Where to Listen to Notts County vs Swindon Town: BBC Radio Commentators Guide for League Two Clash

Match date: 27 January 2026

Where to Listen to Notts County vs Swindon Town: BBC Radio Commentators Guide for League Two Clash

Tonight's eagerly anticipated League Two showdown between Notts County and Swindon Town at Meadow Lane kicks off at 19:45 UK time, and while there are no BBC TV, ITV, Sky Sports or TNT Sports television broadcasts confirmed for this fixture, fans can tune into comprehensive radio coverage provided by BBC Radio Nottingham and BBC Radio Wiltshire. These stations offer detailed live commentary, analysis, and insights from experienced presenters, commentators, and pundits, making them the go-to options for British supporters wanting to follow every moment of this crucial Round 29 encounter[1][2][5]. As Notts County, currently sitting 7th in the table, host 6th-placed Swindon Town, the airwaves will buzz with tension in this battle that could shape the playoff race[2].

BBC Radio Nottingham, the voice of Nottinghamshire football, will lead the charge for Magpies fans with David Jackson presenting, Adam Hassell on main commentary duties, and Adam Chicksen providing co-commentary. Meanwhile, BBC Radio Wiltshire caters to Robins supporters, featuring Shaun Hodgetts as presenter, Andrew Hawes as main commentator, Steve Hale as co-commentator, and legendary pundit Lou Macari offering his expert analysis. This dual coverage ensures balanced, passionate broadcasting from both sides, perfect for listeners across the UK[1].

The match pits two form teams against each other. Notts County have scored 4 goals in their last 5 outings, with Matthew Dennis leading their shots on target at 1.3 per game and Nicholas Tsaroulla creating 6 big chances, showcasing their attacking threat at home[1]. Swindon Town, however, boast firepower too, netting 9 goals in their last 5 matches, spearheaded by top scorer Aaron Drinan with 14 league goals, though they've lost their last 3 games, adding intrigue to this away challenge[1][2]. Prediction models favour a narrow Notts County win at 41.63% probability, with 2-1 the likeliest scoreline at 8.9%, but Swindon's resilience could make it tight[4].

Delving into the broadcast teams, David Jackson, presenter on BBC Radio Nottingham, brings decades of local sports journalism experience. A stalwart of Nottinghamshire broadcasting, Jackson has covered countless Notts County matches, from Wembley triumphs to gritty league campaigns, earning respect for his calm demeanour and deep club knowledge. His role tonight will be to guide listeners through pre-match build-up, interviews, and post-game reactions, ensuring Magpies fans feel connected to Meadow Lane[1].

Main commentator Adam Hassell is a rising star in football radio. With a background in local sports reporting, Hassell honed his skills covering non-league and EFL games before becoming a regular voice for BBC Radio Nottingham. Known for his vivid descriptions and tactical insights, Hassell's calls have captured pivotal moments for Notts County, blending enthusiasm with precision to paint the picture for radio audiences[1].

Joining him is co-commentator Adam Chicksen, a former professional footballer whose career adds authenticity. Chicksen, a defender who played for clubs including Notts County rivals like Northampton Town and represented Zimbabwe internationally, transitioned seamlessly into punditry. His on-pitch experience – over 200 career appearances – provides invaluable analysis on defensive setups and player performances, making his contributions essential for dissecting this high-stakes game[1].

Switching to BBC Radio Wiltshire, presenter Shaun Hodgetts is a familiar face to Wiltshire football followers. Hodgetts has anchored coverage for Swindon Town for years, covering promotions, relegations, and cup runs with infectious energy. His pre-match segments often feature player chats and fan reactions, building excitement for Robins matches across the county[1].

Andrew Hawes, the main commentator, boasts a illustrious career spanning decades in sports broadcasting. A veteran of BBC local radio, Hawes has narrated hundreds of Swindon Town games, from the glory days under managers like Lou Macari to modern struggles. His smooth delivery and encyclopedic knowledge of League Two make him a listener favourite, capable of capturing the drama of a late winner or controversial decision[1].

Co-commentator Steve Hale complements Hawes with his analytical prowess. Hale, a former Swindon Town academy product and lifelong fan, offers grassroots perspectives alongside tactical breakdowns. His regular slots on BBC Wiltshire have made him a trusted voice, particularly on away days where he highlights the challenges of venues like Meadow Lane[1].

The star of the Wiltshire team is undoubtedly pundit Lou Macari, a football icon whose presence elevates the coverage. Macari, now 76, enjoyed a stellar playing career as a midfield dynamo for Celtic, winning 5 league titles and the European Cup semi-final run in 1970. After managing Swindon Town from 1984-1985 and later Stoke City to promotion, he returned to manage Swindon again in 1989, securing promotion from the old Fourth Division. His no-nonsense opinions and tales from over 700 managerial games will provide post-match wisdom, drawing on his direct experience with both clubs' histories. For more on Macari's legendary career, visit Lou Macari's Wikipedia page.

This fixture holds historical significance. Notts County, the world's oldest professional club founded in 1862, host Swindon Town, County Ground stalwarts since 1879. Recent head-to-heads show competitiveness, with a 2-2 draw earlier this season, setting the stage for fireworks[1][7]. Notts County's home form, bolstered by a 50% win rate in League Two, contrasts Swindon's road woes, having lost 3 of their last 6 away[6]. Key battles include Drinan's quest for more goals against County's defence, where Jatta and Dennis lurk[1].

Why tune into BBC Radio? Unlike streaming apps, radio offers uninterrupted, expert-led coverage without data worries, ideal for UK listeners driving home or multitasking. Both stations stream online via BBC Sounds, accessible nationwide. For Notts fans, expect focus on home advantage at Meadow Lane, a fortress with passionate support. Swindon followers will relish Macari's insights into turning around their 3-game skid[1][2].

Broader context: League Two's playoff race intensifies, with both teams vying for top 7 spots. Notts County's consistency (7th) meets Swindon's scoring prowess (6th), but models predict a 2-1 Magpies edge or 1-1 draw[4]. Players like Drinan (14 goals, 7.27 FotMob rating) and County's chance-creators could decide it[1].

For Notts County history, explore Notts County FC Wikipedia. Swindon fans can delve into Swindon Town FC Wikipedia. EFL rights details are at EFL Broadcast Agreements.

As kick-off nears, whether you're a die-hard Magpie or Robins supporter, these BBC teams promise immersive audio. Jackson, Hassell, and Chicksen for home pride; Hodgetts, Hawes, Hale, and Macari for away grit. With stats favouring a thriller, settle in – League Two at its rawest awaits[1][2][4].

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