Maidenhead Talking Newspaper marks 40-years of reading the headlines

A charity making free audio copies of the Advertiser for visually impaired people has marked 40 years of reading the headlines.

Maidenhead Talking Newspaper produces two editions a month covering the news of four copies of the paper, which are then posted to listeners.

It has just under 40 people who rely on its service to stay informed of news in and around Maidenhead  - but at times has had as many as 100. 

Talking newspaper chairman Diane Hayes, 81, said: “It’s very heartening to know we can keep going, because it’s a really important service for some people.

“We enjoy doing it and know that what we’re providing our listeners with is valuable.”  

The talking newspaper began in 1984 with support from Maidenhead Lions and residents.

Its editions were produced on tapes and distributed to the SL6 area, but as demand increased it widened its reach. After going digital in 2012 it moved on to USBs.

Behind the scenes is a dedicated team of volunteers who work, not just to record and read the paper – but also to help with distribution.

The newspaper’s recording equipment is shared between its team who set up two Friday’s a month, to read and record the Advertiser.

These are then transferred to USBs and posted to listeners.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when volunteers were unable to get together, it reduced its service to a monthly round-up of its news.

However, as restrictions lifted it has been able to get back to reading regularly and there are now some 50 volunteers who help.

“Volunteering is not as it used to be and I can understand why to a great extend people - have time they might want to devote to other things,” Diane added.

“While we can manage we will carry on as long as we can, no matter how many listeners we have.”

Diane has worked with the newspaper for more than 30 years, starting out as a reader with other volunteers from Holyport Women’s institute.

Discussing the stories that have stood out over the years, she said:

“I think the more interesting ones are those involving other charitable organisations who are putting on all sorts of different things over the town and nearby.

“The viewpoint pages are also very useful sometimes - as well as entertaining.

“But of course the stories that people really want to know about is what the council is up to – and that’s been a tremendous job that the Advertiser has done over the years.”

For more information on the talking newspaper and to find out how to receive the service, call 01628 631259 or visit its website.