Launch
Xfm Manchester was awarded a 12 year (until 2017) FM radio licence on 9 June 2005, beating 18 rival bids.
On 20 February 2006, Xfm Manchester began sporadic technical tests (consisting of a playlist of songs chosen to appeal to its audience) prior to its launch.
At 8 am on 15 March 2006, Xfm Manchester launched. A short collage of Manchester related clips was played, and the first voice heard on air was that of Paul Tonkinson which can be seen here. The first song to be played following this was the iconic Manchester anthem I Am the Resurrection by The Stone Roses, followed by Song 2 by Blur.
Special launch events happened all day across Manchester, including a world record attempt in Albert Square to shake the most number of maracas at any one time.
Many presenters were formerly members of iconic Manchester bands and institutions. They included Inspiral Carpets' keyboard player Clint Boon, Elbow's frontman Guy Garvey, The Smiths' bass player Andy Rourke, Factory Records boss Tony Wilson, and The Haçienda's Dave Haslam.
Long-time local radio presenter Terry Christian was cited in the licence application document but he remained at the relaunched BBC Radio Manchester.
Read more about this topic: XFM Manchester
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