AN ISLE of Wight radio station has been nominated for nine awards in seven categories for this year’s National Community Radio Awards.

Vectis Radio, based in Newport, was nominated six times and picked up three awards, including two golds, in last year’s awards.

The National Community Radio Awards, which will be held in Bedford, recognises the great work that community radio stations do in their local communities, entertaining, informing and engaging listeners.

Vectis Radio has been nominated in the following categories:

  • Community Development Project of the Year (for the 4Ps Radio Training School for young people and adults with learning difficulties)
  • Community Show of the Year (for the Short Breaks show)
  • Volunteer of the Year (two nominations for Ron Leleux and Maggie Currie)
  • Sage Person – Over 60 (for Kevin Currie)
  • Innovation Award (for the 4Ps Radio Training School for young people)
  • Covid and Community Rebuild (for ‘Think On Our Feet’)
  • Station of the Year Award

Ian Mac, station manager and director of Vectis Radio, said: “This year’s nominations have blown me away.

“We did well in 2021, and to get so many nominations for a national award shows how well-regarded we are by our peers in the radio industry.

“For a station of our size, with only around 30 volunteers, we punch well above our weight.

“I hope this will draw attention to the major success of the 4PS Radio Training School, and we can secure some very much-needed funds so that we can continue in 2023.”

Kelvin Currie, director, said: “It's an honour to be nominated again as Sage of the Year, and I am delighted that Vectis Radio overall has picked up nine nominations.

“It is a recognition of the hard work of all our volunteers, and of course, a huge thank you to our supporters.”

Kay Marriott, Isle of Wight High Sheriff, added: “It is great news that Vectis Radio has been nominated for nine awards in the national Community Radio Awards, including a nomination in the Station of the year category.

“Such worthy nominations for a radio station that serves our Island community.”

The awards will be held on November 19.

Cllr Paul Brading, Training Radio Training School patron, said: “It is truly fantastic news that Vectis Radio, and the 4P’s Programme, have been nominated in nine categories.

"The Station continues to go from strength to strength, with a strong future ahead, and the Island is lucky to have such a forward thinking and inspirational Community Radio Station.

"Immense credit and thanks goes to Ian and Kelvin and all the team, for everything you do.”