Now as far as I know, no-one broke a bottle of champagne over Louise Angell and Jan Rogers on Tuesday 4th March, but maybe we should have!
They were after all, officially launching our Voices project - the full details of which can be read here.
Listeners to BBC Radio Derby heard features in Andy Whittaker’s Breakfast Show on the make-over of the playing area at St Martin’s School and on the day-long happenings at the Southgate Community centre in Alvaston, where the launch was taking place.
The BBC bus, with presenter Lucy Wheeler, also got involved in the launch, setting up camp at both buildings to join in the fun and games and talk to people involved in the projects.
Later that day, Mid-morning presenter, John Holmes, included a feature on the young stars of Booth Street Football Club and on the plans to turn waste verges in the area into useful paces for playing and relaxing.
After that, Frances Finn hosted pupils from St Martins in her programme, and then, as the star turn, Paul Mackenzie arrived to do his whole show from the centre!
Many innocent folk who’d come to investigate Voices, or to take advantage of help and advice (and free goodies..) from Age Concern, Derby Homes,the Fire Service and Community Police found themselves on air with Paul.
 | Paul puts a couple of unsuspecting visitors live on air at Southgate community centre. |
One listener was not allowed to leave without an impromptu duet, while Paul took a liking to broadcasting from another’s car!
Andy Griffiths, who runs the Southgate Community centre, was delighted to see so many people coming and going during the day.
This was especially pleasing as we’d wanted to use the opportunity to ask visitors what they’d like to see happening in the centre, as additional activities.
Andy is convinced there could be more going on for older people in terms of classes, social groups and trips out (free trips that is). He’s busy writing to everyone who signed in, and we’ll keep you posted on any fresh ventures that come out of this bit of gentle consultation.
Phil Ormerod, Headteacher of St Martin’s dropped in, too, and Paul extorted a confession that he’s a practised Pantomime Dame. We’re working on exploiting that little gem......
 | Lucy Wheeler from the BBC bus prepares to go on air with kids from St Martin's school |
You can hear Phil at greater length, as well as inspecting his musical taste, when he’s a coffee break guest with Shane O'Connor on BBC Radio Derby - Friday 21st March at 10.00am.
So, Voices is launched, and you'll be hearing about it on this website and on BBC Radio Derby over the coming months.
We’ll be making more specific appeals for your ideas and help. At the same time, we’re interested in your neighbourhood, and any projects afoot there too.
 More about Voices in Derby |  |
