ANDOVER Radio needs YOU to bring community radio back to town.

Expressions of support are being sought for hyperlocal initiative Andover Radio, a consortium of businesses and individuals who are working together to bring community radio to Andover.

The radio station, led by former Andover Sound consultant David Harber, aims to provide local people, businesses and charitable organisations with access to the airwaves.

The not-for-profit group is applying for a new radio licence advertised by broadcast regulator Ofcom. If successful, the station would launch next year, supporting local charitable causes, events and projects while providing listeners with music, local news and events.

Founder Mr Harber visited the Advertiser offices this week to promote the project.

He said: “I love Andover. It’s a vibrant and exciting place to be.

“I want to showcase that, using radio for social good, delivered in a commercial radio style we are totally committed to providing not just a radio station but an organisation that offers social gain for the town, empowering local people by training them in written and verbal communication skills.”

RESIDENTS have less than a fortnight left to take part in Andover’s much-criticised ‘fracking’ consultation.

The Advertiser reported last week that the area had been earmarked by the government for possible oil and gas exploration.

A public consultation is running until September 29, but has attracted criticism from critics who say no efforts have been made to publicise the exercise.

Community development manager Mo Sweeney said: “We intend to offer the airwaves to local organisations such as Andover Youth Council and Veterans In Action and are asking all other local community organisations and charities to show their support.”

It is currently seeking local people, organisations and businesses to get on board by writing letters of support. The letters will be used to prove to the regulator there is need for a radio service. Ideally, they should contain specific reasons why residents believe that it is important to have a station whose remit it is to support the area.

The deadline for the application is October 20. Post your letter of support to Andover Radio, Top Floor, 7 Union Street, Andover, SP10 1PA, email support@ andoverradio.co.uk or visit www.andoverradio.co.uk