DJ Tony is to start his new local radio station

A NEW community radio station is hoping to take to the airwaves this summer, broadcasting from a house in Buckden.

Tony Gilham, who presents the retro records show Gilham Gold on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, is waiting for confirmation for a licence to run Black Cat Radio.

The 56-year-old plans to run the radio station with his partner Judy Gilbert and a team of enthusiastic volunteers.

He told The Hunts Post: "We have the blessing of the BBC, and we want to bring a touch of quality radio to the area.

"We feel that Huntingdon and St Neots have been neglected. This will be a local programme for local people to have their say."

He added: "We are looking for people who would like to make programmes and also people who want to help out behind the scenes. Basically, it's for people who would like to have a go at radio but don't know where to start."

Initially Mr Gilham plans to broadcast Black Cat Radio for four weeks, which is the most its licence will allow.

However, if it is successful, it could return at Christmas.

The station's mast, which was put up without planning consent, generated protests from neighbours.

Mr Gilham started broadcasting 30 years ago with Dale Winton in Colchester,

"Dale always said back then that he was going to be famous. And he was right. He was spotted and went north to present the breakfast show on Radio Tees."

The young Gilham, meanwhile, went to United Biscuits in Isleworth in Middlesex, where he ran a radio programme going out to all its factories in the UK.

He then went on to Radio Orwell in Ipswich and has been with BBC Radio Cambridgeshire for three years.

Gilham Gold, which is the home of sixties music, holds live shows for charity. A live show on March 23 raised cash for charity, including £500 which is to be presented to The Cats Protection League this week.

INFORMATION: Anyone who wants to be involved with Black Cat Radio should contact Tony Gilham or Judy Gilbert on 01480 819062 or email tg@ukfm.com