Rutland and Stamford Sound, an independent rural radio station, is hoping to acquire an FM licence as users struggle to connect to the online resource.

The local radio station has been campaigning to get an FM licence since April 2023 and, with the support of Rutland and Melton MP, have been making waves both locally and in parliament.

Led by local celeb, Rob Persani, the radio station was set up in march 2021, and has been providing local content for the rural Rutland and Stamford communities since.

However, access to the service is limited by poor connectivity and access to the internet in rural areas.

As such, the team are hoping to get an FM licence to allow them to broadcast to a wider audience with more reliability and consistency.

Unfortunately, OFCOM are no longer issuing FM licences and so Rutland and Stamford Sound are unable to use an FM frequency.

However, with the support of the local MP, the matter is being discussed by individuals who are in a position to drive change.

Alicia Kearns said: "I am determined to do everything I can to get Rutland and Stamford Sound an FM licence to ensure we can all continue to enjoy their wonderful local news coverage.

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"I regularly raise their bid for a licence with the Minister for Media, John Whittingdale MP, and while we may not quite be there yet, a plan is really starting to come together."

In response, he has said: "Alicia Kearns has been active in pressing the case for a station in her consitiency. She is always active on behalf of her constituents and she has been outspoken in this policy area, having already been to see me about it once. I will draw OFCOM's attention to the remarks [...] because I share the wish to see that take place if possible."

Alicia Kearns concluded: "No community should be excluded from using this vital local resource, and I will continue to work with the Media Minister to ensure this. We are not there yet, but our plan is now starting to come together."

Do you want to see Rutland and Stamford Sound head onto more traditional radio?