Basildon-based radio station Gateway 97.8 has had its broadcast licence extended until 2030.

The news means the community radio station can continue broadcasting 24/7 to Basildon and East Thurrock for a futher five years.

The industry regulator Ofcom has agreed to the station's latest application to stay on air past 2025.

Gateway 97.8 is a community interest company which trains adults and children to become radio presenters. 

The station also runs a Radio Club youth group who host a live on-air takeover every Saturday morning.

Station director Danny Lawrence said: "I'm delighted to say that Ofcom has agreed to our new application. This keeps the station at the heart of the Basildon community until 2030. We are also hoping to move onto small scale DAB in the near future."

Listen to Gateway 97.8 on 97.8 FM or online at gateway978.com.