Brighton and Hove’s community radio station is celebrating eight years on the air with a live marathon broadcast next weekend.
The station, which usually broadcasts pre-recorded shows made by volunteers, will be on live from next Friday evening, 6 March until midnight on Sunday, 8 March.
The marathon, known as the Reverbathon, is the station’s annual fundraiser, and allows the station to produce special one-off programmes, either from regular presenters, or for new producers.
Melita Dennett, Chair of RadioReverb, said, “The Reverbathon gives us an opportunity to engage with listeners and sponsors in a different way, all being part of a rolling fundraiser.
“Last year we raised £2,000 in 36 hours and this year we plan to smash that. All money raised goes directly back into the running of the station, upgrading equipment and giving an opportunity to bring in new shows and new local voices.
“Nobody is paid to work on RadioReverb – we’re all volunteers and we do it because we have a passion for radio, and we love Brighton and Hove and believe the city deserves a radio station that really reflects its character, communities and interests.”
As well as featuring live music sessions from local bands, reporters will be out making location features and studio guests will provide lively conversation about local events and matters.
Other regular favourites will be Frockabilly, the UK’s only female-fronted rockabilly show, kindly sponsored by the Rockabilly Rave; Out In Brighton, the city’s award-winning LGBT show, The Comedy Social, a lively hour of comedy guests, music and sketches, and Time 4 T, the UK’s only Transgender show on FM.
Some of the presenters will pair up to create a new show that brings together the best of their regular shows, and new programmes include a pilot for a monthly food programme, featuring the best in local food and drink.
As well as celebrating eight years, Sunday 8 March is also International Women’s Day so from 8am to midnight it will be 100% female presenters in a Women’s Takeover Day.
As well as the music there will be an opportunity to become an ‘Official Supporter’ of Radio Reverb as they are launching their initiative to create 100 supporters over the weekend.
Names and recognition will be added to the website as financial support enables the station to operate throughout the year.
To qualify, listeners and supporters are asked to donate anything between £20 and £500 via the DONATE button on the home page of the station’s website. Business wanting to take part are also asked to get in touch.
You can listen at 97.2FM or online at www.radioreverb.com.