Launching DAB On Vectis

Vectis Radio is set to launch on DAB at 10am on 18th April, marking the culmination of nearly two

years of planning and behind the scenes work.

The official launch button will be pressed by local hero Dave Baker, a well known and respected

figure on the Isle of Wight. Station Manager Ian Mac said, “There could be no one more fitting to

mark the occasion. Dave is a shining light whose values perfectly reflect the ethos of Vectis Radio

and an inspiration to many.”

Dave grew up in Cowes and attended local schools before going on to play more than 500 football

matches for Northwood, Cowes and Osborne Coburg between 1981 and 2007. Alongside his

sporting achievements, he was also an active musician, performing with local bands including

Bobby I Can Fly.

His working life has included roles at Plessey Radar, the Newchurch Garlic Farm and later at St

Mary’s Hospital, where he retrained as an operating theatre technician.

After retiring from football, Dave took up endurance events including marathons, triathlons and

ultra races. In 2023, he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. Despite the challenges, and

now using a wheelchair with the support of his wife Alice, Dave continues to inspire others through

fundraising, blogging and public speaking.

Together, they have raised significant funds for Motor Neurone Disease charities and share their

journey through their blog and video content. Dave has also appeared regularly on Vectis Radio,

speaking openly about living with the condition and promoting inclusive sport, including

wheelchair assisted running.

Kelvin Currie Vectis Radio’s director said, “The Vectis Radio team is proud and excited ahead of the

launch.” He added adding that recent confirmation from Ofcom has brought reassurance that

everything should be in place for the station’s addition of broadcasting on DAB whilst maintaining

its presence on FM and online. The launch represents a major milestone for the station and a new

chapter in broadcasting for the Isle of Wight.”

The DAB launch takes place on the 18th of April at 10 am and we will launch with a song that has been written and produced by Island musician Martin Clark especially for the occasion the song will be heard for the first time ever and is entitled My Diamond Island.