It all began back in 1978, when Hospital Radio Barnet was officially launched by Val Doonican.

Things started off very humbly – Alan King, Phil Murphy and the late Len Briveau started the station from a broom cupboard in the hospital! Our funding came from the Friends of Barnet Hospitals, who bought us our studio equipment, while local residents donated records and gave much encouragement.

In the summer of 1982, with an ever expanding record library taking up space, we moved into our second home. Len spotted that some old doctor's premises had become vacant, and after much negotiation we moved into more spacious accommodation. Then, of course, the hospital got rebuilt, and in late 2002 we moved into our current studios.

Over the years, many celebrities have visited HRB. From 'Baby Spice' Emma Bunton to football manager Barry Fry, from Derek Jameson to Dale Winton, we've had lots of 'celebs' help promote hospital radio and Hospital Radio Barnet in particular. Dale Winton even helped get our previous studios looking a bit glam when he and 'Changing Rooms' Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen gave the studio a make-over.

HRB has been very close to Barnet Football Club and over the years has broadcast many commentaries and brought our patients an exclusive service. Our thanks to Barnet FC chairman Tony Kleanthous who has always been a great help.

Our annual running costs vary from year to year, but are usually in the region of £5000 per year. That means fund raising is important to us, so that we can deliver a great service to all our listeners. All our members are encouraged to help out at as many fund raising events as possible. And always we have the support of the Friends of Barnet Hospital, who have always helped us to keep going as a station.

One of our largest fund-raisers was a 'radiothon' on our tenth birthday, which raised a staggering £4000. Its events like this that keep us going, both from a financial and social aspect.

All our members are volunteers, and this means we are only able to broadcast during the evenings and at weekends. We have a team of ward visitors who go round the wards talking to the patients and collecting requests. They help us keep in touch with the audience we serve.

Hospital Radio Barnet is a member of the Hospital Broadcasting Association, and many of our members have enjoyed attending the half yearly conferences they organise, which is a great way to meet people from other hospital radio stations and swap ideas.

We are always looking for ways to expand and improve our service – if you have a few hours to spare each week, why not join us – for more details, click this link.