Imagine a beloved community radio station, a staple for over five decades, suddenly facing eviction. That’s exactly what happened to Taunton’s Apple FM, the last of its kind in the area, when it was asked to leave Musgrove Park Hospital after 55 years of broadcasting. But here’s where the story takes a heartwarming turn: Apple FM has found a new home, and it’s a place steeped in history—both for the town and the station itself.
In January, the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust requested Apple FM to vacate the hospital premises by summer, citing evolving patient needs and expanding services. For Greg Perkins, the station’s managing director, and his team of dedicated volunteers, this was a daunting challenge. ‘We were concerned we might have to go fully online,’ Perkins admitted, ‘which would’ve changed everything.’ But against the odds, they’ve secured a new location that feels almost serendipitous: Ine’s Cottage, a former gatehouse for Taunton Castle, right in the heart of the town centre.
‘It’s extraordinary,’ Perkins said with a smile. ‘One of our founders, Phil Knighton, who sadly passed away, had a great-grandmother who actually lived in Ine’s Cottage. So, in a way, it feels like Apple FM is coming home.’ And this is the part most people miss—the station’s new home isn’t just a building; it’s a piece of local history, now intertwined with the station’s own legacy.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the move is a win for Apple FM, it raises questions about the future of community radio in an increasingly digital world. With many stations struggling to stay afloat, is physical space still essential, or should they embrace online-only platforms? Perkins believes the new location will help Apple FM stay connected to its listeners, but what do you think? Is a physical presence still vital for community radio, or is it time to fully embrace the digital age?
The team is now gearing up for the big move, but it’s no small feat. ‘There’s a lot of work ahead,’ Perkins noted. ‘We’re all volunteers, so this will be evenings and weekends of clearing, setting up the studio, and moving equipment.’ Despite the challenges, they’re aiming to start broadcasting from their new home by mid-year, a timeline Perkins estimates will take ‘six or seven months of hard work.’
Apple FM’s journey from Taunton Hospital Radio, which first aired in 1969, to its rebranding in 2013, and now this move, is a testament to its resilience. ‘We’re very lucky,’ Perkins added. ‘Not only have we found a central location, but we’re in a building that’s as special to Taunton as we are.’
As Apple FM prepares for this new chapter, one thing is clear: this station isn’t just about music and news—it’s about community, history, and perseverance. But what does this move mean for the future of local radio? Is it a step forward, or a last stand against the digital tide? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
