Much loved Manchester radio station breaks record just months after facing closure

Sky news reporter Fraser Dainton once called XS Manchester “the best radio station in Manchester”.

Just six months after facing closure, XS Manchester (106.1FM), have made an unprecedented comeback recording its highest listening figures in six years.

With a listenership of over 132,000 in the North West, the station now retains more listening hours than The Hits (formerly Key 103) and remains as a champion of classic anthems and new music in Greater Manchester.

Fans have rewarded the station by doubling listening hours with the station’s weekly listening hours growing from 566,000 this time last year to 1,280,000, with shows such as Clint Boon’s Drive Time recording huge growth.

#RAJAR Q1 2020: Regional and local radio facts and figures including a great set of results for the now-saved @XSManchester https://t.co/jXHoZ7cQId pic.twitter.com/aoRFpBi6qn

— RadioToday UK (@RadioToday) May 13, 2020

The station has responded to the pandemic by curating a Lockdown Live series of virtual gigs and by airing a daily comedy drama based around the city. It is also releasing a new series of its acclaimed “Humans Of XS Manchester” podcast, speaking to legendary Mancunian celebrities from their homes.

Clint Boon, XS Manchester Drivetime DJ, said: “I can’t explain how excited I am that XS Manchester is not only enjoying some amazing listening figures, but that myself and the team will be able to carry on embracing our beautiful city and nurturing the next generation of great Manchester bands and artists. Spread the word party people!”

Recognised across Manchester for supporting breakthrough artists, XS will continue to air on FM, DAB and online as part of the Communicorp UK portfolio of brands.

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