A PRESENTER has been recognised for his work as an assistant radio station manager at just 18 years old.

Caroline Community Radio 94.7 FM presenter Josh Holmes-Bright was named Young Person of the Year 2023 for his work with the radio station.

He was congratulated for his work both on air and behind the scenes at the 2023 Community Radio Awards held in Newcastle.

There were more than 300 entries from Ofcom-licensed community radio stations in the UK.

Caroline Community Radio broadcasts to the Maldon district from studios in Burnham.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Winner: presenter Josh Holmes-Bright collects his awardWinner: presenter Josh Holmes-Bright collects his award (Image: Caroline Community Radio)

The station brands itself as a “modern radio station with a long memory”, with evening programmes presented by local people who have an interest in radio.

It is staffed entirely by volunteers who have a passion for what they do.

The community radio station is supported by historic Radio Caroline, which was founded in 1964 and is famous for being the pirate radio station which broadcast from international waters.

Josh, from Chelmsford, has been with Caroline Community Radio Station since its launch in October 2020.

He was also noticed by Radio Caroline, which assists the community station, and he has been given a permanent show on Radio Caroline as well.

Radio Caroline supports the community radio with technical expertise and training.

Josh said: “Being named Young Person of the Year means a great deal to me.

“I have a lot of fun on air at Caroline Community Radio and work hard behind the scenes as assistant station manager.

“Seeing the station and its presenters go from strength to strength is a fantastic reward in itself, but this personal acknowledgement is really something else.

“Thank you to the team at the station for being as great as they are, and most importantly to the listeners for the incredible support they give us, not just in the Maldon district, but those who tune in from afar."

Martin Steers, awards chairman, said: “Josh is definitely a rising star. A strong, clear and confident presenter - knowledgeable, easy to listen to, and achieving in many areas of the station."