Brighton and Hove’s local media sector was given a boost today as Ofcom awarded a licence to Latest TV to run local digital terrestrial TV services in the city.

The licence has been awarded for a period of up to 12 years, and there are hopes that some channels may be on air before the end of 2013.

Ofcom has also given a licence to Grimsby following the launch of the competition in May 2012, with further licence awards planned for the coming months.

Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion and a supporter of the Latest bid, said:

“Having backed Brighton and Hove’s bid to secure a new local TV station, I am thrilled that our city has become one of the first today to be awarded a licence by Ofcom.

“Congratulations to the Latest team and everyone involved for doing such a great job on their winning pitch.

“The new local channels, which could be on air before the end of 2013, will give the people of Brighton and Hove a closer-to-home news source with programmes that are more relevant to their lives – and play a key role in supporting local democracy.

“Our wealth of media talent and strong track record of community engagement mean we’re ideally placed to make a real success of local TV."

Phélim Mac Cafferty, Deputy Leader of Brighton and Hove City Council added:

"We are all absolutely delighted that Latest is the successful bidder for local television in Brighton and Hove.

“Latest has built strong and successful partnerships with many of the major organisations in the community including the council, the Albion, local radio and our city’s vibrant digital sector.

“We look forward to working with Latest in showcasing our diverse, creative and modern city to local people and beyond.”

ENDS