PRESENTING the Action Line bulletins on BBC Radio York was a triumph for 37-year-old Paul Bond.

Until January this year, he would not have been able to do it because of a stammer which prevented him from even ordering a take-away.

But, thanks to therapy at the local Starfish Project, he has learned breathing techniques which helped him to combat his impediment.

Now, there is barely a trace of hesitation in his voice and Mr Bond, of Copmanthorpe, near York, celebrated by presenting on his local BBC station this week.

"We have been running an initiative called Surprise Yourself, which encourages people to try to achieve something," said producer Neil Foster.

And, although Mr Bond was nervous, he is hoping that his example may offer hope to other stammerers.