A hospital radio station has received some much-needed equipment a year after the death of one of its most dedicated volunteers.

Former programme controller at Valley Park Radio (VPR), David Reynolds, died from complications arising from a rare cancer last December.

The 38-year-old, who worked in the menswear department at John Lewis in Bluewater, had been a hospital radio volunteer for 25 years.

The company used its Community Matters scheme to raise £8,500 in honour of the well-liked member of staff, allowing shoppers to donate in-store using green tokens.

The refitted studio, at Darent Valley Hospital in Dartford, will now benefit from a new mixer - used to produce shows - and has been dedicated to David’s memory.

Chairman Phil Murfin, 54, of West Street, Gravesend, has been volunteering at the station for around eight years.

He said: “We’ve had some equipment since we were at Joyce Green (former Dartford hospital), and we’ve been at Darent Valley since 2000.

“We provide all money through our crew of volunteers, and we’ve been trying to save some for a couple of years.

“Alongside John Lewis, we received donations from organisations like Dartford council, Bluebird Care Gravesend, Aviva and through collections at the hospital.” Mayor of Dartford Cllr David Mote opened the new studio on Thursday, November 29, watched by David’s parents, Ruth and Kelvin Reynolds.

Mrs Reynolds said: “We are honoured that the VPR team, led by chairman Phil Royce Murfin, has acknowledged David’s significant contribution to hospital radio in Dartford.

“VPR is also grateful to John Lewis, Bluewater, for their very generous contribution of £8,500 to the David Reynolds’ Memorial Fund.

“This, together with other donations, has enabled the purchase of the new broadcasting equipment which is now streaming live over the internet as well as being heard by patients.

“What a legacy for David, who was a talented pianist too.

“There is also now a piano in the Place to Eat at John Lewis, Bluewater bearing the inscription ‘Music defines me’ in memory of David.

“Do pop in to see it and, if you can play, why not have a tinkle.”

Thanks to the new equipment, listeners can now tune in to VPR on the internet by clicking here.