Have you ever tuned into a radio station and felt like you were hearing the same thing on every station? That’s not the case with Harrogate Community Radio (HCR). Here’s why I genuinely believe we are North Yorkshire’s most diverse radio station.
A Radio For Everyone
First and foremost, we pride ourselves on being a radio for everyone. In a world that often feels divided, it’s our aim to bring people together through music. We cater to those whose musical preferences often remain in the shadows, unnoticed by mainstream radio stations. From the soulful beats of reggae to the energetic rhythms of dance music and the diverse melodies of world music, we’ve got you covered. Hell, I present an Improvised Jazz radio show!
Ad-Free Listening
One of the most refreshing things about HCR is our commitment to an ad-free experience. There’s something pure about tuning into a station and getting lost in the music, without being interrupted by commercials. Instead of relying on adverts, we lean on the generosity of the community and various charitable initiatives. Our £2-a-month membership is one such way we manage to keep our station running. It’s less than the cost of a cup of coffee, but its impact goes far beyond.
Let Your Voice Be Heard
Radio isn’t just about music. It’s about community, voices, stories, and shared experiences. And this is where HCR shines brightly. We offer a platform for those in the Harrogate community to share their stories, opinions, and talents. If you’ve ever felt like you had something to say but nowhere to express it, we’re here to change that. And if you’re a newbie, don’t sweat it! We’ll provide the necessary training to get you feeling like a pro in no time.
Making a Positive Impact
Beyond the airwaves, we’re deeply committed to bettering Harrogate. Our team is a passionate group of individuals who care about the community. Each of us juggles our day jobs with our roles at the station, not because we have to, but because we truly want to. Whether it’s supporting local events, partnering with charities, or promoting local businesses, we’re always looking for ways to give back. Joining us means being part of a movement that seeks to make a difference, one broadcast at a time.
Music Like No Other
We can’t emphasise this enough: our musical lineup is eclectic. While many stations target specific demographics, we embrace diversity in every sense. Young or old, fan of pop or lover of Jazz, there’s something for you on HCR. And it’s not just about playing different songs. It’s about curating experiences, taking listeners on a journey, and introducing them to sounds they might never have encountered.
The Heart Behind HCR
I’ve been in the radio industry for over a decade. I’ve seen stations come and go, trends change, and audiences evolve. But my passion for radio and Harrogate community has never wavered. Leading HCR feels less like a job and more like a calling. Each day, I’m reminded of the power of radio – its ability to connect, inspire, and entertain. And I’m grateful for the team by my side, each person bringing their unique touch to our broadcasts.
Join Us on This Journey
In conclusion, HCR isn’t just another radio station. It’s a community, a platform, and a movement. We invite you to be a part of this exciting journey. Whether you’re tuning in as a listener or joining us as a budding broadcaster, your presence enriches our HCR family. To find out how to get involved or simply how to tune see the enclosed links.
Speak soon?
Andy
Andrew is actually one of the Founders of HCR – he volunteers as chief cat-herder to organise the station. He often blogs or writes his opinion here, which is not always welcome but always honest. Andrew is a web design freelancer by trade, and he is also an exhibiting artist. Andrew has been part of the Backhouse marriage experiment with Kathryn since 2011 and lives in High Harrogate.
