BBC Radio 4 presenter Al Ryan delivered an emotional farewell as the long-wave (LW) transmission service officially ceased operations on June 27, 2026. The shutdown marks the end of nearly 100 years of broadcasting history, with the iconic shipping forecast being the final programme broadcast on the frequency.
Final Sign-Off
In his on-air statement, Ryan told listeners: "Well, before we leave you tonight, I just wanted to take a moment to mark the end of an era. For almost a century, long-wave transmitters have carried the BBC across the airwaves, from the iconic Droitwich transmitting station in Worcestershire to Westerglen in Falkirk in Scotland." He added: "Although the long-wave signal is fading into history this morning, the memories and connections it created will endure forever. We shall miss your warmth and crackle."
The broadcast concluded with the national anthem before the channel fell silent. A visibly emotional Ryan was seen in the studio after signing off. He later tweeted: "The end of an era - After almost a century we said goodbye this morning to our great companion of the airwaves Radio 4 198 LW. I shall miss her warmth and crackle. Here’s the final sign off at the end of #theshippingforecast before she fell silent…"
Reason for Shutdown
The BBC confirmed that the long-wave service was being discontinued because the technology that powers it has "reached the end of its life." Listeners who relied on LW reception must now switch to alternative methods such as DAB, FM, or online streaming to access BBC Radio 4.
Listener Reactions
Fans expressed their sadness on social media, with one writing: "A sad day in the history of analogue radio. It was listening to BBC Radio 4 on LW as a child that gave me my love of radio. The warm tones and the odd crackle will be missed by many. RIP Radio 4 LW." Another listener recalled: "I remember tuning into Radio 4 on LW on my old radio (only had SW, MW & LW channels) while searching for European and Pirate Radio stations. Such poor quality sound but the best I could get at that time."
The closure of the LW service represents a significant shift in broadcasting, as the BBC moves towards digital-only platforms. The shipping forecast, a staple for mariners and enthusiasts, will continue to be available on other frequencies.
