Wireless team have some spark

A GROUP of volunteer radio presenters have been nominated for a Pride in Oldham Award.

The Wireless Programme presenters from Oldham Community Radio provide a show for over-65s like no other.

Walter Maybe, Barbara and Gerry Dignan, Ged Tasker, Holly Wilding, Donald Goodman and Christine Taylor broadcast on weekdays from 3-5pm.

The group volunteer their free time to discuss popular topics, play music from the pre-rock era and a pose a weekly quiz.

The nomination came from station manager David McGealy, who thinks that they provide something unique for Oldham’s older audience.

He said: “They send out the message that people who aren’t so young any more still count, and they are still fully active in society. What they do is very important.

“The show is phenomenally popular, they play music from the listeners’ youths and really engage them.”

Barbara Dignan said: “I’m just a small part of the whole Wireless Programme but it’s a very nice feeling to have been nominated and the other presenters are very touched by it.

“We get wonderful feedback from our listeners through letters and emails saying a song we’ve played has reminded them of happy childhood memories, good times in their lives or loved ones.

“Our broadcasts help people reconnect with their past and offer comfort to many.”