THE plug will be pulled on Hospital Radio Pulse if enough money cannot be found to replace vital broadcasting equipment, writes Emily Bridgewater.

The Alexandra Hospital-run station, which was recently voted one of the most listened to hospital radios in the country, is in desperate need of funds if it is to continue.

Station committee vice-chairman David Waite said: "If we're unable to raise sufficient funds, the future looks very bleak indeed."

The self-funding station broadcasts to staff and patients at the Woodrow hospital 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is run entirely by a team of 30 volunteers.

Mr Waite said: "I would go as far as saying it is the best hospital radio station in the country."

Much of the broadcasting equipment used at the station is already second hand and has come to the end of its working life. Volunteers are now using temporary transmission equipment, which only provides limited service.

Mr Waite said: "Our mixing desk is 19 years old and has recently given up the ghost.

''We have tried very hard to find spares to allow us to carry on but due to its age, this has been impossible. It's like trying to find parts for a 20 year old car.

"We need to raise at least £400 - it might be just a dream but we can hope people will be generous, otherwise I do not know what the future will hold."

Fund-raisers from Radio Pulse will be rattling collecting tins in the foyer of Morrisons supermarket in Redditch on Saturday from 10am-4pm.

Anyone wishing to help can call Mr Waite on 526845.