Washacre FM (87.7FM)
Your very own Community Radio Station
Background
Starting in 2006 Washacre FM, was an annual and award-winning community radio event that not only reached the heart of the community but got it involved, and was a highlight of the Westhoughton calendar through to 2005. Broadcasting from the John Holt Centre (BL5 2NR), the broadcast was 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 were given the chance to be presenters, engineers or could 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 was 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 went 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, and with experience and knowledge the broadcast got better and better.
With each year and another successful broadcast, Washacre FM was 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 coming 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!
Unfortunately, the station was unable to reach its 10th year of broadcasting, however many gaining experience behind the mic or behind the scenes have gone on to develop their skills in other areas; several presenters from online station Howfen Radio cutting their teeth whilst part of the John Holt Centre set-up. You can get a flavour of the broadcasts via the links on these Washacre FM pages.
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
