Four National Awards for Newport’s Vectis Radio

Newport-based community station Vectis Radio is celebrating national success after scooping four awards at this year’s Community Radio Awards, held in Bradford on Saturday.

The Island station struck gold twice for its acclaimed 4Ps Radio Training School, taking home the top prize in both the Celebrating & Championing Community Radio of the Year and Community Impact Project of the Year categories.

Vectis Radio also earned Silver for its Mid-Morning Show in the Specialist Content Show of the Year category, and Bronze in the prestigious Station of the Year category — standing out from more than 300 stations nationwide.

Awards chair Rebecca Steers said:

“What another fantastic year for community radio.

"As we celebrate 20 years of community radio, it’s been great to both share and celebrate with the awards and conference earlier in the day.”

Station Manager Ian Mac praised the young people at the heart of the station’s training school:

“It’s a wonderful achievement, but none of it would be possible without the incredible young people who take part in the course.

"Their success is what drives ours. We’re also so grateful to our funders — the Isle of Wight Council, the Isle of Wight Foundation, and SNG — for making these opportunities possible, and to Red Funnel for helping us get to Bradford.”

Louise Gambling, trustee of the 4Ps Radio Training School, added:

“For the students to receive recognition on a national stage is just fantastic.

"Their live shows and podcasts give a unique voice to our community.

"Winning two golds really cements the impact the school has in building confidence among young people and adults through the magic of radio.”

The success has sparked praise from across the Isle of Wight.

Isle of Wight Council Leader Phil Jordan said:

“I’m so pleased for Ian and the team.

"They continue to deliver brilliant, inclusive and engaging community radio — especially through their 4Ps training programme, which opens doors for those least able in our community.

"These gold awards are well-earned and well-deserved. Well done, Team Vectis Radio!”

Jonathan Thornton from PC Consultants, proud sponsors of the Mid-Morning Show, added:

“Congratulations Ian and the entire team — what amazing recognition across so many categories.”

Rob Gillespie, Chair of the IW Foundation Board of Trustees, said:

“The IW Foundation has proudly supported the Vectis Radio 4Ps Training Programme for many years.

"It’s helped so many young people develop confidence and skills, and it’s fantastic to see this work recognised nationally. Well done, Vectis Radio.”

Naomi Carter, Service Director for Education, Inclusion & Access at the Isle of Wight Council, also praised the partnership:

“The 4Ps Programme gives young people opportunities to learn new skills in a real radio environment, reflect on issues that matter to them, and build confidence.

"It’s an inspiring initiative.”

Danielle Wharton, Short Breaks Lead at the Isle of Wight Council, added:

“Vectis Radio has provided a brilliant opportunity for children and young people with disabilities or additional needs to explore radio production in an inclusive setting.

"These awards are so well deserved — they show just how amazing the team is.”

The station’s multiple wins mark another proud chapter in Vectis Radio’s story — and a big moment for the Island’s thriving community spirit on the national stage.