Radio Millport is hitting the airwaves as it looks for a fresh line-up of presenters after moving into its new studio.

The island station has downsized to a smaller studio, and is ready to get back out into the community after three years of disruption during the pandemic.

Chairperson Alan Cawley is hoping a recent open day can spark more interest amongst residents as well as visitors.

He said: “The open day was held during Easter when there was a lot of people on the island, and we thought it was a big success.

“We had a lot of people come through the doors to see what the station is all about and have a look at the equipment we use.

“We are trying to recruit some new presenters, as well as show people how to download the app so they can listen to us.

“A lot of folks think it is a local station that can only be heard on the island, but you can tune in from anywhere in the world.”

The station has moved to a brand new studio in the grounds of Garrison House, to help save money that can be invested in its state-of-the-art equipment.

Alan explained: “We’re still in the same building, but have just downsized our studio to reduce our overall costs.

“It means we can spend a wee bit less on rent and other costs like electricity, which gives us more to invest in the station.

“We had been in that studio since we started five years ago, so it was a sad moment when we came off air for the final time.

“The technology we use is changing all the time, and we don’t need nearly as much space as we did when we first started out.”

Alan admits the station’s volunteers have big plans for the year ahead, as they hope to reconnect with the community following the pandemic.

He added: “We have actually lost about ten presenters since the start of Covid, and currently only have six who present shows.

“We’re looking to recruit people to get on air, especially the younger generation who we hope can take the reins and keep it going.

“It can be done from home, but we’d love it if people came in and used the studio that we put so much money into.

“We’ve recently been going around local businesses for sponsorship and thankfully everyone is all back on board.

“We’ve already started making plans for open workshops for young people during the summer holidays, and there are plenty of other exciting activities in the works too.”

For more information find Radio Millport on Facebook, or at www.radiomillport.co.uk.