A local TV station backed by a regional daily newspaper is preparing to go on air a fortnight today.

Notts TV will begin broadcasting on Tuesday 27 May and will be available on Freeview Channel 8.

Backed by the Nottingham Post, the channel is part of what the government hopes will become a nationwide network of local TV channels.

With £1m invested in new technical infrastructure, the channel’s bosses say the move will mark “a return to large-scale programme making” in Nottingham.

The channel is making its local-ness a key selling point in contrast to the BBC and ITV regional news services which cover the whole of the East Midlands.

A press release on the launch states: “Unlike any other channel, Notts TV’s all about where you live, and what matters right here. From Arnold to Aspley, Bulwell to Chilwell, you don’t have to share Channel 8 with Leicester and Derby!”

Channel director Jamie Brindle said: “We’re lucky to be working with some really talented people; household names that bring a strong fan base with them”,

“BBC favourites – Frances Finn and Becky Sheeran join us as presenters and we’re pleased to announce that our team of talented Video Journalists have come from a variety of successful media outlets across the UK.”

Operating seven days a week, Notts TV programming will include news, sport, weather, music, comedy, history and documentary.

Added Jamie:  “It’s very exciting. We have so many things planned for Notts TV and we want the whole of Notts to be a part of it.””