A former presenter of South Hams Radio is launching a bid to bring a community radio station back to local airwaves.

Dave Gould, who lives in Plympton, is preparing an application to Ofcom for a community radio station in the South Hams, and he’s asking for members of the public for their support.

Following initial enquiries, Ofcom, the licensing body, have invited an application for a community radio licence. As part of the application, Dave needs to receive comments in support of the radio station.

Dave is asking that members of the public who support the idea to email him before Saturday, July 16, with their name, postcode and “the main reason you think a local radio station is needed in the South Hams.”

Dave will then collate the responses and send the application to Ofcom.

The communications regulator describes community radio stations as covering a “small geographical area” and being run on a “not-for-profit basis”.

South Hams Radio was an independent local radio station, broadcasting out of South Hams Business Park in Churchstow from 1999 in 2009, when it was absorbed into the Heart Network who phased out all local broadcasting within a year.

Dave became involved with South Hams Radio in 2001, while still at college, when he sat in with David James on his evening shows.

Dave said: “David taught me a lot about radio and was a critical ear when I played him my demos. Sadly, David passed away suddenly in 2003. After moving to Wales to present my own radio show on a station serving the west coast called Radio Ceredigion, I eventually moved back to Devon in 2006 and was offered a show at South Hams Radio.

“The South Hams was an amazing place to broadcast to, stunning countryside, amazing coastal views and friendly people,” Dave continued.

“With this in mind I always had a soft spot for the area, which is why I want to launch a new station to replace the old station that served the area so beautifully.”

“Please spread the word and help us to bring back truly local radio to this amazing part of Devon,” Dave added.

To support the application, please email [email protected] with your name, postcode and reasons for supporting a South Hams community radio station.