Local radio station Phoenix FM is kicking off 2026 with a vibrant schedule packed with returning favourites, high-profile guest interviews, and significant technical expansion. Listeners across Essex and beyond can expect a familiar mix of engaging local conversation, music, and arts coverage in the coming weeks.
A Star-Studded Schedule for the New Year
The station's popular programme, The Nightshift, returns on Thursday, January 8. Host Madeline will be joined by Caitlynne Curtis to discuss a major new phase in her career, focused on her forthcoming album You Need Jesus.
Music remains central the following week, on Thursday, January 15, when singer-songwriter Emily Ann Roberts – also known by the memorable moniker 'Yeehaw Merman' – will appear to outline her plans for the year ahead.
The One 2 Three show continues through January and February with a diverse roster of guests. The line-up includes Lisa Whymark from Hutton's Daily Bread café on Friday, January 9, and Deacon Nicholas Holmes on Friday, January 30. Holmes will share insights into his calling, training, and work at Brentwood Cathedral, as well as his role with the Catholic Chaplaincy team at Chelmsford Prison.
Authors, Lent, and Local Theatre
February brings literary flair when author Dan Pierce appears on Friday, February 6 to talk about his new book, A Summer Lent. This is followed on Friday, February 13 by a conversation with Revd Tayrina Ferguson from the Benefice of Coggeshall, focusing on Lent and Ash Wednesday.
Theatre enthusiasts are also well catered for. Sunday, January 11 sees The Midlife Mixup welcome Lauren Bracewell from Local Girl Productions to discuss their new staging of Much Ado About Nothing. Furthermore, on Wednesday, January 14, Drive host Jo will speak with Brentwood Theatre Manager Jake Bedson about upcoming community events. Looking ahead to March, The Weekend Wind-Up on Saturday, March 14 will feature members of Early Doors Productions talking about their group's imminent mini-tour.
Major Boost: DAB Coverage Extends to London
Beyond the studio, significant progress is being made behind the scenes. Although Phoenix FM has broadcast full-time on 98.0FM since March 2007, it has recently been issued new DAB licences.
The station is already available on DAB between Southend and Billericay. Crucially, by mid-January 2026, this coverage is projected to expand considerably, reaching as far as London. This expansion will bring the station's distinctive community radio offering to new listeners in areas including Stratford, Ilford, Barking, Dagenham, and Romford.
With more guests and programmes to be announced throughout the year, Phoenix FM promises that 2026 holds plenty more for its audience. The station continues to be a vital voice for communities across Essex, including Brentwood, Billericay, Hutton, Shenfield, and Wickford.
