Washacre FM (87.7FM)
Your very own Community Radio Station
Background
Starting in 2006, the annual, award-winning community radio event that is Washacre FM not only reaches the heart of the community but gets them involved, and has is become a highlight of the Westhoughton calendar. Broadcasting from the John Holt Youth and Community Centre (BL5 2NR), the broadcast is the result of much planning, organising, producing and 'making it happen'… with a mix of music, local content and features, fun stuff, drama, competitions and generally anything that will get local residents involved.
A major undertaking, local people are given the chance to be presenters, engineers or may help in a variety of ways to bring this broadcasting feast to the airways. Obtaining a special broadcast licence and reaching out across Westhoughton and beyond, it is a chance for the local community to shine and do something a bit different! The broadcast began as a project between HACFRA (Hindleys and Clough Farm Residents Association) and Bolton at Home, with support of DBBC (Diversity in Barrier-Breaking Communications) who helped with initial training and technical expertise, and has gone from strength to strength reaching out to all of Westhoughton - and beyond. Overseen by Station Manager, Doug Cunliffe, and managed by a team of hardworking and enthusiastic residents and volunteers, the broadcast seems to get better and better.
With each year and another successful broadcast, Washacre FM is able to introduce new presenters, have a mix of music, local interest, chat, interviews, supplementary pre-recorded pieces, humour and 'Keawyed' banter; a particular success being the 2014 radio play, which brought two Westhoughton community groups together - Washacre FM and the Westhoughton Methodist ADS. The broadcast comes to its conclusion with the final day presenter send-offs and open mic sessions, of course, the celebratory Showcase Day - a great buzz with many highlights. All thanks to the tireless work behind the scenes from HACRFA, presenters, technicians and volunteers. The transistors barely cooled, talk and planning begins for the next broadcast and new challenges ahead!
2016 Washacre FM Broadcast
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances this year's broadcast, and what would have been the 10th anniversary, will not take place. However, it is hoped to run some training sessions at the John Holt Centre for would-be radio presenters and engineers. The popular Showcase Day will still take place in and around the centre with community involvement, family fun and entertainment.
Washacre FM will return in 2017. New volunteers are most welcome, both for on-mic work and behind the scenes. Are you a 'future broadcast star?' It's challenging, fun, and a chance to develop new skills and work as part of the broadcast team, reaching out into the local community.
Info about previous broadcasts:
Washacre FM 2015 (Schedule)
Washacre FM 2014 (Schedule | Radio Play)
Washacre FM 2013 | Washacre FM 2012.
Contact Information
For further information call 01942 859535 (the John Holt Centre) or email: WashacreFM
class="mail" title="E-mail Westhoughton Community Network">Westhoughton Community Network
