Vidler stands down as Capital rethinks radio management

Andria Vidler, the managing director of Capital FM Network, is stepping down from her job following a restructure designed to rejuvenate its flagship London station.

Management for the Capital FM Network will now be split into two dedicated teams - one for the London 95.8 Capital FM franchise and one for stations outside London.

Keith Pringle moves from his role as group programme director to become the managing director of 95.8 Capital FM. John O'Hara becomes the managing director for Capital's regional network.

Capital's London radio licence has been under increasing pressure from the growth of Chrysalis's Heart 106.2 and Emap's Magic 105.4. This was reflected in the most recent set of Rajar figures, which revealed that 95.8 Capital FM's share of listening fell from 8.8 per cent to 8.1 per cent and that the average hours per listener fell from 8 to 7.4. Rajar figures out this week are expected to show that this trend has continued.

In November, Capital is due to make an announcement about the future of the London breakfast show, hosted mainly by Chris Tarrant. The show is vital to the health of 95.8 Capital FM: last year, the radio group's share price was hit following protracted speculation that Tarrant might not be renewing his contract.

If Tarrant decides to quit completely, BBC Radio 2's Jonathan Ross has been touted as a possible replacement.

David Mansfield, Capital Radio's chief executive, said: "Our mission to win back listeners to our flagship station is a significant challenge. Not surprisingly, I have given our most senior people the task."

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