FRONT COVER DOCUMENT 16/11/06 4:01 pm Page 1 IFC Northants conference 16/11/06 4:02 pm Page 1 01 INTRO 16/11/06 4:15 pm Page 1
November/December 2006 Issue 113
The Official Journal of the Hospital Broadcasting Association in this issue ... Hi Everyone, Welcome to the last issue of On Air for 2006. Committee Report ...... 3 Looking back, it has been quite a roller coast year: problems with Patientline – never knowing which channels patients All Our Yesterdays ...... 5 would find us – hopefully it is now sorted – and we can only June’s Travels ...... 6 move forward; a large majority of Health Trusts are millions of Countrywide ... News from the Stations ...... 8 pounds in the red – but hospital radio still survives and we must remember why ... to improve the quality of life for the A Norwich Postcard ...... 16 patient whilst in hospital. Ruby Celebrations for Radio Brockley ...... 20 You will find inside pictures from the Norwich conference; News from Radio Skerne ...... 22 we delayed this issue slightly so that we could include them. I hope you think it is worth the wait and also will encourage you Birthday Celebrations for Barnet ...... 23 to attend the next conference which will be held in Guildford’s Outdoor Music Festival ...... 24 Northampton. You can find all the details on page 15. The HBA Conference Bursary ...... 25 My sincere thanks to Geoff Fairbairn and Don Bannister for all the excellent photos. Bursary Application Form ...... 26 On Page 28 you will find details of the new Executive Regional Rep Details ...... 27 Committee and how to contact them. Who To Contact ...... 28 May I take this opportunity of wishing you all a peaceful Christmas and I look forward to hearing from you next year. Michelle FRONT COVER STORY: Sir Cliff Richard is presented with his DIARY DATES certificate from Radio Brockley as their November 15th-16th, 2006 NEC, Birmingham most requested artist of 2006 at their SBES recent 40th birthday celebrations 30th-1st April 2007 The Park Inn Spring Conference, Northampton 19th-21st October, 2006 Hilton Hotel, Newport Autumn Conference
On Air is the Official Journal of the HBA which is the trading name of the National Association of Hospital Broadcasting Organisations, a Company limited by guarantee. Registered in England No. 2750147. A Registered Charity No. 1015501. Registered office: Mariners House, 24 Nelsons Gardens, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 2NE. On Air is distributed free of charge to all member stations of the Association plus interested parties. All material is ©2006 of HBA and may not be reproduced in any form without the written authority of the Editor. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of HBA, or the Editor but are the personal opinion of the contributor. Whilst every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the publication, all advertisements and articles appear in good faith and HBA and the Editor accept no responsibility for any errors or inaccuracies.
Address for On-Air: The Editor, On Air, 2 Falkland Close, Boreham, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 3DD Tel: 0870 321 6011 Fax: 0870 321 6019 Email: [email protected] COPY DATE NEXT ISSUE 16th December, 2006 02 Sonifex 16/11/06 4:16 pm Page 1 03 Committee report 16/11/06 4:16 pm Page 1
Committee Report
Annual General Meeting Associate member of TNF and TNF is The HBA's AGM was held on an Honorary Member of HBA. Saturday, 28th October 2006 at the If you'd like to find out more about Ramada Jarvis Hotel in Norwich. talking newspapers and to track down As a result of the Trustee elections your local newspaper, visit the TNF and appointments at the subsequent website at www.tnf.org.uk. Executive Committee meeting, the Internet Broadcasting HBA's Trustees are now: The EC are getting an increasing President – June Snowden number of requests for information about Vice President – Dave Nicholson the legality and practicalities of hospital Chief Executive – Paul Sysum radio stations broadcasting on the Deputy Chief Executive – Phil Moon internet. The subject was discussed at Secretary – Nigel Dallard some length during the September EC Treasurer – Julie Cox meeting and we will be producing some PR Manager – Mike Skinner written guidance shortly. Regional Manager – Dave Lockyer Briefly, if your station is thinking about going down this route, the first thing you The Executive Committee would like need to ask is why do you want to do to thank John Watson and John this and how is it going to further the Harper for their hard work and charitable objects of the station as defined dedication to their roles as Trustees in its constitution. If your constitution over the past few years. restricts you to serving only patients in Model Magazine Publishing by Nigel Dallard, Secretary your local hospital, you may have some difficulty answering this! Agreement If you are able to justify internet At its September meeting, the EC broadcasting, you next need to consider approved publication of HBA's Model The situation was found to be very the practical issues: Which media Magazine Publishing Agreement which unclear, with sometimes contrary advice streaming host are you going to use? should, by now, be available on the being obtained from different agencies. How are you going to get the stream members-only section of the website. As a result the EC decided that it would from your studio to the server? How It is a requirement of Charity Law in be advisable for HBA to obtain its own much is it going to cost? Have you sorted England, Wales and Scotland (and legal advice. This has now been out music licensing with MCPS/PRS and shortly Northern Ireland) that a written obtained and John Watson presented a PPL? What about your licence to agreement, which includes a number of summary during the Informal Meeting in broadcast IRN? What about the sports specific clauses, must be in place Norwich. commentary rights? between a charity and a ‘commercial The full version of the legal advice Finally, if you've sorted all that out, participator’ before the latter is allowed now needs to be properly written-up as then you ought to think about putting in to work for the charity. A ‘commercial guidance which we can then publish. place some extra guidance, rules and/or participator’ is defined as someone who For those of you not at the Norwich training for your presenters as to what carries on a business in the process of conference, let me explain that they can and cannot say on air. which it is represented that charitable fundamentally there is no problem with donations will be made. Magazine stations utilising the services of 16 to 18 Charity Law publishers who provide magazines to year-olds as long as this does not conflict And now for my regular update on charities free-of-charge, with or without a with any policy that your host NHS Trust changes to Charity Law ... cash donation, fall within this definition. may have implemented. However, At the time of writing, the Charities Bill The EC believe that the HBA model anyone under the age of 18 is legally a for England and Wales had completed its agreement meets all the legal ‘child’ for the purposes of the child passage through the House of Commons requirements. It is based on a more protection legislation. There are, and was awaiting final approval back in general model contract from the Institute therefore, additional supervisory duties the House of Lords – due on 7th of Fundraising and has been reviewed by and risk assessment needs to be November. a solicitor. All publishing companies that addressed. The new rules will not all be brought HBA is aware offer their services to in immediately the Bill receives Royal hospital broadcasters were given the HBA and the Assent and becomes an Act. They will be opportunity to comment on a draft Talking News Federation phased in over the next couple of years. version and modifications were made to Those of you who came to the Spring HBA has responded to the address some concerns that were raised. Conference in Blackpool may have consultation on the Dept for Social The EC encourage you to use the attended the seminar run by the local Development's draft Charities (Northern model agreement when you next contract talking newspaper. As a result of the Ireland) Order. The draft legislation is a publisher to produce you some patient positive feedback we got from delegates very closely modelled on the English magazines. If you experience any to that seminar and after discussions legislation, with just a couple of concepts problems, or would like some between the Talking News Federation borrowed from the Scottish legislation. clarification, please contact me and the EC as to how hospital radio And finally ... the Company Law ([email protected] 0870 321 6003). stations and talking newspapers could Reform Bill has also completed its passage work more closely together to their through the House of Commons and is Young Persons as Volunteers mutual benefit, we decided that the best awaiting final approval in the House of Last year, the EC was asked to way forward was to start by the two Lords – this time due on 2nd November. produce guidance as to the legal position national umbrella organisations affiliating This Bill will affect any hospital radio and best practice vis-à-vis volunteers aged with each other. I'm therefore pleased to station in the UK that is set up as a 16 to 18. report that HBA is now an Honorary Company.
ON AIR
Hospital Radio Publications are firmly established as THE producers of Hospital Radio magazines financed from supportive advertising by local businesses in your area. We have over 30 years of publishing experience, the last 15 exclusively to hospital radio. As members of our local hospital radio station we are totally in tune with your requirements. We take great pride in the preparation of your magazine and can offer: w experienced, efficient in house facilities, for a quick turn round w generous donation with advance payment if required w help with editorial if needed w we can introduce features, information, quizzes, competitions and interviews w two different sizes of magazine both in full colour throughout with substantial cover. There are absolutely no charges whatsoever to you – our whole package is carefully structured so everything is covered. Advertising rates are very competitive to accommodate all sizes of business. After years of experience we still insist on the same care and attention to detail. So many hospital radio stations have been with us all the way ... here are just a few of them. Join our band of satisfied customers and let us produce you a quality magazine. Phone during office hours on 01245 382229 or anytime on 01245 465246 or write to Hospital Radio Publications, The Studio, The Street, Hatfield Peverel, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 2EH or for more information see our website on www.hrpuk.com We look forward to hearing from you! 05 All our yesterdays 16/11/06 4:46 pm Page 1
All Our Yesterdays
For this month’s ramble through the Dennis Rookard move that had come after some heated archives of ON AIR, let’s pull the dusty looks back at past editions debate by members. Those of us in tome marked 1999 down from the shelf Essex, for example, were not very and open the January edition for that of On-Air happy about being lumped with Kent. year. Historically, those of us living north of The edition’s editor, John Watson, the Thames have little regard to the was one who believed in free goodies Kentish men as indeed did they to us, for his readers, offering not just a cover Men of Essex. In a way it was the mounted programme material CD but same sort of friendly rivalry as that for the studio wall, our very own HBA between Yorkshire and Lancashire. 1999 Calendar. Unfortunately it did not The point was that at my group it was live up to the standards set by certain felt we had more in common with East tyre manufacturers and feature busty Anglia. But that’s all water under the blondes disporting half themselves Dartford Bridge now. naked over studio mixers or showing all I have to say in re-reading our library in the record library. of back numbers, this edition edited by No, ours was a really boring wall John Watson was one of the better chart listing conferences and the like. ones, with a good mix of news and But I continue to live in hopes that one articles. One of which being what we day, as a keen amateur photographer, journalists call a ‘Think Piece’; the sort the committee will commission me to of article where the editor or one of shoot twelve shots of ladies in various their friends comes up with a few states of undress for a new HBA words of wisdom that’s bound to get calendar! some sort of reaction. Of course six or so years ago, For this edition, the subject under thoughts that January were being discussion was Autumn Conferences turned some twelve months forward and whether there was a requirement towards the great Millennium and what problems and solutions encountered for them; the theory being that aside would happen when everyone’s when his group decided to install a from the usual programme of events computer internal clock chips flipped computer play-out system to enable and seminars, because the Spring over to the new century. The panic them to stay on air overnight and during Conference was dominated by the had set in when it was discovered that the day. HBA Awards, the danger was that it way back when the first micro Said Jeff back in 99, ‘We want to would attract more delegates than to processors were being programmed in make Radio Hillingdon an indispensable the autumn bash which could only order to process power on those very part of life in the hospital, providing not offer an AGM as entertainment. early memory limited machines, the just entertainment, but a full ‘Perhaps’, said the author, internal clock would only be able to information service for our listeners.’ Be ‘conference organisers should be count up to 1999. This, according to interesting to read if he feels going 24/7 looking at ways in which they can make the gloom and doom merchants, would was as successful as he hoped? the autumn event more popular by mean come midnight 2000, the clock Mention of the very excellent Clean organising special events in exciting would flip back to 1900 thus leading to Feed CD reminds me that back in locations.’ a total meltdown, as anything driven by January 1999, On Air was mounting a But he ended, ‘I suspect the day of a computer would refuse to function. survey to measure the value that the £100 plus conference is not far off.’ Aircraft would crash, trains would start members placed on it. Although, said How right he was! For elsewhere in hitting each other and atomic power the magazine, a few questionnaires had the magazine, was an advertisement for stations would go into melt down. been received, the general impression the up coming Coventry Conference Oh yes ... and traffic lights would was that you wanted more short where the cost was quoted at an start flashing all the colours as mass programme items and less thirty minute amazing £95 for the weekend? traffic jams built up. The M25, they programmes. Unfortunately in latter maintained, would become a gigantic years, this very useful programme So nearly eight years later, the car park! (Well, they got that part right) material service had to be curtailed due vexed question as to whether Yes, this computer fault would bring to lack of sponsorship. there is a future for the Autumn about the end of civilised life as we But if one service was in doubt, Conference is still rumbling. The knew it. I tell you, I was a bit worried another one was about to be born, AGM must take place. If it’s moved standing on a jam packed London with the testing of a series of upgraded to coincide with the Spring Bridge waiting the great moment at and rewritten web pages. And still on Conference, there would be less midnight as we entered the new the subject of the internet, this was the time for seminars. Is this what you century. But apart from getting rather time when the highly unofficial ‘one list’ want? What would encourage you drunk, nothing happened. But at least was getting into full stride. And many to support the Autumn during that year it kept our computer were the battles that would be fought Conference. Let us have your teckies happy. by its members in the coming years on thoughts, if we don’t know what None more so than the redoubtable its pages. you want, there is little we can do Jeff Brown of Radio Hillingdon, who The month also saw the publishing about it. The address is on page 1. produced an article outlining the of the new regional boundaries. A
/N AIR
June’s Travels
attend their AGM and present Long Service Certificates. Oxford has a great reputation when it comes to traffic jams – and this time was no exception! Hospital Radio Reading were launching their new studio, so I was very happy to spend an evening with them and at the same time make a surprise presentation of a Long Service Certificate. Next day I was delighted to share in the celebrations in Camberley where Radio Frimley Park celebrated their 30th birthday. In October, yet another birthday celebration – the Ruby Anniversary – 40th – at Radio Brockley in the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore. We had a great afternoon together with lots of invited guests popping in and former members too. There was another surprise too – while broadcasting from a ward, I gave a surprise gift from the station along Thank you to those of you who have with a Long Service certificate live on commented about my significant air to David Rauch – it really is such a birthday – I really appreciate it. lovely idea to surprise people this way. The month of June really was a The Long Service certificate requests busy one, more because of a few still keep coming in – we all at the HBA special events to mark the occasion. My regard it as very important to ensure the three chosen charities have now certificates are presented – it is an received cheques for £1,000 each. I am important way to recognise the hard so thrilled at collecting such a sum – work, dedication and commitment never in my wildest dreams did I think given by so many of you around the that much could be raised. I really am UK, so please do bear this in mind grateful to all those who helped me when you are considering the celebrate. presentations. In July I managed to get to The number of certificates and the Richmond where I gave a talk to the length of service is staggering with very Soroptimists Club – a women’s many members receiving 25 year organisation – of Kingston upon certificates and above. You should all be Thames about hospital radio and I was congratulated on the continued service accompanied by Laura, secretary and you are all giving to your stations. member of Kingston upon Thames By the time you read this, Hospital Radio. I also spent a day and Conference will have happened in evening with Riverside Radio – at Norwich. The Conference looks like Charing Cross Hospital – who were being very busy as well as entertaining celebrating their 30th birthday. It was a and with the launch at Sunday lunch of rather hot day and not one to be the new Station Awards, it will, I am spending travelling on the underground sure, be one to remember. I have been where temperatures were an incredible happy to share in celebrations with 40+. Even the birthday cake only just many stations reaching 30 years old and managed to survive in the heat. Well more. Please do not forget that many of done Riverside Radio and thanks for the you are eligible for the new Station hospitality. I also visited York to present Long Service Award, something which one of the cheques and took part in a we all on the Executive Committee felt programme. was so appropriate. Then in early September I visited So a reminder then – certificates will York again where I was happy to take be produced at ten year intervals and a part in a programme. I also gave a talk plaque will be presented at a pre- to a local Mothers Union, who it has to arranged time by one of the HBA be said, knew very little about hospital committee for 25 and 50 years, with radio but were very keen to learn. the plaque also having your station logo Hospital Radio Reading celebrate the Radio Cherwell was my next visit to inscribed on it. Please remember to give opening of their new studio
ON AIR
June’s Travels
us plenty of notice to allow time for the plaque to be inscribed. We also have SBES in November and we will be there – so I look forward to seeing you many of you then. We really do appreciate the support of Dave and Paula McVittie, who are also coming along to our Conference this time. Thank you. Looking to the rest of the year – and there is not too much left – I imagine many of you are preparing for your Christmas broadcasting as well as making final preparations for your entries to the HBA awards. I am certain Dave is looking forward to receiving them all too. I already have three visits in the diary before the end of the year and I look forward to them. I am always delighted to come out and see you whether at your station, taking part in programmes, presenting Long Service Certificates, attending your AGM, fundraising events Riverside Radio celebrate 30 years of broadcasting or any other events. I thank you all for your continued excellent hospitality. I look forward to seeing some of you soon and for those who I do not see, as the is the last On Air issue of 2006, may I be one of the first to wish you Happy Christmas Broadcasting, Happy Christmas and a Prosperous 2007. Best wishes, June
All entries for the 2007 Hospital Radio Awards must have been broadcast between 1st December 2005 and 30th November 2006. No material broadcast in Ruby celebrations at Radio Brockley December 2005 and January 2006 which was submitted as part of the 2006 awards can be submitted as part of the 2007 entry. As last year, we will announce those who have been shortlisted in each category, prior to the ceremony. It is hoped to announce those who reach the top ten by the end of January, at the latest, depending how quickly the judges make their decisions. Saturday 16th December is the closing date for all entries. Members of Radio Frimley Park with their long service certificates
ON AIR
Countrywide ... news from the stations
25TH ANNIVERSARY Airport Community Trust and the REQUEST MILESTONES CELEBRATIONS Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill First request: The Carpenters - Town Councils, which have brought in Over 50 members and guests ‘Yesterday Once More’ played by Bob a combined total of £8,500. To meet attended the 25th anniversary party of Roberts the additional costs of the project, an Grampian Hospital Radio at the Request no 2000: Survivor - ‘Eye of extra £4,000 has been raised during the Grampian Health Services Social Club the Tiger"’played by Dave Leonard past year from a series of fundraising in Aberdeen on 17th June, where they Request no. 4000: Billy Joel - ‘Tell collections, quiz nights and other wined, dined and danced the night Her About It’ played by Lorraine initiatives. away. Request no. 5000: Rose Royce - David Eggleston, Marketing & Public The food was excellent – a fabulous ‘Wishing on a Star’ played by Lizzy Relations Co-ordinator for MDR, said buffet. The refreshments were Request no. 7000: Elaine Paige and ‘we were knocked back last year when reasonably priced and the dancing was Barbara Dickson - ‘I Knew him So a major grant application was turned passable! Well’ played by Richard Avis down but thankfully we have The Grand Raffle was drawn and Request no. 8000: Alison Moyet - persevered with bids to other local one of the many highlights of the night ‘All Cried Out’ played by David Mason grant-giving bodies. was our Vice Chairman winning a Request no. 9000: Kate Bush - ‘We have stepped up our own Daniel O’Donnell DVD! ‘Running Up That Hill’ played by Phil fundraising efforts in the past 12 months So here’s to the next 25 years – but Lyon and it is very pleasing that the funding is before that we’ve been honoured by Request no. 12,000: Simon and now place so that we can mark our being awarded a Civic Reception by Garfunkel ‘Bridge Over Troubled special anniversary year by being able the Aberdeen City Council and we met Water’ played by Richard Avis to replace our Outside Broadcast unit Lord provost John Reynolds and Request no. 14,000: Berlin - Take that is such a valuable facility both for Councillors on 24th August 2006. My Breath Away’ played by Anne the station and the wider community’. Grampian Hospital Radio first went Murrill A formal launch of the new unit is on air on 14th January 1981 and Request no. 15,000: Tight Fit - planned for later in the year, as part of broadcasts from two studios in ‘Fantasy Island’ played by Mark Evans MDR's 30th anniversary year activities, Ashgrove House on the Forester Hill Request no. 16,000: U2 - ‘I Still which are also scheduled to include a site in Aberdeen. Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For’ marathon weekend broadcast. Grampian Hospital Radio, along with played by Steve Huckstep David Eggleston our children’s radio station Radio Request no. 17,000: Karel Fialka - Marketing & Public Relations Rainbow broadcasts 24 hours a day, ‘Hey Matthew’ played by Simon seven days a week, to the patients of Wright Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and Request no. 18,000: Joyce Sims - Aberdeen Maternity Hospital. Radio ‘Come into My Life’ played by Sheryl Rainbow currently broadcasts from May brand new studios at The Royal Request no. 19,000: Kylie Minogue Aberdeen Children's Hospital on the - ‘Got To Be Certain’ played by Phil same site. Lyon Jim Simpson, Treasurer Request no. 20,000: Brother Beyond - ‘The Harder I Try’ played by 61,000 REQUESTS Phil Lyon AND STILL COUNTING Request no. 21,000: Michael Hospital Radio Basingstoke, the Jackson - ‘Smooth Criminal’ played by award winning radio station that Gordon Hunter broadcasts to North Hampshire Request no. 24,000: Jigsaw - ‘Sky Hospital, has just played its 61,000 High’ played by Tony James request. Request no. 26,000: Madonna - NEW OUTSIDE Requests for music come from ‘Hanky Panky’ played by Paul Streeter BROADCAST UNIT FOR patients and staff and can cover Request no. 27,000: Paula Abdul - MID DOWNS anything from The Tweenies to Harry ‘Opposites Attract’ played by Paul Mid Downs Hospital Radio (MDR) Secombe and much more in between. Streeter has had another reason to celebrate its The first request, played in January Request no. 28,000: Jason 30th anniversary year in 2006 with a 1984, was The Carpenters’ hit Donovan - ‘Any Dream Will Do’ played successful fundraising drive that has ‘Yesterday Once More’. by Phil Barber resulted in the station being able to It has taken over twenty-two years Request no 33,000: Whitney acquire a much-needed replacement but on Sunday, 17th September 2006, Houston - ‘I Have Nothing’ played by Outside Broadcast unit, which is used presenter Sarah Beattie played Sister Neil Ogden support a number of events across the Sledge’s ‘We Are Family’ as the Request no. 34,000: Dina Carroll - Mid Sussex community. station’s 61,000th request. ‘So Close’ played by Paul Streeter The station, which broadcasts to the A show where Hospital Radio Request no. 35,000: Manchester patients and staff at the Princess Royal Basingstoke’s presenters from the past Utd - ‘Glory Glory Man Utd’ played by Hospital in Haywards Heath, has made return to play other request milestones Dave Leonard successful grant applications to the from the last 22 years is being planned Request no. 37,000: Jim Reeves - ‘I Gannett Foundation, the Gatwick for later in the year. Love You Because’ played by Steve Fox
ON AIR
Countrywide ... news from the stations
Request no. 38,000: M People - site at www.christmasradiolinkup.co.uk CHEERS FOR RADIO ‘Search For a Hero’ played by Daniel which invites those who wish to take GWENDOLEN Lond part to submit their details, which will Request no. 39,000: Celine Dion - then be listed and anyone who wants PRESENTERS ‘All By Myself’ played by Daniel Lond to take part can make contact and make Request no. 40,000: Natalie the appropriate arrangements. Imbruglia - ‘Torn’ played by Melanie The co-ordinator of the web site is Neale Neil Ogden, a member of Hospital Request no. 41,000: Connor Reeves Radio Basingstoke in North Hampshire. - ‘Read My Mind’ played by Paul Neil says that Christmas Day is the most Streeter popular day for the link ups to happen. Request no. 43,000: Steps - ‘We find that most people sign up ‘Heartbeat’ played by Dave Leonard on for Christmas Morning but at Monday 3rd May 1999 Basingstoke, we always have a hectic Request no. 50,000: Men at Work afternoon on the Sunday before – ‘Down Under’ played by James Gill Christmas with links ups to anything up On August Bank Holiday weekend, on Monday 22nd December 2003 to half a dozen stations. Radio Gwendolen presenters Ian Request no. 52,000: Dusty ‘It’s mostly hospital radio stations that ‘Sumo’ Green and Bob Birch put on a Springfield – ‘I Only Want to Be With take part but it’s not unknown for the 24-hour sponsored marathon broadcast You’ played by Alan Minto on Friday odd BBC or commercial station to for staff and patients at the General. 16th July 2004 show an interest as well – everyone’s The ’Big Lads,’ as they are Request no. 53,000: Usher – ‘Burn’ welcome!’ affectionately known by Gwendolen played by Andy K on Thursday 30th To submit details for this year’s event, members and friends, managed to keep September 2004 go to www.christmasradiolinkup.co.uk. awake from 7pm on the Sunday Request no. 54,000: The Pogues evening to 7pm on Bank Holiday with Kirsty McColl – ‘Fairytale of New THANKS FROM Monday to present their marathon York’ played by Dave Leonard on effort – well-stocked up with plenty of Tuesday 21 December 2004 NORTHWICK PARK disks and food and drink provided by Request no. 55,000: Mario – ‘Let Radio Northwick Park would like to their support team and listeners. Me Love You ‘played by Paul Turner thank everyone who supported them at As a result of this feat of endurance on 12 April 2005 their outside broadcast at the St Ann’s the duo presented two cheques, each Request no. 56,000: The Centre in Harrow on Saturday 12th for £450, to Diane Morris, Fundraising Proclaimers – ‘I’m On My Way’ played August. Manager of LOROS and Kate Golding, by Neil Ogden on 10 July 2005 The station raised over £540 through UHL fund-raising manager, who Request no. 57,000: Ill Divo – the raffle that they held and had a great accepted the donation on behalf of the ‘Unbreak My Heart ‘played by deal of interest from Saturday shoppers. Brain Injuries Unit at the General. Rosemary Kershaw on 3 October 2005 Chairman Adrian Rammelt said: Ian Green, long-time RG member Request no.58,000: The Rolling ‘We here at Radio Northwick Park and presenter said, ‘We hope the Stones – ‘Honky Tonk Woman’ played were delighted that so many local sponsors are pleased with our efforts by Paul Turner on 2 January 2006 people gave so generously. Personally, I and are proud to be associated with us. Request no 59,000: Corrine Bailey had a lot of fun meeting some former We are very grateful for their Rae – ‘Put Your Records On’ played by patients of the hospital who generosity. They made the loss of a Neil Ogden on 5 March 2006 remembered listening to us’. night’s sleep all worthwhile. It’s very Request no. 60.000: Jack Johnson The station relies entirely on humbling to be able to help others and – ‘Better Together’ played by Sarah donations and events such as this allow we were thrilled by the number of Beattie on 18 June 2006. it to continue serving the patients of people who supported us.’ Request no. 61,000: Sister Sledge Northwick Park and St Mark’s Co-presenter Bob Birch added, ‘It ‘We are Family’ played by Sarah Hospitals. was a pleasure to do the show. It was Beattie on 17th September 2006 In addition, the event also gave the tiring but we can look back and see it station the opportunity to speak to was worth all the preparation, which CHRISTMAS RADIO former members of the station and started with contacting potential invite them to their birthday sponsors, cajoling them into supporting LINK UP celebrations which was held on us and planning our playlists two The Christmas Radio Link Up has September 9th, 2006. months beforehand.’ officially been launched for 2006. For any members, current or past, Chair, Jon Stocker, commented, ‘Ian This is the annual event that involves who have not yet been contacted, and Bob are a great team. They host different radio stations linking up please get in touch and we can relate their own show, ‘Banter with the Big around Christmas time to talk live on all the details of how the station Lads’ every Monday evening. They both stations at once. The stations celebrated this important milestone. made a superb effort, planning every could be in different parts of the UK or Anybody still interested in finding out detail for their marathon stint behind in the same area (a hospital station and more about getting involved in the the microphone. We are delighted with local commercial or BBC station for station should visit the result and pleased to be able to example). www.radionorthwickpark.org or call share the results of the lads’ success The project is co-ordinated by a web 0800 0742828. with such good causes.’
ON AIR
Countrywide ... news from the stations
A to Z OF POP I would like to inform members of the excellent A to Z of pop produced by Richard Smith. We at Arrowe Sound broadcast his programmes twice each day. They are excellent hour long programmes and we receive them free! We have around 82 hours of his free programmes and have very positive feedback by patients and our own presenters. HBA members can listen to a demo at www.theatozofpop.co.uk or contact Richard at [email protected] I recently made a presentation in Powerpoint for our station and asked Richard how to add his jingles to the production. He not only spent a couple of hours on the phone to me but did the whole voiceovers and music for me. Richard is a very talented man and I believe would like to become freelance but still maintain his free service to Hospital Radio where his roots are. It’s 30 YEAR CELEBRATIONS Thanks to some fiendish rigging, not often in this modern world you get FOR FRIMLEY PARK which had taken most of the preceding ewt for nowt so have a listen, it really is Radio Frimley Park, based in 36 hours to organise, we had live excellent. Maybe a small donation or Camberley, celebrated its 30th programming going out from each of our send some discs to help cover his costs anniversary on 30th September. We two studios. A radio mic was made would be a good idea if you would like marked the occasion by broadcasting available for the Mayor to perform the a set of programmes for your station? through the day from 9am to 6pm from official ceremony; talkback facilities Keith Robertshaw, Station Manager the studio and then had a true OB from between the studio and our OB Unit Arrowe Park Hospital 6pm until just after 8pm, when we parked out the front of the hospital (and broadcast a concert from the Church also later when it had moved over the AHBS INUNDATED WITH Hall across the road from the hospital road for the Concert), as well as WELL WISHERS FOR using a radio link. talkback to another part of the Hospital PAUL O’GRADY As always the case with these dos, where our celebratory lunch was being held with a live lunchtime music show. Well wishers inundated Ashford’s the pace of the lead-up became frenetic The Hospital provided a splendid buffet hospital radio station, AHBS with as the date approached: invitations to lunch and the Trust's new Chairman, Sir messages for TV star and local resident send out, guests and dignitaries to Mike Aaronson, gave up several hours of Paul O’Grady during his recent spell in invite, negotiations with the Trust, all his weekend to be with us and gained a hospital. started months beforehand. first-hand impression of our work. AHBS, the hospital radio station for At the same same, we also planned June Snowden presented several the William Harvey Hospital, received to have the official opening of our new members with Long Service Awards, emails and telephone calls from all over studio complex and launch our new who between them had notched up over the UK when Paul was a patient in the logo, as well as having Long Service 200 years of service to hospital radio. Coronary Care Unit. awards presented. In parallel with the Amongst others who joined us were The service’s website received nearly logistics of the day, we were looking to several members who toured the as many hits over the four days Paul get a few last-minute engineering jobs wards, making that crucial link between was in hospital than it would normally done on our main broadcast studio, the studio and the bedside to let do in a month. Messages were sent finalise the logo and get it printed onto patients know we were broadcasting from as far as way as Strathclyde, balloons, polo shirts and mugs in time extended hours, what could be heard Newcastle and Truro. for the Big Day. A nearby company and when and taking dedications. Other patients in the hospital at the produced a magnificent banner for us, In the evening, we had the live relay time also rang the station to pass on which was displayed on the main from the church hall over the road, their best wishes for the TV star who hospital frontage, for the visitors to see. various artistes giving their services for free has just finished a run of presenting Meanwhile, for the evening event, and was beamed back to the patients. The new Paul O’Grady Show on negotiations were ongoing for artistes Overall, at the impromptu debrief in Channel 4. from many music genres to make up the the pub afterwards (as you do), the AHBS Chairman Daniel Jones said: bill for our Gala Concert. whole event was considered to have ‘We were taken by surprise by just how Somehow or other and with much been a great success and the committee many people were contacting us, which hard work , especially from our was delighted that so many people shows just how popular he is with engineer Jon Harris, OB manager Gary worked together to bring it all off. people. We’ve made sure that all the Milton and indefatigable secretary, Val messages we’ve had are passed on.’ Milton, the whole event came together. Frank Chambers, Press & PR
ON AIR
Countrywide ... news from the stations
MATER HOSPITAL RADIO everything was against me but this year SUPER NEW STUDIOS ELVIS EXTRAVAGANZA the clouds broke and the sun came out, FOR SEASIDE literally! Going by this year’s success This year Mater Hospital Radio I’ve already laid the foundations for On Saturday, 24 June, Seaside Belfast celebrated Elvis’s Anniversary on next year and with 2007 being the 30th Hospital Radio officially opened their 16th August with a longer than six hour Anniversary year, it’s going to be even refurbished studios. live Elvis show, broadcast to all the bigger. Vice Chairman Bob Burgess kept the patients on the wards. ‘We also hope to set an ‘on air’ airwaves and studio chair warm from Prior to the live broadcast, a quiz challenge to all hospital radio stations 11am that morning, whilst Chairman, sheet consisting of ten Elvis related live on the day. Up for the challenge? Trevor Fieldus and others entertained questions and a favourite Elvis song Then watch this space for further the guests, including the Deputy Mayor request section that was marked and updates. of Worthing, Cllr Mrs Heather Mercer graded (Yep, just like GCSE and A and her husband Cllr Keith Mercer. Levels!) was distributed to the staff. This was in fact her first official Each completed quiz sheet was entered engagement, The Vice Chairman of into a prize draw. Adur Council, Cllr Brenda Collard and After being contacted either on their her husband; and Mr Roger Sharman wards or in administration, each and Sheila Sharman, Treasurer of Adur winning staff member, after a quick on Bath Tub Committee. air chat, was invited down to the studio The special guests were suitably to choose from a wide selection of Elvis a selection of the prizes collected by Alan impressed with the studios and the prizes. in the months leading up to the broadcast professionalism and passion Radio Having been planned for many Seaside demonstrate as an organisation, months, the prizes included colour and and they were able to view some of the black n’ white framed Elvis prints, work that the hospital volunteers do DVDs, CDs, clothing, address books thanks to a display by the hospital and calendars. Once the staff entered volunteer co-coordinator. the Lions Den of the studio, they were Special thanks must go to Steve challenged to upgrade their prize for an Ewens and Bob Burgess who have even better one (Yeah, just like Double worked in their spare time to get the Your Money!) by answering another studio’s designed, built, installed and Elvis question live on air. fully operational. The challenge was readily accepted by all the staff, although not all were successful. Those who made the grade SEVENTY-FIVE YEARS were even more surprised when FOR SYMONDS presented with their A1 prizes. Each BROTHERS AT staff member also went back to the a ward clerk visits the station to collect her SWINDON wards with the rumour that Elvis was prize ‘in the building’ and would visit the Hospital broadcasting brothers, Steve wards later that day. Symonds and Ray Bewes are set to Well, Elvis definitely did make an clock up seventy-five years between appearance on the wards giving out them at the microphone of Hospital free DVDs and prints to all and sundry Radio Swindon in a few weeks time. for a nominal peck on the cheek. Staff It was back in the heady days of the queued unashamedly for a photo with late sixties when the two teenagers ‘The King of Rock n’ Roll’. became interested in radio. They were In between staff on air and solid keen on the music of the day and had Elvis hits back to back, interviews with been collecting records for some years local radio and TV presenters were from local second-hand shops. Their also broadcast to the wards. These father suggested that they could do included one with John Rosborough, Elvis visits the wards and is greeted by fans others some good by joining the local head of U105 here in Belfast and hospital radio, which was in its infancy Mater Hospital Radio ambassador. at the time. The show as presented by resident 'There was no local radio Elvis 50’s & 60’s presenter Alan whatsoever in this area then', Steve Hamilton who was aided and abetted Symonds remarked recently, 'so anyone by Stephen Totten, with Eileen going into hospital only had Hospital Mannion riding shotgun at the rear. Radio Swindon to keep in touch with Says Alan, ‘I’ve been trying to local events and news. present an Elvis show on either 8th There was a television room on January (Elvis’s birthday) or 16th most wards at Princess Margaret August (Elvis’s Anniversary) for as long Hospital but if you were confined to as I have been a presenter with Mater bed for any length of time you could Hospital Radio. Sadly over the years even the doctors fall under his spell easily get out of touch.'
ON AIR
Countrywide ... news from the stations
Of course it was not unusual for LADY ARCHER patients to spend a few weeks in VISITS STUDIO hospital in those days for relatively OBITUARY minor surgery or health problems. This is where the real work of KEITH SUTER hospital radio really kicked in, for the The father of Hospital Radio boys often toured the wards with other Swindon Keith Suter has died at members of the station to chat with the age of 86 at the Great patients and collect requests or Western Hospital in Swindon dedications. Ray Bewes remembers several recently. patIents who really enjoyed hearing Keith, who was a school their favourite record played on the teacher, also taught children radio whilst in hospital. about broadcasting long before 'They would always have a smile on media studies was a subject on their face when they thanked you for the curriculum. playing their request. I have had people Keith was running a radio come up to me in the town and say that station at his own school when they remember me several years after he was approached by the Toch they had heard their record on hospital H charity to begin a radio station radio. Some of them are difficult to for the local hospitals. Radio Addenbrooke’s were recently remember, particularly as they are not honoured by a visit to their broadcasting wearing bed clothes!' Hospital Radio Swindon went studio of Lady Mary Archer, Chairman During the years since they joined the on air on New Years Eve 1967. of the Board of Addenbrooke’s NHS station, many things have changed. As well founding the station, Foundation Trust. Dr Archer is seen 'We have instant start CD players, Keith will be remembered for here with the Chairman of Radio minidisks players and record decks several other things. Only a Addenbrooke’s, Richard Saunders who today. Back in the early days we had to couple of current members knew showed her round the studio; after have someone to put the records on in Keith but Arthur Perkin and which she went ‘live on the air’ during an adjoining studio when you indicated myself were struck by his passion the afternoon programme hosted by to them it was OK to begin', Steve said. and training. presenters Bent Larsen and Brian There was also a time when When Swindon played Woods. volunteering to be a hospital Arsenal in the League Cup Final During her broadcast, Dr Archer gave broadcaster was much more popular an account of the responsibilities of than it is today. at Wembley in 1969, Keith being Chairman of such a large Hospital Radio Swindon is always produced the first Hospital Radio internationally renowned hospital, looking for people to help them to raise commentary from the stadium problems of visitor and patient car funds and visit patients as well as and this later became a record parking and the future expansion of the provide programmes for the station which was on sale locally and hospital with particular reference to But what about Steve and Ray? raised funds for the station. ultimate transfer of Papworth Hospital Will they retire from the microphone He also became legendary for to the campus. now they have clocked up such an his children’s show with another incredible number of years with the local legend Vic Court which station? they called ‘Be Sick With Vic’. Ray Bewes says that he has been This was a real cheer up for very lucky. I have met many well known personalities for interviews over many of the long stay children, the years and for a spell in the early this was something the patients 1990s, I was heard on BBC Wiltshire. never forgot, to the extent they More recently I was with Swindon were invited to their weddings! FM, so I have had a taste of real radio. Keith’s memory will live on for But I cannot see a time when hospital a very long time and although he radio will not be part of our lives.' gave up doing Hospital Radio Steve Symonds adds that when they some time ago, his name is well reach retirement it will probably mean known by our members. that they will be able to offer more time Keith invited myself and Arthur to the station. 'By then we shall be Perkin to become members and Presenters Brian Woods and Bent Larsen clocking up one hundred years between us, which will be some feat'. both of us have such a lot to PLEASE GET YOUR And for Hospital Radio Swindon? thank him for. STATION’S REPORTS IN They will be clocking up a milestone of Ken Hunt BY 16TH DECEMBER 2006 their own at the end of 2007, when Hospital Radio Swindon FOR INCLUSION IN THE they celebrate forty years on air in the NEXT ISSUE OF ON AIR Swindon area.
ON AIR
Countrywide ... news from the stations
HOSPITAL RADIO of the Patientline bedside radios. THIRTY YEARS OF STATION CELEBRATES Whitechapel AM is currently looking BROADCASTING TO for local sponsors who can help make 30TH BIRTHDAY their celebrations even more of a THE SHEFFIELD Staff from The Royal London success. If you can help, or would like HOSPITALS Hospital's dedicated radio station have to get involved with the preparations, kicked off a month of celebrations for please contact Usman Ayub on 07743 their 30th birthday with a gruelling 30 896 225. hour marathon broadcast. Whitechapel AM was launched in VOLUNTEERS AT RADIO October, 1976 and to mark this anniversary volunteers gathered at the HILLINGDON GET hospital in the afternoon on Friday, 6 RECOGNITION October, to begin a non-stop transmission that lasted until 9pm on the Saturday. Throughout the broadcast, patients were able to request their favourite songs and DJs played tracks as diverse as Bob Marley and Franz Schubert. Elsewhere staff, patients and visitors were entertained by volunteers taking a giant pass-the-parcel around the wards. This was finally unwrapped late on HBA Long Service Awards were Saturday when an elderly patient won made to four members of the Radio £30 of M&S vouchers and a bundle of Hillingdon team at the stations AGM in CDs. October 2006. An exhausted but exhilarated Matt Pictured, from left to right: Keith Andrews, Station Director, said, ‘To get Hotston (15 years), Jon Herd (15 to 30 years is a real achievement and years), Pete Curling (20 years) and Ian we all felt we needed to do something Snashall (20 years). special to celebrate. Normally our If you have time to spare and would request shows last two hours a night so like to help us at the Hospital, please to attempt 30 hours without a break was contact our Secretary, John Stone for quite a challenge. We were all shattered more information. You can email us at by Saturday night but I think we put a [email protected]. smile on a lot of patients' faces.’ Looking back on the past 30 years HOSPITAL RADIO Matt reflected, ‘It's amazing that the GOES LEGAL With all Hospital Broadcasting station has helped so many people feel Sheffield members involved, there was Kendal Hospital Radio is pleased to better whilst they have been here at the a great team spirit. announce a fantastic sponsorship deal Royal London Hospital. With the help Celebrations began with a football with local solicitors, Hayton Wickley of the Hospital Trust and the station's match at Rotherham FC between Kendal. The deal, for 12 months dedicated volunteers, we are proud to Hallam FM and a HBS team ... and sponsorship, will see them become the celebrate our birthday and we're doing will you believe ... we won 3-1. station’s main sponsors Hayton it like we've always done – with the The local newspaper, the Sheffield Wickley Kendal offers a wide range of patients, trying to make them feel Star, gave great coverage of our work experience in all aspects of the law and better.’ with a page devoted to HBS. pride themselves in providing city The special events are to continue There was then a get together of quality on your doorstep. for the next three weeks with DJs past and present members with the John Williamson, Station Manager travelling slowly back in time by playing presentation of long service awards. said it’s a great deal for Kendal Hospital music from a particular year every day BBC Look North filmed the studio Radio, which has been broadcasting for until they reach 1976. and this went out twice on the local 29 years to the patients, staff and During the last three decades, news. visitors, which started off in the Whitechapel AM has played over A roadshow with collection was held Westmorland County Hospital on 11th 90,000 music requests and has become in the city centre which raised funds February 1977, later moving to the the most awarded hospital radio station towards our running costs. Westmorland General Hospital in in the country – consistently in the UK's Finally, a joint broadcast took place December 1991. top ten best stations. with BBC Sheffield Radio, with a Kendal Hospital Radio prides itself on The station is manned by a group of presenter from the BBC joining our being the most advanced radio station 50 volunteers and famous names who team and broadcasting from our studio in the North West with the latest in have been behind its microphone to the city and to the hospitals for an modern technology working closely include BBC newsreader Fiona Bruce. hour. It can be accessed on 999AM in and with the software company PSquared around the hospital and on channel 1 of Hull. Sarah Burt, Publicity and Marketing
ON AIR
Countrywide ... news from the stations
RADIO FOX LIVE Improved lighting is planned for the that delves into the Presley back FROM THE WARDS record library as well as new racking catalogue and plays songs that weren't hits on the UK singles charts. Each Radio Fox celebrated the purchase of and increased storage capacity. Studio show is a stand-alone 28 minutes a new reporter unit with a week of One is being redesigned to include a featuring album tracks, B-sides, live live shows from the wards of the split desk, better lighting and better recordings and rarities from across Leicester Royal Infirmary and the positioning of the equipment. A Elvis's career and covering his many Glenfield Hospital in late September. computer monitor and clock will be styles and tempos from rock & roll to The new reporter unit was used for installed for the guest side of the desk. gospel, country to pop. The focus is on a week of special Patients’ Requests’ Improvements are also planned for our Presley as a recording artist and each shows where presenters hosted the second studio to prepare it for the edition features a focus on one programme live from a different ward planned increase in split broadcasts and particular studio session with three each night. A special competition was if funds allow the sound proofing songs taped at the same recording date. planned to get as many listeners on the boards, currently showing signs of age, There are 24 programmes, covering featured ward involved as possible and will be replaced. over 200 tracks in total. there were plenty of opportunities for The current Studio One layout was instant requests. designed in the mid nineties, before we Iain, our longest serving request The sports team will also benefit had even thought of computers and collector (over twenty years), also from the new reporter unit, as it will mini disc players and is not really suited drives The Night Train on Sundays at substantially improve the sound quality to the programmes we do today. The 9pm (over 1000 editions). of our commentaries from Leicester planned changes should give a new Phil hosts The Thursday Triangle City and the Leicester Tigers games. lease of life to our complex and make it an even nicer environment for members which can be heard at 7 o’clock. NEW PROGRAMMES FROM and guests. THE AUTUMN THE X FACTOR During the same week as our live ward broadcasts a number of new CAN YOU HELP? shows were introduced. On Sundays, I am looking for a copy of the full there will be a new early evening version of the Channel 4 News theme request programme and an instant – the title is ‘Best Endeavours’ and is telephone request show on Sunday composed by Alan Hawkshaw. mornings to take advantage of the new I wish to feature it in a series for freephone facility provided by programmes about TV themes. Patientline. On Mondays, an hour long Michael Speight 'sports talk' show will include highlights Radio Sunderland of the weekend’s key local events and [email protected] increased coverage of the Leicester Liam Scott of Radio Royal and St Riders basketball team. PROGRAMMES FOR Lukes Sound interviewed X Factor With Radio Fox now being the only winner Steve Brookstein recently at a SYNDICATION local concert hall, St George’s Hall in station in both hospitals broadcasting AT THE HOP Bradford classical music, an additional classics Iain Smith presents a series of twenty . show is to run on Sunday evenings. programmes for those of a certain age Local news, currently running on the who remember the best era of 'pop' Our hardworking Secretary, weeknight request shows, is being music – the late Fifties to the early Nigel Dallard, has produced the introduced to the weekday breakfast Sixties. This was the golden age of following estimated figures for us, and teatime programmes. popular music when the weekly top twenty was filled with exciting new which I am sure you will find NEW FUNDRAISING PUSH sounds and fresh new artists, some makes interesting reading: Radio Fox is launching a new destined for huge fame while others Our 228 member stations utilise fundraising appeal this Autumn. The were one hit wonders. station is looking to raise £10,000 to Each show is stand alone and is of the services of around 8,000 make improvements to the equipment approximately 28 minutes duration and volunteers to provide a hospital and studio complex. features a selection of the big hits of the radio service to 175,000 beds in With the planned move to new period along with some that should studios on hold because of changes to have charted but inexplicably failed. All 425 hospitals and other our NHS Trust's redevelopment plans, the great names of rock 'n'roll are heard healthcare facilities. our aim is to make any improvements regularly throughout the series but this 'moveable' so we can take them with is not an in depth analysis of the period us should we relocate. We are looking just a selection of many people's PLEASE ENSURE YOUR to completely gut the office, turning it favourite music. Your toes won't stop STATION’S REPORTS ARE into a more pleasant venue for meetings tapping! IN BY 16TH DECEMBER and socialising and it will also include FOR INCLUSION IN THE an editing suite to relieve pressure on ELVIS UNCHARTED NEXT ISSUE OF ON AIR the main studios. Phil Smith presents the programme
ON AIR
Countrywide ... news from the stations
MIKE MEETS THE KING Broadcasting and the chance to participate in a radio show with award- winning presenter Diane Clarke. Diane, who won the gold award for Best Female Presenter at the Hospital Broadcasting Awards in April, guided visitors through the show. The Open Day formed part of National Giving Week, which ran from 16th to 22nd October. The station, run entirely by volunteers, relies heavily on people giving not just financial donations but Tyneside held a Requestathon in also their time and support in order to August. Presenters Ron Cameron Yes, it’s that man again. This time he successfully broadcast shows to patients (Chairman) and Simon Smith paid a surprise visit to Hospital Radio staying in West Kent Hospitals. (Secretary) played non stop requests for Stafford on the occasion of Station It is hoped the ‘Come and Try It’ day ten hours plus interviews with The Manager Mike Harker’s surprise 60th helped make people aware of the work Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor birthday party. involved but also attract potential new Ed Malcolm and Chairman of South members to the station. Tyneside Trust, Peter Davidson. Friends and relatives were also able Also attending the event was two ex to tune in and listen thanks to the new volunteers Mark Emmerson, now a on-line live streaming service the station presenter with BBC Radio Newcastle has introduced. Simply log onto the and Steve Furnell, presenter of the website, www.hrtw.org.uk and hit the breakfast show on Galaxy 105. Dave ‘Listen Live’ button on the homepage to Nicholson, Vice President of the HBA BE A BROADCASTER tune into our shows which are also paid a visit. FOR THE AFTERNOON broadcast 24 hours a day seven days a As part of their celebrations the Hospital Radio Tunbridge Wells held week. station launched it newly purchased an open day at their studios, at the Kent Myriad system bought from a grant & Sussex Hospital on Sunday, 22nd 50TH CELEBRATIONS from the National Lottery. October between 2 and 4pm when ON SOUTH TYNESIDE They also made their Grand visitors were given a tour of the studio As part of their 50th birthday Summer Draw on air, first prize being a complex, an introduction to Hospital celebrations, Hospital Radio South trip to Amsterdam.
ON AIR
Meet our new Chief Executive, Paul Sysum
Friday Night was Bowling Night 1st with 150 This year at Conference, we June Snowden, HBA President decided to try something different and 2nd with 114 offered a night ten pin bowling. Julie Mackin, Associate Member There were 54 delegates who Highest Scoring Gent headed off to the Alley in a red double 1st with 181 decker bus, to tunes of ‘were all going Ian Kemp, Winchester HR on a summer holiday’! 2nd with 176 We managed to get two games in Mike Skinner, HBA Public Relations after bribing the bus driver with a cup Manager of tea to let us stay a bit longer. Lowest Scoring Game There were quite a few strikes to be 21 – Fiona Rosen, HR Barnet seen and everyone had a great time. who was presented with a pin from the Prizes were presented on Sunday bowling alley. Hope you can join us in lunch to the following delegates and the fun next time. congratulations to them all: Julie Cox, HBA Treasurer Highest Scoring Lady HBA Anglia Regional Rep
ON AIR
Our guest speaker, Angela Bond
Pictured, from the top: Angela Bond with Dave McGealey, Tony Swinhoe and Phil The top table party Moon
ON AIR
Saturday morning seminar with David Clayton Departing for our station visit to Norwich HR
The studio at Hospital Radio Norwich
The HBA boat trip
STATION LONG SERVICE PLAQUES Station long service plaques are available to any stations that have reached with 25 or 50 years‘ service. The first batch were presented to stations at the Saturday dinner at the Norwich Conference. Stations are now invited to apply for one of these plaques. To do so e-mail your Vice President, Dave Nicholson at [email protected] Attach a clean copy of your logo plus the date that your station launched. You are also asked to write out exactly how you wish your station name to be printed on the plaque. Please remember that any members of the Executive Committee are available to visit your station and present your plaque personally. The anointment of the McGealey head
ON AIR
Cancode Access Insurance AEQ
Creative Source Solutions
West Country Broadcasts Les Gunn The 2006 Norwich Conference Trade Show
Sonifex Sydney Packett Eastern Electronics
ON AIR
Ruby Celebrations for Radio Brockley
A massive four day forty hour Ruby Anniversary Broadcast Weekend of music rocked north London, thanks to London's longest running hospital station. Radio Brockley hit the air forty years ago (October 2nd 1966) and presenters have been entertaining patients of the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in Stanmore ever since. Radio listeners in Stanmore were astonished when a pop legend dropped by to give an exclusive on air performance. Brit Award-winning singer Alison Moyet, who had hits with Yazoo and as a solo artist, surprised both patients and volunteers alike at Radio Brockley, has just celebrated forty years. Station Trustee, Daniel Gee, explained how the eighties’ icon popped in for an on air chat and was persuaded to serenade both listeners and the crew with a unique performance. ‘She was very down to earth and was happy to chat about her time with Yazoo, told us gossip about Live Aid and told us about her new music contract. But the icing on the cake for us was Alison's rendition of 'Happy Birthday', which was flawless, as you'd expect.’ And, as if one huge name wasn’t enough, listeners were also treated to an interview by the man who was crowned the station’s all-time number one artist, Cliff Richard. More patients have requested his music than any other artist in Radio Brockley's forty years, the Peter Pan of pop has is also the UK’s biggest selling vocalist and said he was honoured to be the artist whose music has been requested the most by patients in forty years of broadcasting. He also rather cheekily thanked the listeners for having such good taste! The hard-working volunteers at Radio Brockley broadcast four days of special shows over the anniversary weekend, which included at least two outside broadcasts a day and was officially launched by Harrow's Deputy Mayor, Jean Lammiman, who cut the ribbon. Other dignitaries that appeared on the station included the Project Director for the Hospital's Redevelopment, Eric Fehily and the Chief Executive Andrew Woodhead, who thanked the volunteers at Radio Brockley for all their hard work. The Ruby Anniversary Weekend Broadcast was coordinated by Alan
ON AIR
Ruby Celebrations for Radio Brockley
Joyce, who himself presents on both Radio Brockley and talk station LBC. The Trustee and event organiser said that in the fifteen years he has been at Radio Brockley, he has never before ‘been involved in such a project which has felt so worthwhile and has run so smoothly thanks to an outstanding team effort and an incredible sense of goodwill by members past and present, as well as by some very special guests’. To mark this milestone in broadcasting, the President of the Hospital Broadcasting Association, June Snowden, came along to help and presented David Rauch, our longest- serving member, with his 35-year certificate. David also received a gift from all the members and a trophy for his continued commitment. Forty years after Radio Brockley's beginning and all six founding members got involved too, giving interviews and getting requests from patients – and many former presenters returned to Radio Brockley to host shows as well, including the 'Pork Pie' Peter Young (Smooth FM), Darren Harte (Connect FM), Toby Friedner (BBC Three Counties), Mandy Segall (LBC) and Juliet Errington (BBC and formerly Sky News), proving that, even though they have gone on to work in professional radio, they are happy to help the station that helped launch their careers. Over £500 was raised for the charity during the weekend, thanks to a ruby raffle and a celebrity auction (with items from stars including Enrique Iglesias, Ant & Dec, Cliff Richard and Boy George). Details of the event were also publicised on the London station, LBC News 1152AM. MORE ABOUT RADIO BROCKLEY At one point in the 1990s, a quarter of Radio Brockley's membership were engaged to be married and numerous marriages have taken place over the track, to be played in the nightly request years. Not only volunteers but some shows. The RNOH is a national centre Is your station holding members met their future spouses on of excellence and patients come from a special celebration? the wards, as patients! all over the world to benefit from a The station is fondly remembered by team of highly specialised consultants If so, why not share it past members, including its co-founder and neurologists. with us. Just email me a Mike Solomons who says he is ‘... The Royal National Orthopaedic has amazed by the long term success [..] been given the go ahead by the report and a few photos and very, very proud of it’. Department of Health for a complete and we’ll do the rest. During their stay, patients are invited on-site rebuild, under the PFI initiative You’ll find my address to take part in Radio Brockley’s and Radio Brockley has been promised legendary ‘Bedside Bingo’ programme, new facilities in the new hospital, due and email on page 1. as well as pick their favourite music to open in 2011.
ON AIR
Skerne Sagas
Station Founders... Found! Radio Skerne has been broadcasting to the patients and staff of Darlington Memorial Hospital for more than two decades. 2006 saw the 21st Anniversary of the station and after a little bit of investigative work, volunteers at the station have tracked down two of the founding members. Brian and Eleanor Bennett were instrumental in the setting up of our broadcasting service. Back in the days when the hospital Lilian Gay did not have its own radio station, BBC within the station, Lilian also won a local radio was distributed on a small prestigious award from the Hospital scale to some of the patients. Broadcasting Association (HBA). However, after a visit to Bishop The request collector won the Auckland Hospital, several members of category of Hospital Radio's Oldest staff and people associated with Active Volunteer in the 2001 BT Darlington Memorial Hospital decided Hospital Radio Awards. to form their own station. Lilian has been with the station for After gaining advice from several more than ten years. She visited the sources, the team from Darlington wards on a Monday afternoon to chat decided to go ahead and they utilised to the patients and collect their Chairman Frank Benson and Vice requests. the expertise of Mr and Mrs Bennett. Chairman John Forbes cutting the cake to Brian and Eleanor attended the mark the anniversary of Radio Skerne In fact, Lilian was so adept at inaugural meeting of what was to collecting selections, as Mike Smith, the become Radio Skerne. It was at this Brian is a little unwell at the moment Monday night presenter remarked: meeting that the couple were asked to but Eleanor says that he can still recall ‘There were times that I simply couldn't play a major part in spearheading the the early days of Radio Skerne: ‘Brian get all the requests played within the charity. remembers some of his time at the two-hours of the show. Brian Bennett became the very first station and he recalls some of the ‘I can't remember the number of Station Manager of Darlington Hospital members of the station. times I've had to extend the show past Radio and his wife, Eleanor, played an ‘However, Brian and I do want to 10pm in order to play the requests that active and important part in the running send our best wishes to all the current Lilian has collected.’ of the station. members. We can't believe that 21 A sprightly Lillian described herself Some of our long standing members years have passed and we'd like to wish on her original application form as: ‘77 recalled the early days of the station. the station a very Happy Birthday.’ – but at least ten years younger!’ Former Chairman of Radio Skerne, If you have been involved in Frank Benson, Chairman, said: Neil Sykes, noted that times have Darlington Hospital Radio during the ‘Although she's a life-long member of changed: ‘I remember being a volunteer early years, please do not hesitate to get the station, she will be sorely missed by in the early days of the station. in touch with the station. our volunteers. I'm also sure that the ‘Things were a bit different then, to The volunteers at Radio Skerne patients and staff will miss her visits to what they are now. I remember that would like to get in touch with past the wards. the male presenters had to wear a members and offer them an opportunity ‘The whole team here at Radio collar and tie when on-air. to have a look around our studios. Skerne would like to pass on our thanks ‘Brian was one of the leaders at the for all the work that Lilian has done for station and he believed that this dress Filling In Her Request our station. Lilian has been a valuable code should be adhered to – to give an Sheet For The Final Time asset and we wish her well in her impression of professionalism. The time has come for one of the retirement.’ ‘If you look at the pictures of most valued members of Radio Skerne Talking about her award from the presenters and newsreaders from the to visit the wards for the final time. HBA, Frank recalled the time they early days of BBC radio, you will see Ward visitor Lilian Gay, has decided thought about putting her name that they all had to be dressed up to go to put pen to paper and fill in her final forward: ‘We felt Lillian was a worthy on-air.’ request sheet. contender when we nominated her and The husband and wife team were After years of loyal service to not of course, we were delighted when she tracked down by station members and only Radio Skerne but also the patients was announced as the National they were asked to visit the station. of Darlington Memorial Hospital, she Winner. I'm only sorry we don't have However, the couple have moved out has decided to go into retirement. more like Lillian as she puts many of of the area, as Eleanor Bennett In view of her efforts, Radio Skerne our younger members to shame.’ explains: ‘It would have been nice to made one of their most valuable assets Lillian barely missed a single week of see how it's all going now but we live a life-member of the station. fulfilling her duties - even when she in Northern Ireland."’ As well as being recognised from suffered from a bout of pneumonia.
ON AIR
Birthday Celebrations for Barnet
Hospital Radio Barnet, established in November 1978 by the Friends of Barnet Hospital, is responsible for providing all the radio services to Barnet Hospital: BBC Radio 1 FM, BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio Five Live, Capital FM, Classic FM and Magic FM. Patients can listen to any one of these on their bedside headsets 24 hours a day, with the exception of Magic FM which is switched off when Hospital Radio Barnet is ‘on air’. HRB broadcasts 48 hours a week: weekdays from 6.30pm until 10.30pm and weekends from 8.00am until 10.00pm. HRB broadcasts all types of music, from jazz and classical to pop and easy listening and some specialist programmes including country, soul, blues and oldies. There are religious programmes and an afternoon sports programme on Saturday beginning at Hospital Radio Barnet in particular. The station are indebted to The 2.30pm (including live commentaries Dale Winton even helped get the League of Friends, who have always from all Barnet Football Club’s home previous studios looking a bit glam helped keep the station going. matches). when he and ‘Changing Rooms’ One of the largest fundraisers was a The Station’s objective is to play Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen gave the ‘Radiothon’ on the tenth anniversary. patients’ requests. HRB’s Ward Visitors studio a make-over! with 200 hours of non-stop visit the wards, chat to patients and take HRB has been very close to Barnet broadcasting; it raised an amazing requests and dedications. During their Football Club and over the years has £4,000! It’s events like this that keep stay in Barnet Hospital, most patients broadcast many commentaries and HRB going, both from a financial and will be visited by the Ward Visitors brought the patients an exclusive service social aspect! who will give them the chance to which they have all enjoyed. Thanks to Hospital Radio Barnet is also very request what music they want to hear. Chairman Tony Kleanthous, who has involved with the Hospital Broadcasting Patient s can also phone in on the always been a great help. Association and many HRB members Request Line or email requests. Annual running costs for HRB vary attend conferences to meet with other It all started back in November 1978 from year to year but are usually in the Hospital Radio Stations. It’s always when Val Doonican kindly ‘launched’ region of £5,000 per year, so great to swap ideas and have a bit of the new Hospital Radio Barnet. fundraising is important. fun! Things started off very humbly – All presenters, ward visitors and For the future, HRB aim to be a Alan King, Phil Murphy and the late members are encouraged to help out at bigger and better station, providing a Len Briveau started the station from a as many fundraising events as possible. more professional service. broom cupboard in the hospital! Funding came from The League of Friends, who bought two mixers to broadcast. Local residents donated Former HR Plymouth member is records and gave much encouragement! In the summer of 1982, with an looking to purchase ex-studio ever-expanding record library taking up equipment, particularly mixing space, HRB moved into their second home. Len spotted that some old desks, revox/studer machines, cart doctor’s premises had become vacant and with much negotiation, the station machines and others. moved into more spacious If you have something about to be accommodation. Then, of course, the hospital was rebuilt and in late 2002 thrown out, please contact HRB moved into their current studios. Over the years, many celebrities have David Harber on 0777 999 5454 visited HRB. From ‘Baby Spice’ Emma or [email protected] Bunton to football manager Barry Fry, from Derek Jameson to Dale Winton. for a cash offer, if appropriate. There have been loads of ‘celebs’ help promote hospital radio in general and
ON AIR
Guilfest ... Guildford’s Outdoor Music Festival
Guilfest, the outdoor music festival, increases in size and popularity in this country year by year and is attended by Radio Lion over the three days it takes place every July. Although the site has changed a couple of times it has always been held in Guildford, Surrey, the home of the Royal Surrey County Hospital from where we operate. We provide interviews with some of the main acts but also like to profile the unsigned heroes. Our uniqueness is the coverage of the Festival as a whole – we reported from the theatre stage, silent disco, chatted to stallholders and campers, sampled the food and drink and tried some activities, generally getting a feel for the whole atmosphere. We had reports on many shows including Embrace on the main stage ‘Sunday Retreat’ (our religious programme), broadcasting an interview with a Rector from a local church doing a special service and the Eden People healing tent, just as a minute example. Acts interviewed this year included Stereo MCs, Sandi Thom and Glen Tilbrook (formerly of Squeeze) but in the past we have talked to Blondie, UB40, Atomic Kitten, Lulu, Kiki Dee (twice 2001 and 2002), Madness, Hothouse Flowers, Midge Ure, Steve Harley, Chaz & Dave, Thunder, Terrorvision, Fabio & Grooverider, The Levellers, Eddi Reader, Rolf Harris, Joan Armatrading, Dennis LeCorriere from Dr Hook, Tom McRae, The Alarm, The London Community Gospel Choir ... just to name a few! In fact we have interviewed more acts there than any other local station (and even Radio 2, who now provide the national broadcasting coverage of Radio Lion reporters and presenters (left to right): Stevie T, Gareth Wakefield, Dan Holt, Cathy Barrett, Angie Boxall the Festival).” Celia Ebdon, PR, Radio Lion
Glen Tilbrook and The Fluffers Presenter Dave Bremner with Sandi Thom Jax Davies chills with the Eden People
ON AIR
you may photocopy this form 27 Regional REP DETAILS 16/11/06 4:28 pm Page 1
Regional Reps details REGION REP ADDRESS PHONE E-MAIL
Regional Dave Lockyer 54 School Lane 0870 321 6005 [email protected] Manager Higham Rochester Kent ME3 7JF
Anglia Julie Cox 37 Alford Street 0870 765 9601 [email protected] Grantham NG31 8BX
Home 0870 765 9602 [email protected]
London Ben Hart 20 Church Avenue 0870 765 9603 [email protected] Pinner Middx HA5 5JQ
Midlands David Tysoe 51 Woodway 0870 765 9604 [email protected] Erdington Birmingham B24 OAH
Nort h Tony Swinhoe 9 St Marks Court 0870 765 9605 [email protected] Shiremoor Tyne & Wear NE27 OPR
Northern Davey Downes 19 Collingbridge Drive 0870 765 9606 [email protected] Ireland Glengormley Newtonabbey BT36 7SX
North West David McGealy 40 Saffron Drive 0870 765 9607 [email protected] Moorside Oldham OL4 2PU
Scotland Bill Kilgour 27 Carroll Crescent 0870 765 9608 [email protected] Richmond Grove Motherwell Lanarkshire ML1 5AT
South Neil Ogden 63 Franklin Avenue 0870 765 9609 [email protected] Tadley Hampshire RG26 4EZ
South East Dave Lockyer 54 School Lane 0870 765 9611 [email protected] Higham, Rochester Kent ME3 7JF
Wales & West Steve Allen 12 Heol Poyston 0870 765 9613 [email protected] Caerau Cardiff CF5 5LKX
Yorkshire Iain Lee 37 The Meadows 0870 765 9614 [email protected] Messingham Scunthorpe DN17 3UD 28 CONTACTS 06 16/11/06 4:25 pm Page 1
Who to Contact on the Executive Committee
Chief Executive Paul Sysum Deputy Chief Executive 19 Holland Close, Pewsham, Phil Moon Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 3TR 82 Greenleaf Gardens, Polegate, E Sussex BN26 6PH Tel: 0870 321 6000 Tel: 0870 321 6014 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Main contact with statutory bodies. Sub committee chairman. Ambassadors Special projects Treasurer Julie Cox General Secretary 37 Alford Street, Grantham, Nigel Dallard Lincolnshire NG31 8BX 54 St. Annes Close, Badger Farm, Tel: 0870 321 6004 Winchester, Hampshire SO22 4LQ e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0870 321 6003 Financial matters (other than e-mail: [email protected] General correspondence, Company subscriptions) Secretary, annual review
President June Snowden Vice President David Nicholson, MBE P.O. Box 76, Ely, CB6 3WH East Cottage, Milbourne Hall, Milbourne, Tel: 0870 321 6009 Newcastle upon Tyne NE20 OEB e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0870 321 6016 Station visits, represent HBA e-mail: [email protected] Station visits, represent HBA publicly publicly, print and present long Awards sub committee chairman, present service certificates long service certificates Public Relations Manager Regional Manager Dave Lockyer Mike Skinner 54 School Lane, Higham, Rochester, 6 Batchelor Way, Uckfield, East Sussex Kent ME3 7JF TN22 2DD Tel: 0870 321 6008 Tel: 0870 321 6005 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Press and public relations, Regional meetings, contacts, setting charity profile up a region etc. Administrator Marie Harper Programme Adviser 50 Neale St, Fulwell, Sunderland, SR6 9EZ Tel: 0870 321 6017 Paul Easton e-mail: [email protected] PO Box 729m Surbiton, Surrey KT58XF Point of contact for outside bodies on Tel: 0870 321 6002 all HBA matters. HBA EC diary. e-mail: [email protected] address changes and all Advice on programme content subscriptions
Technical Adviser Editor Michelle Newstead Geoff Fairbairn 2 Falkland Close, Boreham, Chelmsford, Flat 6, 4 Blunt Rd, S Croydon CR2 7PA Essex CM3 3DD Tel: 0870 321 6012 Tel: 0870 321 6011 e-mail: [email protected] Fax: 0870 321 6019 Technical matters e-mail: [email protected] On Air magazine
Sales & Advertising Executive Membership Manager Mike Skinner John Watson 6 Batchelor Way, Uckfield, East Sussex 13 Trinafour, Perth, Perthshire PH1 2SS TN22 2DD Tel: 0870 321 6026 Tel: 0870 321 6026 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] All membership matters All Corporate sales for HBA
Webmaster Mark Venus IT Co-ordinator 95 Barns Road, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 8XQR Tel: 0870 765 9616 Tel: 0870 321 6018 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Maintenance of HBA website IRC P SQUARED 16/11/06 5:00 pm Page 1 RC ALICE 16/11/06 5:00 pm Page 1