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Big Dorset Brunch starts Saturday 25 July, 8.00-11.00am

If it's happening around Dorchester and Weymouth it will be on the Big Dorset Brunch – that's the message from ´óÏó´«Ã½ Radio Solent as it launches a new weekend radio programme for listeners in south-west Dorset.

The new show, called the Big Dorset Brunch, will be broadcast on Saturday mornings, from 25 July 2009, and will be available on the ´óÏó´«Ã½ iPlayer at bbc.co.uk/iplayer.

It will be presented by Radio Solent's Dorset reporter Harry Crawford, who is originally from Dorchester, and will provide a new platform for events, community groups and topical discussions, all focused on the Weymouth and Dorchester area.

Talking about the new programme Harry said: "This is a great opportunity to celebrate an area that I know and love. I can't wait to get started.

"We really want people in the area to get in touch and let us know what's going on down their way – their contributions will help make the Big Dorset Brunch a success."

Following consultation with the Dorset Broadcasting Action Group, Radio Solent's general news bulletins are being extended to incorporate news from south-west Dorset, replacing the current split bulletin arrangement experienced by listeners around Weymouth and Dorchester.

Solent's Managing Editor Chris Carnegy added: "It's our ambition to provide the most comprehensive local service of news and information that we possibly can.

"With a team and a studio in Dorchester, and an FM signal specially beamed across the Weymouth and Dorchester area, we have the perfect opportunity.

"I'm looking forward to hearing a rich mix of topics and voices from a very special part of Dorset."

The Big Dorset Brunch will be broadcast on ´óÏó´«Ã½ Radio Solent, 103.8 FM, Saturdays, 8.00-11.00am.

For more Dorset news and information visit bbc.co.uk/dorset.

HB