Entries in this category might include: investigative stories or content relating to lifestyle, religion, science, history etc. We also welcome entries of issue-related or ideas programmes based on our rapidly changing world, as well as content reflecting on past events. The judges will be looking for a strong journalistic instinct and a gripping narrative, plus compelling and creative production.

IMPORTANT: News-related programming should be entered in the Best News and Current Affairs Producer category

Celebrating the best in news and current affairs production. Entries here should be from programmes which are clearly led by the current affairs agenda. The judges will be looking for a strong journalistic instinct and a riveting narrative. We encourage entries which cover local or regional stories.

Entries can feature outstanding, engaging sports programming from many formats; from live daytime programmes to round-table podcasts, but they must relate to sports in a clear and defined way. For example, submissions might include commentary, event coverage, discussion and/or storytelling. Judges are looking for evidence of compelling and distinctive production, covering sport in its widest context. 

Recognising producers who successfully create fresh and fun entertainment content. For example, entries might be drawn from live programmes and/or light-hearted podcasts. Judges are looking for sparkling entertainment served up with creativity and distinctiveness. 

IMPORTANT: Pure comedy should be entered into the Gethin Thomas Award for Best Comedy Producer category.

All comedy-based audio can be entered here, including sitcoms, scripted comedy, sketch shows or comedy-led panel shows. Any format with the primary aim of making people laugh fits the bill. The judges will be looking for creativity matched by innovative production, though sublimely executed traditional comedy is also warmly welcomed.

IMPORTANT: Entertainment programmes (i.e. content that’s not primarily focused on getting laughs) should be entered in the Best Entertainment Producer category.

Entries here may span a wide range of formats and subject matter. The key is that they must have been created in a live broadcast setting. Judges will be looking for exceptional production values which bring the listener into the beating heart of the action.

Celebrating an outstanding Podcast Producer who truly understands the medium. Judges will be looking for compelling content and creativity that takes full advantage of the podcast format. 

Please note this category should not be used to enter broadcast radio content, which is then made available in podcast form.

Recognising an exceptional producer who knows how to bring the story, characters and narrative to life in 3D Technicolor in listeners’ minds. The judges will be looking for a talented producer who knows how to take advantage of the medium to create compelling drama.

Judges will be looking at the range and choice of material, performance, direction and production values here. Producers should enter a series of extracts taken from the beginning of each book or reading.  Importantly in this category, entries should include at least three titles. Judges will also be looking for creative casting that marries voice(s) and book, pacing, careful editing, quality of acoustic, use of other elements of audio storytelling as appropriate.

Celebrating a newcomer to audio production who shows potential to reach the very highest level. The judges will be looking for evidence of a sustained contribution to a production or production company, or for an exceptional debut as a producer or engineer in any form of audio. It is not essential to be associated with a single (or any) production company to be successful in this category, and producers who work entirely for themselves are equally welcome.

For exceptional contributions to audio imaging and/or station sound production. Judges will be looking for ultimate creativity in audio branding and/or station promotion, such as station/podcast IDs, jingles, music beds, voiceovers, programme trails and promotions. This category embraces imaging work for radio stations and/or podcast and downloadable content. 

Celebrating the talents of sound designers, mixers, studio managers and others who create startling soundscapes that elevate audio from great to extraordinary. Judging criteria will include technical skill, sound quality, innovation and creative contribution.

For an individual, production company, radio/audio station or community-based organisation that has shown extraordinary achievement in identifying, nurturing or mentoring new and diverse talent to the audio industry. Please note that this category, for 2019, is FREE to enter.

IMPORTANT: this category is not aimed at the new talent themselves. They would be eligible for the New Voice Award category.

Recognising and rewarding an audiobook narrator who has demonstrated exceptional talent at interpreting the written word over the year, as exemplified by a single piece of outstanding work.

For exceptional on-mic talent presenting speech programmes. Judges will be looking for compelling conversation, brilliant interviews, outstanding creativity and a genuine connection to the audience.

For exceptional on-mic talent presenting music programmes. Judges will be looking for an unrivalled understanding of their chosen music genre(s), the ability to share that passion, plus constant creativity and powerful audience connection.

For outstanding presenters who have recently entered the audio world or gained significant mainstream recognition for the first time.

This award recognises and celebrates a company’s success across the year. Entries are warmly welcomed from the smallest to the largest companies. In this category, entry length is up to 30 minutes and judges will consider the level of creative excellence as well as the business challenges and growth of the company during the qualifying period, considering the size and resources of the company in each case.