A NEW radio station has hit the airwaves as Paisley FM began broadcasting.

The station, which listeners can tune into at 107.5 FM, launched regular programming on Monday, bringing the area its first community radio station for 18 years.

Paisley FM – dubbed 'Radio for Renfrewshire' – was awarded an Ofcom community radio broadcasting licence last February, following a competitive application process.

And director Bob McWilliam is raring to go after a long wait to get things up and running.

He said: "We are really looking forward to providing a genuine service to the residents of Paisley and Renfrewshire.

"The station is going to have a good mix of music, local information and involvement with the community.

"We'll also have some feature programming in the evenings and we're teaming up with Paisley music venue The Bungalow to bring listeners live music as well."

The station is also available on DAB (digital audio broadcasting), allowing listeners from East Renfrewshire to tune in.

In addition, listeners can catch up on programmes they've missed by going online at www.paisleyfm.co.uk.

Norman Ross, a fellow director at Paisley FM, said: "I am looking forward to the launch after being involved with the hospital programme service at the then Royal Alexandra Infirmary, in Paisley, some 50 years ago.

"Paisley FM has a team of young and enthusiastic people involved to reflect Paisley and Renfrewshire life today."