At this time of year, it seems only natural to reflect on the past 12 months and look forward to the year ahead.

At Bolton FM, I can safely say it's been an amazing year.  Definitely our best yet!

In a few choice words at the Christmas party, our Chairman Andrew Dickson merrily said, 'Outside of the M25, Bolton FM are the envy of community radio.'

He praised the work of countless volunteers who ensure the smooth running of the station, day in and day out and the contribution they make to its success.

I'm not sure if he'd had one too many vinos but I do know that our volunteers continue to reach every corner of the community, gaining praise and adulation wherever they go.  

From broadcasting great music across all genres to daily local news and travel updates.  Programmes that feature live debates and local topical discussions, providing a vital platform for businesses, charities and local initiatives to air their views; an opportunity they might not have otherwise.

In 2016 we were live on air for 6,205 hours with over 1,300 studio guests.  We had more than 450 roadshows and partnered Bolton's major sporting, charity and entertainment events.  

Our social media presence is growing daily #BigBoltonChat and thanks to our talented video production team, the Mannequin Challenge for The Marketplace Shopping Centre racked up over 80,000 online views.

2017 looks to be another exciting year. Personally, I'm looking forward to the expansion of the schools programme and building on this year's success. But there's so much more to come.

In 2017, I URGE you to listen to Bolton FM and you'll understand why it's 'The Voice of the Bolton Family'.

I hope more of you will get involved and I look forward to writing about events we can work on together or better still, welcoming you as a volunteer!

On behalf of everyone at the station, I'd like to wish you a happy and prosperous New Year.