9.85°C Colne Radio is aiming to raise £3,000 in a two-week crowdfunding campaign to bring the station to FM, following the award of a community radio licence by Ofcom.
If successful, the FM broadcast radius will stretch from the eastern edges of Colchester around the Hythe and town centre, out to Wivenhoe, Great Bentley and Brightlingsea.
The station began life in 2011 as Radio Wivenhoe, broadcasting from a bedroom. Since then, it has grown into a volunteer-led operation, with more than 50 local people producing programmes, supported by a dedicated off-air team handling promotion, administration and management.
The crowdfunding target of £3,000 will help secure the transmitter at an agreed site, with a planning application already submitted to Colchester Borough Council. If £5,000 is raised, the station plans to upgrade its studio facilities and invest in outside broadcasts.
Colne Radio also hopes to expand its training opportunities, building on existing links with the University and its Broadcast Journalism course to help local people develop skills in music presentation and radio journalism.
Supporters can choose from a range of rewards. A £3 pledge secures an on-air dedication, while a £5,000 contribution would see the donor broadcast live on air from a boat on the River Colne.
Alongside financial backing, the team is encouraging supporters to share the campaign across social media and help spread the message: Fund Colne Radio to support the local community.
Donations can be made via the station’s Crowdfunder page.
