A charity-led community radio station which launched in February is celebrating early success with two milestone announcements.
In a new chapter, Vibe25 Radio, based in Hampton in Arden, has recently launched DAB broadcasting. And this month announces music icon Chicane – a.k.a Nick Bracegirdle – as its new patron.
The legendary electronic music producer, songwriter and internationally acclaimed artist is known worldwide for timeless productions such as Saltwater and Offshore, and a catalogue of iconic dance and chillout releases spanning more than three decades.
Both Vibe25 Radio and their sister charity, Smiling Families, are run by husband and wife team Kerry Martin and ‘Shoresy.’ The charity was founded by husband and wife Paul (‘Shoresy’) and Kerry Martin after Kerry experienced a life-threatening illness following the traumatic birth of their son, Owen, leading to ongoing health challenges.
Alongside events, the charity offers support networks that foster friendship, understanding and shared experience.
The pair’s vision for the radio station is that it will help provide another voice and creative outlet for individuals and families facing serious illness, disability, and life-changing challenges.
Of the collaboration, Shoresy said: “I have been following Nick “Chicane” since his beginnings, 30 years ago and has gotten me through some tough times, so having him as the Patron means so much to me personally and to the rest of the Vibe Tribe. Nick’s values of kindness, community and giving back are aligned with what we believe at Vibe25 Radio and Smiling Families Charity.”
“The partnership will help raise awareness of Vibe’s growing platform while supporting the wider work of Smiling Families, a volunteer-led organisation dedicated to supporting families affected by terminal illness, disability, life-changing conditions, bereavement, mental health challenges, and hardship.
He added: “Nick’s music has been the soundtrack to so many people’s lives, including many of our presenters and listeners. To now have him supporting our vision as Patron is honestly incredible. This means the world to our volunteers, our listeners and the families we support.
“As a volunteer-led station built around inclusion, wellbeing and giving people a voice, having someone of Nick’s stature believe in the project is a truly special moment for the entire team.
“The collaboration also opens the door to exciting creative opportunities, industry exposure, and inspirational pathways for young people and community groups looking to break into media and music production.”
The station, which launched in February, is rapidly emerging as one of the Midlands’ most exciting and community-driven broadcast platforms, blending music, creativity, and social impact to create a unique listening experience.
Broadcasting across multiple platforms, and using the latest state-of-the-art technology, Vibe25 Radio offers a diverse schedule of shows spanning everything from 80s classics and drive-time hits to dance, trance, and specialist programming, delivered by a passionate team of 30 presenters and volunteers.
It has rapidly grown into a platform reaching thousands of listeners online, through apps, Alexa and, now, available on DAB to south Birmingham audiences. It will soon also be heard in the north of the city, bringing its total audience potential to 600,000.
Chicane said of the collaboration: “People underestimate the importance of music as therapy, I truly believe in giving back and love what Vibe25 radio are doing. I look forward to what’s ahead.”
Learn more about Vibe25 Radio and see its presenters line-up over at: https://www.vibe25radio.com/