World Radio Day is today, 13 February 2026, and is a moment to celebrate the impact of broadcasting across the globe, it is also a chance to recognise the people behind the microphone who keep local radio alive every single week.
Roch Valley Radio broadcasts on DAB radio, smart speaker, online and through our mobile apps.
Broadcasting on DAB digital radio, we cover Rochdale, Oldham and Tameside through our East Manchester transmitters as well as Bury and Bolton.
World Radio Day was proclaimed in 2011 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, known as UNESCO, and has been marked annually since 2012. The date reflects the launch of United Nations Radio on 13 February 1946.
For Roch Valley Radio, the day is about something closer to home. More than 100 volunteers give their time each week to produce programmes, gather local news, promote community events and support charities across the borough.
From early morning presenters to late-night specialist music hosts, the station’s schedule is built almost entirely by local people. Many balance broadcasting with full-time jobs, family life and other commitments, yet still turn up week after week to keep the output strong and consistent.
News volunteers attend council meetings, cover community events and speak to residents about the issues that matter to them. Others work behind the scenes, managing social media, editing audio, updating the website and supporting outside broadcasts at fetes, fundraisers and town centre events.
The station also provides opportunities for people who may never have stepped inside a studio before. Students, retirees and those looking to build confidence or learn new skills are given training and support.
For some, it has led to careers in media with the likes of Sky Sports, BBC, Channel 4, Bauer, and Global. For others, it has simply created friendships and a sense of belonging.
David Murphy, one of the Directors of Roch Valley Radio, said;
"Radio remains one of the most accessible forms of media. It reaches people at home, at work and on the move. In our boroughs of Bury and Rochdale, it remains a platform for local voices, businesses, and causes.
The work our team does on a day-to-day basis, and the reach we get through our website traffic, social media, and radio broadcasting, reaches thousands each day, providing news insights, entertainment and a voice someone can listen to, making it worthwhile."
On World Radio Day, Roch Valley Radio is not only recognising the history of broadcasting but also celebrating the dedication of our volunteers. The efforts ensure that the borough has a strong, independent voice and a station rooted firmly in the community it serves.
Section 60 order in place after three serious assaults in Chadderton and Oldham
Hopwood Hall College celebrates apprentices and employers at annual awards
Cadets at 85th anniversary of Air Cadet Force
Bury mini-market shut down after £40,000 haul of illicit goods
Rochdale Infirmary rated Good across all services following unannounced inspection
Rochdale-brewed Signo ale served at Parliament’s Strangers’ Bar
Teen with weapon charged after pram-walking mum hurt in e-bike smash
Mill Gate hails record fundraising success as shoppers raise nearly £90,000 for local causes
Heywood student wins RAF cadet award for leadership and STEM dedication
Children’s Gardening Club aims to sow lifelong love of nature across Greater Manchester
Bin workers injured in suspected road rage attack on Middleton street
Bury and Bolton theatre school earns national recognition for work with young people
Comments
Add a comment