New community radio station appeals for funds to reach target

RED Kite Radio, the new radio station for Thame, Haddenham and the surrounding villages, has moved a step closer to launch after being awarded two grants. The cash from the Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust and The Rothschild Foundation, based at Waddesdon Manor, means that the station is now even closer to hitting the airwaves in late Spring 2017…But it still needs more cash.

Welcoming the awards, Chairman of Red Kite Radio, Mark Chapple said: “We’re over the moon with this grant funding which puts us in a stronger position as we move closer to our launch in Spring 2017. We’ve been lucky enough to receive funding from the Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust and the Rothschild Foundation to the tune of nearly £7000. Much of this money will be used for essential transmission equipment and work to build and renovate our studio at the Haddenham Garden Centre. I’d like to thank both organisations for their kind generosity.”

The Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust operates two beers festivals in Haddenham, including the recent Winterfest. So far it has raised over £220,000 for good causes in our community.

Founder Mark Zeall at the microphone of Summerfest Radio

Chaired by Lord Rothschild himself, the Rothschild Foundation supports Waddesdon Manor and gives grants to a variety of charitable initiatives including local good causes situated close to the 19th century property.

The radio station urgently needs to raise a further £3000 to get on air in 2017.

“As a not-for-profit radio station licensed by Ofcom, we will be completely funded through grants, donations and the sale of advertising and sponsorship to local businesses and traders,” explained Mark. “Very soon we’ll be in a position to release a number of founder sponsorship packages at a heavily discounted rate to local businesses. The money raised will help us plug the gap and fund essential fees like music copyright (PRS & PPL). We’re asking local businesses to register now on our new website www.redkiteradio.com

“Local people who’d like to donate money or office equipment can also get in touch via the website.”

Red Kite Radio, based at the Haddenham Garden Centre, will provide hyper-local programming for Thame, Haddenham and the surrounding villages on 107.2fm. Staffed primarily by volunteers, it will follow the successful Summerfest Radio broadcasts in support of the Haddenham beer festival – Summerfest.