New BBC Radio Bradford station to be hosted by Rima Ahmed and Sanchez Payne

Output will go live on weekdays between 6am and 2pm from Monday and is tailored to the people of the district and their lives.

Last month it was announced that the BBC would be creating temporary local radio for new locations in Bradford, Wolverhampton and Sunderland - places where listeners have been less interested in its output.

Chris Burns, head of BBC Audio and Digital, said: “Bradford is a unique and exciting city and we want to provide more localised content especially at this time. BBC Radio Bradford will provide sport and local news and information to help people make sense of what is happening where they live.”

BBC Radio Leeds hosts Rima Ahmed and Sanchez Payne are moving over to the Bradford station, respectively presenting the breakfast show from 6am to 10am and the slot between 10am and 2pm.

Both presenters were discovered by the BBC, Rima through a talent search, while Sanchez was spotted hosting music events.

Local news bulletins will run on the hour to support audiences through the impact coronavirus is having on the Bradford and Keighley areas.

The output is planned to continue until March 2021.

Rima Ahmed said: “It’s thrilling to be given the chance to present the Breakfast Show on BBC Radio Bradford.

"This has been a long time coming for the city and it’s the listeners who will really own the show.

"We want to talk to the people of Bradford - not just about the people of Bradford, as is so often the case.

"To be there when the city wakes up is going to be a real honour. I can't wait to be your alarm clock, Bradford."

Sanchez Payne added: “I am very excited to be a part of this journey of new beginnings and the birth of Radio Bradford which will represent such diversity, culture and history.

"I relish the opportunity to serve the Bradford community by sharing their stories, their voices, music, events and everything that makes the city so special. I aim to bring the passion, the pride and the energy this great city deserves.”

BBC Radio Bradford will be available on MW and online at www.bbc.co.uk/radiobradford.