Ujima Radio in Bristol goes back on air

Ujima Radio said it would issue details of its new live broadcast schedule soon

A community radio station in Bristol has resumed live broadcasting almost two weeks after being cut off following a dispute over unpaid bills.

Ujima Radio went off air when Utilities Warehouse cut the power because the landlord had not paid the bill.

Roger Griffith, from Ujima Radio, said volunteers were overwhelmed by the "goodwill of their supporters", including mayor George Ferguson.

Live programming is expected to return on Monday from 10:00 GMT.

Mr Griffith said: "This enables us to continue to make great broadcast radio and play a part in connecting and involving different voices and diverse opinions that reflect the issues of 21st Century Bristol."

He said the situation had "made it clear" the building the station currently uses is "unsustainable" and it would be looking for a new home within St Pauls.

'Pro-active involvement'

Ujima Radio rents its studios from community organisation Ceed for £500 per month inclusive of utility bills.

Ceed - which was not available for comment on Sunday - previously alleged Ujima's rent did not cover the amount of electricity the station used.

A spokesman for Utility Warehouse said: "We are delighted that the pro-active involvement of the council has enabled us to find a resolution to this issue.''

Mr Ferguson helped to break "the stand-off" between the energy supplier and Ceed, which sublets the council-owned premises to the station.

The mayor is now asking for a review of the leasehold, use and management of the building in Wilder Street, which he described as "clearly unsatisfactory".