Drystone Radio has been found in breach of the Broadcasting Code after offensive language was aired during a live rugby commentary programme on 14th March just after 12pm.
The community station, which covers Sutton-in-Craven, Ilkley and Wharfedale, had technical problems at the start of the broadcast which led to no audio for nearly ten minutes.
This was followed by music and then a series of telephone calls between the presenter and colleagues as they tried to resolve the issues.
During these calls, five instances of the word “f***k” and its variations were broadcast. The station explained that the presenter believed he was off-air and that the incident was caused by a technical error involving a third-party supplier.
Drystone Radio acknowledged the language was not intended for broadcast and did not reflect its usual standards.
Ofcom considered the incident a clear breach of Rule 1.14, which prohibits the most offensive language at times when children are likely to be listening, and Rule 2.3, which requires that potentially offensive content be justified by context.
Ofcom noted that no warning or apology was given after the language was aired. Drystone Radio said it had taken steps to prevent recurrence, including reviewing procedures, providing additional training, and introducing technical safeguards.
Ofcom reminded the station that ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with the licensee, regardless of technical failures.
The decision was: Breach of Rules 1.14 and 2.3
