IT was a golden celebration for a radio station as its volunteers cut into an anniversary cake.

On Sunday members and supporters of Radio Cherwell raised a glass to the station to mark its 50th anniversary.

For half a century a team of dedicated volunteers have brought cheer to patients in the county's hospitals.

What started off as a group in an old Nissen hut, has transformed into a well loved station, run by around 80 people.

Ian Pinnell, 27, who got involved with the station as a teenager and now hosts a Saturday show and children's programme, said it was a fitting celebration.

He added: "It was really great and it is such a big milestone for us to achieve.

"I love doing the shows, especially with the children who love when we come in and I think hospital radio has a really positive impact on patients in general.

"I'm also involved with the UK association of hospital radio stations and they did a study that showed in many cases hospital radio can have a real effect in helping recovery."

For more information about the station visit: radiocherwell.com