The team behind Vectis Radio’s 4Ps Radio Training School is celebrating after the Isle of Wight project was crowned winner of the Community Group Award at BBC Radio Solent’s Make a Difference Awards 2026.
Based at Vectis Radio in Newport, the 4Ps project was recognised for its work helping young Islanders develop their communication skills, confidence and self-esteem through radio broadcasting.
BBC Radio Solent presenters Katie Martin and Rick Jackson presented the award during a ceremony at the Utilita Bowl in Southampton on Tuesday.
For more than 13 years, 4Ps has given young people opportunities to learn about Presenting, Production, Podcasting and Promotion – the ‘4 Ps’ – alongside interviewing and broadcasting skills.
The project aims to provide a supportive environment in which young people can build confidence and overcome barriers.
It was selected from hundreds of nominations considered by local judges, with the Community Group Award recognising people who have helped change the lives of others within their community.
Ian Mac, from Vectis Radio, has said:
“It’s all about the youngsters. They’re the ones who are achieving every day.
Article continues below this advertisement “We just put the project together 13 years ago, and they are following it to the letter. They’re the real winners here.”
The award also recognises the contribution of the team, volunteers, supporters and organisations which have helped the Newport-based project continue its work.
4Ps student Leisha Lang has said:
“Massive congratulations, Vectis Radio, and super exciting. I appeared on the VT.
“I’m so lucky and grateful to be a part of an incredible project and to be part of the most wonderful radio team on the Isle of Wight.”
Vectis Radio 4Ps Trustee Kelvin Currie was among those celebrating the success.
Kelvin has said:
“It was an honour to be in the same room with so many deserving people and causes. Every one of them was a worthy winner and had been selected from a huge number of nominations.
“For the 4Ps to be awarded overall winner in our category was truly amazing.”
Kelvin also thanked the organisations supporting the project’s courses and travel, including the Isle of Wight Council, Sovereign Network Group and Red Funnel Ferries.
He added:
“The courses would not happen without this support.”
4Ps Patron Graham Biss BEM DL said the award was also recognition for the Isle of Wight.
Graham has said:
“It was great to see Vectis Radio’s 4PS project and the Island recognised at the BBC Radio Solent’s Make a Difference Awards.
“Winning the community group award against such stiff competition is a real achievement and something to celebrate. Congratulations to Ian and the Vectis Radio team. We are proud of you.”
The success adds to previous recognition for Vectis Radio’s community work, with the station having received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and being named Community Radio Station of the Year at the ARIAS.
The BBC Radio Solent Make a Difference Awards featured 8 categories, with winners from across Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.
Other winners included fundraisers, volunteers, young people and community groups, but it was the Island’s 4Ps project that took home the Community Group Award – putting the work of its young people and volunteers in the regional spotlight.
