CRFM – Radio created by the community, for the community

• Community News, Features, Latest News
• 5th March 2024
• Cumbria Guide

CRFM; A brand-new community radio station that aims to bring an old-style radio station back to the community of Carlisle and beyond.

Based in Carlisle, the station will champion all things in and around Carlisle. From showcasing local artists musical talents to local sports news, local news updates, and giving the lowdown on all the upcoming events and highlights in the north of our county, all brought to you by presenters who hail from sunny Cumbria.

Set up by a team of local volunteers, the radio station has been created by the community for the community. Even the studio has been built by local businesses that have given up their time and labour to assist with the project.

Colin Carter, a volunteer who has been a part of the core team setting the station up, said: “We just wanted to bring local radio back to Carlisle and highlight all the things that make our county great. We are all volunteers who want to bring a radio station that gives the local community something that belongs to them.”

The managing director of CRFM is Darrell Thomas, who also launched CFM alongside the late John Myres, to whom the station is dedicated.

Darrel, who has an extensive background and knowledge of broadcasting, said: “Following the recent takeover of our only local station and with BBC Cumbria now covering the whole North West, we really wanted to give Carlisle a radio station that was focused on this particular area. We want to give the community a station that is relevant to them.”

CRFM will air sometime in early spring and will be found at 102.7 FM. They are on the lookout for any volunteers who would like to be involved, whether it’s sharing a story, reading out some of the latest sports updates, or even going behind the scenes. They are also welcoming anyone who is looking for experience in media to get in touch, as they have a whole studio dedicated to training.

Joining the team are ex-BBC Cumbria presenters Paul Braithwaite and Joe Costin. Paul will present his country show on Tuesday evenings, and Joe will add nostalgia to their “Golden Sunday Show” on weekends!

CRFM will eventually air across digital platforms later down the line, meaning no matter where you are, you’ll be able to tune in and join in.

If you want to hear all about our local community, listen to brilliant localised stories, and find out all about the latest happenings in and around Carlisle, then tune in to CRFM on 102.7 FM this spring.

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