Reduced subvention impacts on broadcaster

A cut in funding means there will have to be changes to Manx Radio's programme schedule.

The station's government subvention for the coming year has been reduced by just over £200,000 to £756,000.

Managing director Anthony Pugh says this has been offset by £171,000 of unspent money from the BBC's contribution to the Island's digital TV switchover, which the Treasury has passed on to the national broadcaster.

The subvention represents around 45 per cent of Manx Radio's income and Mr Pugh says, while the station is optimistic commercial income will grow, the service can't remain the same (first part of audio file):

Manx Radio will be introducing a new schedule in May, but programme controller Marc Tyley hopes it won't alter the feel of the station (second part of audio file):