IT'S all systems go for Otley's first radio station - to be broadcast at the end of this month.

Organisers of Wharfedale FM, which will go out for two weeks, are over the moon after securing a licence from the National Radio Authority.

And now the race is on to sort out programme schedules, recruit presenters and background people and make final arrangements before the station goes on air on Friday, November 30.

The station, which will be based at The Wharfedale Observer offices in Orchard Gate, will be on air during Otley Victorian Fayre and will seek to promote as many community groups and organisations as possible.

Nigel Francis, one of the organisers, said around 20 people had come forward as presenters or helpers. But only one organisation had said it was interested in being featured on air.

"We want to make it a totally community station and we're offering art groups, women's groups and any sort of groups the chance to come on air and talk about themselves, but so far only Otley Choral Society has come forward.

"Groups can either come along and talk on air, or they can pre-record something that can get played," said Mr Francis.

The station, which will go out from 7am to 10pm from November 30 to Saturday, December 8, will feature all sorts of shows, news items and specialist music slots.

Mr Francis added: "We're also looking for presenters to take specialist music slots every evening from 7pm to 10pm. Rhythm and Blues, Light Classical, musicals and Country, that sort of thing."

The Wharfedale FM radio station is being set up to coincide with Otley's famous Victorian Fayre, which this year falls on Friday, December 7.

The station will broadcast in the ten days leading up to the event, which features street entertainment throughout the day. Then, in the evening, the town centre is blocked off to traffic for the main attractions. Thousands of people pour into the town.

l A meeting for all potential presenters, helpers and community groups is due to be held tonight from 8pm at Otley Conservative Club, Boroughgate. Telephone Nigel Francis on (01943) 463502.