INTERNET-based community radio station The Cat is on the prowl for even more listeners after receiving help with running costs.

The Cat – officially known as Crewe and Nantwich Community Radio Society – has already built up an audience of thousands of listeners who tune in regularly to its shows.

It hopes to reach a wider audience next year after applying for an FM frequency with a decision on its bid for a five-year licence due from Ofcom in February.

Now the society has received a grant of £1,430 from Cheshire Community Foundation to help towards rent, web server rental, insurance, telephone and broadband service for its studios in Market Street, Crewe.

The station has a 24-hour broadcast schedule and is run by volunteers who compile community news and features aimed at people in Crewe, Nantwich and beyond.

It also acts as a training ground for budding journalists and presenters with students from schools and South Cheshire College undertaking eight-week placements.

Chris Radford, chairman of the Radio Society, said: “We’re extremely grateful to Cheshire Community Foundation for its support and hopefully The Cat will become even more accessible if we can broadcast on an FM frequency as well as the internet.

“The Cat is about serving the community, through its news, travel and other information, together with a great blend of music, including local artists.”

The Cat – the nickname is from its Cheshire links – is the latest group to receive a grant from Cheshire Community Foundation, a charity which supports community projects. Almost £500,000 has been distributed through funds raised by the generosity of donors since the Foundation was set up nearly two years ago.”

The Foundation awards grants quarterly to not-for-profit groups such as charities, community groups and social enterprises though applications up to £1,000 are assessed monthly.

For more details call Cheshire Community Foundation on 01606 330607 or email grants@cheshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk