PATIENTS at three of the region's hospitals enjoy one of the best charity radio stations in the country.

Auckland Hospital Radio, which broadcasts to Bishop Auckland General, Tindale Crescent and Weardale Community hospitals, in County Durham, has won an award.

The service, which is run by volunteers, beat about 200 other hospital radio stations to secure a Highly Commended accolade in the special event category of the national Hospital Radio Awards.

Station manager Craig Robinson said: "We were all thrilled with the award. It was the station's first competition.

"We work hard to provide the most varied, entertaining and informative station we can.

"It is brilliant to win because it acts as recognition to our dedicated volunteers and, hopefully, will encourage even more patients to listen to us."

The prize was awarded for overall service, highlighted by a broadcast from the last garden party at Tindale Crescent Hospital, which is to merge with the new general hospital.

Judges said: "Auckland Hospital radio is an excellent example of the work of hospital radio in the local community.

"Patients served by the station enjoy a range of programmes that really provide a personal and very relevant service for them during their stay in hospital."

The station is set for an even brighter future as a new studio has been created in Bishop Auckland General Hospital, which will open later this summer.

Mr Robinson said: "We will be able to offer a better service for everyone in the children's to the geriatric wards so they never feel bored.

"In the new hospital, we will also be playing in waiting areas and aim to produce more request shows."

To find out more about becoming a hospital radio station volunteer, call (01388) 455453.