Radio giant Global says it is to make job cuts across its network as a result of the impact of Covid-19.

The media company owns the Heart brand - which includes Heart Kent.

It closed its Whitstable studios last year after axing the last remaining local shows it broadcast - among them the breakfast show helmed by James Heming.

It retains a small sales team in the county - most of whom are understood to work remotely.

Among its current line-up of presenters is Medway-born actress and model Kelly Brook.

Heart Kent was previously known as Invicta FM. Since its decision to scrap local shows, kmfm, owned by the KM Media Group, became Kent's only music-based commercial radio station.

In a message sent to staff, group chief executive Stephen Miron said: "As a result of the ongoing revenue challenges we face, and the longer deeper nature of them, we have, reluctantly, concluded we do now need to make further cost savings in the business.

"The next few months are going to be really tough for everyone at Global and it is with immense regret and sadness we are going to be parting company with some much-loved Globallers.

"The decision we are announcing today will impact on every team in the UK in some way."

A consultation period is now under way with all staff expected to be notified as to whether their roles are under threat.

A final decision on those being made redundant will be made by Monday, August 17.

Global also owns the Capital, Radio X, Classic FM and LBC stations.

The news comes after the BBC announced a string of job cuts.

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