Sunshine Radio Receives Grant From Southern Vectis To Continue Broadcasting At St Mary's

A local radio station, which broadcasts to patients and staff at St Mary’s Hospital on the Isle of Wight has received a boost this month - thanks to a donation from Southern Vectis.

Sunshine Radio approached the bus operator for financial support in paying for new equipment to help it stay on air.

“Our radio station is a charity, staffed by volunteers, and has been in existence since 1973,” said Neil Jackson, Sunshine Radio presenter and chair.

“We operate 24 hours a day for those staying and working at the hospital - but also for others at home, who can access our station online at sunshineradioiow.com and click the live stream button and via Alexa.

“Sadly, some of our equipment has become obsolete with the introduction of Windows 11, and we also have a problem with some copper wiring which we rely on in order to reach our listeners.

“We rely on donations from local businesses to help us overcome these issues - so we approached Southern Vectis through its community fund. We were delighted to receive £500, which has allowed us to buy a special piece of equipment that by-passes the problem with our copper wiring, and distributes our broadcasts.

“Sunshine Radio is, of course, dedicated to brightening up the days and nights of patients staying at the hospital. But it now does so much more. We work with the chaplaincy team, Veteran Aware scheme and many other partners to provide vital information for our listeners. This funding from Southern Vectis is going to help us do that, and we’re extremely grateful.”

Southern Vectis’ community fund is open to applicants twice a year, during May and November, when the operator will fund or support good causes up to the value of £500.

Simon Moye, Southern Vectis operations manager, added:

“This is our pledge to support those living on the Isle of Wight. It is important that we maintain strong relationships with local charities, clubs and organisations - and our community fund gives us an excellent opportunity to do just that.

“I’m delighted we’ve been able to help. The charity’s volunteers provide much-needed comfort and entertainment for people living within the community who are undergoing treatment, or recovering from illness, in hospital. And that’s not all. Anyone can listen at any time of the day or night, so it’s a wonderful way of bringing people together, with music, comedy and important community information. This is a very worthy cause.”

For more information, please visit sunshineradioiow.com