What is the EaRTN?

The Elmbridge and Runnymede Talking Newspaper Association (EaRTN) is a free service providing recorded digests of local newspapers as well as other topics of interest on audio cassette for visually impaired people or those who are unable to read for themselves.

EaRTN produces a Weekly News digest taken from the various editions of "Surrey Herald" and "News and Mail" groups of newspapers in Elmbridge and Runnymede; a Monthly Magazine which contains items of general interest rather than local news; and a weekly digest of the Women's Weekly magazine.

Currently more than 200 people receive EaRTN. The annual circulation of the 90-minute audiocassettes is more than 15,000.

EaRTN is registered with the Charity Commission in England and Wales as charity number 803083.

Who Can Benefit from EaRTN?

Nationwide surveys indicate that only about 25% of blind and visually impaired people who can benefit from talking newspapers currently receive them. There are others who, for various reasons, are unable to read for themselves. They, too, are welcome to receive the EaRTN. It is our objective to reach as many of these people as possible to enhance their lives by being able to keep in touch with what is going on in their community. If you would like to receive our audiocassettes or know of somebody else who might like to please see our Become a Listener page

Who Produces EaRTN?

Our volunteers, who work in informal groups, are responsible for the production of our cassettes, including the selection and recording of the news digests. Local Rotary clubs have supported the project in numerous practical ways, and, most importantly provide the funding for the day-today running expenses. For more details about how we are organised please see our About Us page

Can I help?

First and foremost you can help by spreading the word about the EaRTN to friends, relations and all those who are visually impaired, or unable to read for themselves for whatever reason, who could benefit from our free service as we currently only reach about 25% of those who could benefit from our services.

Secondly, if you are looking for interesting voluntary work, you can help by joining out team of volunteers at the studio at Weybridge Hospital and Primary Care Centre. For more information please see our Become a Volunteer page