Volunteers who played a crucial role during the Covid pandemic are appealing for help, as they look to continue keeping spirits up at Norfolk's biggest hospital.
Hospital Radio Norwich (HRN) will next year celebrate its 50th anniversary since its foundation at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital back in 1974.
Its loyal band of volunteers stepped up during the pandemic when many people were unable to visit their loved ones in hospital but are facing challenges to keep the station running full-time.
Station spokesman James Baker said: "HRN is now urgently seeking volunteers to further its service to patients both at their studios and in the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.
"Due to retirement, people moving away and personal commitments, the station is struggling to gain enough members to keep it fully running.
"We need fund-raisers, events organisers and help overseeing the general running of the station, including ward visiting, preparing the programmes and presentation."
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HRN is looking for volunteers that can give around four hours per week, usually in the evening, with training given in all areas.
The radio provides music and commentary 24 hours a day, with patients saying how the calming music at night has helped them fall asleep, despite the busy and loud wards making it hard.
They are able to connect to bedside media units with headphones, allowing them to connect from the bed in their ward.
The station also provides live commentary from all Carrow Road games, to keep Norwich City fans in the know.
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Chief engineer and chairman Mike Sarre said: “Being able to go around the wards and cheer up some of the patients has, in turn, cheered me up and helped improve my mood.”
This experience can also provide those who volunteer with technical and presenting skills, alongside practice in public speaking and communication skills.
- To get involved, see the HRN website, call 01603 454585 or email studio@hrnorwich.co.uk.
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