Despite years of lobbying local politicians and businesses, the plan for a local radio station in Leasowe fell on deaf ears. John and station co-ordinator, Pauline Murphy worked tirelessley for years to find the funds needed to launch a temporary radio station - and at the same time create a 16 week training course for budding broadcasters.听
 | | Breakfast presenter Jenny Barkley. |
7 Waves Radio, based in Leasowe (where John still works for the Community), has just scooped the 100th community radio licence and will start broadcasting 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year from August 2007.听听 A brand new centre will be built including state of the art studios, a 'live room' where local bands will show off their talents and provide live entertainment and听a mobile unit will bring residents local news as it happens.听听 Students of all ages get the chance to learn about studio management, sponsorship and advertising before taking part in four weeks of live programmes.听 | "There's a lot of community groups out there who aren't aware of eachother, never mind the public knowing about them." | | Pauline Murphy |
Of course, tutors encourage everyone to have fun as they work and enjoy the experience, and as I've found out on many visits, there's always a cup of tea, plate of biscuits, and a friendly chat to put visitors and guests at their ease. Pauline, John and the all the team are passionate about giving the community a voice.听 They feel it provides a platform for people to discuss issues which affect them and encourages them to become involved in solving local problems.听They say it also promotes the area as a good place to live, work and invest in.
 | | Presenter and tutor John Murphy. |
Pauline Murphy says "community radio is important because it's a voice for the community. There's a lot of community groups out there who aren't aware of each other never mind the public knowing about them. This is a chance for them to let everyone know what they do."听听 With Community TV planned for the future, it seems the sky's the limit for 7 Waves and for John, whose 20 year dream has become a reality. | 
