It's 'Air' we go for new radio station

DevonAir Radio, a name that resonates with many in Devon, has made a long-anticipated return.

Originally launched in 1980, DevonAir closed its doors in 1994, leaving behind fond memories for listeners and a gap in local radio.

But thanks to station founders Andy and Julie Green, the iconic station name has been revived—not as a mere replica, but as a modernised version with the same community spirit.

“We never intended to recreate the original DevonAir; you simply can’t replicate something from forty years ago,” said station manager Andy.

“If DevonAir had continued uninterrupted, it would sound very different today. We just wanted to bring back the name that makes it sound local and special.”

With that in mind and the station’s expansion into Torbay Andy and Julie rebranded East Devon Radio to DevonAir in March, blending nostalgia with a fresh approach.

Since the rebrand, DevonAir Radio has seen remarkable growth, gaining new listeners daily. Messages pour in from excited listeners who remember the original station and from newcomers drawn to its distinctive local feel and musical mix.

Broadcasting 24/7, the station focuses on providing the best of classic hits from the 1970s through the 2000s, with a carefully chosen selection of new songs to keep things current and engaging.

One of the standout features of DevonAir’s return is the presence of well-loved local broadcasters, bringing a familiar voice to the station’s legacy. Ben Clark, who started his career on the original DevonAir in the early ’90s, now hosts the weekday breakfast show, reconnecting listeners with his rich experience, well loved humour and local insights.

Additionally, Stephen Ayres, who was also part of the original lineup, brings his charm to Saturday afternoon’s and Sunday mornings, adding another familiar voice for longtime fans.

DevonAir Radio is everywhere listeners want it to be: it’s available on FM, DAB+ Digital Radio, online, and through the station’s dedicated app. Listeners can also tune in easily through smart devices by simply asking, “Alexa, play DevonAir Radio” or “Hey Google, stream DevonAir Radio.”

This modern flexibility means that whether listeners are at home, in the car, or on the go, they can stay connected to DevonAir.

DevonAir’s revival underlines Andy and Julie's commitment to local radio that honours its past while adapting to today’s music. As it continues to grow, DevonAir Radio is poised to once again become an integral part of Devon’s cultural landscape, blending nostalgia with a modern sound to bring the community together through music, local news, information, traffic news and all presented by local voices.