Civic Pride and Sonic Energy: Burton’s Community Shines on the Snoozy Breakfast Show
Mayor Cllr Kim Smith BEM celebrates unity and unsung heroes, as Sonic Boom Festival and local businesses energise Burton’s future.
By Scott Milligan
A packed studio, a parade of inspiring guests, and a powerful message of community spirit set the tone for Thursday’s edition of The Snoozy Breakfast Show on Burton Radio. Hosted live from the Brewhouse Arts Centre, the broadcast featured newly elected Mayor of East Staffordshire Cllr Kim Smith BEM, Sonic Boom Festival organisers, and representatives from local businesses ORS and Trustist — all sharing stories that highlighted a vibrant, supportive Burton.
Mayor’s Civic Service: “It was the people’s day.”
Mayor Cllr Kim Smith BEM, joined by Councillor Sharon Fox, reflected on the warmth and diversity of her recent Mayoral Civic Service.
Smith’s path to becoming mayor has been shaped by years of hands-on service to the community. A well-known figure in Winsill and beyond, she has championed countless causes through her work with the local lunch club, support for Caribbean elders, and tireless involvement in grassroots fundraising. Kim has also been instrumental in coordinating food parcel deliveries during the pandemic, mentoring young leaders, and advocating for inclusive civic engagement. Her compassion, commitment and authenticity have made her a respected voice across East Staffordshire.
“I wanted to invite people who wouldn’t usually go to an event like that. It was about the community. People from all walks of life — friends, family, charities — came together. There were hugs and tears. That’s what it’s all about.”
She has played a pivotal role in connecting residents with local services, standing up for underrepresented groups, and ensuring the voices of minority communities are heard at council level. Through her work setting up advice centres, launching youth engagement projects, and supporting drug prevention initiatives in Winshill, Kim has consistently demonstrated what servant leadership looks like in action. Her appointment as mayor is not only well deserved, but a landmark moment for inclusivity and representation in local government.
From former schoolmates to dignitaries, the service was a celebration of inclusion. Local charities including St. Giles Hospice, Farm Fresh Revolution, and the Snowdrop Suite were spotlighted as Smith’s chosen causes for the year, each one reflecting her belief in grassroots impact.
Sonic Boom: Music, Mentorship and Momentum
Chris Baldwin from the Sonic Boom Festival spoke alongside Matt Black and young drummer Conall, a standout graduate of the festival’s education programme. “Sonic Boom is about creating a local music ecosystem,” Baldwin explained. “From photography and sound to stage management and performance, there’s a place for everyone.”
Conall, who went from participant to performer, shared his experience of meeting one of his musical heroes — Nathan from The K’s — and even getting to play his drum kit during a live show. “It was amazing. He remembered me afterwards too,” he said.
This year’s programme continues to offer opportunities to young creatives aged 15–25, with training, mentorship, and stage experience all part of the journey. The full festival lineup, now announced, includes a special BBC Introducing showcase at the Brewhouse, Burton Radio Live Stage at the Market Hall, and a wristband-access night across town.
Conall also received a heartfelt mention at the end of the show for his courage in speaking live on air, despite his struggles with anxiety. His openness and enthusiasm were a testament to the empowering potential of creative spaces like Sonic Boom, where young people are supported to grow in confidence as well as skill.
Conall (2nd left)
ORS & Trustist: Business With Purpose
The final segment of the show welcomed Chloe and Laura from Office Recycling Solutions (ORS), a business as passionate about sustainability as it is about second-hand furniture. They highlighted their charity partnerships with the YMCA and their drive to keep quality furnishings out of landfill.
Meanwhile, Matt Black from Trustist offered sharp insight into how local businesses can thrive by turning customer reviews into marketing gold. “If you only do one thing differently this year — collect reviews,” he advised. “It legitimises everything and boosts visibility.”
As ever, the show was an insightful snapshot of Burton’s best qualities: creative talent, generosity of spirit, and a willingness to lift each other up.
Burton Echo’s print edition featuring this story lands in Burton-Upon-Trent August 16, with the online version available the same day at burtonecho.co.uk.
For more information:
Sonic Boom Festival: www.sonicboomfestival.co.uk
ORS UK (Office Recycling Solutions): www.orsuk.com
Trustist: www.trustist.com
Burton Radio: www.burtonradio.co.uk
St. Giles Hospice: www.stgileshospice.com
Farm Fresh Revolution: www.farmfreshrevolution.org
Have a positive community story to share? Email Tom Drysdale at tom.drysdale@burtonecho.co.uk, and we’ll do our best to bring it to life!
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