Radio Victory invests in local news coverage for Portsmouth

Radio Victory is expanding its local news operation as it grows across new DAB multiplex areas.

The Portsmouth-based station, now also broadcasting on the Petersfield, Haslemere, Bordon and Alton multiplex, has appointed Diana Binks to its news team led by Helen Wheeler.

Diana joins with experience across television and radio, largely in sport and more recently in news. Leah Halsey continues to provide reporting and oversees local sports coverage for Hampshire and West Sussex as Sports Editor.

Managing Director Bob Bruce said: “As Radio Victory approaches its 5th birthday, this is a welcome addition to our constantly evolving growth. We are targeting more “local” DAB multiplexes to increase our reach and investing in local news coverage is an important step.”

Programme Controller Neil Crespin added: “We are local radio and our strapline; “Radio like it used to be” means we need local news and sport. Diana joining the team gives us more credibility, our heart is in Portsmouth but we broadcast across Hampshire as our home and good local radio needs good local news.”

Local news bulletins currently air during weekday breakfast with Gary Champion, mid-mornings with Patrick Foster and drivetime with Graham Partin. Plans include extending lunchtime output and introducing weekend morning bulletins.