CENTURY Radio is set to be re-launched as Real Radio.

The Manchester-based station changes its name today with a massive marketing campaign.

Despite this, listeners across the north west can expect the music policy and presenting team, including Big Breakfast show hosts Ditchy and Salty, to stay the same.

The move allows the broadcasting arm of the Guardian Media Group - which also owns the MEN - to unite six of its stations under one brand.

The radio's website has used a countdown clock to inform Manchester listeners of the move, which puts a Real Radio station in England, Scotland and Wales.

GMG Radio will then have two clearly defined networks across Britain, Real Radio and Smooth Radio.

Andy Carter, managing director of GMG Radio, told the MEN the name change reflects the station's 'real music and values'.

Deputy chief executive of GMG Radio Stuart Taylor said: "As strong brands become increasingly important in the media market, GMG Radio will house two of the most powerful networks in the UK, complementing each other perfectly."

John Myers, who launched Century Radio in 1998, left the company earlier this year to head a review of local radio outlined by communications minister Stephen Carter.

The review came after a series of local commercial radio stations went out of business as the recession hits the media.

In an interview with our sister TV station Channel M, veteran DJ Phil Wood, 58, said local radio had to become 'leaner and meaner' to ensure their longevity.