Joe Patricks: From Radio Waves to Community Advocacy
Joe Patricks has carved out a remarkable career in radio presenting, beginning his journey at the tender age of 17. His first foray into the world of broadcasting was as a disc jockey at TramTracks in Royton, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for connecting with audiences through music and conversation. Over the years, Joe has built an impressive portfolio that includes stints at Piccadilly Radio for nearly eight years and a further five years at Magic 828 Lees, where he hosted a popular Saturday breakfast show.
A Versatile Career in Broadcasting
Joe’s experience in radio is not just limited to presenting. He also served as an assistant producer and programme assistant for BBC Manchester for six years, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the broadcasting industry. His talents extended beyond radio, as he spent around a decade working as a TV extra, appearing in various productions and further enriching his experience in the entertainment sector.
Despite his extensive background in media, Joe has recently transitioned into a new phase of life—semi-retirement in Blackley. This change has allowed him to reflect on his career and engage more actively with his local community.
Advocating for Local Customers
In a recent turn of events, Joe has taken on the role of a community advocate, calling attention to an issue affecting local shoppers at the Morrisons store in Chadderton. For over two weeks, all three cash machines at the supermarket were out of order, displaying a frustrating error message indicating that no cash was available. This situation has caused significant inconvenience for customers who prefer to use cash for their in-store purchases.
Joe expressed his concerns, stating, "This is a great inconvenience for customers who use cash in-store. It’s a reason not to shop at Morrisons until this is fixed." His comments highlight a growing trend in retail where some stores are moving towards cashless transactions, a shift that can alienate customers who rely on cash.
The Response from Morrisons
In response to Joe’s complaints, he reached out to Morrisons’ head office in Bradford. He was informed that staff were working with Note Machine to resolve the issue but could not provide a timeline for when the cash points would be operational again. Joe was told that the machines were not dispensing cash due to a "security issue," raising questions about the reliability of cash services in the store.
As of September 24, there was a glimmer of hope as one cash machine appeared to be functioning again. However, Joe noted that Morrisons had installed more self-service machines, with only a few accepting both cash and card payments. "It seems like they could have made all of them capable of accepting cash," he remarked, emphasizing the need for more inclusive payment options.
A Commitment to Community Engagement
Joe Patricks’ journey from radio presenter to community advocate illustrates the importance of staying engaged with local issues, even in semi-retirement. His proactive approach to addressing the cash machine problem at Morrisons reflects a broader concern for customer convenience and accessibility in retail environments.
As he continues to navigate this new chapter in his life, Joe remains a voice for the community, ensuring that the needs of local shoppers are heard and addressed. His dedication to advocating for customers serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have in fostering positive change within their community.
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In conclusion, Joe Patricks exemplifies the spirit of community engagement, leveraging his extensive background in broadcasting to advocate for the needs of local residents. His journey serves as an inspiration for others to take an active role in their communities, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard.