Stroud FM is celebrating following the amazing response from the public and the local community, which has saved it from closure. The station, which is staffed by volunteers, faced coming off air at the end of September following a shortfall in funding. But a series of fundraising activities, a tough look at how costs could be cut and pledges of support from local energy firm Ecotricity and Education Provider Five Valleys Foyer, have so far, saved the day.

Money came from listeners and the public who bought up jam and cakes from a fundraising stall at the Farmers’ Market. Presenters busked in the High Street. There was a sponsored swim and Open Mic Benefit Night at The Prince Albert in Rodborough. In addition people donated money via paypal on the Stroud FM website. Presenters, who are all volunteers, agreed to support the station through monthly subscriptions. 

The board of directors is now working on a business plan to ensure the station’s future. Talks are on-going with various local organisations, including Ecotricity and the Five Valleys Foyer, to provide support for the long term.

Clare Jackson, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, says, ‘We have been totally overwhelmed by the response. It just goes to show that Stroud FM is valued by the community.’ She added, ‘The station can’t survive off jam sales and sponsored events alone. But we are confident that with the support of the community and a solid business plan the station will survive.’

The station launched in March 2008. It currently has just under sixty regular presenters who produce a range of specialist music programmes and live breakfast and a drivetime programmes that reflect the news and the views of the valleys.

It offers training courses in broadcasting and IT to the general public, disadvantaged groups and to schools. It has been hit hard by the present financial climate, which means grants to support its activities have been harder to find. Miss Jackson says, ‘Because getting grants is tougher, we are looking at new ways to raise revenue. In the current climate, the onus is far more on asking the community to help keep us going. The response we have had this past month shows there is that will, and we intend to build on it.’