Back on air at Torbay Hospital Radio after six weeks away (2026)

After a six-week hiatus, I returned to the Torbay Hospital Radio studio, eager to resume my role as a presenter. This break was the longest I've taken in my eight years with the station, and it felt refreshing to be back. Torbay Hospital Radio, despite its small audience, has big ambitions and high standards. We strive to create the best quality shows for our core audience: the patients on the wards who could use a boost. This means our presenters invest a lot of time in preparation, often writing scripts and producing shows single-handedly. I had a wealth of ideas to share, including new jingles, which is a unique aspect of our station's identity. Being nominated for a Hospital Radio Association award was a highlight, though we didn't win. Nevertheless, I'm determined to challenge for the award again next year with Hugh, my co-presenter. Our friends at Plymouth Hospital Radio took home the station award, a testament to the dedication of volunteers across all hospital radio stations. It's a labor of love, and I can't help but dream of being paid for doing something I love. We're always on the lookout for new presenters, so if you're interested, get in touch! Ideas for our show are always welcome, and we aim for something fun and engaging. Our features range from praising the small joys of everyday life to sharing music that complements our stories. However, not everything went according to plan on my return show. An outside broadcast from Portsmouth's Mary Rose, complete with carefully woven sound effects, was marred by a technical glitch. I loaded the wrong recording, resulting in a sound-effect-free broadcast. It's a setback, but we'll re-run it when I find the correct recording. Music is a powerful tool to brighten long afternoons on the wards, and I'm always on the lookout for new songs to play. As I take a break for a cup of tea, I reflect on the importance of small joys in life. If you have any suggestions for our Small Joys feature, feel free to email me at paul.harding@torbayhospitalradio.com. In my opinion, hospital radio is a vital part of the healthcare system, offering a much-needed distraction for patients. It's a labor of love, and I'm grateful to be a part of it.