Valle Radio: Almería's Premier Expat Radio Station

"Broadcasting across the Almanzora Valley and beyond"

Starting in 2006 this was the Valle Radio website. The content below is mainly from the site's 2006 archived pages.

We're South East Spain's favourite radio station. We're an independent radio company who also run Valle digital TV and the 898 magazine. We're your local music news and information station. This family station is designed for English speaking residents and holiday makers in this part of Spain, El Levante, Almeria.

The current website for 89.8 Smooth FM is at: http://www.smoothfmlive.net/​

Lots has changed to 89.8 FM website since the early days when Mike Hall was manager. A slick new site, lots of new DJ's. Known as 89.8 Smooth FM, it still promoting itself as the the fastest growing radio station in the Almanzora Valley. Broadcasting the best music 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 89.8FM and to the world via the internet. I was staying at a B&B just outside of Almanzora when I first listened to 89.8 FM, which was known back then as Valle Radio. They were doing an interview with Mad Macks that blew my mind. He was telling the story of how a Google search for his name started showing a bogus story about him abusing children at a shelter. He played a fundraiser at that shelter, which made the fake story more credible and more damaging. Google would not respond his pleas for help. He spoke with services that specialize in reputation management who claimed they could help, but they were way too expensive. Finally, after about 6 months, the problem just vanished from Google's search page. But a lot of damage was done both personally and financially, and there were emotional scars. Google causing harm is something that occurs not infrequently. He mentioned a website that explained the issue more fully. I went there and yikes! Google is way too powerful to be so unaccountable.

CIRCA 2006

Valle Radio: Your< local radio station for the Almanzora Valley.

Find us on 89.8 FM

We are going world-wide!

Tel: +34 950 449 602

Email: info@valleradio.net

Address: Avda Andalucia 3, First Floor, La Alfoquia, Almeria, Spain

Broadcasting from Albox, we cover the whole of the Almanzora Valley and the coast including Huercal Overa, Garrucha, Vera, Mojacar, Villaricos, Oria and Olula del Rio. 89.8 in Almanzora Valley and 89.9 on the coast. We offer a wide range of programmes from Pop to Heavy Metal, Country to Asian plus numerous opportunities for you to join in and participate in the range of quizzes, across many of the programmes. We have a packed sports programme on Saturdays and on Sundays afternoon theatre featuring Dads Army and Around the Horne. And in association with Search Media we produce a monthly magazine the 89.8 Mag with the most comprehensive "What's On" guide in Almeria, a useful business directory and interesting articles and reviews.

Mike Hall Station Manager

A man of few words, but we live in hope.

I worked as a DJ on a local radio station called southern sound FM in its infant years for about a year then it left our fine town to move to Brighton where it became southern FM. I was a bit upset to say the least as it was Eastbourne’s only claim to radio fame on the south coast.

So i started a radio station from the bridge of a floating restaurant called the Zetland. I called the station Sovereign Radio as the Zetland was moored in Sovereign Harbour in Eastbourne.

It did very well, but I needed money, so i sold the station and again the station was moved to a town called Hailsham where it still transmits on 107 fm, and to this day Eastbourne has no radio station of its own.

I also had two mobile discos and a hire show for over twenty five years. The mobile-disco ie road show is still going to this day under the name of the Phionix Roadshow & I still run the business from Spain.

I then opened a night club called Topaz also in Eastbourne.

Now enjoying my time on Valle Radio here in the Almanzora Valley.

 

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Advertise Circa 2006

People listen to radio in local shops, bars, cars and at home. So the advantages of radio advertising are obvious, especially with the comprehensive range of packages we have to offer.

We broadcast directly to your customers with your message 24hrs a day every day of the week.

Broadcasting across the Almanzora Valley and beyond including Albox, Arboleas, Zurgena, La Alfoquia, Taberno, Huercal Overa, Antas, Mojacar , Garrucha, Vera, Turre, Palomares, Aguilas, Cuevas del Almanzora, Fines, Olula del Rio and Villaricos.

Broadcasting to over 27,000 potential listeners with an additional average of 500 homes listening live online across the world, but predominately in the UK and Ireland.

Unrivalled value for money Radio Advertising

Valle Radio broadcasts to the largest possible English audience in Almeria offering the best possible exposure. It is by far the most listen to station in Almeria for English listeners and many Spanish too. Get your campaign underway with Valle Radio.

Package A

112 x 30 second (four per day) ads over a 4 week period just €300 including basic production. (Client provides script)..

Package B

56 x 30 second (two per day) ads over 4 weeks just €195 including basic production.

All production remains the property of Valle Radio. A fee of €40 is chargeable for copyright of production.

Production costs:
* From €60 depending number of voices and script production.

Call 950 475 431 for more information.

We also produce the 89.8 Magazine in association with Search Media S.L and can offerunbeatable offers and discounts on Radio, Magazine and Internet advertising. Call 950 475 431 for more details

If you have an event that our listeners may be interested in please just let us know.

 

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More Background On Valle Radio

Valle Radio, located in Almería, Spain, has established itself as a premier expat radio station, offering a wide array of programs catering to English-speaking residents and visitors. This station prides itself on a diverse lineup of shows ranging from music to chat, providing entertainment and information to a broad audience.

One of the standout aspects of Valle Radio is its team of presenters, each bringing their unique style and background to the airwaves. For instance, Gail Allery hosts a music, chat, and quiz program on Fridays, showcasing her deep passion for music history across various genres, including opera​
​. Duncan, known as "The Mad Manc," brings his love for northern soul and reggae to his Saturday and Monday slots​​. Eddie Lane, with his extensive DJ experience, offers a mix of music and stories on Tuesday afternoons​​.

Valle Radio's schedule is filled with specialized music shows, such as Steve Ashley's focus on music from the 1920s through the 1950s, celebrating songwriters like Gershwin and Porter​
​. Another unique show is hosted by Seth Pittham, who delves into the 50s and 60s music scene every Thursday, offering listeners a blend of blues, jazz, pop, and more​​.

Furthermore, Valle Radio's connection with its community is evident in its variety of programs and its engagement with listeners through quizzes and interactive segments. This engagement is complemented by the station's history of adapting and growing over the years, transitioning from Valle Radio to 89.8 Smooth FM, while maintaining its commitment to serving its audience's needs​​.

Valle Radio's contemporary counterpart, Almeria Gold 95.5FM, continues the tradition of serving the expat community with a focus on retro hits from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. The station boasts a professional team of local DJs who bring retro hits and local news to listeners 24 hours a day. Almeria Gold ensures that its audience stays connected with the local community through updates on news and events​​.

 

Audience

Audience Profile

• Expatriates: Primarily English-speaking residents living in the Almería region, which includes retirees, workers, and families who have moved from English-speaking countries.
• Holidaymakers: Tourists and visitors to the area looking for familiar entertainment and information in English.
• Local Spanish Population: A segment of the local population interested in English-language content, music, and culture.

Interests and Engagement

• Music Lovers: The station's varied music programs, covering genres from pop to heavy metal and retro hits, suggest an audience with broad musical tastes.
• Community-Oriented Listeners: Shows that offer local news, information, and event coverage appeal to those interested in the local community and expatriate life.
• Interactive Show Participants: With quizzes and phone-in segments, Valle Radio attracts listeners who enjoy engaging directly with broadcasters.

Potential Audience Size

While specific numbers are hard to come by without direct data, the potential audience size can be substantial, considering:

• Almería's Expat Community: The Almanzora Valley and coastal areas are popular with expatriates, especially from the UK, indicating a sizable target audience.
• Tourism Impact: Almería's appeal as a tourist destination increases the audience during peak travel seasons.

Conclusion

Valle Radio serves a niche yet potentially large and diverse audience comprising mainly English-speaking expatriates and visitors in Almería. The station's focus on music, community news, and interactive content caters to a wide range of interests, making it a valuable information and entertainment source for its listeners. For a more detailed understanding of Valle Radio's audience size and characteristics, surveys, listener feedback, and social media engagement levels would offer deeper insights.

 

Known For

English-Language Broadcasting in Spain

• Expat-Friendly Content: Valle Radio stands out for providing content in English, making it an essential service for expatriates and English-speaking residents in Almería and the surrounding areas.

Diverse Musical and Talk Programming

• Wide Range of Music Genres: From pop to heavy metal and retro hits, Valle Radio offers a diverse music selection catering to varied tastes.
• Interactive Talk Shows: With phone-in segments and quizzes, the station encourages listener participation, creating a sense of community among its audience.

Community Integration

• Local News and Information: The station is a vital source of local news, events, and information, helping expatriates stay connected with their local community.
• Support for Local Businesses: Through advertising and sponsored segments, Valle Radio supports local businesses, offering them a platform to reach the English-speaking population.

Digital Presence

• Online Streaming: Valle Radio's adaptation to digital trends, including online streaming, allows it to reach a global audience of expatriates and those interested in the Almería region.

Cultural Bridge

• Promotion of Cultural Exchange: By broadcasting in English in a Spanish-speaking country, Valle Radio acts as a cultural bridge, introducing English-speaking residents to local Spanish culture and events.

Personal Touch

• Engaging Presenters: The station's presenters, known for their charismatic and engaging style, contribute significantly to its identity and appeal.

Historical Legacy and Evolution

• Longstanding Presence: Having started operations in 2006, Valle Radio has a longstanding presence in the region, evolving over time to meet the changing needs of its audience, including a transition to digital formats and possibly rebranding efforts like transitioning to 89.8 Smooth FM.

Valle Radio's blend of music, talk, community news, and support for local businesses, combined with its role as a lifeline for the English-speaking community in Almería, Spain, underpins its reputation and popularity. This unique combination ensures that it remains a valued and integral part of the expatriate experience in the region.

 

Location

Valle Radio is located in Almería, Spain, specifically targeting the English-speaking community within the Almanzora Valley and the broader Almería region. This area is known for its scenic beauty, including coastlines, mountains, and agricultural landscapes, making it a popular destination for expatriates and tourists from English-speaking countries.

Almanzora Valley

The Almanzora Valley is situated in the southeastern part of Spain, within the province of Almería. It's an area rich in history and culture, offering a tranquil lifestyle amidst picturesque landscapes. Valle Radio's broadcasting in this valley signifies its focus on serving the communities scattered across this region, including towns such as Albox, Arboleas, Cantoria, and Partaloa, among others.

Coastal Almería

Apart from the valley, Valle Radio also serves English-speaking residents and visitors along the coast of Almería. This includes popular expatriate towns and tourist destinations such as Mojácar, Garrucha, Vera, and others. These coastal areas are known for their beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural events, attracting a significant number of English-speaking residents and holidaymakers.

Broadcasting Reach

Valle Radio, through its FM frequency and online streaming services, covers a wide area, ensuring that English-speaking listeners in the Almanzora Valley, the coastal regions of Almería, and even beyond can access its programming. This broad coverage area is pivotal in making Valle Radio an essential source of entertainment, news, and information for the expatriate community.

Significance of Location

Almería's mix of traditional Spanish culture, expatriate communities, and tourist attractions makes it an ideal location for a radio station like Valle Radio. By catering to English-speaking residents and visitors, the station plays a crucial role in bridging cultural gaps and creating a sense of community among its listeners.

Accessibility

Listeners can access Valle Radio not just through traditional FM radio but also via online streaming, making it accessible to a global audience interested in the Almería region and its expatriate community. This digital presence ensures that the station's reach extends far beyond its physical location, connecting listeners worldwide with the Almanzora Valley and coastal Almería.

 

History

Valle Radio, an English-language radio station catering to the expatriate community in Almería, Spain, particularly in the Almanzora Valley and its surrounding areas, has a rich history marked by its significant contribution to the local English-speaking community. Here's an overview of its history based on available information:

Founding and Early Years

• Establishment in 2006: Valle Radio was established in 2006, aiming to serve the English-speaking expatriates and holidaymakers in the Almanzora Valley and coastal areas of Almería. The station sought to fill a gap in the market by providing English-language broadcasting in a region popular with British and other English-speaking nationals.

Evolution and Growth

• Programming and Reach Expansion: Over the years, Valle Radio expanded its programming to include a wide range of music genres, talk shows, local news, and information, catering to diverse tastes and interests. The station's reach extended through FM broadcasting and, later, online streaming to accommodate a global audience.

Community Impact

• Local Community Integration: Valle Radio has played a pivotal role in integrating the expatriate community with local Spanish culture, offering a platform for local businesses, events, and charities to reach an English-speaking audience. Its programming has included local news, community events, and support for local causes, making it an essential part of the expat community's daily life.

Digital Transition

• Online Streaming and Digital Presence: Recognizing the importance of digital media, Valle Radio embraced online streaming, allowing expatriates and those interested in the Almería region worldwide to tune into its broadcasts. This transition ensured the station's relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Rebranding Efforts

• Transition to 89.8 Smooth FM: The station underwent a rebranding phase, known at one point as 89.8 Smooth FM, indicating an evolution in its brand identity and possibly its programming focus. This rebranding effort reflected the station's aim to stay current and appealing to its audience.

Contribution to the Expat Experience

• A Vital Source of Information and Entertainment: For English-speaking residents and visitors in Almería, Valle Radio has been more than just a radio station. It has been a vital source of information, entertainment, and community connection, enriching the expat experience in Spain.

Present-Day

• Current Status and Offerings: While specific current details are scarce, Valle Radio, under its name or its evolved identity, continues to be a valued asset for the English-speaking community in Almería, offering a blend of music, news, and community-focused content.

Valle Radio's history is a testament to its commitment to serving the English-speaking community in Almería, adapting to changes in the media industry, and fostering a sense of belonging among expatriates far from their home countries.

 

Cultural And Social Significance

Valle Radio, as an English-language radio station in Almería, Spain, holds significant cultural and social importance for the expatriate community and the broader society in which it operates. Its role extends beyond mere entertainment, embodying a bridge between cultures and serving as a vital community hub for English-speaking residents and holidaymakers in the region. Here are key aspects of its cultural and social significance:

Cultural Integration and Exchange

• Promotes Cultural Understanding: By broadcasting in English in a predominantly Spanish-speaking country, Valle Radio facilitates cultural exchange. It introduces expatriates to local Spanish customs, festivals, and events, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of Spanish culture among its listeners.
• Cultural Bridge: The station acts as a cultural bridge, offering content that blends elements of expatriates' home cultures with their new Spanish environment. This fusion of cultures enriches the expatriate experience and fosters a more inclusive community.

Community Cohesion and Support

• Fosters Community Cohesion: Valle Radio plays a pivotal role in bringing together the English-speaking community, providing a shared platform that helps mitigate feelings of isolation and fosters a sense of belonging among expatriates.
• Support Network: Through its broadcasts, the station offers advice, information, and support on living in Spain, including navigating legal, healthcare, and educational systems. This information is invaluable for new arrivals and long-term residents alike, acting as a support network for the expatriate community.

Information and Education

• Local News and Information: Valle Radio serves as a key source of local news and information for English speakers, ensuring that expatriates remain informed about what's happening in their local area, from public service announcements to local politics and community events.
• Educational Content: The station provides educational content about the Spanish language and culture, helping listeners integrate more effectively into their local communities.

Economic Impact

• Support for Local Businesses: By offering advertising opportunities to local businesses, Valle Radio helps stimulate the local economy. It provides a direct channel for businesses to reach the expatriate community, from real estate services to restaurants and local events, thus boosting local tourism and commerce.

Representation and Voice

• Gives a Voice to the Community: Valle Radio offers a platform for expatriates to share their stories, concerns, and experiences, giving a voice to a community that might otherwise be underrepresented in local media.
• Advocacy and Awareness: The station can advocate for issues affecting the expatriate community and raise awareness about important causes, from environmental conservation to social welfare initiatives.

Entertainment and Leisure

• Cultural and Musical Diversity: With its diverse range of music and entertainment programming, Valle Radio introduces listeners to a wide array of cultural and musical traditions, enriching the cultural tapestry of the community it serves.

In essence, Valle Radio's cultural and social significance lies in its ability to unify a diverse expatriate community, provide a lifeline of information and support, and foster mutual understanding and integration between expatriates and the local Spanish culture. Through its programming, Valle Radio enriches the lives of its listeners, contributes to the vibrancy of the local community, and strengthens the social fabric of the Almería region.