John Beesley

From an early age radio has played an important role in John’s life. Growing up in a military family in the 1960s, listening to news and programmes on the radio provided a connection to life in the UK, wherever his family were posted. It was during this time that John, who was born with low vision, heard about British Wireless for the Blind Fund through the charity’s annual on-air fundraiser broadcast by forces radio station BFBS. 

Later, while attending a school for people living with sight loss in the UK, John met a friend whose father had received an adapted radio from BWBF. “Like me he was an avid listener, and we had many lively conversations about the things he’d heard on that set.” These formative experiences sparked John’s passion for audio and politics - two interests that went on to shape his future. 

John studied social and political sciences at Cambridge University where he also began contributing to a newly launched independent local radio station. After graduating, he joined the station full-time as a trainee journalist, later becoming a producer and presenter. This early newsroom experience laid the foundations for a long and successful broadcasting career. 

Over the next four decades, John worked in both commercial radio and at the BBC, with roles at the World Service and Radio 4’s Westminster Hour. Since retiring in 2019, he has remained active in the audio world, volunteering with local radio and podcasting projects. 

As a Trustee, John brings not only his vast knowledge of radio and empathy from his own experience of living with low vision, but also a thoughtful, analytical approach, shaped by his understanding of how systems and organisations operate, and a keen interest in people and their aspirations.  

Outside of his professional work, John enjoys singing and performs with amateur choirs and barbershop quartets. He also keeps busy with reading, theatre trips, countryside walks, and has recently begun piano lessons.