WANNABE radio presenters can take part in a course to find out what skills are needed go on air.

Ben Weston, Tfm's presenter of the Big Drive Home is to host five, one-hour taster sessions. It is the idea of the Learning and Skills Council Tees Valley and 96.6 Tfm.

A presenter for nine years, Ben said he thinks learning his trade is like learning to drive a car.

"At the beginning it seems impossible but then you learn with practice and start to feel a lot more confident and everything starts to fall into place,'' he said.

"There are an awful lot of things going on and it requires a lot of concentration and it's all about staying ahead of the game."

His mini course, called Behind the Mike, is one of hundreds on offer throughout the summer.

The short courses, which normally last up to two hours, give learners the opportunity to try something interesting or different.

To reserve a place on the introduction to radio course, or to attend any learning centre, call the booking line on 0800 1385 513 between 8am and 8pm, from Monday to Friday.