Ofcom is changing what it classes as a Yellow Card, as it hands out a stark warning to Global Radio's GWR FM ahead of it's planned Heart rebrand.
Though branded as a contemporary and chart music information station, GWR Bristol’s output contained less than fifty per cent of music released within the last two years. Ofcom has advised Global to take this most recent finding into account when it comes to programming across all their contemporary hit radio stations. What knock on effect this might have for the company's forthcoming Heart roll out remains to be seen.
In a statement, the media regulator said: “If we find that these issues have been addressed when we monitor the station again, after Monday 23 March 2009, then the Yellow Card will be lifted. If GWR does not come back within Format within the week we will move to sanctions, which could involve a fine or shortening of licence.”
Global Radio, owners of GWR Bristol, have responded with the following statement: "GWR Bristol was asked to supply music logs to OFCOM by today, Friday 13th March. The requested information was supplied by yesterday, 12th March.
"Ofcom’s decision was made without reference to either the station, or by talking to its owners, Global Radio.
"This is an extraordinary way for a regulator to behave by issuing a judgement before a deadline has passed.
"We do not accept this finding, and are considering our position."
