Listen to Notts County v Accrington Stanley on BBC Radio: Commentators, Presenters and Where to Tune In on New Year's Day

Football fans across the North West and East Midlands can catch the thrilling Notts County v Accrington Stanley clash in EFL League Two live on BBC Radio this New Year's Day. With kick-off at 15:00 UK time at Meadow Lane, BBC Radio Nottingham and BBC Radio Lancashire will provide comprehensive radio coverage, bringing every moment of the action to listeners without the need for television. While BBC's trusted radio services lead the airwaves for this fixture, fans should note there is no TV broadcast on major channels like ITV, BBC TV, Sky Sports or TNT Sports, making radio the prime way to follow the match.[1][2]

Notts County, currently sitting pretty in 6th place in League Two, host mid-table Accrington Stanley, who occupy 16th position. The Magpies have been in solid form with five wins, two defeats and three draws in their previous 10 matches, particularly strong at home with six victories in their last 10 at Meadow Lane. Accrington, meanwhile, have shown resilience on the road but face a tough challenge, having won just two of their last 10 away games.[3][4] Head-to-head records show a closely contested rivalry, with Notts County holding a slight edge recently, including a 2-0 victory at home last time out. Notts County have triumphed in the last two encounters, making them favourites for this New Year's Day showdown.[1][2][3]

BBC Radio Nottingham, the spiritual home for Magpies supporters, boasts an experienced team for the broadcast. Presenter Deke Hardman will guide the coverage. Hardman is a stalwart of Nottinghamshire football radio, with years of experience calling games for Notts County and Nottingham Forest. His engaging style and deep knowledge of the club's history make him a fan favourite, having covered everything from promotion pushes to cup runs during his career at BBC Radio Nottingham.

Main commentator Adam Hassall – note the correct spelling from reliable sources – brings his expert insight to the microphone. Hassall has built a reputation as one of the EFL's rising stars in commentary, with a career spanning local leagues up to League Two. His vivid descriptions and tactical breakdowns have earned praise from Notts County followers, particularly during high-stakes matches at Meadow Lane. Joining him as co-commentator is Mark Stallard, a former Notts County striker whose playing career included over 100 appearances for the club in the 1990s and early 2000s. Stallard scored 32 goals during his time with the Magpies and later managed Ilkeston Town, bringing authentic insider analysis from his days as a professional forward. His post-playing career in punditry and coaching adds gravitas to the commentary box.[1]

Over on BBC Radio Lancashire, reporter Dan Jewell will deliver on-the-ground updates from Meadow Lane. Jewell is a seasoned sports journalist with BBC Lancashire, specialising in Accrington Stanley coverage. His career highlights include reporting on Stanley's famous FA Cup run to the fifth round in 2014 and their League Two promotion campaigns. Jewell's pitch-side reports are known for their detail and passion, capturing the atmosphere for Stanley's loyal travelling support.[1]

This radio double-header underscores the BBC's commitment to EFL coverage, especially for lower-tier matches that might not grace TV screens. BBC Radio Nottingham can be tuned into on 95.5 FM, 103.8 FM or DAB digital radio, with online streaming available via BBC Sounds. BBC Radio Lancashire broadcasts on 95.5 FM, 103.9 FM and 855 MW, also accessible digitally. For those preferring apps, BBC Sounds offers live coverage with crystal-clear audio, perfect for following the game on the move during the post-New Year's festivities.[1]

The match promises fireworks on the pitch too. Notts County head into the game on the back of a 1-1 draw away at Milton Keynes Dons, showing defensive solidity. Accrington Stanley notched back-to-back League Two wins, including a 1-0 triumph over Harrogate Town, boosting their confidence. However, injuries and suspensions could play a part: Notts County miss Matt Palmer, Patrick Madden, Scott Robertson and Tyler Walton to illness, plus Jayden Luker suspended, while Accrington are without Kelsey Mooney (suspended) and Joe Bauress (ill).[1][3] Betting previews tip Notts County as favourites, with odds reflecting their home advantage and recent dominance in H2H fixtures – nine wins from 21 meetings overall.[1][3]

Meadow Lane, Notts County's historic home since 1910, holds over 18,000 fans and has witnessed some memorable New Year's Day battles. For Accrington Stanley, formed in 1968 from the ashes of Stanley FC, trips to Nottingham represent tough assignments, but their fighting spirit – embodied in past giant-killings – keeps them dangerous. The average goals in H2H is 2.76, with both teams scoring in 57% of games, suggesting an open contest.[1][2]

Why tune into BBC Radio for this one? Radio commentary offers an immersive experience, free from visual distractions, with commentators painting the picture through words. Deke Hardman, Adam Hassall and Mark Stallard's trio at BBC Radio Nottingham will dissect Notts County's promotion push – they're firmly in the play-off hunt – while Dan Jewell's reports on BBC Radio Lancashire ensure Stanley fans get balanced coverage. Mark Stallard's insights, drawn from his 148 career goals across clubs like Notts County, Sheffield United and Derby County, provide unique perspectives on strikers like Notts' top scorer.

Adam Hassall's career trajectory is impressive; starting in community radio, he climbed to BBC's EFL roster, commentating on 100+ League Two games. His style blends excitement with accuracy, ideal for a potential upset scenario. Dan Jewell, meanwhile, has been BBC Lancashire's go-to since 2010, covering Stanley's 2018 League Two title win under John Coleman. These professionals elevate the broadcast beyond mere reporting.

For more on the clubs, check out the official Notts County FC website for team news and tickets, or visit Accrington Stanley's site for Stanley updates. League Two enthusiasts can dive deeper via the EFL's official League Two page.

Recent form adds intrigue: Notts County's home record boasts six wins in 10, averaging strong possession and shots, while Accrington's away struggles see them conceding 1.40 goals per game on average. Predictions lean towards a Magpies win, but Stanley's recent victories hint at resilience. With yellow cards averaging 1.57 per side in H2H, expect a feisty affair.[1][3]

BBC's radio rights for EFL games stem from long-standing agreements, ensuring comprehensive coverage even when TV opts for bigger ties. This fixture, part of Round 24, could prove pivotal in the promotion race. Notts County fans recall their 2023/24 National League title; now, League Two consolidation is key. Accrington aim to climb from mid-table under veteran manager John Coleman, in his 18th season.

Don't miss pre-match build-up from 14:00 on both stations, with team news, predictions and interviews. Whether you're in Nottingham, Accrington or elsewhere in Britain, BBC Radio delivers the action. As New Year's cheer lingers, settle in for quality football radio at its best – courtesy of Deke Hardman, Adam Hassall, Mark Stallard and Dan Jewell.

Injuries aside, expect Notts to field a strong XI, leveraging home advantage. Stanley will counter with grit. Tune in to witness League Two drama unfold live.[1][2][3][4] This coverage exemplifies why BBC Radio remains a cornerstone for British football fans, blending expertise with accessibility for matches like this gem on January 1, 2026.