Budding Northampton radio presenter excited to be nominated for national award

A budding radio presenter from Northampton has been shortlisted for a coveted national award.

Will Oelrich is one of three finalists in the ‘BBC Sounds Rising Talent 16-18’ category of the Young Audio Awards 2020.

The 17-year-old multimedia journalism BTEC student at Northampton College has a weekly sports show on community radio station NLive Radio.

"It’s a huge honour to have been shortlisted for these awards, it would be incredible to win it but getting to the final three is something I’m really proud of," he said.

“I love what I do. Talking about football, in particular anything to do with Cobblers, is second nature to me and it’s something I’d love to do as a career.

"I’m very clear in where I see my future so I’m working hard to make contacts, get as much experience as I can and get my foot in the door."

As well as his studies and radio show, Will has also secured a series of work experience opportunities with regional broadcast media, including BBC Radio Northampton and ITV Anglia.

All of his radio experiences were included in his application for the awards, which he submitted in January, and found out he was successful a few weeks later.

The Young Audio Awards ceremony is at the BBC's Broadcasting House in London on March 27 - Will is taking his parents, who he said are very proud of him.

Martin Steers, station manager at NLive, which is run in partnership with The University of Northampton, said: “We’re extremely proud of Will and his show.

"It’s a fantastic achievement to be nominated for a national award and really reflects the local and community feel of the station and our shows.

"Will is a great example of what our volunteers produce on a daily basis.

"We wish Will the best of luck for the awards ceremony and look forward to him continuing to grow and develop his presenting skills with us on NLive Radio.

"I have no doubt he has a bright future in store in radio and journalism.”