I think I was about 12 when someone gave me a Ladybird book titled Build Your Own Transistor Radio. My acting career wasn’t going so well so I had to tell Mick I’d found another interest. Thus was born my passion for all things radio. My teenage years were spent carrying a large chipboard record box full of 7” singles a distance of 4 KM to and from a newly opened pirate station in Swords, Co. Dublin. Friendships that would endure were formed and I’d found my clique. Marriage, kids, work and bills arrived and radio took a back seat.
That was until 1994 when Tom contacted me asking if radio on the right side of the law might interest me. The answer was obvious and so began another era with Toms guidance, encouragement and his reciprocating passion. Many nights spent in the studio updating and installing new computers and equipment ensued. Even a neredowell who coveted what we had couldn’t stop us. With all our equipment stolen it was a matter of hours before we were back on air. The support of the hospital and the wider radio community reunited us with most of the stolen items but this adversity was used to further the station with newer equipment and a better service for the staff and residents of St. Ita’s.
Covid-19 came and that challenge was met head on. Within a few months the station was back in full swing with remote shows being the order of the day. New skills were learned, new talents emerged and I’m now delighted to be part of a fantastic team of true enthusiasts. I also think we may have saved a few people from boredom along the way too.
It was Elbert Hubbard in 1915 who coined the phrase: When Life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Well Elbert, that lemonade sure is sweet.
https://www.mixcloud.com/itasradio/friday-night-floor-fillers-with-ken-hughes-04-03-22-2100-0000/
