Chloe Lane

Black Country Radio is a community radio station dedicated to bringing the people of the Black Country together through local news, music, entertainment, sport and community stories. Run by local people, for local people, the station prides itself on supporting the communities it serves and giving a platform to local voices, organisations, charities and businesses. Sport is a particularly important part of its output, with live match commentary, local football and rugby coverage, and a commitment to shining a spotlight on grassroots sport and the teams that make the region special.

My journey with Black Country Radio began while I was at university, when I first got involved in volunteering and started developing my experience in sports reporting. What began as an opportunity to gain experience alongside my studies has grown into a real passion and something I've continued to dedicate my time to. Through Black Country Radio, I've had the opportunity to cover a range of non-league football fixtures, reporting on matches and helping bring local football to a wider audience. I've also been fortunate enough to take on opportunities beyond regular match reporting, including commentating at the Wolves Women cup final against Stourbridge at Molineux, where I was the only female member of the reporting team, and being invited to report at West Bromwich Albion for a men's first-team fixture. Being part of Black Country Radio has given me opportunities to develop my confidence, build my skills and experience football in ways I wouldn't have imagined when I first started. It's also allowed me to be part of a team that shares a genuine commitment to grassroots sport and giving local clubs the coverage they deserve. I think the impact of Black Country Radio's sports coverage is particularly important. Non-league clubs are at the heart of so many communities, with players, volunteers and supporters putting so much into their teams. By reporting on fixtures, sharing results and telling the stories behind the clubs, we help give those people recognition and bring their achievements to a wider audience. I'm proud to have played a part in that over the years. What started as a university volunteering opportunity has developed into something I'm genuinely passionate about, and I'm grateful to Black Country Radio for the opportunities, experience and encouragement along the way.