ONE of Cumbria’s oldest radio stations has begun broadcasting on DAB+ across south Cumbria.

Bay Trust Radio started in 1977 in the old Westmorland County Hospital before moving to the Westmorland General.

With over 50 volunteers it broadcasts 24/7.

John Williamson, president and station manager, said “Bay Trust Radio moving on to DAB+ means a lot to our volunteers who have worked tirelessly learning the Ofcom broadcasting codes.

"When I started in hospital radio patients would have been in hospital for weeks but now they may only be in for days so the station had to move forward and expand the service. It has taken six years in preparation but I think it will be fantastic for the listeners and bringing back local radio."

If anyone has a member of their family or friend in hospital, they can now get a request for them, and it will be played out on air.

Bay Trust Radio is a registered charity and relies on donations to help cover the operating cost.