To get a perfect signal:
1-wind radio
2- get a chair
3- stand on chair holding radio
4- hold radio in air
5- lift left leg
6- perfect signal!

Yes, I've had similar problems with the things. Even when the signal's been ok, the charge only lasted for a very short time. Now I use rechargeable batteries, much better. If you feel like splashing out, the 'pure one' digital radio is good, and Roberts do one now that's got about 80 hours running time on 6 rechargeable batteries, or 120 hours if you use it on fm rather than digital.