Media watchdog Ofcom is today inviting applications for licences to run local TV services in a further 11 areas across the UK.

Would-be bidders will have until  7 January to make the case for the right to run hyperlocal channels in each of the new locations.

They are: Barnstaple, Basingstoke, Derry/Londonderry, Gloucester, Guildford, Limavady, Luton, Maidstone, Plymouth, Reading and Salisbury.

The government wants to see a network of up to 60 local TV channels, some of which may be run by newspaper publishers.

There had been due to be 13 new licences up for grabs this autumn, but as reported last week Ofcom has decided to merge the Bedford licence area with Luton and Malvern with Gloucester.

Details about how to apply can be found here.