Ayr Hospital Radio

TUNING into one of Scotland’s oldest hospital radio stations, the jingle goes: “From the heart of Burns country, bringing you entertainment for more than 70 years.”

Ayr Hospital Radio (AHR) began broadcasting in 1953 and has provided more than seven decades of songs and chat of all styles for its listeners – and like many others, is serving up important entertainment and opportunities to this day.

Plus, as another jingle adds, you’ll find something to enjoy “even if you’re not in hospital”.

From the home of Ayr United Football Club, Somerset Park, volunteer-led live matchday commentaries have been relayed to the local hospital hubs in South Ayrshire alongside scheduled shows of music ranging from soul, latest hits and classic favourites.

AHR chair John O’Donnell says that the running of this radio station is “tailored to the needs of their listeners”.

“This service helps alleviate loneliness and anxiety, creating a sense of connection for patients who may feel isolated from the outside world,” he explains.

Originally hospital radio could only be heard using a headset installed at the bedside. These days AHR streams on the internet and not only does this mean higher sound quality, but it also allows real interaction between patients and their loved ones.

For Ayr Hospital Radio to remain relevant, it needs to keep pace with the times and offer what people would expect from any radio station including features such as Listen Again – giving the chance to hear a show at a time that suits them.

Live football commentary is a key part of the puzzle. AHR has included visually impaired supporters at the Honest Men’s home fixtures. O’Donnell believes this item offers a “sense of normality and escapism.”

An “inaugural match” against Dundee United in November 1953, according to club historian Duncan Carmichael, started this journey. An upgrade followed, with the opening of a studio in 1959 tucked away in the stadium’s southwest corner hiding an interior that feels like you’ve stepped into a time capsule.

As AHR chair O’Donnell adds: “Whether it is music, requests, football, cricket, or other major sporting occasions, the volunteers who run these stations bring dedication and enthusiasm ensuring that the content is relevant to those in care.”

This is an edited extract of the original article Written by former Ayr Hospital Radio presenter, Evan Warrander.

To read the original article Click the following link -https://www.thenational.scot/news/25205611.local-heroes-bringing-hospital-radio-ayrshire-70-years/