Connect FM closed and merged with Smooth East Midlands on 1 October 2019 in Kettering, Corby, Wellingborough, Northampton, Peterborough and Rushden.

The station gradually networked many of its programmes since 2007, and from 28 June 2010 Tony Lyman was the only remaining original presenter from the Saga line up.

[3] - On 4 February 2014, the Radio Today website reported that Ofcom had given Global permission to remove Smooth from the Digital One platform, and to replace it with a service playing music from the 1970s, 80s and 90s.

[4] Under this agreement, Smooth would continue to broadcast on its regional frequencies, but would be required to provide seven hours of local output per day.

[5] Local news bulletins, traffic updates and advertising were retained, alongside the station's East Midlands breakfast show.

All networked programming originates from Global's London headquarters, including The Smooth Drive Home with Angie Greaves.