The ITC (Independent Television Commission) are currently inviting applications for Manchester's Restricted Service Licence. This is a free local channel, available to any viewers in the Manchester area on a normal television set. While it is currently being operated by "Channel M", we intend to propose an alternative non-profit making station that puts the local community right at the centre of its content.
Around the Manchester area there are many community groups which need proper access to the media. There are also many independent media groups actually making films and documentaries with the community and for the community with nowhere to show them. The challenge has to be to open up the airwaves, give television back to its users and to produce content that is impossible to ignore. Access to this new station will be the key to its success. The proposers aim to train anyone who wants to get involved to help run the station. This could be anything from using a camera to editing, presenting, directing or scriptwriting. People will be given the tools to tell their stories, highlight issues or showcase their art. This will be real reality tv - informing, educating, entertaining and exciting, blossoming from the grass roots of Manchester society
If you think that the new tv station is a good idea we urge you to write a letter of support to us as soon as possible. The application to the ITC which green lights the station is due in on April 30th. We would like to shower them with 2000 positive letters to show that Manchester wants and needs this station. It won’t happen unless you help us to build it.
Please send your messages to: Manchester Community TV Station, 40 Vine Street, Manchester M7 3PG or email stephen.kingston@virgin.net
Stephen Kingston (stephen.kingston@virgin.net)