News
Freemasons' Grant Helps Keep Northumberland's Community Radio on Air
July 2026
Norman West and Richard Finch in the Radio Northumberland studio (Highlights PR)
Community radio listeners across Northumberland are set to benefit from improved digital broadcasts after Northumberland Freemasons donated £1,500 to help strengthen the county's DAB radio network.
The funding has been awarded to Northumberland Community Digital CIC, the not-for-profit organisation that operates the infrastructure carrying several local radio stations, including Radio Northumberland, Lionheart Radio, Koast Radio, Frisk Radio and Together Radio.
The grant from the Richard Henry Holmes Masonic Benevolent Fund has paid for specialist wireless equipment linking remote transmitter sites with high-speed broadband connections. The upgrade will improve the reliability of digital broadcasts, particularly in rural areas where internet connectivity can be inconsistent.
Richard Finch, Director of Northumberland Community Digital CIC, said the support would make a real difference to listeners.
"Our transmitter sites are in some of the more rural parts of the county where broadband isn't always available or reliable. This funding has enabled us to install wireless microwave links that connect our transmitters to better broadband services several miles away, making our network much more robust."
"Community radio remains incredibly important. While many people now stream audio online, there are still many parts of Northumberland where mobile coverage and internet access are limited. DAB radio continues to provide a reliable source of local news, information, entertainment and companionship for thousands of people."
Northumberland Community Digital's network enables community broadcasters to reach listeners across much of the county, helping local organisations, volunteers and charities share news, events and information with their communities.
Norman West, representing Northumberland Freemasons and the Richard Henry Holmes Masonic Benevolent Fund, said supporting projects that benefit local people is at the heart of the organisation's charitable work.
"Each year our fund distributes around £160,000 to charities, community organisations and individuals throughout Northumberland. We were pleased to support this project because community radio provides an important service, particularly for people living in rural areas, helping keep communities informed and connected."
The Richard Henry Holmes Masonic Benevolent Fund considers applications for financial support twice each year from charities and community organisations across Northumberland.
The latest grant is another example of Northumberland Freemasons investing in projects that deliver lasting benefits for communities throughout the county.