Viva Lewes Issue #145 October 2018

BITS AND BOBS
ROCKET FM: THE BEST PICTURES
Rocket FM goes on air for its annual stint on 15th October. From then until
6th November it will broadcast all day, every day. And broadcast on all sorts
of things. “Not just Bonfire”, Rocket FM programmer, Rosie Boxer, is keen
to emphasise.
“The station is operated entirely by volunteers – including all the presenters
– and we’re always looking for new ones”, she says. “Our programmes
cover all sorts of subjects, including local issues and history – I cut my teeth on The History Hour, and loved
it – and Steve Pilfold’s Where in Sussex? quiz, as well as music.”
There are training sessions for volunteers, including juniors – Rosie mentions one nine year old – “it’s
an opportunity for young people to have a voice if they want to”. But volunteers don’t have to go on air,
there’s all sorts to do behind the scenes. “It’s community radio. We’re open to all – just get in touch.”
Of course, the station has its idiosyncrasies. “We have to vacate our two cupboards – the green room, and
the studio – at St Mary’s Social Centre pretty smartish come November 6th, to make way for the pantomime
dressing rooms”, she laughs. “And I have to warn new presenters they won’t be able to get near by
car when it’s Nevill Juveniles.”
But the real charm lies in the medium. Radio. “Alistair Cooke interviewed a child in the 1930s”, Rosie says,
“and that small boy said it all: the best pictures are on radio.” Charlotte Gann
Rocket FM is online from 15th October (via rocketfm.org.uk Listen Live or smartphone Apps) and on
87.8 FM from 22nd October.
Photo courtesy of Rocket FM
available at
223a High Street, Lewes•Tel: 01273 472360•www.wilsonwilsonandhancock.co.uk
21