99.2 FM

The old Pick & Shovel – a new future for HFM?

The station works regularly with
Connexions to provide volunteering
opportunities for unemployed
people, Stephenson’s College to
give students on engineering,
media and catering courses
experience of work and the Youth service to create a youth club on one evening a week.

In many ways the project has been too successful: the youth club could easily open on more evenings, there are many more young people asking for training in broadcasting, news gathering and programme production skills than can be accommodated, and the Community Room has a waiting list of bookings .

This redundant pub is an
eye sore at the moment
but could be the new home
 for Hermitage FM and
a host of other activities.

It is this growth that prompted the
group to consider a bold move. An old derelict pub in a prime location in the town centre is ideal and an ambitious plan to raise the necessary finance has been launched.

Jon Sketchley, one of the founder members and Station Manager explained. “Coalville is crying out for some initiative to put the heart back into the town. It has a proud industrial heritage and will never feature on a box of chocolates, but that’s no excuse for people to just give up. At a time of universal gloom, we are creating opportunities for young people and we are reaching all parts of the community, including the housebound through the radio programmes”

In addition to applying for grants there are plans to fundraise from the public who will be able to “buy a brick”. We also hope that local businesses will sponsor us.

Do you want to get involved?

You are assured of a warm welcome. So if you just want to express support for our plans, or volunteer some time, or buy a brick, please get in touch.
Email: admin@hermitagefm Phone 01530 460 992