An award-winning local journalist turned PR is putting a fresh 'spin' on her interview skills after teaming up with a new community radio station. 

Amanda Chalmers of Chalmers News PR based in Warwick, is launching her own live talk show for Vibe25 Radio akin to Radio 4's long-running Desert Island Discs. 

The station, which launched in Hampton-in-Arden in February, is rapidly emerging as one of the Midlands' most exciting and community-driven broadcast platforms, blending music, creativity, and social impact to create a unique listening experience.  

Broadcasting across multiple platforms, and using the latest state-of-the-art technology, Vibe25 Radio offers a diverse schedule of shows spanning everything from 80s classics and drive-time hits to dance, trance, and specialist programming, delivered by a passionate team of presenters and volunteers.  

In one of the newest shows, 'Chat With Chalmers,' launching on 6 April, Amanda interviews interesting people behind some of the most inspiring small local businesses, charities and organisations, all making a difference in their community. 

Amanda spent 30 years working in the regional press, culminating with a stint in the Stratford-Upon-Avon Herald editor's chair before launching Chalmers News PR, in 2018 (image supplied)

Amanda said: "I am extremely excited about this new chapter, which marks the latest of my new personal challenges, designed to take me out of my comfort zone. 

"I have already been blown away by the level of passion, ambition and talent I've witnessed that goes into the running of this station and quickly knew it was a project I wanted to be a part of. I look forward to drawing on my journalism experience - and combining it with my love of music - for this all-new show aimed at informing as well as entertaining!  

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"But those who know my often questionable taste in music need not fear as it's my guests who will be choosing the songs – all specially selected to support the narrative around their own stories. 

She added: "I am delighted that this will also create another outlet in which to help shine a spotlight on some of the amazing hard working people in our area, including some of those I am already lucky enough to work with. 

"It's been 30 years since I last had a foray into broadcasting, spending two years as a volunteer at hospital radio in north Warwickshire, so I am a bit nervous about mastering the latest technology. Surely it can't be that hard… ?"  

Vibe25 Radio is under the umbrella of the Smiling Families Charity, both of which are run by husband and wife team Kerry Martin and 'Shoresy' (image supplied)

Amanda spent 30 years working in the regional press, culminating with a stint in the Stratford-Upon-Avon Herald editor's chair before launching Chalmers News PR, in 2018. 

She has worked on newsdesks in and around Warwickshire, including the former Nuneaton Tribune and Rugby Advertiser, and, as deputy editor at the Daventry Express and Buckingham and Winslow Advertiser Series before joining the Herald. 

She's since gone on to win national recognition for her Warwick-based agency, including, last December, being named the 8th Best Home-Based Business in the UK in the UK Business Awards.  

 Vibe25 Radio is under the umbrella of the Smiling Families Charity, both of which are run by husband and wife team Kerry Martin and 'Shoresy.' 

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The pair say the station will help provide another voice and creative outlet for individuals and families facing serious illness, disability, and life-changing challenges.   

In one of the newest shows, 'Chat With Chalmers,' launching on 6 April, Amanda interviews interesting people behind some of the most inspiring small local businesses, charities and organisations (image supplied)

Kerry said: "We are absolutely delighted to welcome Amanda Chalmers to Vibe25 Radio. Amanda brings a wealth of experience as a respected journalist and businesswoman, and her new show Chat with Chalmers will add a fresh, insightful and dynamic edge to our programming. 

"At Smiling Families and Vibe25 Radio, we are passionate about creating meaningful, engaging content that connects with our community, and Amanda's unique voice and perspective perfectly align with that vision. We are incredibly excited to have her on board as the station continues to grow from strength to strength." 

She added: "By combining high-energy broadcasting with meaningful community engagement, Vibe25 Radio is not only growing its audience but also making a lasting difference - proving that radio can be both powerful and purposeful." 

The station, Vibe25, is set to go live on DAB on 23 April.

Learn more about Vibe25 Radio and see its presenters line-up over here.

Visit Chalmers News PR here.

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