Shine FM set to close as funding cuts hit station

Shine FM will broadcast its last programme on 102.4 FM. at the end of August as a slump in funding opportunities and increasing costs hit hard.

The community radio group has provided opportunities for young people, those in retirement, the unemployed and radio enthusiasts over the years but this week said it was with regret that on August 28 it will cease broadcasting on 102.4 FM.

Acknowledging the disappointment to listeners, a statement from Shine FM went on to pay tribute to broadcasters.

“We acknowledge the disappointment being felt by our presenters and volunteers who have given freely of their time and talents to provide the community with an excellent range of music and speech content in their programmes.

“Shine FM has been broadcasting in Banbridge for the last eight years making it one of the longest running community radio stations in Northern Ireland. We would like to thank the Banbridge community and the local churches, council and businesses for the support they have given to us since we started broadcasting.

“Over that period around 100 young people have gone on air. Many have used the experience as part of the Duke of Edinburgh or Pope John Paul II Awards and included it on UCAS applications and CVs.

“Changing technologies mean that FM is probably no longer the most cost effective way to reach a wide audience and online options are being considered which would make Christian radio content available to a wider audience.”

The statement ended expressing the hope that a new group might be able to take things forward locally, perhaps with an online station.