Premier Christian Radio says its thrilled with the results of a new survey showing that listeners are tuning in for longer.

The latest RAJAR figures show listening hours for the station doubled in the last quarter to 16.6 a week.

The results place the radio station, which went digital nationwide late last year, second only to Gold Crawley, which averages 20 hours a week.

"Listening hours for Premier Christian Radio have shot up, we're all thrilled," said Programme Controller, Dave Rose.

"There's no one special factor. We put it down to our listeners enjoying the range of music and speech programming Premier provides.

"We've been working hard to broadcast the best Christian music, cover topical news from a Christian perspective as well as
lining up great guests.

"Earlier this week we had Celebrity Big Brother star Stephen Baldwin on live for Breakfast and next week we've got MP Stephen Timms."

This month, Premier launched a new gospel music radio station, broadcasting in London and the surrounding area.

Chief Executive, Peter Kerridge said: "We're hoping that Premier Gospel will grow to be as popular as it's sister station, Premier Christian Radio."