A temporary radio station, Highbridge Family Radio, which took to the airwaves in the town over the weekend hopes to become a permanent service in the future.
The station, which was supported by the Big Lottery Fund and co-ordinated by Bridgwater charity Somerset Film, transmitted a schedule of music, chat and information live from Market Street in Highbridge on Saturday and Sunday via 87.7FM and online.
Presented by local families, for local families, both young and old were involved on and off the microphone.
Burnham-On-Sea.com also backed the service by providing community news for the station’s regular bulletins over the two days.
One of the organisers, Deb Richardson, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “The weekend was a great success and we were delighted with the support shown over the two days. We were pleased to have almost 900 visits to our internet feed on Saturday alone in addition to many others listening on our FM frequency.”
“We would like to convert the service into a full-time community station run by people here in Highbridge. We’ve therefore submitted a formal expression of interest to OFCOM, the government radio regulator, about getting the licence but will have to see what comes of this.”
Guests who dropped in to present programmes during the weekend included Highbridge County Councillor John Woodman, Pastor Kelton Black and even the Wrinkly Rappers!
Topics covered ranged from beekeeping and stargazing to the scouting movement, business and local history.
On Saturday, listeners were able to cook along in their own homes when the Strong family from Highbridge presented ‘Cook with Dad’.
Dad Peter guided audiences on how to make delicious Rhubarb Fool, whilst Mum Jacqui gave advice on how to grow the essential ingredient, Rhubarb.
Music highlights during the weekend included local groups ‘Lost in Obsession’ live in session with the Nicol Family in their show ‘Nicol Natter’.
Highbridge band ‘Vermin’ were in conversation with Jack Ward, playing tracks from their latest release and giving details of their forthcoming tour. And listeners were also able to go behind the scenes with local choir the Coastal Singers.
On Sunday morning, the Rowswell family presented ‘Junior Choice’, with dedications and tunes specially for younger children alongside useful information on services for families.
Two volunteers from rescue charity BARB were also invited to the station on Sunday to discuss the organisation’s work in seaside safety.
