Apple FM marks a New Chapter with their Studio Launch from a historic local location

Saturday 5 September 2026 will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most significant days in Apple FM’s recent history.

Having broadcast to listeners under various names for more than 55 years, and serving as a fully-fledged community radio station since 2013, Apple FM officially began a new era when it switched broadcasting operations from its long-time home in the Duchess building at Musgrove Park Hospital to its new headquarters at historic Ina’s Cottage.

At exactly 10am, the station’s output was transferred from the old studio, where Apple FM had been based for the past 26 years, to the newly renovated studio in the heart of Taunton town centre. The move marked the culmination of months of planning and hard work by a dedicated team of volunteers.

The relocation journey began earlier this year when Apple FM was informed that changing clinical requirements at Musgrove Park Hospital meant the station would need to vacate its studio facilities. A public appeal launched in January generated several generous offers from local businesses, but one opportunity stood above the rest. The management team at Mambo offered the use of Ina’s Cottage, a Grade II listed building dating from the late 18th/19th century and formerly serving as a gatehouse for Taunton Castle. It’s based within the vibrant Mambo complex.

What followed was a remarkable seven-month transformation project. Led by Project Manager Phil Hodgson-Purves, a committed team of volunteers worked tirelessly to convert the historic building into a state-of-the-art broadcasting centre while preserving its unique heritage and character. The result is a facility that successfully blends centuries of local history with modern broadcasting technology. Phil said the relocation is “the end of an era, but the beginning of an exciting new journey.”

Launch day itself was every bit the celebration the occasion deserved. Throughout the day, Apple FM presenters took to the microphones from the new studio, using the new facilities and equipment for the very first time. Special programmes reflected on the station’s heritage while looking ahead to an exciting future, creating an atmosphere of pride and achievement across the schedule. Managing Director Greg Perkins said the launch “was a proud moment for everyone involved. We’re excited for what comes next and grateful for the support our community has shown throughout this transition.”

The weather also played its part. Warm and dry conditions allowed volunteers, presenters, former members and supporters to gather in the cottage’s garden throughout the day. The outdoor celebrations provided an opportunity for well-wishers to see the new home first-hand and recognise the tremendous effort that had gone into making the move possible.

Listeners were also treated to more than just a new studio. The launch introduced a fresh new sound for Apple FM, featuring updated programming formats, refreshed presentation styles and a brand-new jingle package. Together, these changes gave the station a modern and energetic identity while retaining the community-focused ethos that has remained at the heart of Apple FM for decades.

More than simply a change of address, the move to Ina’s Cottage represents a landmark moment for the station. It demonstrates the resilience, determination and community spirit that have enabled Apple FM to continue broadcasting for over half a century. By securing a unique home in the centre of Taunton, the station has placed itself in an excellent position to serve local listeners for many years to come.

As the celebrations came to a close and regular programming resumed, there was a clear sense among everyone involved that this was not the end of a journey, but the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Apple’s new home may have roots stretching back more than 200 years, but on launch day the future of Apple FM felt brighter than ever.

Here’s to the next chapter of community radio in Taunton.