We believe there are many more exiled Scots who, given the chance, will now log on and tune in

Maggie Cunningham, head of radio, Scotland

Streaming the station will mean that people with access to the internet can hear what's going on in Scotland - be it live football, news, music or discussion programmes - wherever they live.

Maggie Cunningham, the BBC's head of radio, Scotland, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for us.

"Already our news and sports programmes have met with a great response, and our new music programme Air has had a good response to the dance element which goes out exclusively on the internet from 2200.

"More than 40% of our listeners use the internet regularly and we believe there are many more exiled Scots who, given the chance, will now log on and tune in."

More interactive

Julie Adair, BBC Scotland's executive editor of new media, said: "There is quite a demand for this service.

"We have had a lot of mail requesting we make it available, so I am delighted we now can. "

In the longer-term more interactive content, including some webcams for key programmes, will also be available at www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland.

Internet users have already been able to listen to and watch live and archived television and radio news programmes through BBC News Online Scotland.