The team at a community radio station got the chance to “hear hear” their MP as he visited their new Alton studio as part of the town’s Volunteer Festival.

Damian Hinds was recently in the house as the MP for East Hampshire checked out Wey Valley Radio’s new home in the Assembly Rooms, writes Will Russell.

The public got the chance to see inside the new studio as part of the Volunteer Festival organised by East Hampshire District Council and Dementia Friendly Alton.

“Alton is fortunate to have so many organisations that depend on people giving their time, and the Volunteer Festival is a brilliant way of bringing them together,” said Mr Hinds.

“As a patron of Dementia-Friendly Alton I know how much of a difference volunteers make, and I would encourage anyone who has been thinking about it to make that next step.”

The station was one of several local groups and organisations that showcased volunteering opportunities in and around Alton. The event gave people the chance to engage with the station, with guests from the likes of Goldfinch Books, The Kings Arms and the Department for Work and Pensions being interviewed throughout the day.

Chris Stone, presenter and director at Wey Valley Radio said: “It was lovely we could show people round on the day, and anyone who missed out is welcome to get in touch.”

The studio tours were the public’s first chance to see the station’s new base, which was recently opened by the Town Mayor of Alton, Councillor Barbara Tansey.

The station dates back almost 40 years, first airing in November 1992 and has now begun streaming on DAB+, making it available for over 67,000 people.

They are still appealing for people to join, with roles available both on-air and behind the scenes.