Vectis Radio Training School Wins BBC Community Award

A Newport radio training project has won a community award at the BBC Radio Solent Make A Difference Awards.

Vectis Radio's 4PS Radio Training School was named the winner of the Community Group Award at a ceremony at the Utilita Bowl in Southampton.

The project has been running for more than 13 years, helping young people develop communication skills, confidence and self-esteem through radio.

4PS stands for Presenting, Production, Podcasting and Promotion, with participants also learning interviewing and broadcasting skills in a supportive environment.

The BBC Radio Solent judges praised the project for building confidence and trust, while making a genuine difference to the lives of young people and their families.

Ian Mac from Vectis Radio said the award was a tribute to the young people involved, adding: “They're the real winners here.”

The project has also received support from the Isle of Wight Council, Sovereign Network Group and Red Funnel Ferries.

Vectis Radio has previously received The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service and was named Community Radio Station of the Year at the ARIAS.

Trustee Kelvin Currie said winning the award was “truly amazing”, while 4PS patron Graham Biss described it as a “real achievement” for the project and the Island.