Plans for a community radio station to serve Rutland and Stamford have taken a step forward.

The Rutland Community Radio Project has appointed an Independent Project Board to steer the project and work with Project Manager Rob Persani, to bring the project to fruition.

More than 30 people volunteered to be on the Independent Project Board following a call for applicants through Nub News and other media.

Former High Sheriff of Rutland, Margaret Miles, chaired the recruitment panel, made up of community representatives including two former Rutland Radio listeners Barry Maynard and Keith Busfield, to choose the six Project Board Members.

Announcing the membership of the Independent Project Board, Margaret Miles said: "Rutland is a small community with a big heart, and it is important that that heart has a voice that truly represents our residents and businesses.

"I am delighted that we are exploring the development of a new Community Radio Station to enhance the lives of the people of Rutland and Stamford and am confident that we have recruited the right mix of skills and personalities to ensure this not only comes to fruition, but has a long and sustainable future."

The Independent Project Board membership will be:

· Mary Hardwick from Manton will Chair the Board. Mary has a strong background in international business and currently specialises in athletic coaching and community-based physical rehabilitation.

· David Lewis from Ketton is a former Chartered Accountant with a wealth of experience in finance and project management.

· Mick Meadows is an executive producer for a national radio station, having started his career in local radio – working for both commercial broadcasters and the BBC.

· Sarah Press from Oakham is a counsellor and psychotherapist. She brings career experience in marketing, education and therapy gained in a number different environments throughout the region

· Heather Sharpe grew up in Rutland and now lives in Uffington. Heather is a former commercial accountant and project manager with high-level experience in publishing and travel.

· Alexandra Wilby from Belton-in-Rutland currently operates in the not-for-profit sector, having set up a well-established a community interest company in Rutland. She also brings experience in education, finance, community and the environment.

The Independent Project Board met last week for an initial introductory meeting and Mary Hardwick has been elected by the group as chair to oversee all future meetings.

Rutland County Council has set up the Community Radio Project to investigate the feasibility of establishing a community radio station for Rutland and the surrounding area.

The Independent Project Board will provide governance, scrutiny and validation for the successful definition and delivery of the project for the communities of Rutland and Stamford.

Coun Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council, said: "The appointment of the Independent Project Board is a real milestone for the Community Radio Project. The Independent Project Board will steer and shape the project and provide accountability to the communities of Rutland and Stamford.

"I would like to thank Margaret Miles and the recruitment panel for giving their time to review the applicants and sit on the recruitment panel. I would also like to welcome and thank the new Independent Project Board members for volunteering their time, skills and expertise to ensure this project is a success."

The Independent Project Board will meet weekly initially. Further details and ongoing updates will be provided at: www.rutland.gov.uk/communityradio