Dumfries Community Radio is an online community radio station for Dumfries & Galloway. Together with their trusted team of volunteers, they bring an eclectic mix of local and international music, talk shows and reflect Dumfries’s vibrant and ever-changing society.
DCR supports the community through positive change by involving people of all ages and abilities in both on-air and off-air projects. Their latest project is with a blind presenter from Annan. Lewis Shaw spent six years at Annan Academy before moving to the Royal Blind School in Edinburgh and then the University of Stirling.
He returned to his roots with a passion for giving back to the community and now works on inclusive developments with the Usual Place in Dumfries. Lewis had a strong interest in radio from a very young age, with some of his biggest inspirations coming from Colin McArdle and the late Sir Terry Wogan.
While at the University of Stirling, he presented for the local student station and another community radio station. Lewis strongly desires to give a voice to minority groups who are regularly underrepresented, including disabled people.
With this in mind, he joined DCR as a volunteer and presents his show Lewis Shaw Live & Local on a Sunday afternoon at 3, promoting music from artists from minority backgrounds and local talent. Engaging listeners is another of his passions. He believes that involving listeners makes for more compelling radio.
Dumfries Community Radio is shortly coming up to its fifth birthday. With their ever-growing expansion, they currently have many on-air and off-air opportunities for those wishing to participate in radio.
As a charity, they rely heavily on funding from grants, fundraising events and sponsors from local businesses. Their next fundraising event occurs at The Venue, Dumfries, on Friday, 25th August, with artists Ben Nash, Shawnie Craig, The Mind Sweepers and The Lutras all performing live.
The guest host is Dumfries’ drag bearded lady, Madame Jo Mama. With tickets only £7, they are hoping for a packed turnout. They will also hold a popup shop in The Vennel from Monday, 14th – Sunday, 27th August, selling loads of fabulous craft items with proceeds for their ongoing fundraising efforts.
If you are interested or want to find out more about volunteering at DCR, please get in touch with the studio at [email protected]
DCR can be found on all social media outlets, such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
