GLOSSFM bids to go full-time

South Gloucestershire community radio station GLOSSFM is bidding to become a full-time radio broadcaster.

Its directors have applied to Ofcom for a licence go on air 365 days a year. They will find out whether they’ve been successful by the end of the year.

GLOSSFM currently puts out two radio broadcasts a year, in spring and winter, each lasting four weeks. Ofcom, which regulates the UK communications industry, was sufficiently impressed by the station to invite its directors to apply for a full-time licence earlier this year. A meeting of volunteers voted to go ahead and a working party was set up to write the submission.

GLOSSFM is one of several West Country stations bidding for a full-time licence, which would run for five years. The successful station will have up to two years to prepare for full-time operations.

A spokesman for the station told The Post:

“This is a very exciting time to be part of GLOSSFM.”

“It was very pleasing to be invited to apply for a full-time licence and if we get, it I’m sure we’ll be able to count on the help of lots of talented local people to make it a success.”

Meanwhile the countdown has begun to GLOSSFM’s regular autumn broadcast which begins on 31st October and runs until 27th November.

Programme scheduler Chris Mountain said:

“We’ve got a great range of programmes lined up, with plenty of opportunities for the listeners to get involved. There will be good music, humour, discussion about local issues, local history, and information about what’s on.”

“We’re especially interested to hear from groups or schools who might like contribute to existing programmes or even make their own specials. Help would be given if needed. Marlwood School are regular broadcasters. They are scheduled in for an hour one Thursday to give information about what is going on, showcasing talent at the school, and so on.”

“We can arrange for schools and organisations to come in for a chat with a show presenter.”

If you’re interested, get in touch with Chris at programming@glossfm.org.

GLOSSFM, which is run by volunteers, began broadcasting in 2005 as ThornburyFM. It changed its name in 2009 when a new mast allowed it to be heard further afield in South Gloucestershire.

Although there are currently just two radio broadcasts a year, the station broadcasts on the internet all year round. Log on to www.glossfm.org to find out more the station and to listen live.

Source: Gloss FM