After collecting as many as nine national Community Radio Awards in the space of four years, Erewash Sound has the chance of recording continuing success after two presenters were nominated for 2021.
The news comes after the shortlist was revealed for the Awards which have only been running for six years. Having previously been held virtually due to the effects of the pandemic, the 2021 event returns to being held 'in person' with the ceremony taking place on 23rd October in Coventry - 2021 UK City of Culture.
From a number of entries submitted by Erewash Sound presenters, Lewis Allsopp has been nominated in the 'Young Person of the Year (under 25)' category, whilst Amelia Salmons is a nominee for a 'Newcomer (new to radio in the last 12 months)' award. Both Lewis and Amelia took to their own personal social media account using the word "chuffed" to describe how they felt on receiving details of the nomination.
Both Lewis and Amelia came through the Erewash Sound Academy - the training arm of the radio station. Jeff Martin, station manager and head of training at the Academy said: "I am delighted for Lewis and Amelia. They are both talented and hard-working young people and their nominations are richly deserved. This continues a long line of nominees for the wonderful Erewash Sound team and I'm very proud of them."
Across a wide variety of specialisms and topics, a shortlisting in the awards is recognition of a commitment to community, craft and causes.
Awards chair Martin Steers said: “The breadth and depth of entries never ceases to amaze, and yet again our judging panel from across the industry has had some tough choices to make. After a difficult year, our sector has been ever more important in its communities, and giving teams a well-deserved opportunity to celebrate is key.”
Phil Johnson, chief sales and support officer at headline sponsor PlayoutOne said: "We are delighted once again to play a major part in the Community Radio Awards. After so much industry consolidation, the future of local broadcasting here in the UK firmly rests with teams of volunteers that day in and day out, give their time freely to staff stations such as those that we will honour at this year’s ceremony.
“The awards are here to not just celebrate best practise, but to share it. All of the support team at PlayoutOne can’t wait to join you on this momentous evening."