A RADIO station and a regional radio drama have been honoured at an international awards evening held in New York.

The New York Festival’s International Radio Program Awards for The World’s Best Radio Programs recognise the work of stations, networks, and independent producers from around the globe.

Jay Sykes, now a part-time lecturer at the University of Sunderland, claimed the Gold Award for Best Student Radio Drama for his work “Seaburn” about a young woman suffering from the effects of Post-traumatic stress disorder.

He said: “It’s overwhelming, I’m normally excitable but this is at a new level”.

Sunderland University’s own radio station Spark FM achieved the Bronze Award in the Best Student Radio Station category. It’s only the second time the station has been entered in the awards and it’s now been recognised both times.

Richard Berry, Academic Manager for Spark FM, said: “We’re fortunate that the University has invested in radio and media and winning is an endorsement of that support. We have great connections with the industry and I know they are impressed with the station’s output.”

Jay Sykes flew to New York to collect his award in person, and the 22-year-old, who is originally from Huddersfield, is excited about his future in radio.

He added: “This is a big springboard into the future and it was a great chance to meet people in the industry”.