AN AWARD-winning North East radio station has come up with a gem of an idea to help celebrate Metrocentre’s ruby anniversary -by giving away £100,000 worth of free advertising to community organisations.
Pride Radio based at the ONE Centre, Gateshead has worked closely with the leading shopping centre on a number of initiatives and have joined forces again, this time to benefit charities, community groups and organisations across the region.
To mark Metrocentre’s 40th anniversary, Pride Radio is sharing £100,000 worth of airtime with 40 good causes – each receiving a free 12 week radio campaign.
The Top 40 Community Voices scheme will give groups the opportunity to promote their services, call out for volunteers or just showcase the good work they do.
And groups which may have no experience of running a radio campaign have no need to worry as Pride Radio will handle every aspect, including writing the script and looking after all of the production.
Peter Darrant of Pride Radio said the airtime would give “unsung organisations” the opportunity to get in front of a large and diverse audience.
“For many community organisations and charities paying for radio airtime is just not possible,” he said.
“Which is why we thought that teaming up with Metrocentre in such a landmark year and using their on-going support of the community to benefit other good causes was a brilliant idea.
“We are now looking forward to hearing from any group, charity or organisation which would like to benefit from this offer.”
Centre Director at Metrocentre, Gavin Prior, said: “Celebrating 40 years is not just about looking back at our history, but about recognising the communities that have supported us over the decades.”
“We are incredibly proud to work alongside Out North East and Pride Radio on the Top 40 Community Voices initiative, which reflects our long-standing commitment to giving back to the North East.
“Community groups and charities play a vital role in supporting local people, often with limited resources. By helping to amplify their voices through this campaign, we hope to make a meaningful difference ensuring their work is seen, heard and supported across the region during this milestone year.”
Anyone wanting to participate in The Top 40 Community Voices can apply at www.prideradio.co.uk
Pride Radio is now run by LGBTQ+ charity OUT North East, which works to support the community through practical, help, guidance and raising public awareness.
It is based at the recently opened ONE Centre at the Stonehills Compex, Gateshead which offers range of spaces which will be used for counselling, workshops, community drop-ins and for training, along with hot desking areas which will be available to both charities and start-up businesses.
Information about the centre is available at www.outnortheast.org.uk