A chance to be a star on radio (From Stroud News and Journal)

A chance to be a star on radio

PREPARATIONS are underway for the return of community radio station Stroud FM.

After a year's break it will once more fill the airwaves of the Five Valleys during this year's Stroud Fringe Festival.

And organisers hope more people than ever before will get involved, including those who have never before been on air.

Planning has begun early to ensure funds are in place for September's four-day broadcast, with a chairman being elected at the launch meeting next Wednesday, April 19.

Existing committee member and former host Claire Penketh, 43, will once again bring a great deal of experience.

The Rodborough resident - a former BBC World Service and Hong Kong television producer and reporter - says this year promises to be better than ever.

"We want to get lots of people involved so are inviting anyone to come along to the meeting and have a bit of a play on the radio desk," she said.

Fundraising efforts are also beginning early as the two previous broadcasts in 2003 and 2004 cost nearly £3,500.

And this year the group want to invest in their own mixing desks, microphones and other equipment for use in future years.

There will be something for all whether you are an aspiring Chris Moyles or Terry Wogan or want to get involved in off-air production and support.

"We want to let people who have never had the chance before to get on the airwaves and we are especially looking for lots of youth interest," added Claire.

"One year we had two ladies who were both really nervous but after a bit of training they really took to it."

However offbeat all show ideas, which can be live or pre-recorded, will be considered.

"In the past we have had a ghost-busting show from Woodchester mansion and others on yoga, dating and all types of music including folk and blues as well as a man's hour."

Application forms can be picked up at next Wednesday's meeting, held at 7.30pm in the Old Town Hall, The Shambles, Stroud.

Visit www.stroudfm.co.uk for more information.