South Birmingham Community Radio

I must admit I slept on this one a bit.  With the Custard Factory-based Rhubarb Radio conducting their development out in public (on the Rhubarb Radio blog) and edging closer to launch, I almost missed South Birmingham Community Radio which launched on 9 August.

Broadcasting from Druids Heath on 87.7FM and online (although that wasn’t working when I tried it) the station is staffed by a mix of volunteers and experienced pros with Chris Gee (ex-Kerrang), Pat de Whalley (ex-BBC WM) and Ranking Roger all presenting shows.

Things seem a little sketchy at the moment – there’s no programme schedule or any indication of whether they’ll major on music, talk or both -  but then they’ve only been going a few days.

Here’s a mission statement of sorts:

• Made by the People For The People
• With news and views from the people of South Birmingham
• Sports reports from local matches
• Music and song from local talent
• Information on local services and agencies
• Information from local business
• Plus gossip competitions and a chance to get involved

The station has funding from the Community Network South West scheme that aims to support communities affected by the closure of MG Rover, so there’s some emphasis on the training and experience that the station can give to people looking to boost their CVs.

There are bound to be loads of ways to get involved with the station if you’d like to help out.  I imagine the best way to do that would be to call Peni Whelan, station manager, on 07828 797 467 or use the contact form.