PEOPLE living on Oxford’s largest estate are set to be given a voice after their community radio station won a five-year broadcast licence.

Blackbird Leys-based radio station OX4 FM will hit the airwaves next year on a new FM frequency – and people across the city can tune in.

Regulator Ofcom granted the community radio licence – the first in Oxfordshire – after three pilot broadcasts over the past two years.

The station will be able to provide permanent round-the-clock music and entertainment, as well as an avenue for the community to discuss issues and provide information.

Bosses at the station say financial backing and more volunteers will be needed to make the station a success.

Community radio is the third tier of radio in the UK, alongside the BBC and commercial radio. So far, Ofcom has awarded 215 radio licences.

At the moment, people can only listen through OX4’s website, but people will be able to tune in next year.

Station co-director David Norland, 35, of Evenlode Tower, Blackbird Leys, said: “A lot of work has been going on to get to this point and it’s the result we have been hoping for.

“It’s going to be a totally new station for the area and quite unlike the other stations because it’s going to be run by and for people in East Oxford.”

The not-for-profit station is currently based at Jubilee Hall in Sorrel Road, Blackbird Leys, but new premises have been found at the Youth and Community Centre – although cash is needed to rebuild the studio and equipment.

Mr Norland said: “It will also be an opening for local music and artists and anyone who wants to get involved.

“It will be a focus for the community, who will have a sense of ownership over it. We have got exciting material and I hope we can provide a real alternative to what else is on the air.”

Presenter and co-director Geno Humphrey, of Iffley, Oxford, said the station had attracted 5,000 listeners online during a month-long broadcast in March last year.

Drive-time presenter Dan Gill, 40, from Blackbird Leys, said: “It means we will be able to give a voice to the local people of OX4. It’s what the community wants to hear.”

Last night residents welcomed the news.

Laura Roper, 20, of Pegasus Road, said: “I listened to it before, it’s great news. It’s got good music for the younger generation.”

Pensioner Michael Rawlings, 74, of Sawpit Road, added: “It’s definitely good news, that’s the sort of thing we need.

“I would like a radio station that reflects all aspects of Blackbird Leys life, not just one little section.”

Wood Farm resident Pete Bonney, of Nuffield Road, agreed: “Local radio is just the sort of thing people like listening too.”