Thornbury Radio
1 Station Name Guidance Notes What is the proposed station name? This is the name you expect to use to identify the station on air. Thornbury Radio
2. Community to be served Guidance Notes Define the community or communities you are proposing It is a legislative requirement that a service is intended to serve. Drawing from various sources of data (e.g. from primarily to serve one or more communities (whether or the Office of Population, Census and Survey) and in relation not it also serves other members of the public) and we need to your proposed coverage area, please determine the size to understand who comprises that community or of the population concerned and the make-up of the communities. The target community will also be specified in population as a whole, along with any relevant socio- the licence, if this application is successful. economic information that would support your application. The legislation defines a ‘community’ as: people who live or (Please tell us the sources of the information you provide.) work or undergo education or training in a particular area Answer in fewer than 300 words: or locality, or people who have one or more interests or characteristics in common.
We wish to extend our current internet radio service to FM to serve the historic market town of Thornbury and District. Thornbury is a proud town that manages to maintain a strong local identity despite retail pressure from the city of Bristol only 10 miles away, and a large regional shopping centre (Cribbs Causeway) even nearer. In recent years the town has started to grow again, after a lull since the 1980’s, with development on green belt land. The District we serve around Thornbury includes the villages of Alveston, Olveston, Tytherington, Oldbury-on-Severn, Leyhill, Wickwar, Bagstone and Iron Acton. Thornbury and surrounding district is not currently served by any BBC local, commercial or community radio services on FM. ONS census data from 2011 indicates that total population of our target area is 34,507. Age profile is older than average – 72% of the population is older than 25. We have identified that programming needs to reflect this. Ethnicity – Over 97% of residents describe themselves as white. Language – 98.5% of residents’ main language is English. Religion – 64% of people in our area declare themselves as Christian, 27% no religion, 8% undeclared and 1% other religions. Education – 4.7% of people have a qualification Level 4 or above. Economics & Employment – 8% of the population are described as Job Seekers – slightly above the national average. The South Gloucestershire Economic profile 2015 indicates that average earnings were £28,859, slightly above the national average of £27,500. 52% of households are described as not deprived in any dimension.
3. Proposed area Guidance Notes What is the area you propose to serve? Although we believe it is helpful to set guidance that frequency availability may often limit transmission powers to around 25 watts and the coverage radius to around 5km, we are adopting a more flexible approach and will consider applications for wider areas where applicants can demonstrate that the proposed coverage area will better serve the target community, and where it is technically possible. https://www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/1
1 Thornbury Radio
01459/community-radio-future-licensing-technical-policy- statement.pdf
We wish to deliver a good quality stereo signal to our target area of Thornbury and District, extending to around 5 miles around the transmission site. Although this is slightly larger than the 5km norm, we feel it is justified by the low population density of our area. In addition, it is desirable to retain mobile listeners as they go about their normal business – travelling to shops, school, work etc. Key commuter destinations in the wider area are Aztec West Business Park, South Gloucestershire Council, Oldbury Power and Renishaw (marked with purple stars on map).
© OpenStreetMap contributors Due to terrain, we are aware that there will be some pockets of poor/no reception within this radius. For this reason, we suggest a small infill transmitter near Olveston/Tockington where we have a satellite studio. This area is very low-lying just above sea level and surrounded by hills on three sides, so should cause minimal outgoing interference. If the proposed service area is problematic, we are prepared to consider a smaller radius – a smaller licence is better than none at all! We also believe that a viable service is possible even if incoming interference exceeds ITU protection ratios, as evidenced by our nearest community radio station in Bradley Stoke which copes admirably against incoming co-channel interference above ITU recommendations from BBC Devon at North Hessary Tor. We are aware of general Band II frequency scarcity in this area, so we have conducted interference analysis (using Ofcom methodology) to identify several candidate frequencies. Although our preferred site is at Milbury Heath, we have other transmitter site options that expand scope for using directional antennas to mitigate outbound interference in multiple directions of concern, depending on frequency being considered. We submitted a detailed spectrum resource report to Ofcom on 3 September 2018. It is also available for download here.
Programmes and programme output: Definitions: Studio location: The studio from which the service will be broadcast should be located within the licensed area. Locally-produced: Locally-produced output is output made and broadcast from within the service’s licensed coverage area. (It is anticipated that most stations will produce the bulk of their output themselves, in the locality. However, for some target communities it may be appropriate for fairly high levels of output to originate from outside the licensed area.) Live output: is that which is produced by a presenter in the studio at the time of broadcast. (The amount of live output may vary between different services depending on the needs or expectations of the target community.) Original output: output that is first produced for and transmitted by the service, and excludes output that was transmitted elsewhere before. Original output can be live or voice-tracked. Repeat broadcasts of original output do not count towards the minimum requirement. Peak time: it may be helpful to state what material will be broadcast in ‘peak time’. If you do, please say what you consider peak time to be for your target community (this may vary from station to station). Automated output/voice-tracked material: most stations will carry automated output at some time. The amount of automated or voice-tracked material does not need to be specified in the Key Commitments. Sustaining service/third party produced material: if you intend to broadcast material produced by a different organisation please state what it is and how much (per day or week as appropriate).
4. Programming output Guidance Notes Please fill-in all three questions below The law requires applicants to state their proposals for Question A asks you to describe your programme service. providing a service that would:
2 Thornbury Radio
Question B relates to how your output will serve the tastes (i) cater for the tastes and interests of members of its and interests of your target community. target community or communities (or for any particular Question C is about how your service will broaden the tastes and interests in those communities); range of local (non-BBC) services available in your area. (ii) broaden the range of programmes available on non- Later in this form you will be asked to draft your own ‘key BBC local services (commercial and community commitments’. This will form the basis of your licence and stations) to members of the relevant community or is what Ofcom will judge you against. It should include a communities; summary of your proposed programme output as set out (iii) broaden the overall range of such non-BBC local below and reflect your commitment to cater for relevant services provided in the area concerned; and tastes and interests, to broaden the range of relevant (iv) have a distinct nature, or provide distinct content, from programmes and services and to provide a service with a any non-BBC local services with which it would overlap. distinct nature and content as set out in the Guidance Ofcom is required to consider the extent to which an Notes in the column opposite. applicant’s proposals will cater for the tastes and interests of members of its target community or communities. Ofcom is also required to consider the extent to which proposals for a community radio station would broaden the range of programmes available by way of non-BBC local services (both commercial and community stations) in the area concerned (especially, the extent to which a proposed service would have a distinct nature or provide distinct content from any overlapping non-BBC local services). The information given here should be more detailed than what you set out in your draft key commitments (later in this form), and will help us gain a fuller understanding of how you will serve your target community and what the station will sound like. 4. Programming output A: Please tell us about your programme service. The following questions may help you describe your programme service (but should only be used as a guide): • What will the service sound like? • What music will you play? • What are the main speech elements of the service and how will the social gain/community benefits you propose be reflected on-air? • What is the likely music to speech ratio? • Will this vary at different times of the day or week (or year)? • Do you intend to broadcast live output? If so when and how much do you propose to do? • Will you broadcast in languages other than English (what languages and how much)? • Will your output be original i.e. specifically produced for your service? • Will it be locally produced? • Do you intend to repeat material? Answer in fewer than 1,000 words:
• Station sound – Thornbury and District has a relatively small but growing population and we aspire to serve the entire community. Our approach to achieve this will be to maximise engaging local content, complemented with a broad range of popular music with wide appeal during daytime hours. A “prototype” of the station, currently with the working title “Gloss FM”, can be heard 24 hours a day on our webstream. o Non-musical content will concentrate on local news, sports, arts, events and issues in Thornbury and District. In addition, local history, showcasing the plethora of local charities, clubs and societies will be featured. We aim to be a hub that promotes the best of Thornbury and District – this is our “USP”. o In non-peak hours Thornbury Radio encourages a diverse range of specialist speech and music programming such as Young People, Arts, Drama, Big Band through to Rock, Gospel and Bollywood. In addition, Thornbury Radio aims to seek out local music broadcast
3 Thornbury Radio
opportunities promoting the talent within the community manifest in the number of schools’ orchestras, festivals (annual Eisteddfods, Music Festival etc.), choirs, local bands and musical performance groups. • Music – In peak daytime hours the music will be familiar popular music spanning from the 1960’s to the present day, but with far more variety than typical commercial stations. Our growing music playlist currently contains 6912 songs which is much more diverse than commercial stations in the region. Music in off-peak hours will be even more diverse depending on the specialist shows and we would consider virtually any music within common decency standards. • Speech – The mains speech elements of the service will be: o Regular local news bulletins o Regular local weather bulletins o Thought for the day o Regular local what’s on events guide o Local traffic updates as required o Local sports reports o Health promotion campaigns and health show o Police surgery - weekly crime update and security advice o Studio interviews with local stakeholders - not only leaders, but anyone with something interesting to say about Thornbury and District o Phone-ins and other interactive shows such as debates on local hot topics like new build on green belt land, local crime etc. o Arts-based shows with local artists talking about their work, live recitals, with the potential for live radio-plays o Any other speech that reflects the interests and concerns of the residents of Thornbury and District; adapted based on feedback received • Music to Speech Ratio – We estimate an average of 70-80% music. It will vary naturally across each day depending on the type of show. It may also vary over the longer term as volunteer presenters come and go, and as we adapt programming to meet our listeners’ needs. • Live output – We are only too aware of the challenges of running a community radio station with volunteers over a 5-year period, so we are wary of over-promising on live hours. The vast majority of our output is curated in Thornbury and District, including live, voice tracking and inserted recorded elements (breaking news, what’s on guide, roving mic interviews, sports reports etc.) For us it is the amount of local content that is of interest, not whether it is live or recorded. The number of live hours will vary by day and by availability of volunteers as they come and go during the project, maybe averaging 6-8 hours per day over the long term, but with significant variability. Although live is the most enjoyable type of radio to make, listeners often do not know the difference whether the content they are listening to is live or recorded, as long as it is locally focused and interesting. • Language – 98.5% of our target audience’s main language is English, so we do not anticipate broadcasting in other languages to any significant extent. • Original Output – The majority of our output will be original, curated in our studios in Thornbury. The main exception is some high-quality syndicated shows that we carry – in the order of 10 hours a week. But if we get sufficient volunteers, we would always prioritise local content over syndicated content. • Local production – Apart from the syndicated shows just mentioned, our output is locally originated - recorded in and around Thornbury and District and curated in our studios in Thornbury. • Repeats – If there is the demand for it, we may opt to repeat interesting material during the overnight period. But in reality, we think that podcasts are a better way to make interesting content more widely available.
B. What is the address of the proposed studio (if known)?
4 Thornbury Radio
Main studio: 14, The Plain, Thornbury, BS35 2BD Satellite studio: The Annexe, Green Farm, The Green, Olveston, BS35 4EJ
C: Based on what you have said above, how will your proposed radio service cater for the tastes and interests of your target community/communities? Answer in fewer than 400 words:
Feedback Responses to our online questionnaire suggest our listeners want, in order of preference: 1. local information and issues 2. music from the previous 3 decades to current 3. local traffic & transport 4. local weather 5. local voices 6. local history As you can see from the rest of our application, this is exactly what we are delivering and plan to continue delivering. We will continue to invite listeners to participate in shaping our station output. As well as traditional surveying methods we will also make extensive use of our established social media presence (Facebook and Twitter), online survey tools such as Survey Monkey, and our SMS text message service in order to identify local people’s interests, ideas and requests. Daytimes Thornbury and District has a relatively small but expanding population. We aim to appeal to the whole community in our area. So daytime hours will have general appeal aiming to build and maintain audience. A broad range of familiar music from the 60’s to current, interspersed by interesting local content. Feedback from our listeners confirms that they prioritise local content above any other. We are also aware that the demographic of our population is slightly older than the national average. Evenings During evenings our service builds upon this general appeal, by catering for niche local audiences for a diverse range of specialists shows. We know that specialist shows like the long-running “Dance Band Days” often stimulate the greatest feedback and spontaneous recall. People Our volunteers come from the local community and will ensure that we truly live up to our strapline of “Your Local Station”. Being “Local” is our whole raison d’ être. We encourage the feeling of ownership – it’s YOUR station for the people of Thornbury and District, ABOUT Thornbury and District BY the people of Thornbury and District. We continue to be active in cultivating participation in programme-making by local individuals and community organisations who wish to broadcast their interests, providing an insight of their activities to the wider community. This local approach ensures that general and niche tastes in music, presenting styles & personalities are catered for. Local interests will also be catered for with a range of issue-based and specialist programming. We will aim to recruit further volunteers from as wide a range as possible of religious, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds, abilities and experiences to reflect the richness and diversity of the local community. Local Voices From previous experience we know local people are excited by hearing and recognising local voices on FM radio, and so we are developing a number of mechanisms to maximise the number of local voices heard on the station. One example of this are the short “Vox Pops” that we broadcast featuring the voices of local people not directly involved in the station. We will enable local people to be heard who might not otherwise have had the opportunity to participate in radio broadcasting. Thus, we are developing a characteristically local station which will, when on FM, become essential listening for the residents and workers of Thornbury and District. Arts Thornbury has a thriving Arts scene with an annual Arts Festival, a Carnival, annual Eisteddfod and several 5 Thornbury Radio
local drama/music groups. The Arts scene is an example of one important facet of our community, among others that we will serve. In Spring 2019 Thornbury Radio is sponsoring Thornbury Arts Festival in its 50th year. And we plan further collaborations with local arts groups.
D: How will your proposed community radio service add to the range of programmes available on non-BBC local services (commercial and community stations) to members of the relevant community or communities, add to the overall range of such services in the area concerned and be different and distinct from them? Please tell us which non- BBC local services your station will overlap with. Answer in fewer than 400 words:
Our service is FOR the people of Thornbury and District, ABOUT Thornbury and District BY the people of Thornbury and District. Thornbury Radio will be the hub to find out about everything going-on in and around Thornbury and District. Many local stakeholders have told us how important they think local radio is for social cohesion in our community. Our area is underserved by radio, and we want to give Thornbury and District its voice and be a catalyst for important local conversations. Our service will be the ONLY non-national service on FM in Thornbury. Due to the geography of the area, Thornbury is not served by non-National services on FM. There is some patchy coverage of local radio on high ground around our area. The BBC transmitter checker does not indicate even variable coverage from BBC Bristol or Gloucester in Thornbury, although in practice on sensitive receivers they do give a reasonable signal on surrounding high ground. It follows that these stations rarely mention Thornbury. There is some out-of-area coverage (ie: less than 54dBµV/m) from commercial stations in Thornbury and some which overlaps some areas on the fringe of our District. These stations (apart from Bradley Stoke) narrowcast to their chosen regional demographic in order to maximise advertising revenue and do not carry the kind of locally-focused programming that we plan to. Thornbury Station Area Format content? Heart Bristol Pop No Sam FM Bristol AOR No Kiss Severn Estuary (excluding Thornbury) Dance No Sunshine Radio Hereford Broad music No The Breeze Bristol Easy Listening No Bradley Stoke Radio Bradley Stoke Mixed community No Nation Radio Cardiff Music No
Social gain
5. Social gain Guidance Notes Community radio is required to be for the public good and Broadcasting legislation specifies a number of to bring community benefits, or social gains, to listeners ‘characteristics of community radio services’. Licence and participants. The requirement for ‘social gain,’ is one of holders need to ensure their services conform to these characteristics, including in this case the delivery of social the key factors that makes community radio stations gain. different from other radio services. The legislation sets out social gains that stations must Please tell us what community benefits your service will provide. These are the achievement, in respect of bring to your target community(ies) and/or the general individuals or groups of individuals in the target public. Please include summaries of evidence to support community, or in respect of other members of the public, of your answer. the following objectives – Answer in fewer than 1,500 words: (a) the provision of a radio service to individuals who are otherwise underserved by such services, (b) the facilitation of discussion and the expression of opinion,
6 Thornbury Radio
(c) the provision (whether by means of programmes included in the service or otherwise) of education or training to individuals not employed by the station, and (d) the better understanding of the particular community and the strengthening of links within it. Social gain may also include the achievement of other objectives of a social nature.1 Applicants are required to provide evidence that their service will result in significant social gain to the public or the target community(ies). Copies of letters or research reports etc. should not be submitted, but brief relevant extracts from them, which represent an accurate and comprehensive summary, may be included. If we wish to see the source material, we will ask for it. Ofcom is required to have regard to the extent to which your proposed service would result in the delivery of social gain to the public or target community.
Social Gain From our substantial previous experience, we know that local radio in Thornbury can deliver substantial social gain for our listeners, our volunteers and local stakeholders like charities, and community organisations. The Beginning In 2005 the local Vicar David Primrose’s original concept for setting up a community-based radio in Thornbury was to bring disparate individuals and organisations together. Due mainly to the rural nature of the area, there were many volunteer organisations in the area which did not readily get to know each other. The first incarnation of the station 2005-2010 delivered this remit, at its peak involving over 100 volunteers per broadcast. We are now building back towards this level of participation with 20 volunteers and growing, and a further 60 people who have expressed an interest in being involved. Today and the future Thornbury Radio is continuing the process of reaching out to the communities of Thornbury and District and embracing the process of building identity and pride expressed through participation in the station. • The promotion of diverse local voluntary organisations • The provision of local information and news • Information and education on health issues • Highlight education, training and employment opportunities for young people • Encourage self-help in addition to community assistance to the less fortunate members of our area • Showcase local talent in their artistic and cultural endeavours • Promote participation in sports and other keep-fit activities • Working with local organisations such as Thornbury Volunteer Centre and Thornbury Welcomes to encourage involvement in the station • Provide opportunities to reduce social isolation and make new friends • Provide uplifting and cheerful programmes to lift the spirits of listeners
The provision of a radio service to individuals who are otherwise underserved by such services Evidence: Our current 24x7 online radio service which is the only radio service available that gives a voice to and reflects Thornbury and District We believe our whole community is currently underserved by local FM radio services (see section 4D of this application). The ONLY way currently available for Thornbury to fill the gap is our 24x7 digital online local radio service. We are certain that an FM delivery channel would make our service more widely available to
1 See Article 2(3) of the Community Radio Order 2004 and Ofcom’s Notes of guidance for community radio applicants and licensees. 7 Thornbury Radio our local audience. We are confident that we already serve the older audience well. Two of our regular presenters are octogenarians and their shows probably have the highest feedback. At the other end of the age spectrum, we are encouraging a very active youth participation in the station and we have recently opened discussions with Castle School Education trust along with Scout groups. We recognise the importance of youth liaison and involvement and will aim to ensure they are represented in our management and volunteer structure. We fully recognise the challenge of addressing the whole community. We aim to give a voice to all groups and individuals who wish to participate in the station. Our inclusive approach will embrace everyone in our community, and we will constantly seek feedback to ensure our service meets the needs and expectations of the residents of Thornbury and District. Thornbury Radio has established strong links with Thornbury Volunteer Centre which has developed a very active culturally and ethnically diverse volunteer network. With a more accessible FM channel, we will be better able to reach out and identify mutual collaboration opportunities. The facilitation of discussion and the expression of opinion Evidence: Our back catalogue and continuing regular interviews with local stakeholders featuring their interests, local history, good causes etc Thornbury Radio will continue to schedule live debate and interviews on a number and variety of local topics. Current hot topics include local crime such as arson and drugs, and the impact of a rapid increase in housing developments. We welcome participation from organisations and individuals to stimulate and enhance the local conversation in Thornbury and District. These local contributions often stimulate strong positive feedback through social media and other channels, and are a powerful way for us to raise the profile of our service. Naturally, the management will always ensure that programming stays within the Ofcom guidelines and rules. The provision (whether by means of programmes included in the service or otherwise) of education or training to individuals not employed by the station Evidence: The large number of people who have grown confidence, met new people and learned new skills through volunteering for the station We plan to provide training to non-employed volunteers on all aspects of the station as appropriate, including and not limited to programme makers, back and front-office and technical. With regard to presenters we will ensure they are aware of their obligations under the Broadcasting Code. We will also provide mentoring to encourage continuous improvement. Above all we will constantly encourage them to deliver frequent and relevant engaging local content which we know our local target audience want. Working with the schools, colleges and community associations, we will make our studio facilities available to be used to support existing education as well as developing our own training schemes. We will also apply for grants that will permit us to use our facilities to provide training to local people in broadcast radio. The better understanding of the particular community and the strengthening of links within it. Evidence: Our close cooperation with local organisations such as Thornbury Volunteer Centre and Thornbury Welcomes and our commitment to give airtime to local good causes that enhance our community It is a key aim of Thornbury Radio to maximise the number of programmes created and presented by groups and organisations in the area. In addition, we produce and air free "infomercials" to promote a diverse range of local charities and voluntary organisations such as Thornbury Arts Festival, Green Community Travel and Macmillan Brain Tumour Support, among others. These elements supplement frequent “what’s on” information about local events and regular public service announcements on health, fire safety and other educational issues. We have frequent interviews with local stakeholders – either in our town centre studio, or “out and about” on-location in Thornbury and District.
8 Thornbury Radio
We will aim to match or exceed our success where our election trails, encouraging people to vote, were a winning entry at the National Community Radio Toolkit Awards 2010. Community Engagement A key vehicle for understanding the community and strengthening links within it will be the setting up of an advisory panel. Membership will be invited from a wide cross section of the community, for example; Religious groups, Councillors (in particular at parish and town level), Professional Broadcasters, Police, Education, Arts, Volunteer and Youth groups. Thornbury Radio will encourage feedback via all the normal channels such as phone, text, email, our website, social media and through a regular series of articles and features published in other local websites, newspapers and local magazines. We are also working closely with local organisations such as Thornbury Welcomes and Thornbury Volunteer Centre to create and strengthen links between fellow local community groups with the common goal of increasing social cohesion. Local Economy Although Thornbury has a large number of local businesses, they face a growing challenge from encroachment of big national brands, and the threat of big retail competition from Cribbs Causeway regional shopping centre, and from the city of Bristol only 10 miles away. We believe there is an “open goal” to deliver social gain through enhancing the local economy by enabling a new channel of local radio advertising and empowering local businesses to talk to local customers. The business community across Thornbury and District has enthusiastically embraced local radio in the past - enough to support and deliver eleven successful RSL broadcasts. Feedback from these RSL broadcasts show a number of local businesses significantly benefited from the local audience and became loyal supporters of the station.
Access and participation:
6. Participation in the service Guidance Notes How do you propose to ensure that members of your Legislation specifies a number of ‘characteristics of target community (or communities) are given community radio services’. Licence holders need to ensure opportunities to participate in the operation and their services conform to these characteristics, including in this case providing opportunities to participate in the management of the service? operation and management of the service. Ofcom requires Answer in fewer than 400 words: information as to how this would be achieved. What will be the involvement of members of the target community in the radio station? How many volunteers do you anticipate will be involved in your service per year?
Channels Members of the community are encouraged to get involved through: • On-air promotions • Website sign-up • Public Meetings • Features in the local press and local magazines • Social media channels • Links with Thornbury Volunteer Centre • Networking and word of mouth
Volunteers We anticipate approximately 40-50 volunteers being involved with Thornbury Radio in the first year, possibly growing back towards our historical average of 100 volunteers in subsequent years. All of our Directors are drawn from people who live locally. We anticipate that our Management Team will
9 Thornbury Radio
be as well. From experience we know that we will have a constant turnover of volunteers juggling their working, home and volunteering lives. We therefore know we need to be continually recruiting volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds. Advisory body We will set up an independent advisory body in order to provide feedback to the directors on programming and policy. This body will be open to a broad cross section of the community. Access We constantly encourage the participation of local people in the operation of the radio station. Our town centre studio is easily accessible to anyone in the local area. While the studio is on the ground floor, for people who are less capable of accessing our studio through physical disability or other reasons, we have developed ways (which are regularly used) for people to remotely contribute to programming. Our website has a volunteer section with sign-up forms for volunteers that lets them specify their area of interest. We also have a Presenter proposal form where anyone can propose a show and tell us how they will address the needs of our audience in Thornbury and District. Diversity and Inclusivity Diversity is important, both in the presenter profile and programme content. Giving so many people the opportunities to participate in various ways, we recognise the importance of education to provide adequate training for people to meet appropriate quality standards in public broadcasting. We want to give Thornbury and District its voice back and seek to promote inclusivity. We are particularly keen to encourage the involvement of schools and youth. In line with our policies and procedures we operate a strict policy for the protection of children and vulnerable adults. Thornbury Radio will operate a number of management sub-committees made up of station volunteers, to oversee various aspects of business and operations. Decisions and policies, ratified by the board of directors, will be the responsibility of the station manager.
7. Access to facilities and training Guidance Notes Set out the practical (formal and informal) mechanisms Ofcom is required by the legislation to have regard to the which you will use to ensure that members of your target provision each applicant proposes to make to allow for community can gain access to your facilities that would be access by members of the target community to the facilities to be used for the provision of the service and for their used for the provision of your service and to receive training in the use of those facilities. training in their use. Answer in fewer than 400 words:
New Volunteers We will set up a series of training sessions tailor-made for our own volunteers. We have already trained many people over the years and so it would be a matter of reinforcing their skills in a variety of areas. We will brief volunteers on our comprehensive set of policies and procedures. These policies and procedures are available on our volunteers’ social media support group. This will be supplemented by a set of training notes we are building and refining on an ongoing basis. Specifically, for presenters, we will ensure they are aware of and acknowledge their obligations under the broadcasting code. A key development aim for us will be to maximise local content and relevance. We will establish a mentoring process to encourage continual improvement in this respect. We also actively encourage presenters to take recordings and self-evaluate after their shows. Access Our existing town centre studio facility in Thornbury has excellent access. We have also developed methods for remote contributions which enable participation by people with mobility and access issues. Remote contribution has helped our elderly mid-morning presenter get out and about in the community and deliver programming without having to struggle into the studio every day. We aim to encourage the widest
10 Thornbury Radio
participation across the whole of our target community. Studio Facilities When not being used for live shows, our studio is freely available for all volunteers to practice and develop their skills. In addition, we will seek to have media trainees from local colleges on work placement, where their work at the station would be part of their formal assessment We target specific groups, in partnership with local organisations such as the Community Associations, Scouts, U3A (University of the Third Age), The Police and Thornbury Volunteer Centre.
Ensuring accountability:
8. Accountability Guidance Notes Please set out your proposed community accountability Broadcasting legislation specifies a number of mechanisms. These should cover matters such as: ‘characteristics of community radio services’. Licence holders need to ensure their services conform to these How will members of your target community: characteristics. One is that, in respect of the provision of • make contact with your service, and the service, the provider makes itself accountable to the • influence the operation of the service? community (or communities) the service is intended to serve. How will suggestions or criticisms from members of your target community (or communities) be considered and Ofcom is required to have regard to the provision each applicant proposes to make in order to ensure its acted upon? Answer in fewer than 500 words: accountability to the relevant community (or communities).
Making Contact with Thornbury Radio Listeners are encouraged to get in touch with the station through all the usual means such as by visiting the studio, phone, email, SMS, social media, letter or any other method they would like to communicate with us. Influencing Thornbury Radio’s Service We have an online form where people can tell us what they want their local radio station to sound like. So far, they are telling us they want to hear, in order of preference: 1. local information and issues 2. music from current to the previous 3 decades 3. local traffic & transport 4. local weather 5. local voices 6. local history Constructive criticism of the service will be encouraged and will be dealt with by station management who will liaise with relevant parties. An important part of our Governance will be the Annual General Meeting which will be open and accountable to members of the public. Advisory body We will set up an independent advisory body in order to provide feedback to the directors on programming and policy. This body will be open to a broad cross section of community interests and organisations including professionals from Broadcasting, Education, Chamber of Trade, Farming, Health, Police and representatives from local authorities such as parish and town councils as well as individual members of the community. The precise make up and terms of reference will be defined during the first year following the award of a community FM licence. The advisory body will not have any executive control but their recommendations will be taken into account by the board of directors. Considering and acting upon suggestions and criticisms Suggestions and criticisms offer crucial opportunity to learn and improve. As an inclusive community radio station, if the person has a point, we have the rare ability in the broadcast industry to say “if you don’t like it, why don’t you come along and show us how to do it better?”, and thus continually improve our output. For 11 Thornbury Radio
more serious criticisms or complaints we have policies and procedures to act on these. Policies and Procedures For more serious situations, we feel it is important to have a full set of policies and procedures to steer our approach in all aspects of the station, and to follow in the case of difficulties. These policies and procedures are available online for all volunteers, and upon request to listeners. It is inevitable that from time to time that misunderstandings and disputes occur amongst volunteers, or a complaint may be made by a listener. The purpose of our policies and procedures is to quickly and efficiently ensure that volunteers with a grievance relating to their involvement or listeners with feedback can use a procedure which can help to resolve those grievances as quickly and as fairly as practically possible.
Guidance notes: station’s draft key commitments
Please draft the Key Commitments for your proposed service. There is a blank key commitments template overleaf. If your organisation is awarded a licence, the key commitments you draft here will be included in your licence. (Please note: Ofcom may require amendments if, for example, we feel changes are required to better reflect your application proposals).
Your draft Key Commitments should be consistent with, and, where appropriate, summarise the answers you have already given in this application form.
It is important that you draft your own commitments rather than just copying what may have been done by others. You should keep in mind that it will be a condition of any licence to meet the Key Commitments: something you must do at all times and for breach of which you could face sanctions including revocation of the licence. So, you should think carefully about what you will be committing to.
We would expect key commitments to be brief and no more than one page long.
KEY COMMITMENTS: to be completed by the applicant [Guidance is given in italics.]
Station name: [As in section 1 of this application] Thornbury Radio
Licence area: [State the proposed coverage area as set out in section 3 of Thornbury and District this form.]
- Description of character of service [Describe in no more than 80 words in total]:
the target community/communities: • All residents of Thornbury and District the main purpose of the service: • to provide a voice for Thornbury and District • promotion of local voluntary organisations • provision of local information and news • facilitation of debate on local hot topics such as housing, transport, crime and employment • provide opportunities to reduce social isolation and make new friends • provide uplifting and cheerful programmes to lift the spirits of listeners the station’s primary functions or activities. • Provide a local community radio service for the residents of Thornbury and District
The service broadcasts: [these bullet points should be a summary of the answers you have given in section 4 of this form]:
12 Thornbury Radio
• Music. The main types of music2 broadcast over the course of each week are: [insert types of music in a maximum of 30 words] o Daytimes – A wide range of mainstream easy listening music predominately 70’s to date o Evenings – specialist music (diverse range)
• Speech. The main types of speech output3 broadcast over the course of each week are: [describe the speech output in a maximum of 30 words] o Local news o Local weather o Local what’s on events guide o Local traffic updates o Local sports o Health news o Public Service Information o Local Interviews and debate
• Over the course of each week programming is broadcast in [list all language(s) other than English, if relevant]
o Not applicable
• The service provides original output4 for a minimum of [insert number] hours per day. [What are the minimum hours per day that the service will broadcast original output?]
o 20 hours a day or more on average
• The service provides locally-produced output5 for a minimum of [insert number] hours per day. [What are the minimum hours per day that the service will broadcast locally-produced output?]
o 20 hours a day or more on average
[The text below is included in the Key Commitments in all community radio licences, and does not need to be amended or augmented. Every service is required to comply with these requirements, but the details of how each service does so do not need to be included in the Key Commitments]
The studio is located within the licensed coverage area.
The service provides a range of community benefits (social gain objectives mandated by statute) for the target community, both on-air and off-air, and in doing so, achieves the following objectives:
• the facilitation of discussion and the expression of opinion,
• the provision (whether by means of programmes included in the service or otherwise) of education or training to individuals not employed by the person providing the service, and
• the better understanding of the particular community and the strengthening of links within it.
Members of the target community contribute to the operation and management of the service.
The service has mechanisms in place to ensure it is accountable to its target community.
2 e.g. mainstream pop, urban etc. 3 e.g. local news, what’s on etc. 4 Original output is output that is first produced for and transmitted by the service, and excludes output that was transmitted elsewhere before. Original output can be live or voice-tracked. Repeat broadcasts of original output do not count towards the minimum requirement. 5 Locally-produced output is output made and broadcast from within the service’s licensed coverage area. 13 Thornbury Radio
[Please note: If awarded a licence, the key commitments you draft here will be included in your licence. (However, Ofcom may require amendments if, for example, we feel changes are required to better reflect your application proposals).]
About your organisation:
9. Company details Guidance Notes The legislation requires that: • Community radio services should not be provided primarily for commercial reasons or for the financial or other material gain of the body providing the service or the individuals involved in it • Any profits produced may only be used to either improve the future provision of the service or for the delivery of social gain to members of the public or the target community Provide the name of the body corporate (e.g. company) Only a body corporate can hold a community radio licence. submitting this application and the type of body corporate. A body corporate is almost always a (registered) company, Please provide copies of the company’s Memorandum, although it can also include, for example, some bodies Articles of Association and Certificate of Incorporation (or, created by statute (an individual or a registered charity on where it is another type of body corporate, its founding its own is not a body corporate). documents and those which set out its objectives and rules Your application must therefore be submitted on behalf of of operation) a registered company (or other body corporate). There are different types of company (e.g. a company limited by shares, a community interest company, a company limited by guarantee) and we need to know what kind of company is applying for a licence. We will not consider a licence award to a company if it has not yet been registered. If the application is successful the licence will be awarded to the body corporate (e.g. company) submitting this application.
Company (or other body corporate) name: Thornbury Media Community Interest Company
Date of registration: 18 April 2017
Company registration number: 10727113
Private company limited by guarantee without share Type of company (or other body corporate): capital
Where your body is not a company, please explain how it Not Applicable meets the requirement to be a body corporate:
10. Ownership Guidance Notes Please provide details of who controls and who owns the Ofcom needs to know about the ownership of the company body corporate (e.g. company) applying for this licence, (or other body corporate) applying for this licence, and any and on what basis this control and ownership is achieved. issues regarding its control. We will also consider how the company (or body corporate) will be run (this will usually be (If this will be different once the station starts broadcasting specified in the Articles of Association of the company). please say so (a licence is not issued until broadcasting In relation to exerting control over the applicant, the starts.) information provided should include the name and address The information provided must include: of any individuals or corporate bodies in accordance with • all the subscribers, members, shareholders, or whose wishes the applicant’s affairs are or will be whatever is appropriate for the applicant company (or conducted in most cases or in significant respects. body corporate), and state the extent of their interest (e.g. % shareholding) (if the company will be controlled by members, but the members are not yet
14 Thornbury Radio
recruited, please say so). (You will also be asked about the board of directors in 11 & 12 below.) • details of any individual, company or other body that may exert control over the applicant.
Body Corporate Thornbury Radio is controlled and owned by Thornbury Media Community Interest Company (TMCIC), Registered in England. 10727113. It is a private company limited by guarantee without share capital. We do not anticipate this to change if awarded a community FM radio licence. A CIC is a special type of limited company that may not make a profit, and its assets are locked so that they cannot be used for profit by company members. There are no individuals or company or other body corporate that may exert control. Individuals and control The Directors of TMCIC are: David Wrench, Chris Criddle, Glyn Roylance, Dr Nigel Lane and Tina Wessel- Hansen Hattingh. All Directors live locally and have equal (i.e. 20%) voting rights in Board meetings. None of the Directors are “Persons of Significant Control” as defined by Companies House. Objects of Company The objects of the Company are to carry on activities which benefit the community and in particular (without limitation) to provide a Local Radio Station for Thornbury and District and associated media activities which aim to be an essential resource, serving the entire community of Thornbury and surrounding district, through the provision of a diverse spectrum of fun, inclusive, distinctive, innovative, informative, relevant, editorially-independent programming and scheduling of a high quality, created by representatives from the community of Thornbury and beyond.
Ability to maintain the service:
11. Management and operations Guidance Notes With regard to the applicant please provide: In addition to the notes above on ownership, Ofcom is also required to evaluate the human resources involved in the • A list of directors, indicating who is the managing director and/or chair (please see question 12 running of a community radio station. Answers should demonstrate how those who have relevant experience will regarding directors’ details). work for the station. In addition, a diagram or organisation • An indication of management structure (e.g. chart may help paint a clearer picture. management committee or equivalent, if applicable), and/or • Information about who would be responsible for the day to day management and running of the station (there is a separate question regarding other staff below). Explain the role(s) in the station, job titles, and indicate whether paid or voluntary, full or part-time (and the number of hours). The overall responsibility and decision making will be made by the company board of Directors (no director has significant control). Delegation of day to day operations is passed to the management committee (on which board members may serve). Initially this will be the Board of Directors. The aim is to expand the management committee as membership grows. None of the management committee are paid, all are voluntary and all work (for the CIC) part time. A formal management committee will meet at least every 4 weeks to coincide with the board meeting, regular operations meetings will be timetabled once under licence.
Managing Director & Chair of the Board Part time and Unpaid – 10 hour per week
15 Thornbury Radio
Chair of the company Overall responsibility for the management of Thornbury Media CIC and Thornbury Radio
Technical & Facilities Director / Production Manager Glyn Roylance – Part time and Unpaid – 20 hours per week Technical & Facilities Director Responsible for Broadcast operations and compliance; technical and studio facilities; hardware and software; website and online presence (and design); station imaging and idents. Post – Production Manager Post production, trailers, infomercials and assisting/mentoring presenters with audio packaging. Working closely with Sales and Marketing to bring in new sponsors and funding. Responsible for adverts and website marketing design and production.
Programme & Training Director / Station Manager Chris Criddle – Part time and Unpaid – 15 hours per week Programme & Training Director Organisation and overseeing of presenter training, mentoring, production values and broadcast code. Responsible for studio operations. Station Manager Day to day operations, scheduling, presenter availability and policy adherence.
Outreach and Community Engagement Director / Head of News & Current Affairs Nigel Lane – Part time and Unpaid – 15 hour per week Outreach and Community Engagement Director Engages with local clubs, societies, charities, businesses, schools and youth groups to encourage participation in and benefits from community radio. This role closely works with the Programme and Training Director and the Production Manager in channelling interest and opportunity. Head of News and Current Affairs Responsible for the local news team hourly bulletin production. There is a need to coordinate the various interviews. Development of guidelines and policy for guest interviews and the encouragement of insight and investigatory programming.
Business and Finance Director Tina Wessel-Hansen Hattingh – Part Time and unpaid – 5 hours per week Responsible for the business aspects of the company – company registration, licencing and contracts. The oversee of financial accounts, payments and receipts.
Corporate Affairs Director and Membership Liaison/ Event Production Manager David Wrench – Part Time and unpaid – 10 hours per week Corporate Affairs Director and Membership liaison
16 Thornbury Radio
A key role in the communications within and outside of the organisation. Public relations: Works closely with public affairs and community stakeholders (including media campaigns). Internal communications: Membership liaison. Facilitates the workings and engagement of the Advisory Board. Event Production Manager Working closely with Technical and Facilities, Programme & Training, organises volunteers to partake in community events and or events organised by the station.
Commercial Director TBC – Part Time and unpaid – 5 hours per week Responsible for targeting and monitoring sales team performance. Identifying other revenue streams including grants and sponsorship.
12. Management and operations Guidance Notes Please provide information regarding each director as set Ofcom needs to know about the proposed directors and out below (some or all of which may be regarded as chair of the applicant. Some or all of the information given confidential). in this section will usually be removed from the publicly available copy of this application form. (All community In addition if any individuals have been identified for radio applications forms will be made available on our management roles at the proposed station, please give website.) If you request that any information be removed, further information in this section. please indicate which (and why by email to [email protected]). Answer (for each director):
Director: Chris Criddle Employment: Engineer Other directorships: None Relevant experience or qualifications: 45 Years Presenting in Commercial Radio, Radio West, GWR, Classic Gold in Bristol, Orchard FM in Taunton. Member of launch team for WFM107.7 in Weston Super Mare, Ivel FM in Somerset and Original 106.5 in Bristol. Skills include technical and engineering, Programming, Music Scheduling, S&P, News,
Director: David Wrench Employment: Service Delivery Manager Other directorships: None Relevant experience or qualifications: Past chair of Thornbury Musical Theatre Group, former Director and chair of Severnvale Media CIC. 13 years RSL/Community radio experience.
Director: Glyn Roylance Employment: Senior Technical Consultant Other directorships: None Relevant experience or qualifications: BSc (Hons) Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Diploma Broadcast Engineering, currently runs a technical consultancy business serving small radio broadcasters
Director: Dr Nigel Lane Employment: Consultant in Acute Medicine Other directorships: None Relevant experience or qualifications: MBChB, FRCP(UK), DTM&H, PG Certificate in Clinical Leadership (Open)
17 Thornbury Radio
Director: Tina Wessel-Hansen Hattingh Employment: HR/Finance Administrator Other directorships: None Relevant experience or qualifications: BComm Accounting & Business Management (UNISA), Certificate in Accounting (OU), Assoc CIPD
If any individuals (not necessarily directors) have been identified for management roles please state what experience identified individuals have to undertake the role in question.
13. Staffing structure Guidance Notes What is the staffing structure of your proposed radio The legislation requires that Ofcom has regard to the service? Provide a job title for each position and indicate applicant’s ability to maintain the proposed service (as well whether the individual will be paid or will work in a as to ensure the applicant is fit and proper to hold the licence). As well as its ownership, management and voluntary capacity, will be full or part-time (indicate the operations, the proposed staffing of the station is relevant number of hours for part-time posts). This may be provided to these considerations. as a diagram or organisation chart.
Answer in fewer than 400 words, plus organisation chart (optional):
14. Applicant’s experience Guidance Notes Please describe the history of your group, and any relevant Ofcom is required to consider whether an applicant has the experience of the group, or the individuals within the ability to run a community radio station for the licence group, by answering the questions below. period (up to five years). To aid our consideration we want to know about any relevant experience the applicant group as a whole, or the individuals involved, may have.
A. Please provide a brief history of your group. Answer in fewer than 300 words:
The group was first established in 2005 and completed 11 successful RSL broadcasts between then and 2011. On average 50 to 100 volunteers assisting with each RSL broadcast with 300 people on the station’s volunteer mailing lists (past and present). Following an unsuccessful CR application in the third round (acknowledged by Ofcom to have been of high quality, but no frequencies then being available) the group went into “hibernation” shortly afterwards in 2012. After discussions with the Spectrum team at Ofcom in 2016 and early 2017, it was revealed that the chances of finding a frequency for Thornbury and District had improved. The station therefore re-formed and re- launched as an online operation on 29 July 2017 and has operated a local radio service for Thornbury and District 24 hours a day since then.
B. Please summarise the group’s broadcasting experience (e.g. internet radio, Restricted Service Licences (RSLs)). Answer in fewer than 150 words:
Between 2005 and 2011 the group ran eleven 4-week Restricted Service licences on FM covering Thornbury and District, alongside 365-day operation on the internet in later years. Since July 2017 when the station re-established online, we have been running a 24 hour a day 365 days a year local radio service on the internet, serving Thornbury and District. We estimate that the current volunteer base has over 100 years of experience in professional broadcast radio.
18 Thornbury Radio
C. Please summarise the relevant experience of the group or its members, in relevant non-broadcast areas (such as third sector, local business, fund-raising, training or education). Answer in fewer than 150 words:
Chris Criddle (Director) Engineer leading a team, working to timescales, designing, overseeing manufacturing and training Air Forces on the usage and technicalities of electronic equipment both in the UK and overseas. Have lived in South Gloucestershire for 55 years David Wrench (Director) IT Service Delivery Manager and Project Management within Aerospace, Insurance and Government. Lived in Thornbury and district for 47 years. 40 years membership of local amateur drama group (three terms as chair). Thornbury Carnival committee. STEM ambassador working with schools. Glyn Roylance (Director) Chartered Electrical and Electronic Engineer with 30 plus years’ experience. Senior management experience including recruitment, coaching, change management and strategy. Nigel Lane (Director) Consultant in Acute Medicine, NHS Hospital Doctor. Departmental Educational Lead. Postgraduate certificate in Medical Leadership. Chair of 1.2-million-pound change project in an NHS Trust. Chair of local not for profit drama group including fund-raising experience. Previous Secretary of a successful Pre-School.
D. Please summarise the radio broadcasting experience of key individuals in the applicant group (only if not already described above). Answer in fewer than 150 words:
Chris Criddle (Director) 45 years of experience of presenting, programming and production starting with Radio West in Bristol, GWR, Brunel Radio/Classic Gold then Orchard FM in Somerset. In 1999, he was part of the launch team for WFM 107.7 Weston Super Mare. Next launched IVEL FM in South Somerset in 2003 and part of the launch team for Original 106.5 in Bristol 2007. More recently Celador Radio on Sam FM and The Breeze. David Wrench (Director) Radio Bristol Volunteer, Hospital Radio, Local RSLs Glyn Roylance (Director) Qualified Broadcast Engineer and Chartered Engineer with 30 plus years’ experience. Trained by the IBA (forerunner to the Radio Authority). Provides technical broadcast consultancy services to small and community radio broadcasters. Christopher Isherwood (Presenter) Life Member - National Union of Journalists. Presenter on Radio York, Severn Sound, BBC Radio Gloucester, Stroud FM, Radio West, Brunel Radio, Radio Minuto (Spain), Thornbury FM, Gloss FM.
Evidence of demand:
15. Demand and/or support Guidance Notes Please provide a summary of evidence of demand and/or When considering community radio licence applications, support for your proposed service. Ofcom is required to take into account the extent of local demand for, or support for, the provision of the proposed This may include a variety of information, for example: service. • summary of support from statutory or voluntary It is for applicants to decide what evidence of demand or sector organisations which expect to contribute support they wish to submit. However, Ofcom does not practically and/or financially to your operations, or believe that generic support for the establishment of a new which would expect to collaborate with you in joint radio service is as meaningful as evidence of considered activities; support for a specific applicant’s proposals. This means that
19 Thornbury Radio
• evidence of interest generated through radio activity Ofcom does not attach great value to numerous examples (e.g. RSLs, internet radio), community activity, of similar generic or form letters of support by your group, training, voluntary sector work etc.; or to petitions.
• results of research; Copies of letters or research reports etc. should not be submitted. However, your response here may include brief • summary of support from local politicians, councils, relevant extracts from such material and must represent an educational or religious bodies etc.; accurate and comprehensive summary of any such • summary of support from local business or other supporting evidence. If we wish to see the source material, sectors; we will ask for it.
• evidence of support from your proposed target community. Answer in fewer than 1,000 words:
In our efforts to secure an FM broadcast licence we have solid support from our local MP Luke Hall and from Thornbury Town Council who awarded us a grant. From previous RSL’s we know there is a strong appetite from the myriad of local businesses for advertising on local radio – the considerable running costs of each RSL were covered by revenue generated this way. To complement anecdotal feedback, a quantifiable metric of our popularity is Facebook. In the 28 days previous to this application our reach was 9676 people. Our online questionnaire detailed in Section 4c has steered the design of our station sound to meet demand for lots of local content and music from the current and previous three decades. We have broad support in the community for delivering Thornbury Radio: Shirley Holloway – Mayor of Thornbury “The provision of local radio is of tremendous benefit to the people of Thornbury and has been welcomed whole heartedly. This is a very lively community that is interested in all that is happening. To hear news and information about Thornbury people, Thornbury shows, Thornbury achievements is exciting and to hear local, well known people discussing local and national issues is fascinating. The population of our town is growing very fast and I am sure that Thornbury Radio will also be a great link for people still discovering the charms of our town. It gives me great pleasure to support your application for a licence.”
Luke Hall – Member of Parliament for Thornbury, Yate and the surrounding villages “Gloss FM is a local radio station and has the potential to be a very important service for the Thornbury community. The station reflects the vibrancy and community spirit of the town, and is a great asset to the local area.”
Matthew Riddle - South Gloucestershire Councillor for Severn Ward “The people I represent live in the villages and hamlets outside Thornbury. Rural isolation is a real issue that needs to be addressed. Having a truly local radio station that pulls the whole community together is a real asset. We witnessed the benefit of having a local radio station with previous incarnations of the station, and I look forward to the return of this project that listens to, reflects and gives a voice to our proud community of Thornbury and District.”
A. Spens – Headteacher St Helens Primary School, Alveston “As Headteacher of a local primary school, I’m very keen to support this fantastic initiative. I’m only too aware of the importance of the local community and projects like this would really develop and support our local and unique community. As a school, we’re also very keen to be involved, giving our children the chance to learn about journalism and contribute to their local area.”
Rev. Dr. J. van der Lely – Vicar, Thornbury and Oldbury on Severn with Shepperdine “Thornbury is a rapidly growing community with several new housing areas springing up around the town. Thornbury Radio can make a significant contribution in helping to knit together the community, both long-
20 Thornbury Radio standing and new residents, enabling newcomers to feel integrated and welcomed, giving a sense of belonging in this town with its strong sense of identity and very friendly atmosphere.”
Father G. Malecki SDS – Parish Priest of the Catholic Parish of Christ the King Thornbury and Holy Cross Wotton-under-Edge “I welcome the opportunity to support the application for a community radio station serving Thornbury and District. I believe such an initiative would support the local community by promoting a sharing of ideas and values thereby helping to build and strengthen the links between local people, local interests and business.”
Dr R. Williams – General Practitioner, St Mary Street Surgery, Thornbury “Thornbury is a town with a high, and increasing, proportion of retired people. A sense of community is beneficial to all ages, but particularly the older, retired group. If granted a licence, Thornbury Radio will help provide a sense of community and so I support this application.”
Chris Isherwood – Presenter, Thornbury FM (Age 84) “In 2005 I was at a very low state in my life, just made redundant, I lived alone and it felt like a very dark place. When Thornbury community RSL radio started, I joined and my life changed. Not only did I have a purpose but an entire community had links with each other and an outlet for communication. From what I hear, lots of seniors like me are lonely and isolated and the return of Thornbury's community radio station could be a link to news, views and participation - a lifeline. I really hope it gets the go ahead, this town needs a heart and I'm sure Thornbury Radio will bring happiness to lots of residents.”
T. Mitchel Skinner - CEO and Founder – Macmillan Brain Tumour Support "As a local charity supporting families affected by a brain tumour, we rely on good communication. Part of that is making connections with people and Thornbury’s radio station has been a wonderful vehicle enabling us to do just that. Reaching out within our local community and talking about our service provision is vital. Therefore, being able to do this on local radio and using the power of music to soften the often hard-hitting facts is what local radio does best."
Kim Webb - Development Co-ordinator, Thornbury Volunteer Centre "We previously had a volunteering show on the station and it would be great to benefit from the widespread exposure of FM broadcasts again. Our weekly programme was vital in helping us to promote the volunteering message to our local community. Our principle aim is to encourage volunteering from all members of the public as this leads to a healthier, happier community and Thornbury Radio will provide us with the perfect platform to achieve this."
Tor Goodman - Founder & CEO JIGSAW Thornbury "I have been in Thornbury for a number of years now & found it so good to have a radio station that is truly in the heart of the community and is a great resource for our vibrant community. As a local Charity that supports families who have children with additional needs & disabilities the opportunity to promote our service to a wider audience is great. We fully support the wonderful work they are doing"
Rowena Moncrieffe - Chair - Thornbury Chamber of Trade "Thornbury has a thriving ecosystem of small local businesses that compete with encroaching national brands - yet currently we have no outlet to advertise on radio locally. Previous local radio broadcasts in Thornbury have proven the value of local radio advertising, and so we feel it is important for our members to have a channel to compete against powerful national brands that can afford to advertise on big regional radio stations. Thornbury Radio offers this opportunity to our members"
Sean Underwood – Police Sergeant – Response Team 5 Patchway Police Station 21 Thornbury Radio
“I whole heartily support the local radio for the area I live and work. Thornbury Radio is needed within a growing community and will hugely assist community cohesion. I support this as a resident but also as a local Police Sergeant where I rely on local radio for spreading of good news and general information.”
D. Fox – Secretary and Press Officer – Thornbury Rugby Football Club “Thornbury Radio will be a fantastic medium for Thornbury Rugby Football Club sport to be advertised to the local community, providing match results both during and after games, and match summaries in a local sports roundup. It will provide the opportunity for interviews with players, members and officials of the Club about their sporting achievements and memories.”
S. Bagnall, Group Scout Leader – 2nd Thornbury Scouts, Cotswold Edge District “Thornbury Radio will be a big benefit to our Group and District as it will provide both a medium to promote our activities to the local community and an opportunity for our members to visit and learn more about the workings of local radio.”
Octopus Drama Group Committee "Octopus Drama Group Thornbury believe that Thornbury Radio is an effective medium for not only promoting Thornbury and District and its rich culture, but further promoting the excellent talent in the local community. We look forward to working with the station on projects such as radio plays and to promote amateur drama to the listeners and wider community in Thornbury and District."
Ability to maintain the service – financial information:
16. Pre-launch financial information
In assessing an applicant’s ability to maintain the service we need to know what funds and assets it holds, how much it intends to spend getting the station on-air (pre-launch expenditure), and predicted funding for the pre-launch period. Please note ‘in-kind’ income is dealt with in 18 below.
17. Year 1 financial information - income Please provide information on the predicted income for your first year of broadcasting. N.B. there is a legislative restriction on income from on-air advertising and sponsorship/commercial references (in summary, each station is allowed a ‘fixed revenue allowance’ of £15,000 per year from paid-for advertising and sponsorship; some stations may also be allowed up to 50% of their total relevant information per year (i.e. disregarding the fixed revenue allowance). See the ‘Invitation of applications for community radio licences’ for your region for further information).
18. Financial information – in-kind support Please provide totals that reflect the in-kind support you expect to receive for the pre-launch period, and for year one. You may count some volunteer input as in-kind support – please see our guidance on this http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/binaries/broadcast/radio-ops/volunteerinput.pdf
19. Year 1 financial information – outgoings Please summarise year 1 outgoings – your expected operational expenditure to cover the first 12 months after the service has commenced broadcasting. (Add rows if necessary).
22 Thornbury Radio
20. Year 1 financial information – commercial activities on air The legislation for Community Radio places limits on the amount of income annually from the sale of on-air advertising and sponsorship that can be generated.
21. Pre-launch financial information - contingency If there is a shortfall between pre-launch predicted income and outgoings, please explain below how you would expect to cover any outstanding costs.
22. Year 1 financial information - contingency If there is a shortfall between Year 1 income and Year 1 outgoings, please explain below how you would expect to cover any outstanding costs (see also 23 and 24 below). Alternatively, if there is a surplus at the end of Year 1, please explain what you intend to do with such additional resources.
23. Financial information – loans and other borrowings If any of your proposed funding (either set-up or operational) is in the form of loans e.g. from directors, individuals or organisations, please provide details as to who the loan is from and the terms of such lending, expected repayment terms, interest rate charged and other associated costs.
24. Financial information – alternative funding streams If there is a shortfall between income and outgoings, what arrangements have you explored and are in place to provide further financial and/or ‘in-kind’ support for your proposed service? If you have any proposals for expanding and/or changing the funding model of your proposed service after the first year of operation, please provide details below:
Broadcasting engineering:
Engineering notes We require preliminary radio frequency (r.f.) engineering information and applicants are advised that this section is not intended to be exhaustive. We are asking for the basic engineering parameters necessary to determine the extent of frequency availability in an applicant’s chosen area (after taking account of the requirements of neighbouring broadcasters); and to determine whether the proposed service area can be adequately served from this site. As a result, applicants should note the importance of identifying a transmission site that is suitable for the area they wish to serve. While Ofcom would not wish applicants to go to unnecessary expense (we do not guarantee the availability of a suitable frequency and/or our ability to allocate it for broadcasting from the chosen transmission site), we do require precise details about the transmission site chosen. The questions following relate to this. Applicants should provide evidence of negotiations or agreement with the site owner (e.g. whether a provisional agreement is in place). Any licence award will be based on the coverage area from the site identified in the application. If a licence is offered, Ofcom may not be able to agree to a change from the site put forward in this application (and any request for a change will need to be justified). Applicants should read and be aware of the relevant part of the Ofcom Site Engineering Code which may be found at: http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/broadcasting/guidance/tech-guidance/eng_code/
25. Engineering information Waveband: This application is for an FM licence Yes
23 Thornbury Radio
Do you understand the requirements for FM (VHF) and Yes – We have suggested an have you incorporated these below and in, for example, additional small infill your start-up and other costs, detailed earlier? transmitter to cover low lying villages not covered by the main site.
Transmission site What is the postal address and postcode: Site 1 (main site) address: The Landscape Centre, Cuttsheath Road, Milbury Heath, GL12 8QL Site 2 (suggested infill site) The Annexe, Green Farm, The Green, Olveston. BS35 4EJ The NGR is a reference code comprising two letters and Site 1: ST663901 two groups of three numbers (e.g. SW 123 456). It is Site 2: ST600868 available from Ordnance Survey.
What is the height of the site, in metres, Above Ordnance Site 1: 100m Datum (AOD)? Site 2: 17m
National Grid In metres, what is the total height of the mast / building Site 1: 15m Reference (NGR): Above Ground level (AGL)? Site 2: 9m
About the site’s What is the height, in metres, of the transmitting antenna Site 1: 15m dimensions: AGL? Site 2: 10m
Please supply photographs of the transmitter mast / Tick if enclosed building and aerial location. Who owns the site and what are their full contact details? Is this site already used for broadcasting and if so by No whom? About the Delete as appropriate the yes/no answers which describe transmission site: your situation regarding proposed site (it may be that you cannot answer all four questions):
Site identified? Yes (Sites 1 and 2)
Transmission site Provisional agreement with site owner in place? Yes (Sites 1 and 2) availability: Or under negotiation? NA
Applicant group owns site? No
Other – please specify. Director owns site 2
Applicant group owns site? No (Note: we cannot consider an application if no site has been identified.)
How to contact you:
26. Public contact details Guidance Notes Provide the name of the person who will deal with Ofcom will publish community radio licence applications, and enquiries from the press and public and the contact from time to time statements which may include public contact details for them. details, on its website. A point of contact is required to deal with press and other enquiries from interested parties.
24 Thornbury Radio
Name: David Wrench Email: [email protected] Website: www.tmcic.org
27. Contact details for Ofcom Guidance Notes Provide the name of the person who will be Ofcom’s Ofcom will need to contact your group in relation to this primary contact and their contact details: application.
Concluding declaration:
28. Declaration APPLICANT’S, DIRECTORS’ AND OWNERS’ OTHER INTERESTS
1. In relation to the applicant and any body’s and/or individuals whose details are given in sections 11, 12 and 13 of this application, please state whether the applicant, any body or individual is (and if so identify that body or individual) involved in any of the activities set out in the table below, and the extent of the involvement or interest. For these purposes, the applicant includes associates of the applicant (i.e. directors and their associates and other group companies): (Note: if none of the following categories in this section apply, this must be clearly indicated by writing “none” in any appropriate box.)
Activity/involvement By the applicant and/or By a director a shareholder or (section 12 of this application member form) (section 11 of this application form) a) Local authorities None None b) Bodies whose objects are wholly or mainly of a political None None nature, or which are affiliated to such a body c) Bodies whose objects are wholly or mainly of a religious None None nature d) An individual who is an officer of a body falling within None None (c) above e) A body corporate which is an associate (as defined in paragraphs 1(1) and 1(1a) of Part I of Schedule 2 to the None None Broadcasting Act 1990) or a body falling within (b) or (c) above) f) An advertising agency or an associate of an advertising None None agency g) Other broadcasting interests (including radio, television, None None satellite and cable broadcasting and allied activities). Other interests 2. Give details of any other interest or activity of the applicant which is or could be incompatible with the requirements imposed by or under Schedule 2 to the Broadcasting Act 1990 (as modified by the Community Radio Order 2004) and Articles 6 and 7 of the Community Radio Order 2004. Please also give details of any other participant in the applicant whose interest is or could be incompatible with those requirements. (You may need to seek advice about these matters)
Other matters
25 Thornbury Radio
3. In pursuance of its duties under Section 86(4) of the Broadcasting Act 1990 (as amended), Ofcom requires that the applicant should notify Ofcom of any matters which might influence Ofcom’s judgement as to whether: (i) the applicant; (ii) any director of the applicant; (iii) any individual, or any director of a company, who will have an interest of 5 per cent or more in the applicant; may not be considered a 'fit and proper person' to participate in a radio licence. Such matters would include, for example, the following (whether they occurred in the UK or any other country): any unspent criminal conviction, any undischarged insolvency and/or bankruptcy orders, any disqualification from being a director of a limited company, and any adverse findings made by Ofcom (or its predecessor broadcast regulators), any other regulatory authority and/or any court or tribunal in respect of any regulatory matters.
Do you confirm, to the best of your knowledge and belief, that: 4. The applicant is not a disqualified person in relation to the licence by virtue of the provisions of section 143 (5) of the Broadcasting Act 1996 (relating to political objects); 5. The applicant is not otherwise a disqualified person in relation to the licence by virtue of Part II of Schedule 2 to the Broadcasting Act 1990 or any other rule prohibiting its holding the licence; 6. No director, member or other person involved directly or indirectly in the management of the applicant group is the subject of a disqualification order as defined by section 145 (1) of the Broadcasting Act 1996; 7. No person (body corporate or individual) involved in the application has been convicted within the past five years of an unauthorised broadcasting offence and that the applicant will do all it can to ensure that no person (body corporate or individual) so convicted will be concerned in the provision of the service, the making of programmes included in it, or the operation of the radio station if the applicant is granted a licence; and 8. Any matters which might influence Ofcom's judgement as to whether the directors or members of the applicant group are fit and proper persons to participate in a radio licence have been made to Ofcom. Applicants should note that Ofcom reserves the right to revoke a licence if at any time any material statement made is found to be false and to have been made by the applicant or any member or officer thereof knowing it to be false, and that in the circumstances of section 144 of the Broadcasting Act 1996, the provision of false information or the withholding of relevant information with the intention of misleading Ofcom could incur a criminal conviction and a disqualification from the holding of a licence. Please tick this box to confirm that the applicant agrees with the above statements.
Please tick the boxes below to indicate which additional documentation is included as part of this application. We are not willing to accept additional information with this application, other than that set out below: Memorandum & Articles of Association Certificate of Incorporation Application Payment (UK £ 600.00) non-returnable Photographs of the transmitter mast / building and aerial location.
I hereby apply to Ofcom for the grant of a community radio licence and declare that the information given in this application and any additional documentation is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, correct.
David Wrench (Name of person)
Director (Title or position in the applicant group)
22 March 2019 (Date)
26