THE four-week pilot broadcast of Radio Teesdale has been successfully completed, with the station now ready to proceed to the next step in its development.

Spokesman Terry Willits said the response of the people of Teesdale was overwhelmingly supportive, with a majority feeling it should be given a permanent licence.

"Our questionnaire, although not yet complete, shows enormous support for Radio Teesdale, our presenters and programme content," he said.

The station had its own website and the output was carried over a wider area by this means. By week two of the pilot they were aware that the broadcasts were being received as far away as New Zealand.

The principal objective now is to obtain a permanent licence for Radio Teesdale later this year and to begin broadcasting as a well-established community radio station towards the end of the year.

"In order to make this possible we need help from the local community, in the form of volunteer workers to train to be producers, presenters, technical operators and other forms of support staff," said Mr Willits.

Training will begin at 2pm this Sunday at Enterprise House on Harmire Park in Barnard Castle and will continue until June 27. Each volunteer will be allocated to an experienced member of the existing staff, who will be on hand to give encouragement and advice as the training proceeds.

"Anyone of any age can take part in this exciting development," said Mr Willits.

Those who would like to participate can contact 01833 696750 for further details.