BUCKETTS Radio is Gloucester’s local radio station, broadcasting a rich mix of music and community content produced entirely by its dedicated volunteer announcers.
According to Tim Carroll, one of the hosts of “The Old Mates Radio Show”, the station is “jumping with some exceptional input from the dedicated group of volunteers”.
One such project, “Stories from the Past”, captures the sounds of Gloucester’s early history.
Patricia McCalden from the Gloucester Historical Society has been carefully gathering stories spanning a wide range of subjects, from murders and transport, to weather events, sawmills, and prominent local families.
With the assistance of local performers Rod and Annette Burrows and Tony Kingston, these stories have been brought to life through recordings made at the Bucketts Radio studio.
Series Three is set to air on 21 April in the lead-up to Anzac Day.
The first two shows feature letters written by local soldiers on the frontline, offering insights into WW1 and the battle at Gallipoli.
“These young men faced a baptism of fire, coming from rural areas to the beaches of Gallipoli with bayonets drawn,” said Lorna Tomkinson, host of “Lorna and Friends”.
Patricia McCalden told News Of The Area that, “The letters cover the Gallipoli landing and retreat… and convey the early excitement of being overseas and then the anguish experienced by the soldiers during the Gallipoli retreat.”
In recognition of the success of the first two series, Series Three of “Stories of the Past” will revisit some of the most compelling stories that captivated audiences in those earlier episodes.
“Stories of unpaid doctors, the unsolved murder of Albert August Smith, and the Copeland shoot-out are great listening,” explained Lorna. “So, we have included them in Series Three.”
Thanks to an upgrade of the radio tower, Bucketts Radio has significantly extended its broadcast reach, now covering Stroud and the surrounding region.
“I hope that people in the Gloucester area and further afield will tune in to ‘Stories of the Past, and other programs’,” Lorna said.
Lorna noted that the station is always on the lookout for new announcers.
“If you have a show idea, we’d love to hear from you.
“You can also show your support by becoming a member.”
‘Stories of the Past’ will broadcast weekly through to the end of the year, taking audiences on a fascinating journey through the rich history of Gloucester.
By Wendy BUSWELL
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