Buckle up, radio enthusiasts – Highland Radio is set to revolutionize your evenings in 2026 with a bold new schedule that's all about keeping the conversation fresh and your days tuned in!
But here's the juicy twist that's got everyone talking: The Main Evening News is shifting its time slot. Starting Monday, January 5th, 2026, this cornerstone of daily updates will air at the earlier hour of 5:30pm, giving you that essential news fix just as the workday winds down, rather than later in the evening.
This revamp isn't just a minor tweak; it's part of a comprehensive lineup overhaul designed to energize the station's primetime offerings. Imagine kicking off your morning with the same beloved wake-up call – 'The Naughty Alarm Clock' with Lee Gooch, blasting from 6:30am to 9am, infusing humor and energy to get the North West region moving. Then, dive into the mid-morning buzz with 'The Greg Hughes Show,' running from 9am to 11am. This program continues to drive the local news agenda, tackling the stories and debates that resonate with everyday listeners, from community issues to regional triumphs.
From 11am to 1pm, John Breslin keeps the nostalgia alive on 'Around the Northwest,' spinning Irish classics and feel-good hits interspersed with his signature witty banter – perfect for a midday vibe that feels like catching up with an old friend.
The 1pm News stays right where it is, serving as that midday anchor point for the latest headlines. Following that, 'Jivetime' with David James lights up the afternoons from 1:30pm to 3:30pm, delivering an upbeat mix of country tunes and classic tracks to keep your energy soaring.
Now, this is the part most people miss – the real game-changer hits at 3:30pm with the launch of a brand-new 'Drivetime Show.' Hosted by the hilarious Danny O’Carroll, famous for his role in the hit sitcom 'Mrs Brown’s Boys,' teamed up with the spirited Áine Sweeney, this show promises to escort you home until 5:30pm with a lively blend of personality, music, and perhaps even some unexpected celebrity insights. Think of it as your evening unwind session, complete with laughs and tunes that make rush hour feel a little less chaotic.
Wrapping up the day, the 5:30pm News segues seamlessly into 'The Power Hour' with Ivan Boreland from 6pm onward, ensuring the station's evening vibe remains strong and engaging.
But here's where it gets controversial – is moving the Evening News to 5:30pm a stroke of genius for busier families who want updates before dinner, or a risky departure from the traditional prime-time slot that loyal listeners have cherished for decades? Some might argue it prioritizes the drivetime audience, potentially alienating those who tune in later for their nightly recap. And let's not overlook the buzz around Danny O’Carroll's involvement – while his star power could attract new fans, does it risk diluting the station's authentic local flavor? Highland Radio CEO Sean Quinn weighs in on these changes, saying: 'This new schedule reflects where our listeners are today and what they’re looking for at key moments of the day. Highland Radio has been part of people’s daily lives for more than 35 years, and that connection means a lot to us. These changes are about moving with our audience so we can stay by their side for the next 35 years and beyond. Bringing in Danny and Áine for a brand-new Drivetime show adds something completely fresh, and adjusting our existing shows gives each programme the space it needs to shine. It’s an exciting step for the station, and we’re looking forward to starting the new year with renewed energy.'
As Highland Radio rolls out this updated schedule on January 5, 2026, it's clear they're aiming for a vibrant new era that keeps pace with modern lifestyles. What are your thoughts on this shake-up? Do you welcome the earlier news slot and the celebrity touch, or do you prefer the old routine? Could this be a smart evolution, or a potential misstep in chasing trends? Drop your opinions in the comments – we'd love to hear if you're excited or skeptical about the future of your favorite local station!
