W107.1 FM The Word is the latest gospel radio station to be launched in the country.

At the rooftop of the Carlton Savannah in Cascade on Friday night, the radio station, formerly known as Hitz 107.1 FM, was introduced during an event broadcast live on the station.

One Caribbean Media Ltd (OCM), acquired the radio station—one of three formerly owned and operated by the Citadel Group—on September 16.

The other stations are i95.5 FM and Red 96.7 FM.

The station will feature 24-hour gospel programming.

At the event attended by Pastor Clive Dottin, and Dave Alleyne, programme director, radio personality Tony Lee and brand manager Daren Lee Sing, OCM group financial controller and company secretary John Lum Young congratulated the radio network team responsible for delivering the new gospel format.

Delivering remarks on behalf of OCM chief executive Dawn Thomas who was unable to attend, Lum Young said this was an occasion for celebration as the station added diversity of choice to the country's airwaves as well as the option of a "cleaner, crisper format", offering more gospel music and less talk.

Lum Young said Thomas had recently returned from an International Press Institute meeting in Europe during which an Eastern European publisher was lamenting the steady loss of newspaper readership and revenues.

He also cited the case of Newsweek magazine which decided to cease print publication last week and maintain an online presence only.

Lum Young said in an effort to stay in step with the changing times OCM was endorsing the gospel format.

"I look forward to the message of faith and hope and wholesome vibrations touching a responsive chord in these often troubled times, and being widely and positively received among our gospel-inspired community," he said.

Calypsonians Sean Daniel and Christopher "Tambu" Herbert headlined the performing acts at the event.