MFR (Moray Firth Radio): A Legacy of Broadcasting in the Scottish Highlands
Based in Inverness, MFR (Moray Firth Radio) is a cornerstone of independent local radio in the north of Scotland. Owned and operated by Bauer Media Audio UK, the station serves as a vital link for listeners across Moray, Highland, and north-west Aberdeenshire. As part of the Hits Radio Network, MFR blends local relevance with a high-energy CHR/pop (Contemporary Hit Radio) format, delivering a mix of the biggest current hits and nostalgic throwbacks.
The station maintains a strong presence in the region, boasting a weekly audience of 78,000 listeners as of September 2025, according to RAJAR (Radio Joint Audience Research).
Key Facts
- Launch Date: 23 February 1982.
- Ownership: Bauer Media Audio UK.
- Network: Hits Radio.
- Broadcast Area: Moray, Highland, and north-west Aberdeenshire.
- Primary Format: CHR/pop.
- Sister Station: Greatest Hits Radio (The North of Scotland).
The History of MFR
Moray Firth Radio first hit the airwaves on 23 February 1982, with Dave Cochrane being the first voice heard by listeners shortly after 6:30 am. The station demonstrated early commercial success, turning a profit within its first year of operation. Over the decades, it became home to legendary broadcasters, most notably Tich McCooey, who served as the station's longest-running presenter for 33 years before departing on 29 May 2015.
Evolution of Digital and AM Services
The station's technical landscape has shifted significantly over time. MFR 2 originally provided specialist programming on AM and DAB until August 2014. It later transitioned to the Bauer City 2 network in 2015 and eventually became part of the Greatest Hits Radio network in January 2019, officially adopting the network name in April 2023. AM transmissions on 1107 kHz were permanently ceased on 11 December 2023.
In January 2015, MFR 3 was launched as a DAB and online relay of The Hits, specifically targeting the 15-25 age demographic. This service ceased on 31 August 2017, eventually evolving into the national Hits Radio feed.
Community Partnerships and Relays
Historically, MFR acted as a sustaining service—a backup broadcast used when local content is unavailable—for several community stations. These included:
- Caithness FM: Formerly used MFR's 102.5 FM frequency.
- KCR 107.7FM (Keith): Previously relayed MFR during evening hours.
- Speysound Radio (Aviemore): Formerly used MFR during evenings.
- Kinnaird Radio (Fraserburgh): Relayed MFR until the station closed in January 2016.
- Oban FM: Used MFR as a sustaining service during its RSL (Restricted Service Licence) period in 1992.
- Nevis Radio (Fort William): Carried MFR for news and overnight services until the mid-2000s.
Programming and News
MFR's current programming is integrated into a wider network, with content originating from Hits Radio in London and Manchester, as well as Clyde 1 in Clydebank and Forth 1 in Edinburgh. While the station's final regular local programme—the weekday breakfast show with Jodie McCluskey—ended on 29 November 2024, the station continues to provide local value. Since 6 January 2025, MFR has simulcast Boogie in the Morning from Forth 1.
Despite the shift toward networked shows, local news, travel updates, and advertising remain tailored to the region. Local news bulletins air hourly from 6 am to 7 pm on weekdays and 7 am to 1 pm on weekends. National news is provided by Sky News Radio overnight, with bespoke Scottish bulletins produced by the Radio Clyde newsroom.
Technical Specifications
| Service/Location | Frequency | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Inverness | 97.4 MHz | FM |
| Speyside | 96.6 MHz | FM |
| Fraserburgh / Wick | 96.7 MHz | FM |
| Caithness | 102.5 MHz | FM |
| Keith | 102.8 MHz | FM |
| Digital | 11B | DAB |
| RDS Code | MFR | Radio Data System |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns MFR?
MFR is owned and operated by Bauer Media Audio UK and is part of the Hits Radio Network.
What is the current music format of MFR?
The station follows a CHR/pop format, branded as "The Biggest Hits The Biggest Throwbacks."
Does MFR still produce local content?
While regular local programming has decreased, MFR continues to provide local news, travel updates, and advertising for its broadcast area.
When did MFR start broadcasting?
Moray Firth Radio first began broadcasting on 23 February 1982.
How can I listen to MFR?
MFR can be heard via various FM frequencies across the Highlands and Moray, on DAB channel 11B, or via the Rayo webcast.