Oakham Rutland and Rutland News Martin Brookes: A Voice for the Region Rutland & Stamford Sound Triumphs with Gold at National Community Radio Awards 2026

A Voice for the Region Rutland & Stamford Sound Triumphs with Gold at National Community Radio Awards 2026

Local broadcasting achieved a major milestone as Rutland & Stamford Sound brought home the prestigious Gold Award in the Celebrating & Championing Community Radio category at the UK National Community Radio Awards 2026.

The landmark victory celebrated at the ceremony in Birmingham highlights the vital role the digital radio station plays across Rutland, Stamford, and the surrounding rural communities.

The award recognised the station’s campaign around "Celebrating Their 5th Birthday," highlighting half a decade of steadfast commitment to hyper-local radio, volunteer development, and grassroots engagement.

Judged by industry experts, academics, and voluntary sector leaders, the national panel commended Rutland & Stamford Sound for its ability to foster an authentic sense of place, give a platform to local voices, and consistently connect with listeners both on-air and through digital channels.In addition to securing the Gold in the Celebrating & Championing Community Radio category, the station was also named a national finalist for Digital Content of the Year for its Daily Digital Footprint initiative, reflecting its impressive online presence and digital reach across social media and web streaming.

"Community radio is about more than just playing music it is about creating a sense of belonging and keeping our towns and villages connected. Winning Gold on a national stage is a testament to the dedication of our volunteer presenters, production crew, and every single listener across Rutland and Stamford."

In an era where regional media coverage is increasingly centralised, Rutland & Stamford Sound has stood out as a beacon for local connection.

Since its inception, the station has provided Local News & Events, daily updates tailored directly to residents in Oakham, Uppingham, Stamford, and neighboring villages.

Spotlighted features supporting local charities, independent businesses, sports clubs, and council initiatives.

Provided training and broadcasting experience for aspiring presenters, audio engineers, and digital content creators of all ages.

Looking AheadThe Gold win marks a high point in what has already been an eventful year for the station as it marks five years on air. With plans to further expand its digital coverage and local community partnerships, Rutland & Stamford Sound continues to demonstrate the enduring value of truly local radio.

How to Listen:

Listeners can tune into Rutland & Stamford Sound via DAB digital radio across the area, online at rutlandandstamfordsound.co.uk, or via smart speakers and mobile devices.

Five Years on the Airwaves, a Rolling Birthday Celebration for Rutland and Stamford Sound, Photo Gallery and Video

Five Years on the Airwaves, a Rolling Birthday Celebration for Rutland and Stamford Sound

www.rutlandandstamfordsound.co.uk

Yesterday marked a historic milestone for our local airwaves as Rutland and Stamford Sound celebrated its 5th Birthday with a vibrant, traveling party that spanned the county. From Morris dancing in the morning mist to a glowing tribute at Rutland Water by night, the day was a testament to the station’s deep roots in the community.

The festivities kicked off at 9:30 am in Oakham Market Place. Under the watchful eyes of the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland and the High Sheriff, the Rutland Morris Dancers provided a performance that drew loyal listeners and station staff.

The centerpiece of the day soon arrived: a Blands "Rutlander" bus, specially decorated for the occasion. Members of the station team and including Oakham and Rutland News, climbed aboard as the bus prepared to depart for the next leg of the journey.

Upon arriving in Uppingham Market Place, the celebration moved to St Peter and St Paul’s Church. Inside, an assembled choir greeted the team with a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday," followed by the aptly chosen anthem, "Celebration." The journey then continued toward the village of Easton on the Hill. During the transit, presenter Rob Persani broadcast live from the moving bus a technical feat he jokingly compared to the legendary offshore broadcasts of Radio Caroline aboard the MV Fredericia.

A significant stop was made at the Birch Tree Café in Easton on the Hill. This unique venue serves as a social enterprise where young people with Down’s Syndrome gain workplace skills, confidence, and independence.

"The café helps enthusiastic young staff members develop workplace skills, so they can realise their own ambitions."

The station team spoke with the café staff and shared birthday cupcakes in the café’s spacious surroundings. The Birch Tree Café is a hub for everyone from cyclists and walkers to "laptop drivers" and families and the station was proud to highlight their vital work in the community.

The "Rutlander" bus then made a grand entrance into the Burghley House estate. In the visitor car park, everyone was treated to a performance by award-winning Ukrainian pianist and composer Yaroslav Oliinyk, who played his portable keyboard as the station mascot made an appearance.

In a display of expert driving, the Blands bus usually seen on the Rutland Flyer route between Melton and Corby navigated the narrow, historic gates of the estate for a photo opportunity in front of the Cecil family home.

As the sun set on a day of community spirit, the celebrations concluded with a spectacular visual tribute. Normanton Church at Rutland Water was illuminated in the signature colors of Rutland and Stamford Sound, providing a shining end to celebrating five years of local broadcasting.