A Voice for the Neighbourhood
Local radio stations are usually much smaller than big broadcasters, yet they can play an important role in local life. Instead of trying to reach a huge audience, they focus (9) ________ the needs of one town or area. Programmes may include interviews with local musicians, news about events and talks about issues (10) ________ matter to local people. Many hosts start with little experience and are (11) ________ expected to be perfect at once. New volunteers are often trained so that they can get used to speaking clearly and using the equipment at (12) ________ same time. Because funds are limited, stations depend (13) ________ donations, grants and unpaid help. This can make it difficult to plan far ahead. On the other hand, volunteers are free to experiment with ideas that would be out (14) ________ the question at a large station. Some programmes are now broadcast online as (15) ________ as on traditional radio. In this way, a station created for one small area can end (16) ________ attracting listeners from much farther away.