This article was published in 2012.

Radio station Ridings FM is extending its work to support up-and-coming musicians in the local area. The station launched in 1999 and covers Wakefield and the surrounding area, including Castleford, Pontefract, Featherstone, Normanton and Knottingley.

Alongside its local news, travel updates, and entertainment services, it has for several years now run a Local Music Update on Thursday evenings and recently as a podcast, hosted by Andy Philpott, featuring a gig guide, local music news and a song by an unsigned band or artist from the area.

Now it has moved to a new slot on a Saturday morning. Still with the gig guide for the forthcoming week, and still having local music news and a fresh unheard song in every edition you can now catch the Local Music Update during John Tolson's Saturday morning show at approximately 10.30am.

Ridings FM Presenter John Tolson said: "We're committed to supporting local music and helping new talent come through".

"We're always looking at how we can play a greater role in our community and this seemed like an excellent step forward".

Ridings FM broadcasts on 106.8 FM.

Any solo artists, duos or bands who would like to be featured on the Local Music Update should send material and information to:

Andy Philpott,
Local Music Update,
106.8 Ridings FM,
Unit 7,
Network Centre,
Zenith Park,
Whaley Road,
Barnsley,
S75 1HT

You can email Andy via andyphilpott [ at ] fsmail.net