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Radio Riverside, the community radio station run entirely by volunteers in the town of Ashby, is celebrating its tenth birthday this month.
The station started in 2016 in a small room above a bakery, with just one microphone, a borrowed computer and six volunteers. It could only be heard within about three kilometres of the town centre. Today it broadcasts twenty-four hours a day from a proper studio in the old fire station, and its programmes can be heard across the whole district and online anywhere in the world.
More than eighty volunteers now present, produce and organise programmes. They range in age from fifteen to eighty-seven. There are shows about local news, sport, gardening and cooking, as well as music programmes covering everything from jazz to traditional folk songs. One of the most popular programmes is presented by a group of teenagers from the local secondary school, who interview people from the town about their lives and jobs.
The station also plays an important role during emergencies. When the river flooded two winters ago, Radio Riverside stayed on air all night, giving updates on road closures and telling people where they could find shelter. Many residents said it was the most reliable source of information they had.
All volunteers receive free training in using the equipment, interviewing and writing for radio. Several former volunteers have gone on to work for national radio and television stations.
To mark the anniversary, the station is holding an open day next Saturday. Visitors will be able to tour the studio, try presenting a short programme and meet the presenters. There will also be a special live broadcast in the evening, featuring guests who have been involved with the station since it began.