1219 BBC Ends Long Wave: The End of an Era for Radio 4 on 198 kHz

After nearly a century on the air, the BBC has ended its famous Radio 4 Long Wave broadcasts on 198 kHz, marking the close of one of the most significant chapters in British broadcasting history. For generations, Long Wave carried the Shipping Forecast, news, drama, Test Match Special, and countless memorable programmes across the UK and far beyond its shores. In this podcast, we reflect on the history of BBC Long Wave, why the transmitters have finally been switched off, what this means for listeners, and the legacy of a service that connected millions through a unique radio technology. Whether you're a radio enthusiast, DXer, historian, former BBC listener, or simply interested in the evolution of broadcasting, join us as we remember the distinctive sound of Long Wave and its place in Britain's cultural heritage. The BBC ended Radio 4's Long Wave service because the ageing transmission infrastructure had reached the end of its operational life, with listening having largely moved to FM, DAB and online platforms. #BBCLongWave #Radio4 #198kHz #LongWave #LongWaveRadio #RadioHistory #ShippingForecast #DroitwichTransmitter #BritishBroadcasting #DXListening #AMRadio #RadioNostalgia #BroadcastingHistory #BBC #TeacherJoseph #Podcast #June2026 #EndOfLongWave