‘Incredibly proud’ - North East community radio station celebrates opening its new studios
A community radio station has celebrated the official opening of its brand new site.
Affinity Media NE CIC, the organisation behind Affinity Radio North East, are celebrating the official opening of its brand new, state-of-the-art broadcast studios in Gateshead on Thursday, December 11.
The launch marks two major milestones for the community radio station, which was originally named as Radio Shields.
The first is that it is four years since the UK’s first small-scale DAB service began broadcasting in South Shields and Tynemouth, in North Tyneside, and one year of DAB broadcasting across Newcastle and Gateshead.
As a Community Interest Company (CIC), Affinity Media NE continues to create inclusive opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
The CIC helps individuals build confidence and develop new skills through volunteering, media training and real on-air experience.
The new broadcasting studios was attended by guests including Sharron Potts, the Deputy Mayoress of Gateshead, and Pam Royale, an award-winning former ITV Tyne Tees presenter.
Kyle Scott, CEO and Founder of Affinity Media NE CIC, has expressed his pride in the organisation entering its latest chapter.
He said: “These new studios represent growth, opportunity, and community.
“Everything we have built has been shaped by volunteers, supported by local businesses, and driven by the passion to give people a place to be heard.
“We are incredibly proud to begin this new chapter.”
Speaking after the official opening, Pam Royle commented: “It has been wonderful to see Affinity Media North East’s growth — from the launch of the small, though brilliant, community station Radio Shields in 2021 to its expansion into Affinity Radio Shields and Affinity Radio Newcastle on DAB, both based at the Pride Media Centre in Heworth.
“Created and driven by CEO Kyle Scott, the continued success and growth into Affinity Radio North East is testament to his dedication and desire to serve a wider audience.
“He provides opportunities for local talent to flourish both on air and behind the scenes.
“It is tremendous to see the effect Affinity Radio has in keeping communities connected over the airwaves. Congratulations to all involved.
“I first met Kyle around 16 years ago when he asked to visit ITV Tyne Tees for work experience.
“It has been a joy to witness his dedication in achieving his goal of providing great listening and fantastic opportunities for talent to thrive.”
You can find out more about Affinity Radio North East at: https://www.affinityradio.uk/.