BBC Radio 5 Live > Reviews (38)

As a student, I cannot afford to have Sky or Cable television in my flat, and with only the main four terrestrial television stations at my disposal, it is clear that a new form of entertainment would become necessary. Thankfully, when searching through the radio for something different, I came across Radio 5 Live.

Radio 5 Live is on 693 Medium wave, and I should state first that it may not be to all people's taste. They do not play music, instead preferring to debate the issues of the day, some serious, some less so, with various guests.

The presenters of the different shows are very good at what they do. They interview people by asking interesting, relevent questions, and keep the debates going with intelligent comments and overall handle the shos very well. With different hosts, from all cultural backgrounds, and a variety of in studio guests, ensures that the listener gets a good balanced view of any issue, with all sides well represented.

News and sports bulletins are never far away, with up to date reports given every half an hour. In addition detailed traffic news is given whenever a problem occurs.

Probably Radio 5's best known aspect is their very comprehensive sports coverage. With live football on most nights, with reports and updates from all games on, make Radio 5 a must listen to station for any football fans. In addition Rugby, Cricket, Snooker and all other major sports are covered in detail, with very knowledgable commentators giving informative views and reports.

Public contributions to the debates on Radio 5 is also key, and this adds another dimension to the coverage given. Phone-ins and text messages are used in the news debates, with features such as 606, an interactive comment program about all matters football, are very interesting indeed and allow other people to put their views across to the nation.

As I said the presenters are very good indeed at their jobs, and many big name people currently broadcast on the station. Simon Mayo, Nicky Campbell and even Edwina Curry have slots, each bringing a different style to the game.

Overall I would say that Radio 5 Live is streets ahead of other stations such as Talk Radio or even Radio 4 and is well worth listening to, if this sort of thing appeals to you. Oh and by the way I don't have shares in Radio 5 :)