Community Media Association 'Summer Gathering' - Saturday 13th June 2026

The Community Media Association (CMA) 'Summer Gathering'

Saturday 13th June sees the inaugural CMA Summer Gathering, to be held in Melton Mowbray in association with 103 The Eye, the local Community Radio Station.

Event programme

How to Make Powerful Radio: International broadcast consultant Valerie Geller leads a practical masterclass on creating compelling content, growing audiences and coaching volunteers. Learn the principles behind powerful storytelling, memorable moments and authentic connection - with techniques you can take straight back to your station.

Note: Special Offer - Beyond Powerful Radio
Attendees at the event will receive 20% off Valerie Geller's book.

Local Radio Day Review - Dom Chambers shares key highlights and takeaways.
founder of the Local Radio Alliance and Sound Vision, looks back at this year’s Local Radio Day - exploring national participation, standout moments and how stations across the UK used the day to celebrate local identity and strengthen community connection.

In Conversation: Jonathan Ruffle with Michelle Durant. Writer and producer Jonathan Ruffle joins Michelle Durant, Station Manager at Chelmsford Community Radio (CCR 104.4FM), to discuss his work on Steve Wright in the Afternoon: How We Changed British Radio Forever, probably. Together, they will explore how the UK version of the “zoo” format was created, what it was like working with Steve Wright, and how those innovations continue to influence radio today.

Note: Jonathan Ruffle will be signing copies of his book. Steve Wright in the Afternoon: How We Changed British Radio Forever, probably.

Understanding the Community Radio Fund Former Fund Chair Mark Jones, in conversation with Richard Hilton of the CMA Council, offers clear, practical advice on writing stronger applications, evidencing community benefit and planning for long‑term station sustainability.

“The Eye and the Pork Pies” — The Story of the UK’s First licenced Community Radio Station Christine Slomkowska, from 103 The Eye, shares the remarkable journey of the UK’s first community radio station - from its roots in Melton Mowbray, home of the pork pie, to becoming a pioneering model for local broadcasting. A look at how a small station made national history and continues to serve its community more than two decades on.

Smart Marketing for Community Media: A practical panel session offering clear, actionable advice on how to market your station or media project on a shoestring. Featuring Valerie Geller, Danny Lawrence (Gateway 97.8, Basildon), and Jessica Memon (Asian Community Radio), led by Kevin Field (Think Listener). Learn how to build visibility, grow audiences and make the most of limited resources using simple, effective techniques.

Community Media Quiz A light‑hearted end‑of‑day quiz to round off the programme - a fun, fast‑paced test of your community media knowledge with plenty of laughs and friendly competition with prizes up for grabs.

Lunch and refreshments
Attendees will receive lunch, with tea and coffee served during comfort breaks throughout the day.

Any questions
Please get in touch with [email protected] if you have any questions about the event or ticketing. The event is open to members and non-members of the CMA.