TWO giant radio masts that have acted as a landmark for nearly a century will be shut down.
The twin masts in Wychbold will stop transmitting long-wave radio signals on June 27, 2026, marking the end of an era in UK broadcasting and sparking reflection across nearby communities.
Residents have described the masts as a “nearly home beacon” when travelling along the M5, a familiar sight located just off the motorway.
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Dave Rachel said: “It’s the nearly home beacon.”
Roger King added: “Got to keep it as a landmark.
“Heading south, you know you’re nearly home – the same as coming north and you see the Whittington Tump – you’re nearly there.”
Droitwich’s connection to broadcasting began in 1934 when the transmitter was first built.
It made history by enabling the BBC Home Service to reach audiences across the UK for the first time.
But its impact stretched beyond radio.
The site transmitted encoded wartime messages to Allied forces during World War II and, more recently, provided vital data to electricity meters through the Radio Teleswitching Service.
Julian Hartshorne, who grew up nearby, said: “I could see them from my bedroom window in Dodford as a kid. I love them.”
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Margaret Layland said: “I’ve been pleased to read that I’m not the only one who sees these masts as a landmark.
“Wishful thinking, I guess, but it would be good for the masts to stay and the area given over to Worcestershire Wildlife Trust as an addition to their nearby reserve.”
It has not yet been revealed what will happen to the masts after operations cease.
A ceremony will take place at the Droitwich Spa Heritage Centre at 12pm on June 27 to mark the end of long-wave broadcasting.
A free talk by Alastair Moseley about the history of the site will follow at 3pm, though booking is advised due to limited space.
A spokesperson for Droitwich Heritage Centre said: “For nearly a century, the masts at Wychbold have carried voices, music, news, and history across the nation.
“Soon, the signal will finally fall silent, but their story, and the memories connected to them, will continue to resonate for generations to come.”