About ImpactLive

Alex Kerr pioneered grassroots digital broadcasting in North Oxfordshire by launching Banbury Internet Radio in 2001 (later evolving into community projects like BanburyLive) and expanding the concept to Bicester in 2012.

His work gave local aspiring DJs and residents a dedicated independent platform before mainstream online streaming was widespread. 

ImpactLive started as Banbury’s first internet radio station back in 1998 before securing a 28-day restricted FM trial license on 106.4 FM starting June 1, 2003.
It featured local volunteers and presenters running regular programming, such as breakfast shows, before concluding its notable local trial broadcasts by mid-2003.
 
Timeline and Key Dates
  • 2002: The broadcasting project began operations as an online platform.
  • March 2003: Announced it was granted a 28-day trial FM broadcast license for the local area.
  • June 1, 2003: Launched its temporary FM broadcast on 106.4 MHz.
  • June 2003: Concluded its active temporary FM operational period. 
Alex Kerr and ImpactLive  are tied to Banbury’s early internet radio and local broadcasting history. In 2002, Alex Kerr helped launch and drive
 
ImpactLive, pioneering online broadcasting from the Colin Sanders Innovation Centre in Banbury before securing a 28-day trial FM local radio license in June 2003. Oxford Mail 
 
History and Broadcasting Roots
  • Pioneering Web Radio: ImpactLive began as one of Banbury’s earliest internet radio ventures, later integrating local volunteer broadcasters and even absorbing long-time hospital radio volunteers from the Horton Hospital. Read
  • The FM Trial (2003): The station broadcasted on 106.4 FM during a high-profile local trial from June 1 to June 28, 2003, giving local residents hands-on media experience. [1]
  • Community Impact: Alex Kerr positioned the project as a genuinely grass-roots alternative to multi-site corporate radio groups, aiming to bring Banbury closer through accessible local programming. Although the project eventually shifted or competed in the evolving local airwaves landscape, it laid foundational groundwork for community radio spirit in the area.  Read