2 minute read
Keep calm and Park Radio
Despite temperamental transmitters and the ongoing challenges presented by COVID-19, Park Radio has continued to offer support and a calm, reassuring presence to all sectors of the community throughout this extraordinary and unprecedented year.
Supporting businesses, keeping communities connected and informed, providing new opportunities and engagement for young people (not to mention playing some of the most eclectic music around), it’s proved a lifeline for many. Two of the many beneficiaries share their stories here.
Going above and beyond
When the transmitter serving the Harleston area had to be switched off due to health and safety, many listeners were redirected online to listen to their favourite Park Radio programmes. Some, however, didn’t have the equipment to do this. Robert Green was one such listener. But he wasn’t left Park Radio-less for long. Like others in a similar situation, Robert was loaned an internet radio by the station so he could continue to enjoy his regular feed of local broadcasting. ''It was so good of Park Radio to organise the loan of the internet radio so I could get my morning Park Radio fix,” said Robert. “It was greatly appreciated.”
The loan of the radio coincided with the mass surge testing which took place in Diss in February. It meant Robert (and others affected by the faulty transmitter) were kept informed about what was happening.
“Having been fortunate enough to be able to listen in over the last few days, I think the value of a local station like Park Radio is more than demonstrated by the way it’s able to cover developments like the COVID19 testing arrangements in Diss,” said Robert. “This is what stations like Park Radio do better than any other.”
Robert Green
Supporting a new generation of broadcasters
Two new presenters have recently joined the Park Radio team. Looking forwards, the station has made an extra effort to provide more opportunities to the young people of the area - with programming time devoted to the next generation of broadcasters. Teams from both Diss and Archbishop Sancroft high schools have taken to the air with Archbishop Sancroft pupil, Matt Hallsworth, hosting a regular slot each Sunday at 3pm.
''I've worked with Park Radio multiple times over the past two years and the experience that it’s given me is priceless,” said Matt. “I started here when I was 14. Since then I’ve learnt core media skills and how to present a radio show effectively. It’s also built my confidence with public speaking. The skills I learnt led me to secure a place at an online radio station, where I’ve been presenting since July 2019.
“When I was invited back to Park this year, I was met with great regard and made to feel very welcome. Park Radio is the perfect platform for anyone wanting to learn the art of radio, no matter what their age is. They’re brilliant at what they do serving the local community with style.''
