Northampton community radio station NLive Radio has launched a major fundraising appeal as it prepares to become an independent organisation after more than a decade of financial support from the University of Northampton.

The station, which describes itself as "The Station That Loves Northampton", is appealing to listeners, businesses and community organisations for help securing its future as it moves into a new chapter.

The University of Northampton, through a subsidiary company, has funded NLive Radio for more than 10 years, supporting its station manager and volunteers as the service developed its audience.

However, amid financial pressures and changes across the higher education sector, the university has been reviewing its expenditure and has decided to prioritise spending on educational delivery and the student experience.

Some one the many volunteers behind the mic helping make Northampton the station that loves Northampton

placeholder image — Some one the many volunteers behind the mic helping make Northampton the station that loves Northampton

The university has welcomed plans for NLive Radio to continue independently and has agreed to support the transition.

NLive Radio says its fundraising campaign will help meet the costs of establishing the station under its new structure, including securing new studio premises, moving equipment, maintaining broadcasting licences, upgrading ageing technology and meeting essential operating costs.

The station is seeking both one-off donations and smaller monthly contributions, while Northampton businesses are also being encouraged to advertise. A launch offer will allow businesses to secure a 12-month advertising campaign for half price.

Station manager Rebecca Steers, who has led NLive Radio for more than seven years, said: "We've been at the heart of local communities. Not only promoting local charities, celebrating local achievements, supporting community events and playing local musicians; but we've also given hundreds of people the opportunity to get involved in broadcasting and journalism.

"Now we need Northampton's help. We're asking listeners, businesses and organisations across the town to stand with us and help secure the future of truly local radio.

"Whether it's a donation, an advertising campaign, volunteering your time or simply spreading the word, every bit of support matters."

Without a successful fundraising appeal, Rebecca is expected to leave her role in the coming months.

NLive Radio, which was established in 2016 as a joint project between the university and local community, says it currently reaches more than 17,000 regular listeners.

All of its presenters are volunteers and the station expects to eventually become fully volunteer-run. It is now recruiting people to help with fundraising and operations, produce content and present programmes.

The appeal comes after media regulator Ofcom granted NLive Radio a five-year licence extension, allowing it to continue broadcasting until 2031.

People can support the fundraising campaign through NLive Radio's website, while those interested in volunteering or advertising are also being encouraged to contact the station.