Talking news anniversary

It was voiced by 27 readers, instead of the usual four, and was a celebration of its 35th anniversary.

Studio co-ordinator Alan Chalkly said: “Volunteers who’re usually involved in the editing or distribution teams had a go at reading. It gave them a chance to meet each other and pass on hints and tips.

“With some readers having very little experience and others many years, there were lots of laughs and stories shared over tea and cake.”

Veteran volunteer audio engineer Barry Symonds, 73, of Houghton Regis added: “It was a big logistical challenge as we had never tried anything like this before.

“But everyone worked together to create something unique and special.”

The Talking Newspaper is put together once a week. It consists of a 90 minute audio tape (soon to be available on a USB memory stick) with stories drawn from all sections of the papers.

It was started in 1976 with the aim of providing local news to those with visual impairments and became part of Sight Concern Bedfordshire in 1999.

It now has 50 dedicated volunteers and 150 enthusiastic listeners.

SCB community support worker Mark Chapman said: “The Talking Newspaper is a much loved service that allows people to remain part of the community by being aware of what’s going on in the town around them. Many have been receiving it for years and don’t hesitate to call if their tapes haven’t turned up on time.”

Loyal listener Sheila Aitcheson, 79, said: “The anniversary recording was lovely. All the different readers made it very interesting.”

> To learn more call 01582 457003.