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Radio Cill Dara commenced regular programmes in March 1978 following teat transmissions, on an announced wavelength of 270 metres medium wave, but using an off-channel crystal cut for 1120.5 kHz. The station was based in Naas in Co. Kildare, but announced a contact address in Newbridge. A mixed music format was broadcast including the latest pop, along with oldies, country and new Irish sounds. Community news and interviews were also featured.
Transmissions were scheduled initially on Sundays from 1000-1800, later extending to Saturdays and Wednesday nights. The staff included ex Radio Dublin DJs Jimmy St Ledger, Johnny Day and Alistair Mac. Radio Cill Dara celebrated its first birthday on 18th February 1979 and as they had never suffered a raid in that first year, they made it a double celebration! The station continued through 1979, but suffered technical problems with the 500-watt transmitter.
It is not clear when transmissions on medium wave finished, but Radio Cill Dara International appeared on 6260 kHz shortwave later in the year. It was logged for example on 28th October. Transmissions were made most Sundays from 1000-1300, but had disappeared by the following year.
The recording is from 4th June 1978 from 1200-1238 and features the end of Johnny Day’s programme followed by Jimmy St Ledger. Thanks to Jimmy for the audio and to Ian Biggar for accompanying text.