COTSWOLDS Radio is celebrating its fourth birthday.

The community radio station went from room in a cellar to a purpose built station in the Old Prison, Northleach.

We took time out to chat to Kimberley Lynch about Cotswolds Radio:

How has the radio station changed in the four years since your inception?

The radio station started during lockdown as Radio Northleach, with a breakfast show presented by our founder, Richard Blundell, from his cellar. The initial purpose was to keep residents and the wider community up to date with news, and to provide some light entertainment and positivity during a tough time.

As awareness spread, more people got involved and the station was rebranded, Cotswolds Radio. To date, we have a permanent, well-equipped studio in the Old Prison in Northleach, with over 30 live shows on a monthly rolling schedule, and more than 45 regular presenters. We are a non-profit company and are run entirely by volunteers.

We have a satellite studio at The Cotswold School in Bourton-on-the-Water, where we endeavour to teach and support students interested in a career in broadcasting, where they present 30 minute lunchtime shows during the school term. Our youngest presenters, some in primary school, run our “Saturday Club” shows.

What are the highlights / lowlights from the past four years?

Highlights include interviewing celebrities, including local residents, such as Steve Winwood, and getting so many people involved in the radio across the community.

We regularly attend and broadcast live, local outside events and have completed 24hr fundraising broadcasts.

We are proud to support local charities, including Kate’s Home Nursing, Sunflowers Suicide Support, Headspace, Northleach Primary School and The Cotswold School with fundraisers and events.

How can people get involved with Cotswolds Radio?

People can volunteer their time and expertise, to help with marketing or fundraising, for example. We are always eager to hear from volunteers with a passion to produce and present their own show. Simply email contact@cotswoldsradio.com and we’d be happy to discuss. We ensure volunteers are fully trained and supported.

Anything else you would like to add?

We’d to highlight the incredible community support we've received since the station's inception. Our listeners aren't just passive listeners; they're active participants in shaping our programming and contributing to the vibrant culture of our community.