A NORTH-EAST radio station has appointed a chairman to its board.

Bill Midgley, a well-known figure in the North-East business community, starts three years in the Century FM hot-seat from Sunday.

Century, recently acquired by Capital Radio, is the region's biggest radio station, broadcasting from the Scottish borders to Northallerton.

Mr Midgley retired from his position as chief executive of Newcastle Building Society in 1998.

Since then, he has held a number of non-executive roles, becoming president of the North East Chamber of Commerce and chairman of Durham County Cricket Club.

He said: "I am delighted to be involved in what I see as a very dynamic and progressive organisation.

"It has certainly benefited from the investment made by its new owners, making it an exciting time in the development of the station."

He said: "During my term I intend to make sure that Century continues to be the largest station in the region. It has a broad range of listener potential, which is something that is reflected in its programming."

The station is best known for its breakfast presenter Paul "Goffy" Gough and the Three Legends football phone-in, featuring Malcolm Macdonald, Bernie Slaven and Eric Gates.

Head of marketing at Century FM, Lisa Higgins, said: "As we continue to grow and expand, we want to remain part of the culture of the North-East.

"We feel that Bill Midgley is best placed to help us achieve our aims, having lived and worked in the region for over 20 years in addition to his well known involvement in a number of other business areas and charities."