THE charismatic helmsman of Darlington's Alpha 103.2 radio station has announced he is moving on after less than two years in charge.

Graham Ledger's short stint as managing director of Alpha has seen him transform the station into a vibrant and popular broadcasting service for Darlington and its surrounding communities.

Yesterday, 45-year-old Mr Ledger, who lives in the North-East with his wife and three children, said he would be sad to leave the station.

He said: "I've had a wonderful time at Alpha and I have some very fond memories, but I felt it was right for me to go, and right for the station.

"However I'm so proud of what we have managed to achieve, and the enthusiasm that everyone has shown has made it possible for us to become the top station in Darlington."

Mr Ledger is renowned for his enthusiastic attitude to broadcasting.

During his career he has acted, interviewed the Army's White Helmets motorcycle display team while perched at the top of a moving human pyramid, made a parachute jump with the Red Devils parachute team, and recently took part in a fire-breathing stunt.

He will be leaving to start his new job as head of programming for five radio stations in Wales and the North-West at the beginning of next month.

Mr Ledger said: "I've always been noted for my enthusiasm, and I will keep a close eye on the future of Alpha.

"I hope it can grow from the first division into the premier league over the next few years."