Rustington talking papers’ desperate appeal

An urgent appeal has been launched by the Rustington-based talking newspaper, The Voice of Progress, for more volunteers to join its ranks.

The call comes following a number of retirements within the organisation, which publishes two separate audio news packages of local stories, one from the Littlehampton Gazette area and the other from the Worthing Herald’s.

Charles Waring, director of The Voice of Progress, is appealing for people to come forward to become content editors with the charity.

He said: “Our volunteers are essential in helping to provide our service. They’re the lifeblood of our talking newspaper because without them we wouldn’t have one. For many blind and partially-sighted people living in the Littlehampton and  Worthing areas, this is the one connection they have to the community.

“For a lot of people, losing their sight comes as a massive blow. Most have enjoyed reading the news and I know that they now look forward to our fortnightly recordings.”

The organisation, which records its material at its headquarters studio, at Rustington Hall, in Station Road, has about 60 volunteers.

Those wishing to volunteer for the editors’ role are being asked to commit a few hours every eight weeks to take articles from local papers and prepare them for recording.

Prospective editors can also look forward to getting their teeth stuck into producing a 40-minute audio magazine, twice a year, which can cover a wide range of topics, from interviews with celebrities to nostalgic articles on the past.

Charles added: “I know a lot of our volunteers are very proud to work with us. It’s a chance for them to be really creative and help bring a bit of happiness to the lives of those less fortunate.”

The service caters for around 250 listeners every edition. Those keen to join the team can call either 01903 776569 or email [email protected]