Radio Newquay launch date announced

Newquay is about to get its first full time radio station.

The team behind Radio Newquay has announced that Radio Newquay goes live on September 16th, 2018 after being awarded a five-year community radio licence by communications regulator OFCOM.

The station has been created by Newquay residents Mark Chapple, Sarah Bunt and Matt Bunt, who bring together a wealth of experience and love for Newquay.

Founder Mark Chapple said: “We are absolutely thrilled and over the moon. We all love living in Newquay and are immensely proud of our town and this is just what it needs as it continues to make huge strides forward.”

Mark helped launch Cornish radio station Atlantic FM in 2006 and has for many years worked with the forces’ radio and TV broadcaster BFBS. 

Mark continued  “Radio Newquay will be a voice for and by the community. We will celebrate the positive changes happening in our town and shine a light on the many people who are working to improve life here. Local people will be a big part of our output.”

Matt and Sarah Bunt, who are both active community members with Newquay Towan Blystra Lions have experience in the media and broadcasting scene in Cornwall, having worked for local papers and radio stations.

Sarah is a trained journalist and producer and Matt has a multitude of skills across production, marketing, content and digital platforms, having worked at both Atlantic FM and Pirate FM. Matt was also involved in the final broadcast of Newquay summer radio station Malibu Surf FM.

Matt said: “As Newquay is the home of UK surfing, Radio Newquay will be the first UK radio station to cover it fully. When we launch we will have regular forecasts, special programmes, water safety information and competition results. We’ve just got to get Mark out of the water long enough to make the programmes!”

Sarah Bunt said: “Radio Newquay will be different from other radio stations. We will be all about Newquay, all of the time. Residents, community groups, charities, clubs and a huge number of organisations will be able to get on the air and be heard by thousands of people. In the coming months we will reveal more about our plans and invite ideas and suggestions from people across our vibrant community.”

Radio Newquay is a not-for-profit company, and the station will be on FM with funding from advertising, programme sponsorship and community grants. Once on air it will also offer training to local people who are interested in learning about radio presenting and production.