Alan Shearer opens hospital station Radio Tyneside

Mar 9 2010 by Helen Rae, The Journal

Today the tradition continues at Radio Tyneside and a commentary on all Newcastle United’s home football matches live from St James’ Park is provided for patients. So it was felt to be only right that when the station moved premises they invited someone associated with football to open the new studios.

Dave Nicholson, the station’s director, said “We thought it was only fitting that we got someone associated with football to officially open our studios and when Alan said he would do it we were delighted.

“We must thank Northumbria Water, who are great supporters of our organisation for having a plaque made which was unveiled by Alan and is on display in our reception.”

Radio Tyneside has won a host of awards. It received a ‘Highly Commended’ accolade in the Special Award for Outstanding Contribution category at the National Hospital Radio Awards 2008.

A host of leading reporters also began their careers at the station, including BBC newsreader Kate Silverton.

Mr Baker added: “Radio Tyneside is a station that is there for patients and it is something they can identify with. It really is their very own station.”

Shearer recorded a 20-minute interview for the station which will be broadcast on Sunday at 10am. You can hear Radio Tyneside on the hospital wards on Hospedia, also on 1575AM in the hospital community or by logging on to their website, www.radiotyneside.co.uk

We thought it was fitting we got someone associated with football to officially open our studios