BUDDING broadcasters at a Padiham school are taking to the airwaves next month when they launch their own radio station.

Class FM will be broadcasting on 87.7FM from Gawthorpe High School after being issued a temporary radio licence by OFCOM.

The radio presenters, producers and technicians of the future have been learning the ropes during a three-week intensive training course.

They have been learning the ropes with the help of 2BR founder and broadcaster, David Blaxhall.

Students have been shown how to operate studio equipment, project themselves on air, read scripts and interview guests.

Test transmissions start on Sunday, May 9, and the station will be officially launched on Monday, May 10. Pupils will be on air from 8am to 6pm on Monday and Tuesday.

Pupils are currently planning the programmes that will be broadcast but they will include music, local information, studio guests, weather and travel bulletins and news of events happening in the area.

Ben Read, 15, of Woodgrove Road, will be trying his hand at presenting on Class FM and says he will be basing his style on his favourite DJ, Radio One's breakfast presenter Chris Moyles.

The year 10 pupil said: "We have been learning how to broadcast and how to work the equipment and now we have got to start planning the programmes.

"I am a bit nervous about presenting just in case I make a mess of it. My family and friends are going to tune in and I am making posters to advertise my show.

"I'm not sure whether that would be something I would like to do in the future - I will have to see how it goes."

Deputy headteacher, Heather Mullaney, said, "This exciting project will enhance the students' communication skills, confidence and dexterity.

"Who knows, some of them may move on to become household names in the future! It is also an ideal platform to raise awareness about the school and our activities.