AN axed radio presenter has invited his old bosses to take him back following growing calls for his reinstatement.

BBC Radio Cleveland presenter Alan Wright's contract is not being renewed at the end of the month.

The news came as "a total and inexplicable surprise'' to the 55-year-old, who said he was upset that he had not been allowed to go on air to bid farewell to listeners.

Yesterday, up to 40 pensioners, demonstrated in protest at the decision outside the studios of Radio Cleveland, in Middlesbrough.

Mike Findley, secretary of the Cleveland Pensioners' Convention Forum, said that the BBC's reason for dispensing with Mr Wright's services actually justified the call for his reinstatement.

Mr Findley said an e-mail he received from the BBC explained that the decision was taken in the best interests of the station, the staff and licence payers.

"If you are acting in the best interests of the station, you don't get rid of your star player,'' said Mr Findley.

Reacting to the demonstration, Mr Wright said: "I am very touched by it.

"People at the station itself have told me they have never known a reaction like this.

"I still think there is time for the BBC to put it right.''

Mr Wright's move from the station's mid-morning programme about a year ago led to a 38 per cent fall in ratings.

He said the BBC had received numerous messages of support for him.

The BBC previously said that the decision was taken because it wanted to nurture in-house talent.

Yesterday a spokesman declined to comment on the pensioners' protest.