Isle of Man International Broadcasting founder Paul Rusling said he is frustrated and the ongoing court battle is 'depriving the Island as a whole of a powerful radio voice'.

Bride resident Nick Cussons launched a petition of doleance against the Communications Commission and IMIB arguing the long wave licence should not have been issued.

Earlier this year he was given the go-ahead to proceed with his petition despite objections from IMIB and the commission.

It had been hoped the case would be heard before next month, but Mr Rusling said his company has been informed a request for an adjournment by Mr Cussons has been granted. A date for the hearing is yet to be set.

That means plans for the station — with offices in Ramsey and a transmitter in the sea off Ramsey — remain on hold.

Mr Rusling said: 'Eighteen months have been lost as a result of this petition costing not only our shareholders anxiety and delays, but also depriving the Island as a whole of a powerful radio voice which could be useful in boosting its exports and raising its profile.

'We are, however, very determined and this extra delay will not deter us from pressing on.

'We have now had thousands of messages of support and expressions of goodwill,' he added. 'The project has become much more than just a commercial project or yet another radio station, it has become a torch for many who believe in widening the choice of programme supplier and new, innovative broadcasting techniques.

'It also offers a unique opportunity for the Isle of Man. Everything else is ready to run and we are determined to launch the station at the earliest opportunity.'