“Local radio is the heart and soul of communities and we’re delighted to support Hot Radio FM in its mission to keep the local community informed and entertained.”
— Nick Ashley-Cooper, Chairman at Talbot Village Trust
18
October,
2023
More than 400,300 people across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch can tune into Hot Radio FM, thanks to a boost from Talbot Village Trust.
Through a £24,000 donation from the Trust, not-for-profit community radio station Hot Radio, and its team of 125 local volunteers, has been able to upgrade and improve its FM transmission service – extending listenership across the whole of the BCP conurbation.
Kevin Scott, CEO of Dorset Community Radio (Hot Radio, Hot Gold Radio & Xtra Hot Radio), says: “Hot Radio was designed to put the station at the heart of the local community to provide listeners with local traffic updates, an abundance of good news stories, competitions, and music from the 90s until now.
“During the pandemic, we were a vital communication tool to disseminate important updates from our council as well as the local Dorset Health Service as well as other professionals such as the police. As well as providing important updates, Hot Radio became a key source of entertainment made by locals for locals during this time.
“It became evident to us, following the pandemic, that deteriorating transmission equipment was resulting in our broadcasts becoming significantly patchy in some areas. So, to continue servicing the local community and improve our coverage of our permitted area, key investment in the latest technology was needed.”
The new equipment includes an antenna, which is set to 102.8FM, and a transmitter which is fixed to the Water Tower at Tower Park, Poole.
“Donations, such as this fantastic donation from Talbot Village Trust, are simply essential to our survival and improvement. By having this essential equipment, our community can receive our services correctly and our team of volunteer presenters are supported with the industry standard tools they need to deliver a great service. Thank you to Talbot Village Trust.”
Nick Ashley-Cooper, Chairman at Talbot Village Trust, said: “Local radio is vital in our communities and can be a lifeline for many. Shows presented by talented presenters who are proud and knowledgeable about where the live and work, offering vital news, entertainment and, most importantly, companionship to thousands of listeners across the area.
Click here to find out more about how you can apply for funding.
