A new community radio station has launched in Royston and is calling for volunteers.
Royston Radio is the brainchild of Melbourn resident, author and local historian Fonz Chamberlain, and is a not-for-profit organisation run out of a purpose-built studio in Coombes Community Centre.
Fonz said: "Being offered the opportunity to get involved in local radio 'saved me' at a very dark time in my life and I am eternally grateful.
"I want Royston Radio to be inclusive, accommodate everyone and want to encourage community groups to get involved.
"There’s so many different roles here."
Last week saw the launch of shows presented by people from Royston and the surrounding areas - including Naomi Wallen from DanceMatters and John Froggett from The Accountancy Practice.
The team of volunteers includes former mayor Rob Inwood, shop owner and entrepreneur Laura Whitford and musician Clive Manning, with support from The Listing magazine and Johnson Matthey.
Shows coming up soon include Danni Kaye's 'Here to Help', DJ Mr Bamboozle's 'Fat Jax Experience', and Pete and Emma Eather's 'Dance Beats', in addition to John and Naomi's shows.
Naomi, who runs DanceMatters community dance school, said: "I found out about the opportunity via Business Babble networking group and my show 'Feel Good Friday' has just started, airing at midday.
"It was nerve racking but great to have a new challenge. I started running 'kitchen discos' all over the world via Zoom during lockdown.
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"I thought, why not offer something similar on 'internet' radio. It’s all about sharing the love!"
John's 'Royston Rant' is broadcast every Sunday at 5pm. He said: "An opportunity to 'rant' for an hour seemed too good to miss, and I have to say, it’s been a lot harder than I expected.
"But I’ve got the bug now and will be doing a new show every other week with a repeat on alternate Sundays."
Fonz added: "The door is open to everyone. We’ll provide full training for free.
"If you’re passionate about something, cooking or art, health and fitness, whatever, get in touch and we can go from there!"
To get involved email info@roystonradio.com or visit www.roystonradio.com.
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