THE first group to campaign for local radio in Yeovil and district is joining forces with one of the area's leading newspapers to strengthen its bid for a permanent radio station in South Somerset.
South Devon and Somerset Series of Newspapers, publishers of the Yeovil Clarion, is backing Mirage FM's plans by encouraging readers to put forward their views on what the new station should sound like.
The newspaper group is part of Tindle Newspapers Ltd., an independently-owned group that publishers over 100 local newspapers and runs six radio stations.
South Devon and Somerset Newspapers also publish the Crew-kerne Advertiser, Chard Advertiser, Pulman's Weekly News and Honiton Advertiser.
Editor and Business Manager Philip Evans, who has worked in the media for over 35 years, including involvement with a number of local radio consortiums, will join the board of Mirage FM.
Chairman of Mirage FM, Robert Stiby, who has strong family links with Yeovil, said of the appointment: "I am delighted that Philip Evans be lending his considerable talents to further strengthen our team as it puts together exciting plans for a new local radio service. Philip's extensive knowledge and passion for local news will be a major asset to Mirage FM."
Founding director of Mirage FM Rob Maybury commented: "Everyone at Mirage FM knows the importance of providing quality local news and information for Yeovil, Crewkerne and the surrounding area. Philip's appointment underlines our commitment to providing quality local radio and cements our relationship with the local press which will bring huge benefits to our listeners and both our companies."
Philip Evans said he was looking forward to the challenge of working with the Mirage FM team to bring quality local radio to Yeovil and district.
"The catchment area for the soon-to-be advertised local radio franchise for Yeovil mirrors that of two of our newspapers, the Yeovil Clarion and Crewkerne Advertiser," he said. "I have always believed in local newspapers and radio stations working together for the community and I believe Mirage FM has the expertise to provide Yeovil and district with a unique broadcasting experience."
*Mirage FM has been campaigning for a local radio station in the Yeovil area since 1997, and was successful in getting Yeovil added to the Radio Authority's working list in 1998. Mirage has operated five broadcasts in the town, with the emphasis on local news and information, and has already won the support of hundreds of organisations and local people.
The Radio Authority is expected to advertise a permanent licence for the area in May.
For more information, contact Mirage FM on 01935 826325.