COWLING based community radio Drystone FM has been recognised in the first ever national community radio awards.

The station won top prize in the sound and marketing category, while volunteer presenter P J Hitchcock, was a runner up in the young presenter of the year.

The 17 year old, from Burnley, hosts a one hour evening show on Fridays which features news and a range of music to kick start the weekend.

“I'm honoured and thrilled, I didn't expect it at all and I'm so grateful of the work and time other volunteers have put in to support me in my development at the station," he said.

Community radio stations from across the country gathered at the first ever ceremony in Birmingham, which celebrated the commitment and service which not-for-profit radio stations provide in their local areas.

Drystone FM was crowned the best in the country for the Sound and Marketing category with judges commending it on being 'very representative of the semi-rural area and the people in it'.

Founder and Drystone station manager David Adams said everyone was delighted with the success.

"Our volunteers make this a great station and it is really fantastic their commitment is recognised. We actively encourage involvement from a wide range of local people of all ages and interests, and believe it is a great media channel to bring our community together”.

The station reaches out to more than 60,000 listeners across South Craven and the Dales. It provides a 24 hours a day service, featuring music, news and chat. Former Drystone sports presenter, Dan Ellison Bates, recently graduated with a first class honours degree in broadcast journalism.