Clyde Coast Radio recently received £9,000 from the Scottish Veterans Fund which will sustain the station for another year.
The top team were visited by Jamie Hepburn MSP, who was recently appointed Minister for Parliamentary Business and Veterans, and Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan.
(Image: George Munro)
The SNP MSPs popped into the studio in the Trust building in Muirshiel Road in Port Glasgow, and learned all about the history of the station from founder and veteran George Coyle.
Mr Hepburn said the station is ‘fantastic’.
He added: “I’m a big supporter of community radio in my own area and I know the value of it.
“The enthusiasm from George is palpable and you can see how much the station means to him.
“It’s been really nice to come in and see the station.
“We’re very happy to provide a small pocket of funding, and we know that the money will have a big impact.
“Funding for an organisation that’s rooted in the community can make a massive difference and I’m really pleased that we’re able to offer that support.”
Mr Hepburn said it is vital to help veterans within communities across Inverclyde.
He added: “These are people who have stepped up to serve their country, many of whom will have found it a very rewarding experience, and some will come back to their communities and face challenges.
“It is particularly incumbent upon us as a society to step up and help veterans in all aspects of their lives.”
Clyde Coast Radio founder George Coyle spoke to Mr Hepburn about the challenges he has faced in his life as a veteran, and said setting up the community radio station with his wife Elizabeth has had a huge impact on his life and the lives of others.
(Image: George Munro)
The station launched in 2020 and now has 43 volunteers, 19 of whom are presenters.
A switch to DAB a couple of months ago has brought in 200 new listeners every week.
George said the funding will be used to cover rent and running costs, and any remaining money will used to pay for taxis for volunteers to get to and from the station in the bad weather later in the year.
He added: “It was great to see the minister, and to show him exactly how the funding is being used.
“The funding has given us everything we need for the next year.
“We have everything to keep us going.
“We want to stay here forever. We love it and it makes everyone so happy.
“People have put their trust in us.”
(Image: George Munro)
Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan said: “The story behind the station is outstanding.
“Veterans are coming together to deliver a service and engage with the community.
“This is something that I warmly welcome.
“Switching to DAB has helped to increase the listenership and long may that continue.
“I would like to thank all of the funders who have helped make this happen.”
George thanked staff at The Kafay on Dubbs Road who kindly provided a buffet for the celebration.