24 Hour Marathon - Harrogate Hospital Radio

Harrogate Hospital Radio’s team of presenters took to the air on
Sunday 2nd May 2021 for a marathon broadcast.
The 24-hour non-stop broadcast, which started at noon on Sunday 2nd and concluded at
noon the following day, heralded the start of the charity’s post-Covid fundraising
activities.
The annual running costs for Harrogate Hospital Radio, including insurance, PPL
(Public Performance Licence) fees and broadband charges, are in the region of
£5,000. On top of that, new music needs to be purchased and equipment updated or
replaced.
It has recently purchased a number of internet radios so the station can be heard in
wards and public areas throughout Harrogate District Hospital. Listeners can also
tune into the shows via a smart phone and smart tablet app.
Harrogate Hospital Radio Chairman Mark Oldfield said: “Covid has had a major
impact on our finances, and the sponsored broadcast marks the start of a post-
pandemic fundraising campaign.
“Each year Harrogate Hospital Radio is out and about in the Harrogate District,
broadcasting from major events such as the Great Knaresborough Bed Race, The
Great Yorkshire Show and Countryside Live, attending fairs and shows with our
‘human fruit machine’, and giving talks to community groups. This was all put on hold
more than a year ago.
“Now, with lockdown easing and the vaccine being rolled out, we are in a position to
relaunch our fundraising, starting with our presenting team participating in this 24-hour
broadcast. We have also launched a Just Giving page, making it easier for
supporters to make a donation.
“During the broadcast we are offering potential sponsors the chance to add their
name to a show for 12 months for the reduced fee of £150.”

Mark added: “I’m incredibly grateful to our fantastic team of volunteers. Without
them, there would be no Harrogate Hospital Radio. I’d also like to thank Harrogate
District NHS Foundation Trust for their continued support of us, and our sponsors.”
Those wishing to make a donation can do so via its Just Giving page,