THE tension was palpable as I was ushered into the waiting room.

While I had arrived feeling quite relaxed, I found it impossible not to pick up on the nervous energy emanating from the dozen-or-so wannabe radio stars who had responded to adverts on radio station, Century FM.

During the previous two weeks, the breakfast show had invited people to submit demo tapes, leave recorded messages, and then, ultimately, to attend one of two auditions to prove they can cut the mustard when it comes to broadcasting.

For the winner, the prize on offer is a week as a presenter with Paul "Goffy" Gough and the breakfast show team.

Chris McLone, 29, of Norton, near Stockton, Teesside, hopes it will lead to a fulltime presenting career.

"I've been wanting to get into radio for about ten years," he said.

"I'm a volunteer presenter for hospital radio, as stations are not willing to take people on from scratch."

A-level student Sarah Knapper, 17, from Peterlee, County Durham, doubted she had the confidence to audition, but was reassured when her demo tape was used on the air.

"I've wanted to do this since I was 13," she said. "I've always been chatty and friendly, and I think that's what you need."

In a gesture of solidarity, I underwent the audition - an interview, a test broadcast, and comments before and after on how I felt.

The panel of five, including Goffy, was a little intimidating, but, overall, I felt my performance was respectable.

However, unlike my fellow entrants, I think I will leave presenting to the likes of Zoe Ball.

Auditions will be held at Newcastle Posthouse Hotel, 12.30pm -6.30pm on Easter Sunday, after which the winner will be announced.

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