A REUNION is being staged to mark 40 years since a local radio station was launched.

Radio Tees was launched 40 years ago on June 24 and was relaunched as TFM in 1988, launching the careers of well-known broadcasters including Sky Sports anchor man Jeff Stelling.

Although the station no longer broadcasts from Teesside, it remains on the air and the reunion is being organised by John Foster and Richard Kell who both worked for the station.

"Down the years, former employees have been in touch wondering if there was going to be a reunion and, because we both love the history and heritage of the stations, we decided to go for it," said Richard.

The reunion for former employees will be at the Thistle Hotel, Middlesbrough, on June 19 – details are at www.tfm257.co.uk.

Meanwhile, Teesside broadcaster and radio station owner Mark Page is seeking to put a local commercial radio station back on the Teesside airwaves.

The UK’s broadcast regulator Ofcom is asking interested parties to apply for trials of small scale DAB, the digital radio frequency, and Mr Page – the stadium announcer at Middlesbrough football matches – hopes to win one of the limited number of licences.

He said: “Since TFM moved to Newcastle nearly two years ago, this is the largest area of the UK not served by a local commercial radio station.

“Although it is not the preferred choice of FM, the digital trial is more than feasible and would also be broadcast on the internet and as an app.

Mr Page is looking for investors as Ofcom are encouraging bids with multiple broadcasters.

He can be contacted by email at mark@garrisonfm.com.