DARLINGTON'S commercial radio station, Star Radio, has been saved from closure after being bought out at the 11th hour.

Owner UKRD released a statement on its website saying it had reached an agreement with View TV Group to transfer ownership of the radio station.

It had been planning to close within days, but in an interview UKRD chief executive William Rogers said he was open to offers to buy the station.

This led to a number of offers on the table.

Mr Rogers said: “We have been working incredibly hard over the last few days to try and make sure a sale took place which, as far as possible, secures the future of the station and those working there.

“Both the teams from UKRD and View TV have burned the midnight oil to get this done and I’m delighted that a deal has been secured”.

The View TV Group and radio operator Darren Shortt take control of the station today.

View TV Group chairman Jamie Branson said: "We look forward to creating some amazing radio and bringing the area a fun and informative station the region can be very proud of."

Mr Branson's website describes him as a "digital space workaholic and tech investor by day, by night, dog lover, wannabie pool shark, budding chef and serious car fanatic."

He has also launched an online video channel and web portal called OnlyMotors and is interested in property development.