A Norwich radio station is to reach more people using new DAB digital technology.

Broadcasting watchdog Ofcom has announced that around 60 stations nationally can begin broadcasting on digital radio for the first time using 'small-scale DAB'.

Ten trial licences have been awarded, and one of them has gone to Future Digital Norfolk, which brings Future Radio, Norwich 99.9, The Music Machine, Solar Radio, Jazz FM, Totallyradio and Future Plus to Norfolk.

The stations are expected to begin broadcasting on DAB digital radio from the summer for a period of nine months.

Currently, the cost of broadcasting on DAB is beyond the reach of many small radio stations. But a new approach, pioneered in the UK by Ofcom engineer Rashid Mustapha, means that small-scale radio stations could start broadcasting on DAB radio for a fraction of current costs.

Future Radio's station manager, Daniele Fisichella, said: 'This is great news for us and all our volunteers because it means that soon we will be able to provide more content and more opportunities in radio for more local communities.

'A huge thanks goes to Mike Stonard and Lawrie Hallet, Future Digital Norfolk's directors and Future Projects trustees, who have worked closely with Ofcom since long time and submitted a successful application, which will benefit the community radio massively. Being able to broadcast on DAB means that Future Radio will expand its reach beyond the outskirts of Norwich and listeners across Norfolk will have the opportunity to enjoy community-focused programmes and alternative music.'