am-2pm and offer local content for both communities.

Wolverhampton and Sunderland have seen significant increases in Covid cases. Both places are currently served by BBC radio stations based in other cities. The move means the BBC can provide more localised information and news to the communities.

Chris Burns, head of BBC Local Radio, says: “We are here for people right across England in these extraordinary times and are determined to help communities stay informed, connected and safe during this most challenging period.

“Our new temporary local output in Wolverhampton and Sunderland means listeners will get more localised news and information from the BBC. They will get a better sense of what is happening in their area and will feel more in touch with their community even as they stay at home.”

As well as news, both will provide sport coverage, reflect life in each city, and celebrate the good news happening in communities.

BBC Radio Wolverhampton launches on Friday (January 15) and BBC Radio Sunderland launches on Monday (January 18). They are planned to broadcast until March.
 

BBC Radio Wolverhampton
 

Local presenter Elise Evans will be the host of BBC Radio Wolverhampton’s Breakfast show from 6am-10am, followed by Letitia George on mid-mornings at 10am-2pm.

Elise joined the BBC two years ago and presented shows across BBC Radio WM’s schedule. Elise says: “I am absolutely thrilled to be given the opportunity to wake up my home city every morning on BBC Radio Wolverhampton.

“Having grown up and spent many years here, I am excited to put Wolves firmly on the map and showcase what our amazing, vibrant city has to offer. From the fantastic people and diverse culture, to the outstanding theatre and football scene, this city has it all and I’m buzzing to be part of a passionate team bringing this station to life during such a challenging time. Let's go Wolvo!”

Letitia George is currently a presenter at BBC CWR in Coventry and is also one of the voices of BBC Radio 5 Live’s podcast The Sista Collective.

Letitia says: “I could not feel more blessed, grateful, and excited to be joining the team for BBC Radio Wolverhampton. With such a fantastic local community who are passionate about their city, who wouldn't jump at the chance to be involved? I can't wait to take you through your weekday mornings and share your incredible stories.”
 

BBC Radio Sunderland
 

On BBC Radio Sunderland, Gilly Hope will present the Breakfast show from 6am-10am, followed by Tamsin Robson from 10am -2pm.

Gilly joined the BBC in 2004 and is a well-known voice to BBC Radio Newcastle listeners and viewers of regional TV. Gilly says: “I wore a bright purple school uniform to Monkwearmouth, sold pies at Roker Park, was the first female DJ behind the decks on a Friday night in town, had my babies at Sunderland Royal and I love a stroll at Roker beach. I can’t wait to present the breakfast show on BBC Sunderland, waking up people across my home city and finding the stories that matter to us on Wearside."

Tamsin Robson joined BBC Radio Newcastle in January last year. She presents the station’s Upload show. She says: “I am so excited to be part of BBC Radio Sunderland. Growing up near the coast, I spent most of my time at the beach, which is still my favourite place to visit today.

“I went to school in Sunderland and studied at the university, which was a fantastic experience. Who could forget the Sunderland nightlife? To present mid-mornings is a dream come true and I can't wait to share inspirational stories of the local community and lots of laughter with you.”