BBC launches new series of ten 5 live Friday broadcasts

The BBC begins the first of a series of weekly live radio broadcasts from the racetrack on Friday promising to deliver more action and big audiences from the "best team in the business".

Ten programmes have been scheduled through to May, beginning at Sandown this week, for broadcast mainly on digital channel 5 live Sports Extra, a period that will include the Cheltenham and Grand National festivals.

The shows, which will comprise live racing, news and regular input from special guests, will be hosted by BBC racing correspondent Cornelius Lysaght with commentary from John Hunt.

Jonathan Wall, controller of 5 live and 5 live Sports Extra, said: "It’s not just down to ITV to modernise broadcasting of the sport. We have the best commentator and correspondent in the business, and big audiences. The Friday shows will bring more action, more stories and more interviews to complement our big plans on 5 live at Cheltenham and Aintree."

Friday's show will begin at 1.50pm, with the others starting at around 2pm. There will be no programme on May 5 due to Test Match Special.

Lysaght and Hunt will be part of the 5 live team which will provide four days of coverage of next week's Cheltenham Festival, with all 28 races broadcast across 5 live and Sports Extra.

John Inverdale will be the host each day, joined by Andrew Thornton and Derek Thompson. John Francome will be a guest on Tuesday and there will be regular contributions from Lizzie Kelly, Kerry Lee and Emma Lavelle.

Racing on 5 Live Sports Extra
March 10, Sandown
March 17, Cheltenham
March 24, Newbury
March 31, Wetherby
April 7, Aintree
April 14, Lingfield
April 21, Ayr
April 28, Sandown
May 12, Chester
May 19, York