A former regional press journalist who went on to set up his own business website before selling it this year is returning to the frontline – as a news editor on independent radio.

Andy Diprose, a former Bournemouth Echo business editor, launched Dorset Biz News in 2019 before selling it to Black Ox Media in January.

Now he is returning to the newsroom as news editor on soon-to-launch commercial radio station Bournemouth One.

It represents a return to his journalistic roots for Andy, below, who last worked in radio in 1989 as head of news at Chiltern Radio.

Said Andy:  “Opportunities to join a brand new station don’t come along very often so the offer from founders Sophie Greenwood and Roy Martin to join Bournemouth One was one I just couldn’t refuse.

“The technology and, indeed, years have moved on a tad since I was one of the youngest news editors in Independent Local Radio in the mid-80s but the thrill of working in radio most certainly hasn’t. It’s going to be a lot of fun, as well as hard work, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Chief executive Roy Martin added: “We’re honoured to have Andy on board running our local news service, enabling us to keep our listeners informed about what’s happening across the area both on the radio and on our website and social channels.

“Combining his experience in local journalism and his love for radio means our listeners will get all the local news they need whenever they tune in.”

Bournemouth One is due to launch on 1st January 2024 with a test stream now available via BournemouthOne.com.