News of a rather special programme on Southend Hospital Radio on Sunday the 4th of July 2021.

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, has recorded a special programme to say thank you to volunteers of hospital radio stations for their work in keeping communities connected and patients entertained during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The programme, called Music & Memories with HRH The Prince of Wales, features some of The Prince’s favourite tracks, from artists including The Three Degrees, Diana Ross, Barbara Streisand and Edith Piaf.

In the programme, The Prince of Wales highlights the work volunteers at hospital radio stations across the UK have done over the last year, explaining that the role of hospital radio has been even more important during these current times, providing an invaluable service to patients, staff and families and reminisces on key life memories where music plays a significant role.

The show has been made possible thanks to the team at the national body the Hospital Broadcasting Association, and their Chairman Grant McNaughton said:

“The Hospital Broadcasting Association represents over 180 local radio stations delivering entertainment, information and health and wellbeing services to healthcare users across the UK, whether in hospital or the wider community. To express his gratitude to the army of dedicated hospital radio volunteers and their listeners, HRH The Prince of Wales, has offered to share his favourite music and his memories associated with each choice. We are exceptionally grateful for HRH The Prince of Wales to recognise the dedication to volunteers across the UK who have continued to assist healthcare providers throughout these difficult times.”

Pete Sipple, Chairman of Southend Hospital Radio said:

“We’re proud to be able to broadcast this special show presented by The Prince of Wales to the patients and staff at Southend University Hospital. Hospitals rely on an army of volunteers, especially during these challenging times. Hospital Radio has always been happy to play a part in entertaining patients and supporting the NHS, and it’s great that The Prince of Wales has taken time to record this unique show.”

The show will be broadcast across the UK, including on Southend Hospital Radio, on Sunday the 4th of July 2021. To listen, go to www.getshr.uk or ask your smartspeaker to “play Southend Hospital Radio”