Where to Watch Blackpool vs Reading: BBC Radio Commentary Teams Revealed

Football fans looking to follow the League One clash between Blackpool and Reading on April 1st, 2025 have two excellent BBC local radio options for live commentary. The 7:45pm kick-off at Bloomfield Road will be covered by both BBC Radio Berkshire and BBC Radio Lancashire, each with their own experienced commentary teams.

BBC Radio Berkshire Coverage

Leading the coverage for BBC Radio Berkshire will be their long-serving commentator Tim Dellor. The veteran broadcaster has been the voice of Reading FC on local radio for over two decades, having joined BBC Radio Berkshire in 2001. Dellor's distinctive commentary style and encyclopaedic knowledge of the Royals make him the perfect guide for Reading fans.

BBC Radio Lancashire Team

For Blackpool supporters, BBC Radio Lancashire offers comprehensive coverage presented by Andy Bayes, one of the station's most familiar voices. The commentary will come from Ian Chisnall, who has covered Blackpool matches for the station since 2011. Joining him in the co-commentator's role is former Blackpool player Steve Thompson, who made over 100 appearances for the Seasiders between 2002-2006.

Thompson brings valuable insight having played in both the Premier League and Championship during his career, including spells at Burnley and Leicester City before moving into coaching and media work.

How to Listen

The match will be available on:

BBC Radio Berkshire - 104.1, 104.4 FM, 94.6 FM or via BBC Sounds
BBC Radio Lancashire - 95.5 FM, 103.9 FM, 104.5 FM or via BBC Sounds

For those unable to access radio coverage, the EFL's official website provides live text updates and match stats.

Match Preview

This League One encounter sees two clubs with recent Championship experience battling for valuable points. Blackpool, under manager Neil Critchley, will be looking to maintain their push for the play-offs, while Reading aim to continue their recovery from early-season difficulties.

The reverse fixture earlier in the season ended in a 2-2 draw at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, with both teams showing the attacking intent that has characterised their campaigns. Fans can expect an open game as both sides have been among the division's higher scorers this term.

For more on Reading's season, visit the club's official website, while Blackpool supporters can keep up with their team via the Seasiders' digital channels.

Commentary Experience

Both radio teams bring considerable experience to their coverage. Tim Dellor on BBC Radio Berkshire has commentated on some of Reading's greatest moments, including their 2012 Championship title win and subsequent Premier League adventures. His partnership with various co-commentators over the years has become part of the matchday ritual for Royals fans.

On BBC Radio Lancashire, Ian Chisnall has established himself as the voice of Blackpool football through both good times and bad. His commentary captures the passion of the Seaside supporters, while Steve Thompson's analysis benefits from his first-hand experience of playing in tangerine during some of the club's most memorable modern-era matches.

With both teams having something to play for as the season enters its crucial phase, this promises to be an engaging encounter expertly brought to life by two of the BBC's most experienced local radio teams.