A community radio station based in Hampton in Arden is celebrating a successful first six months on air with plans to expand its reach across the Midlands and beyond.

Vibe25 Radio, which launched in February, has announced it will join a new DAB multiplex from next month, allowing broadcasts to reach listeners in parts of Warwickshire, Shropshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

The expansion means the station will become available in towns including Rugby, Warwick, Leamington Spa, Nuneaton, Loughborough, Lincoln, Stafford, Shrewsbury and Telford.

The move builds on Vibe25's existing audience, which includes a potential DAB listenership of around 600,000 people and more than 12,000 listeners tuning in each month online and through mobile apps.

Founded by Hampton in Arden husband and wife team Kerry Martin and Paul 'Shoresy' Martin, the volunteer-led station has grown rapidly since its launch.

More than 30 presenters now contribute to its schedule, including TikTok personality Bucket Hot Mom and internationally renowned electronic music producer Chicane, whose real name is Nick Bracegirdle.

The station has also become closely associated with its sister charity, Smiling Families, which supports people and families affected by serious illness, disability and life-changing challenges.

Kerry said one of the station's biggest achievements has been its impact on the local community.

She said: "One of the achievements we're most proud of is the community impact.

"In only six months, more than 32 charities, support organisations and community groups have been welcomed onto Vibe25 and given access to the platform to raise awareness and reach new audiences.

"This is the story of how a relatively new, volunteer-powered station has grown quickly, attracted recognised names, begun working with major events and, crucially, created a platform that is already being used by more than 32 charities and community groups."

The station's growing profile has also led to collaborations with major events including Boardmasters, Y Not Festival and Sausage & Cider Festival.

Members of the team will soon be involved in a special project at Birmingham's Tutankhamun Exhibition.

Presenter Becky Nichol, from Chelmsley Wood, said her involvement with the station had been life-changing, even inspiring her to get a Vibe25 tattoo.

She said: "The tattoo felt meaningful to me after the great feeling Vibe has given me since joining back in April.

"Being a presenter has given me confidence, helped my mental health and a great sense of belonging and given me back my identity again after a difficult time."

Vibe25 Radio broadcasts a mix of music and specialist programming across online platforms, apps, Alexa devices and DAB radio, with further expansion planned in the coming months.

To find out more, click here.