Frome FM Founder Phil Moakes Passes

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Phil was the driving force behind FromeFM, which he founded to give a voice to the people of Frome and the surrounding areas. His passion for storytelling, music and local culture helped shape the station from its humble beginnings in the attic of a cattle market into a vibrant platform for creativity, conversation and connection. As a presenter, producer and mentor, Phil inspired countless contributors to find their voice and share it proudly.

Never one to rest on his achievements, Phil went on to establish Visual Radio Arts, pioneering the fusion of live music and video streaming long before it became commonplace, beating the Foo Fighters' live-streamed concert from Frome by almost a year! Phil turned a small studio in the ground floor of an old fire station into a global stage where local and national acts could shine… always with the best sound, the best lighting, and a heartfelt commitment to quality and authenticity, be it an intimate studio session or a full-band performance.

After a period of illness, Phil stood back from some of the demands of broadcasting but still had that passion for music and had recently begun learning how to play an Eastwood Moonsault “banana moon” guitar.

Phil leaves behind a partner, children and grandchildren but will be missed by entire communities whose lives he touched.

Sleep softly, Phil. Thank you for all that you have given us. Let the music play on.

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