RadioAlty.co.uk, Altrincham’s only independent radio station which is operated solely by volunteers, has celebrated its second birthday.
Based at studios in the Garrick Theatre in Altrincham, Radio Alty broadcast its first show just as the first lockdown came into force in March 2020.
Presenters set up home studios in lofts, spare rooms, broom cupboards and conservatories to ensure the launch deadline was met.
Radio Alty was launched to give Altrincham residents a voice and a platform to learn media skills.
Launching with just five volunteers, the station now boasts a roster of over 25 volunteers, ranging from BAFTA-nominated theatre and TV directors to retail managers, students and retirees.
Station manager Rod Maxwell said: “The schedule on the station features a number daytime shows that shine a light on local topics and local businesses and provide local news and updates.
In the evening the station turns to its speciality shows which introduce listeners to a wide range of variety including soul and motown, country, jazz, local unsigned artists, dance, theatre, opera and musicals.
“We are proud to be a platform to share local information and shows to the residents of Altrincham, as well as ex-residents living as far afield as Ireland, France, Japan and Italy.”
Radio Alty has also provided local people with the opportunity to learn skills and gain experience in presenting, podcasting, reporting, production and engineering, and over the two years several members of the team have moved into roles in regional and national media – including Pete Scotson, who recently joined Happy Radio.
The station is part of a community interest company, Altrincham Community Media, set up by its founding members.
It is also producing the Life With No Filter and Life After Work podcasts.
To support the further growth of the station, Radio Alty is calling on local businesses to sponsor a show or the station itself.
It’s also appealing for volunteers who would like to join the Radio Alty team, with available roles including content management, social media development and marketing.
To listen to RadioAlty, head to www.radioalty.co.uk. You can also listen
via Alexa (just say enable or open “Radio Altrincham”), the Radio Alty app and Streema.
Local businesses interested in advertising or local residents keen on volunteering should email radioalty@gmail.com.
