The Guide
Lynda turns radio presenter during lockdown
Former languages teacher Lynda MacDermott, of Cranleigh, has made the most of lockdown by taking on a brand-new role as a radio presenter. Cranleigh Community Radio now attracts hundreds of listeners, all keen to stay connected as social distancing measures continue. Lynda, who supports community initiatives as part of her role for the Co-op, conducts two interviews a week over video chat channel Zoom for the programme, which is broadcast live every Friday morning and available for download on https:// destinationcranleigh.net/ radio Lynda said: “I was inspired by one of my former students, who now hosts a morning radio show in the Netherlands. After suggesting the idea to Martin Bamford, CEO of local marketing agency Bamford Media, who has the technical knowhow, we were soon online and up and running.” Lynda’s interviewees include heads of local causes, young people from her community, teachers, paramedics and small businesses operating across Cranleigh, all as part of a bid to share how the pandemic is affecting the village. She even spoke with her granddaughter from Hong
Kong on air, to understand more about the effects of coronavirus in the far east. Lynda said: “I’m delighted to be part of a platform for so many people locally. It helps us all feel connected but also understand how we can support each other right now, especially charities and small businesses.” Russell Gill, head of co-operative & local engagement at Co-op said: “We’re beyond proud of what Lynda’s doing in the community. Co-operation is an important part of everything we do, and this is a great example. Co-op Member Pioneers and Member Pioneer Coordinators engage with people across their local community.”