A NEW Worcester radio school, believed to be the first of its kind in the Midlands, is set to open to students this autumn.

The new school is the brainchild of Muff Murfin, the well known city-based entrepreneur, who is aiming to "create the newsreaders and presenters of the future here in Worcestershire".

The school is to be based at a building at Offerton Farm, which was previously a Classic Gold radio studio and now features refurbished studios and teaching facilities.

Mr Murfin, the owner of Youthcomm Radio and Sunshine Radio, said: "Many young people are leaving colleges and universities with degrees and diplomas in broadcasting - but they are very often not readily equipped with the practical skills.

"Until now, at Youthcomm, we have taught on a one-to-one basis with very successful results. Many of the students that have worked with us are now working in television and large radio stations.

"Our radio school will have its own online radio station, so that students can broadcast from the start of their training. If necessary, we will help with improving their basic maths and English. Maths is essential when it comes to timing music and programming the automation. English is also a basic requirement for the writing of news stories and interviews.

"We will be linking Sunshine Radio and Youthcomm Radio, giving students more practical experience as they improve and grow in confidence."

Mr Murfin said the students will be divided into two units and trained in all aspects of radio during their course.

One unit will be learning how to gather and record news and prepared ready for broadcasting, while a second group learns presentation and is trained how to select music, interview and present programmes.

Students looking to register for the course, which is set to begin in September, can email Mr Murfin at muffmurfin@btconnect.com.

Mr Murfin said: "The music played will be totally different to that of Sunshine and Youthcomm, because it will be broadcasting alternative genres of music. Although many bands record at our Old Smithy Recording Studios in Kempsey and MAS records in Kidderminster, their music is very rarely aired on radio. To rectify this, we will be interviewing the bands and generally promoting young musicians within the county."

Mr Murfin added he was now looking for an ex-radio presenter to get involved and deliver practical lessons to the young students.