Golden Oldies: Warrington Welcomes Newest Radio DJs

Golden Oldies: Warrington Welcomes Newest Radio DJs

Radio’s newest disc jockeys have debuted in Warrington as a group of octogenarians team up with the town’s community radio station, taking to the airwaves to delight audiences with a special show recorded at their care village home.

The enthusiasts residing at Latchford-based dementia specialist, Belong, enlisted the expertise of Radio Warrington to support them to create their own hour-long show. Presenters, Andy Green and Brian Spooner gave their broadcast undergraduates a taste of their world, training them in all things radio, followed by interviews and the chance to put their skills to the test by introducing their favourite songs. Louise Kelly, experience coordinator at Belong Warrington, provides more detail: “Our guests started off gently by talking us through what they do and how it all works. Then, our customers enjoyed the opportunity to show off their radio patter and before we knew it, they’d taken over and it was more like ‘Radio Belong’!”

Often heard together on Thursdays on The Culture Show, Andy and Brian were invited to take part in Belong Warrington’s experiences programme, designed to support its customers to participate in meaningful occupation in line with their interests. The outcome of the day’s collaboration will be featured on the pair’s 18 April programme to mark World Amateur Radio Day.

Andy Green, presenter and producer at Radio Warrington, commented: “We had a great time with the residents. Like Belong, we’re also not-for-profit and as a community station, we love to engage with the community. It was good to learn that our locally focussed programmes are appreciated by Belong’s residents who said they love to be kept updated with what’s going on in the town. We're grateful for their help recording our special show for World Amateur Radio Day.”

Louise continued: “Our aspiring DJs loved the chance to be involved with this experience and learn something new. Radio has played a big role throughout their lives and so to hear themselves on the airwaves will be a joyous moment for all of us.

“Andy and Brian were also kind enough to donate a DAB radio so we can listen to our show air. As a result, I’m sure we’ll be inundated with autograph requests – thank you Radio Warrington!”

The special edition of The Culture Show, featuring the residents and tenants of Belong Warrington, can be heard on Radio Warrington on Thursday, 18 April at 9pm; and Sunday, 21 April at 11am.

Pictured: Diane Wrench (seated), with Radio Warrington's Andy Green and Belong Warrington experience coordinator, Louise Kelly.