In January 2011, a small group of people met in Caterham with the aim of setting up a local radio station. A newly-formed senior management team – including local councillors Sally Marks and John Orrick – then set about securing grants to get things started.
On 1 April, after the official launch by Sam Gymiah, Bob Angel hosted the inaugural show of Ridge Radio from a small studio opposite The Arc. Today, the station broadcasts from Soper Hall, with 48 presenters – including the Caterham Independent’s Louise D’Costa – on air throughout the week. Shows range from business, chat and local news to an eclectic mix of music. Celebrities such as Cheryl Baker, David Gold and Richard Stilgoe have popped in on occasion, and many of the hundreds of people who have contributed to the station over the years have gone on to professional radio and television work.
Karen Cowell is on Ridge’s senior management team:
“Our quality presenters and content mean we are able to offer something for everyone. And with those behind the scenes, our families and friends who support what we love to do, our listeners and our sponsors, it all adds up to 10 years and still here!”
Chairman Matthew Baker has been with the station since that first meeting:
“Ridge is more than a radio station: it was always intended to be at the heart of our community and I think that’s what we’ve achieved. Everybody involved is a volunteer and gives up their time to make it a success. Ridge has come a long way since 2011, and it’s been a great journey.”
You can join in the anniversary celebrations at: www.ridgeradio.co.uk
