A SOUTH-Essex community station has been recognised at the 2023 Community Radio Awards. 

The gold award for Newcomer of the Year was presented to Ian Campfield of Basildon-based Gateway 97.8, the culmination of an intensive judging process to recognise those producing great quality content and engaging with their communities. 

The awards ceremony was held in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, alongside the UK Community Radio Network conference. 

Afterwards Ian said: "I was so shocked to win this award. I'm genuinely humbled. Thank you to everybody who has listened to my show and supported me."

Martin Steers, awards chair, said: "The recognition for award name is well deserved, and we hope it recognises their success, and encourages others to engage, represent and support their communities.

"We've been running the awards now for eight years, and as ever the standard is immense, and our judges have a really tricky job" 

"Organisations like Gateway 97.8 have proven their value at the heart of their local areas."