About us

Our Story

Durham OnAir is your truly local radio station, serving the vibrant communities of County Durham, Darlington and the wider North East of England. Launched on November 5, 2020, our mission was clear: to fill the void for a dedicated local radio service, providing tailored programming for both residents and businesses of Durham and the local area. We are proud to be a reliable and trustworthy voice for the county, delivering local news, engaging chat, and Just Great Music. 

Durham OnAir is committed to reflecting and enhancing the rich cultural life of this amazing region.

What You'll Hear

We bring you "Just Great Music" from the last five decades, carefully curated to provide the perfect soundtrack to your day. Beyond the music, you'll find a diverse range of programming, including:

• Local and National News: Stay informed with the latest happenings in County Durham, the North East, and beyond.

• Local Chat and Conversations: Engaging discussions and insights into the issues that matter to our community.

• Sport Coverage: We keep you up-to-date with North East sport, with live commentary from Spennymoor Town FC for all their league games. 

• Competitions and Entertainment: Fun ways to win and enjoy your listening experience with our dedicated team of local presenters.

• Specialised Programmes: Exploring a wide range of genres and interests from specialist shows focusing on the 70's, 80's, Rock, Jazz, Country and Soul!

Who We Are For

Durham OnAir is for everyone in County Durham, Darlington and the surrounding North East, whether you're at home, at work, or on the go. We are dedicated to providing a service that resonates with the unique spirit of our listeners. We hope to connect with a broad range of people through shared loves and shared interests. 

We also serve as a vital link for independent local businesses, offering a direct way to connect with customers through effective advertising, sponsorship, and promotional opportunities.

How to Listen

You can tune into Durham OnAir in a variety of ways, ensuring you never miss a moment:

• DAB Digital Radio: Find us across the North East, including Newcastle, Gateshead, Tyneside, Darlington, and South Durham. Our DAB coverage is continuously expanding across the county.

• Online: Listen live directly from our website at durhamonair.com.

• Mobile App: Download the "Durham OnAir" app for free on your iOS or Android device. Our app is compatible with Apple CarPlay, allowing you to listen seamlessly in your car.

• Smart Speakers: Just say, "Alexa, Enable The Durham On Air Skill," and then "Start Durham On Air" or "Play Durham On Air" to listen on your Amazon Echo device.

• Radioplayer UK: We are also available through the Radioplayer platform. You can enjoy Radioplayer on Amazon Firesticks, in your car, through your smart phone or at your PC. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Durham OnAir not available on FM? 

Ofcom, the organisation that regulates broadcast media in the UK, are no longer granting any new FM licences. This is part of a wider plan to eventually close all FM services, so that all radio is broadcasting on a digital platform. 

Why is Durham OnAir not available on DAB in Durham City

For us to be heard on DAB, we need transmitters to be built to give services like us the ability to broadcast to certain areas. The creation of these transmitter sites is part of an application process that is controlled by OFCOM. Durham has not yet been granted a DAB Mux operation licence, which means local DAB services are not yet available in and around the city. If you are in Durham, please listen to us through our smart phone apps and your smart speaker. Details are here. 

Are you looking for presenters? 

We are always looking for new people to join out team. Please get in touch in the first instance via email to info@durhamonair.com 

Can I advertise on Durham OnAir? 

Yes! We'd love to talk to you about our advertising options. Please visit this page first.