A SOUTH Essex radio station has been recognised at the national Community Radio Awards.

The Gateway 97.8 community station won a gold award for ‘Newcomer of the Year’ with presenter Ian Campfield.

The awards ceremony was held in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, alongside the UK Community Radio Network conference.

Ian said: "I was so shocked to win this award. I’m genuinely humbled. Thank you to everybody who has listened to my show and supported me.”

Martin Steers, awards chair, said: "The recognition for award name is well deserved, and we hope it recognises their success, and encourages others to engage, represent and support their communities.

"We've been running the awards now for eight years, and as ever the standard is immense, and our judges have a really tricky job"

“Organisations like Gateway 97.8 have proven their value at the heart of their local areas."

The Community Radio Awards, now in their eighth year, is a national programme open to all Ofcom-licenced community radio stations in the UK.

More than 300 entries were received from stations across the country. For more information please contact editor@gateway978.com