Professional Dancer Lauren Oakley Reunited with Old Friend on BHBN Radio

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Press Release

Birmingham 17 August 2025

Fans of Strictly Come Dancing are in for a treat this Bank Holiday Monday, August 25th, as Birmingham born professional dancer Lauren Oakley joins BHBN Radio for an exclusive and deeply personal interview with presenter Andy Caddick.

This special broadcast not only offers an intimate look into the world of Strictly and promises a heartwarming reunion between Oakley and Caddick old family friends who lost touch a number of years ago. Listeners can expect candid revelations as Lauren delves into her inspiring journey to becoming a professional dancer, sharing what ignited her passion and led her to the dance floor.

Beyond her personal story, Oakley talks about her time so far on Strictly Come Dancing. Lauren shares insights into her career path and the passion that drives her to perform at the highest level and reveals insights into the demanding rehearsal process with her celebrity partners, highlighting the immense effort and dedication required.

She shares secrets and untold anecdotes about the show, offering a perspective only a professional dancer can provide. Lauren opens up about navigating life in the spotlight and coping with the intense pressures of media attention.

The interview comes at a critical time for BHBN Radio. For over 70 years, since 1952, BHBN has been a comforting voice for hospital patients and care home residents across Birmingham, Solihull, and now Sandwell, placing their wellbeing at the heart of all its programming.

However, in June 2025, BHBN was informed that its long-standing funding was being withdrawn, leaving the station with only three months’ notice and a significant loss of its major income source. To ensure its vital work continues and remains on air, BHBN Radio urgently needs to raise £15,000 annually to cover its day-to-day operating costs. Every penny donated directly supports the station’s continued broadcast, allowing it to keep providing comfort, companionship, and entertainment to those in hospital and the wider community.

Every £10 donated enables BHBN Radio to broadcast for 6 hours! Every £40 donated helps BHBN Radio broadcast for an entire day!

Tune in to BHBN Radio on Bank Holiday Monday, August 25th between 6-8pm to hear this exclusive interview with Lauren Oakley.

How to Listen: Tune in via the BHBN website at www.bhbn.net, on the BHBN Radio App, or on hospital bedside radio systems where available.

How to Donate: To contribute to BHBN Radio’s urgent fundraising appeal and help keep this essential service on air, please visit https://www.bhbn.net/ or https://gofund.me/a25bbf0b

ABOUT BHBN RADIO

BHBN Radio is a registered charity dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of hospital patients and care home residents across Birmingham, Solihull, and Sandwell. Broadcasting since 1952, BHBN provides a vital service of comfort, information, and entertainment, operated entirely by volunteers. Following recent funding cuts, the station is now appealing for public support to continue its essential work in the community.

Notes to editors

Lauren Oakley from Strictly Comes Dancing is interviewed by Andy Caddick, presenter with BHBN Radio in Birmingham

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