A RADIO presenter has said a fond farewell to a community radio station he's been with since the age of 13.

Rhys Gunter, 18, has presented a variety of shows on AIR 107.2, including the breakfast show, drivetime and the chart show.

After a number of years with the station, Rhys has taken the decision to move on and presented his final chart show last month.

He said: "I go to university in September. I'm going to the University of Westminster to study media production and radio.

"I thought I'd take a break before I go to London."

AIR 107.2 is based at Westfield Arts College, Weymouth. It is run entirely by volunteers and has been on FM radio since 2013.

Prior to becoming an FM station, AIR 107.2 was a student radio station.

Rhys described his experience at the station as 'incredible'.

He said: "The opportunities I've had, not many people get them.

"I've had the best four years and I never thought when I joined at 13 I would have the opportunities I have had."

During his time at the station, Rhys has had the opportunity to interview famous faces like Scott Mills and Greg James from BBC Radio One.

Rhys said the launch of the station on FM was one of his most memorable moments.

He said: "It was so huge and such a big thing for Weymouth and Portland as well. That sticks out the most."

During his last show, Rhys was joined by former and current presenters.

He said: "It was brilliant. We broadcasted for four hours instead of three."

Rhys said he was thankful to those who had took him on and to the current directors behind the station for the opportunities he was given.

Sarah Bungay, former station director, said: "Rhys was incredibly tenacious sending emails to join before the foundations of the studios were even set. He's been incredible and a valuable volunteer who's contribution to air has been tremendous.

"I'd like to wish him lots of luck and I'm sure he'll have a bright and successful future in whatever he chooses to do."

Meanwhile, former station manager Carl Greenham said: "Rhys is a very talented individual. I remember him in the early days as a shy individual who always turned up at my Radio Youth Club with an eagerness to learn more.

"Over the years he has developed, not just into a decent young man, but also as a talented professional with drive, passion and determination to succeed in this industry."

"He’s come such a long way since joining AIR. I am extremely proud of all his achievements and wish him every success for the future.

"I am in no doubt that Rhys will have a very successful career in the media industry if he chooses and I am proud to have been able to offer him the opportunity to kick start it though community radio."

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