Retirees enjoy change of pace at 105.5

Retirement can offer many choices, but at Swindon 105.5 community radio there is the opportunity to spend the golden years doing something a little different.

From presenting their own shows to helping with the day to day running of the station, Swindon 105.5's older volunteers are intrinsic to the station. Vic Benson, who hosts the Voice of the Villages show on Thursdays at 1pm, said: "I started broadcasting back in 1974 and have worked in radio throughout my life, mainly on hospital stations. Working on a show at Swindon 105.5 is unlike anything in the commercial sector and allows us to indulge our interests and expand our skills even in our retirement years." Martin Preston, who publicises the University of the Third Age as well as co-presenting on Chris' Community Show with Chris Ockwell, said: "It's a chance to get out there and engage with people, which is something I love doing. I go out and talk to such a wide range of people doing so many wonderful things. I see myself now as the natural successor to Michael Parkinson! "Stations like this are a case of you either use it or lose it, so I decided on the former and I'm really enjoying the diversity and community input." To find out more about volunteering at Swindon 105.5, visit:  www.swindon1055.com