Ulster-Scots: A Cultural Broadcast from the Airwaves of Mourne
Fair Fa Ye: A Quaint Tradition in Ulster-Scots Radio
By Julie McCullough
BBC News NI
As the festive season approaches, the airwaves in Mourne come alive with the sounds of Ulster-Scots, a unique and captivating community radio station, Fuse FM Mourne. But what makes this station truly special is its dedication to preserving and promoting the Ulster-Scots language and culture, a heritage that dates back to the 17th-century Scottish migrants.
Fuse FM Mourne, an acronym for Ulster Scots Enthusiasts, has been broadcasting from Reivers House in Kilkeel, County Down, for over a decade. During this time, the mid-morning slot has been a lively affair, hosted by the married couple, Sharon and David Hutchinson, who bring their own dynamic to the show.
David Hutchinson, with his infectious enthusiasm, shares, "People love to hear the station come on, even if it's just for two weeks. It promotes the Ulster-Scots thing big time, I believe, because it gets it out there to everybody."
The show, officially titled "Cool and Canny," is more commonly known as "The Double Trouble Show." Sharon Hutchinson, a passionate advocate for Ulster-Scots, explains, "I just love the language and learning about all our culture and heritage. We talk about blether, drooth, dander, crabbit, gurn, and hoke, and they are all Ulster-Scots words we use daily without realizing it."
The couple's chemistry on air is undeniable, but they don't always see eye to eye. David humorously admits, "We do fall out sometimes, but when it comes to Ulster-Scots, we're in complete agreement."
Their show is a delightful mix of Ulster-Scots words competitions, daily weather forecasts in Ulster-Scots, artist features, recipes, and local poetry. Listeners from around the world tune in, as David reveals, "You throw something on the air, and all of a sudden, the screen lights up with comments. You can't escape FuseFM! It's on the app, the internet, and even loudspeakers in Kilkeel. I have listeners from Canada!"
Roberta Heaney, the Community Development Officer for The Schomberg Society in Kilkeel, highlights the months of preparation that go into making this happen. "Getting the licenses, funding, and training our presenters to be confident in their roles."
The radio station is a powerful tool for promoting the ethos of The Schomberg Society, as chairman Gareth Crozier emphasizes. "It's a great tool, and I've gotten used to it over the years. It's okay for 'Double Trouble; they have each other to talk to, but I have no one, so I'm talking to myself."
Ulster-Scots, a heritage of Scottish migrants, encompasses language, music, and dance. Fuse FM Mourne and its sister station, FUSE FM Ballymoney, broadcasting year-round, are vital in preserving and sharing this rich cultural tradition with the world.
