Xtra AM

The station was launched on the morning of 4 April 1989, as a response to government disapproval of the simulcasting of programming on FM and medium wave.Xtra AM became a 'gold' station and targeted listeners in the 35 to 50 age range, while BRMB and Mercia both began to cater for a younger audience.The new AM service was launched to much fanfare with its inaugural host, Les Ross, conducting a spoof interview with Elvis Presley as part of its publicity.As well as playing what it termed 'classic hits', Xtra AM also carried a mini playlist of 12 songs from the current Top 40 which were deemed to fit with its music profile.During Xtra AM's nine years on air, besides Ross, these included Annie Othen, Ted Elliott, Tony Butler, Adrian Stewart, Dave Hickman, Mick Wright, Guy Jogoo and Noddy Holder (who hosted a popular Sunday afternoon show playing music from the 1970s).
BirminghamCoventryFrequencyFormatMidlands Radio plcIndependent Local RadioWarwickshireoldiesMercia FMLangley MillShiltonmedium waveLes RossElvis PresleyAnnie OthenTony ButlerNoddy HolderJimmy SavileBBC Radio 1Radio LuxembourgDavid HamiltonCapital RadioGWR GroupClassic Gold Network100.7 Heart FMCapital GoldClassic GoldGCap Media