Radio Horton celebrates 60 years

Volunteers celebrate 60 years of Radio Horton. Some received long service awards

Radio Horton has proudly marked its 60th anniversary with a series of special broadcasts.

Since its launch in 1964, the hospital radio station has been a cornerstone of life at the Horton General Hospital, part of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH), and the community, providing comfort, entertainment, and information to patients and staff.

Founded by local journalists on 7 July 1964, the station was built on the founding principles of uplifting spirits and brightening patients' time in hospital.

To mark the diamond jubilee, the radio station aired a 60-hour marathon of programmes, culminating in a live broadcast from the Horton Restaurant on Monday 8 July. The special programme starred Radio Horton presenter Anthony Brown and station President John Craven OBE.

Professor Meghana Pandit, Chief Executive Officer at OUH, said: "Hospital radio plays a key supporting role in the delivery of care, providing music and entertainment as well as topical discussions and wellbeing information to patients in our hospitals.

"The 60th anniversary of Radio Horton, broadcasting to patients in the Horton Hospital, as well as to residents of care homes in the north Oxfordshire area, is testament to the enduring value of the station and the volunteers, both past and present, that give their time and expertise to put on a such a varied programme of shows. Thank you and Congratulations."

Professor Sir Jonathan Montgomery, Chair of OUH, said: "Congratulations to Radio Horton. The Horton General Hospital plays a vital role in our health system and the people of Banbury are rightly proud of its achievements.

"Radio Horton is one of the precious arteries through which its life-blood flows. Patients and staff have so much to celebrate on this 60th anniversary. The team should be very proud of their fantastic work."

A special exhibition featured photographs, memorabilia and press clippings along with archived materials, showcasing the station's rich 60-year history. A 60th birthday cake and cupcakes were kindly donated by Carpenter Catering, and the Horton Power Choir performed for guests.

Sam Smette, Chair of Trustees at Radio Horton, said: "We were thrilled to celebrate our 60th anniversary where it all started. We wanted to create a special event involving our friends and colleagues from the Horton General Hospital and OUH.

"Radio Horton owes its existence to the incredible support of our volunteer workforce, from presenters to ward volunteers and those behind the scenes. To everyone who has ever supported Radio Horton as a volunteer over the past 60 years, including those sadly no longer with us, no matter your contribution, we are grateful for your part in keeping this great organisation thriving.

"We are also immensely grateful to OUH for providing us with our home, and of course to the local community for tuning in, and supporting us at our fundraising events."