A hospital radio station has celebrated its 60th anniversary with a marathon broadcast.

Radio Horton, which launched in 1964, marked the milestone with a 60-hour programming marathon.

The station, based at Horton General Hospital in Banbury, offers patients and staff entertainment and information.

Radio Horton volunteers Julie Baker and Ann DunnRadio Horton volunteers Julie Baker and Ann Dunn (Image: Harry Rhodes/Tudor Photography/Radio Horton)

It was created by Ted Hanson and Graham Wilton, journalists who wanted to improve patients' hospital experiences.

The celebrations culminated in a live broadcast from the Horton Restaurant on Monday, July 8.

The live show saw presenter Anthony Brown interviewing station president John Craven about the music that shaped his life, with music requests from patients and staff.

John Craven hosts a live broadcast alongside Anthony BrownJohn Craven hosts a live broadcast alongside Anthony Brown (Image: Harry Rhodes/Tudor Photography/Radio Horton)

The Horton Power Choir also put on a performance for the occasion.

Mr Craven said: "Thank you to all the volunteers who make Radio Horton possible.

"Sixty years is an incredible achievement, and it is a testament to your dedication that the station remains strong today."

Volunteers Mel and Chris Kirkpatrick, Anthony Brown, James Hulbert and Tom Wilson received Long Service Awards for 5, 15, 25 and 50 years of service respectively.

Trustee and station engineer, Tom Wilson, celebrates his 50th year with Radio Horton alongside his wife, OlgaTrustee and station engineer, Tom Wilson, celebrates his 50th year with Radio Horton alongside his wife, Olga (Image: Harry Rhodes/Tudor Photography/Radio Horton)

Former volunteers also attended to share in the nostalgia, presenting special programmes about their experiences at Radio Horton.

An exhibition featuring photographs, memorabilia and press clippings along with archived materials, showcased the station’s history.

Some of these will continue to be on display at the Radio Horton studio.

Radio Horton chair of trustees, Sam Smette, said: "We were thrilled to celebrate our 60th anniversary where it all started.

"We wanted to create a special event involving our friends and colleagues from the Horton General Hospital and the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

"Therefore, a live broadcast from a public area of the hospital was essential for this occasion.

An exhibition featuring Radio Horton archived press clippings, photographs and memorabiliaAn exhibition featuring Radio Horton archived press clippings, photographs and memorabilia (Image: Harry Rhodes/Tudor Photography/Radio Horton)

"Radio Horton owes its existence to the incredible support of our volunteer workforce, from presenters to ward volunteers and those behind the scenes.

"To everyone who has ever supported Radio Horton as a volunteer over the past 60 years, including those sadly no longer with us, no matter your contribution, we are grateful for your part in keeping this great organisation thriving."

He also paid tribute to Mr Wilson, saying the station engineers "dedication, mentoring of volunteers, and equipment upkeep are invaluable".

Jamie French from Horton General Hospital Charity added: "The Radio Horton team made me feel so welcome and it was a lovely experience to join in the celebrations marking this very special achievement.

"Volunteers make such a difference in our hospitals, and music and chat can have a really important in supporting patients during difficult times."