About Red Kite Radio

Your Community Radio Station

Red Kite Radio was founded in 2017 as the dedicated community radio station for Thame, Haddenham and the surrounding villages. We’re a not-for-profit organisation proudly based at Haddenham Garden Centre, bringing you classic hits from the Sixties through to today.

Licensed Until 2027

In June 2022, Ofcom renewed our broadcasting licence for another five years – a testament to our commitment to the community. This renewal enables us to continue serving you until June 2027 and beyond.

“We have a great team of volunteers at Red Kite Radio who give their time freely presenting shows, reading the news and providing technical support. The five-year extension was recognition of their tremendous work in keeping us on the air.” – Howard Bond, Station Director

From Festival to Full-Time

Our story began with ‘Summerfest Radio’ – a pop-up station created by friends from Haddenham and Thame who had worked in commercial radio. For four years, we broadcasted during the annual Haddenham Beer Festival, building community support that encouraged us to apply for a full-time licence.

Founded by Mark Chapple, Mark Zeall, Pete Simester and Pete Macfarlane, who raised £16,000 for our studio and transmitter with support from the Rothschild Foundation, Aylesbury Vale District Council, Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust, and the Hawkins family at Haddenham Garden Centre.

Launch Day – June 18th, 2017

On a blazing hot Sunday morning, Red Kite Radio officially launched at 11am with Mark Chapple presenting our very first song – “Beautiful Day” by U2. A perfect start to our journey!

Our Team Today

Today, we’re a family of volunteers from all ages and backgrounds, each bringing their unique music knowledge and passion. We’re always looking for new voices – complete our training and you could be on air too!