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Purr-fect night for St Neots Black Cat Radio at national awards ceremony
It was a night of celebrations for the St Neots community radio station run entirely by volunteers.
Judges said they were looking for “an outstanding, passionate individual who demonstrates a love for radio and broadcasting” and in Ste Greenall they found him. Black Cat Radio presenter Ste won gold at last night’s national community radio awards at Newcastle in the category ‘male presenter of the year’.
The judges said: “This devoted presenter clearly has a feel for radio and the community.”
Unable to be at the awards ceremony, Ste messaged, “I’m totally freaked out. What a night for the station”.
Ste will be invited to co-host the awards ceremony next year with female presenter winner Priya Matharu from Switch Radio in north east Birmingham.
It was a night of celebrations for the St Neots community radio station run entirely by volunteers.
Black Cat Radio received awards in multiple categories with Jenny Jefferies wining silver for newcomer of the year while Brian Dobson received the bronze award for volunteer of the year.
It was a night of celebrations for the St Neots community radio station run entirely by volunteers.
Ernie Almond was recognised as a finalist in the Sage category for those 60 or over and designed for those to showcase older people “who are passionate about radio and whose work positively impacts on those around them and their listeners”.
Black Cat Radio says Ernie was the inspiration behind the format of the weekday show – ‘Your Voice’ which celebrates its first anniversary on Monday 6th November.
The programme picked up the silver award in the category of ‘specialist content show of the year’, which is presented over the week by Brian Dobson, Jenny Jefferies, Ste Greenall, and Nigel Pauley.
Black Cat operations director Brian Dobson said: “These awards reflect the hard work, dedication and level of professionalism within our team of volunteers, and we feel really honoured to have been chosen by the judges to receive them, from amongst the best community radio stations across the UK.”
Jenny Jefferies, who hosts ‘Your Voice’ every Thursday at 11am says her theme is “predominantly all about food, farming and fishing, and apart from playing the world’s greatest music; I invite an amazing guest to interview”.
Jenny Jefferies, who hosts ‘Your Voice’ every Thursday at 11am
Of last night’s awards she said: “The creative team, friendship group, voluntary broadcaster, and community life line that is Black Cat Radio; I’m so proud to play a small part.
“Thank you, guys, from the bottom of my heart, and thank you also to our fabulous guests and loyal listeners.”
Volunteer presenter Nigel Pauley described it as a “brilliant result; so, pleased for Ste, well deserved.
“I was delighted that Your Voice has been recognised nationally just 12 months after it started. “Well done Jenny and Brian. Also, to Ernie who has played a big part in the show’s success.
“It’s great news for Black Cat Radio. A small station that punches well above its weight.”
He added: “Tune in at 11am Monday when I’ll host a Your Voice Awards Special.”
Ernie Almond was recognised as a finalist in the Sage category for those 60 or over
Brian Dobson has written previously about the importance and relevance of community radio.
“Despite the challenges posed by the shift to regional and national networks, there is a bright spot in the resurgence of local and community radio,” he says.
“Many people, especially those who value local engagement and unique community perspectives, are turning to community radio stations to fulfil their media needs.
Brian Dobson and Jefferies at the national community radio awards in Newcastle
“Community radio stations are often non-profit organizations run by volunteers who are deeply rooted in their communities. These stations prioritize local content and community involvement. They cover local news, events, and culture, and often feature diverse and independent programming that might not find a home on national networks.
“What makes community radio particularly appealing is its authenticity and commitment to the local community. It acts as a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness.”
He added: “It thrives on the principle of ‘by the community, for the community,’ ensuring that it remains a vital part of local life.”
