Thornbury Radio has officially launched on FM, the culmination of 16 years of work by volunteers.

The station is now available to listen to on 105.1 and 107.5 FM in Thornbury and the surrounding villages – including Alveston, Olveston, Tytherington, Oldbury-on-Severn, Leyhill, Wickwar, Bagstone and Iron Acton.

A socially-distanced launch event was held at the studio on June 6, with the deputy mayor of Thornbury, Chris Davies, opening the studio.

Other councillors including Matthew Riddle, Shirley Holloway and Claire Young were present, along with volunteers, sponsors and presenters.

Chris Criddle, station manager, said: “We are delighted to be on air across Thornbury and the surrounding area.

“The station will play a great mix of music, highlight information about our local area, and be the place for everyone to talk about Thornbury and surrounding area.

“Please do listen in, let us know what you think and join us in making Thornbury Radio the choice and voice for local listeners, events and organisations.

“Finally thank you to everyone who has helped make the station launch on FM possible.”

Ofcom granted the station a full-time FM broadcasting licence last year, bringing to an end a long-running battle.

The station is still in need of extra help, from training volunteer presenters, through to station admin and ongoing maintenance of the technical kit.

If you are interested in volunteering, visit thornbury.radio and complete the volunteer form.