Volunteers at Sunshine Hospital Radio scoop prize at awards gala

The National Hospital Radio Awards is an annual celebration of the excellent year-on-year standards found in over 200 hospital radio stations across the country.

Sunshine Hospital Radio, which operates from Weston General Hospital, had been shortlisted in the 'Best Speech Package' category for their programme "Swooping In and Saving Lives" which focussed on the work of the Great Western Air Ambulance charity. 

At the ceremony, the Bronze award was presented to Sunshine Hospital Radio, with the judges commenting: "We felt this was an interesting topic with a gripping interview with one patient, saved by the Air Ambulance. It’s a subject that will mean a lot to many of those listening."

Marcus Tripp and Laura Tremelling, who created the programme, were thrilled by the result. Speaking on the award, Marcus said: "We're delighted and astounded that the programme we put together for the patients in Weston General Hospital has received recognition at a national level. It makes us incredibly proud of the whole team at Sunshine.”

Laura added: "Whilst making the programme we learned so much about the great work the air ambulance charity does – it was a real pleasure."
Hospital broadcasting volunteers received an extra surprise at the awards ceremony when British Astronaut Tim Peake sent a special message direct from the International Space Station. He tweeted to his global followers: “Well done to all the nominees in tonight’s National Hospital Radio Awards in the UK. Thank you for all you do, entertaining patients.”