Here at SELECT, we are saddened to hear the news this week that Ian Hickling, a pioneer of community radio, passed away at the age of 85. 

Ian did everything he can to help us and introduce us to the right people to achieve our goals in the license application process.

‘Ian was a pioneer in community radio and was helping people before Select Radio even existed. Ian played a massive part in SELECT achieving our FM license from Ofcom. Following our brief introduction, it felt like we’ve known Ian for years, at the ripe old age of 80 Ian was still climbing on roofs with us helping us with testing and installing vital radio equipment. They don’t make them like Ian no more’

Jon O’Leary (Co-Founder) 

Ian’s passion for radio began as a young boy in the 1950s, captivated by the sounds of distant stations crackling through his parents’ Philco bakelite radio. That moment sparked a lifelong journey into the world of broadcast technology.

Ian's early career saw him serve in the RAF, before moving into pioneering work in piezo-ceramic development with Plessey. But it was in the field of antenna technology, at Jaybeam Aerials in Northampton, where Ian truly found his calling. Describing antenna systems as "black magic," Ian's expertise and innovation in transmission made him a cornerstone of the industry (Revolution Radio)

‘Ian was a good soul with a great sense of humour who was always happy to help and offer advice. His passion for radio shone through and he will be sorely missed. Rest in peace dear fellow’ 

Jake Smith (Technical Director) 

As one half of the Transplan partnership and Co-Founder of Revolution radio in Northampton, Ian provided technical support to Select Radio and over one hundred of the UK’s nearly three hundred community radio stations. His contribution was not just technical but deeply personal—offering knowledge, guidance, and friendship to so many in the community radio world.

The whole team at Select sends our condolences to Ian's wife and loved ones. 

RIP Ian Hickling 1939-2025