RADIO listeners have been introduced to a retired butcher who beat off competition from more than 2,400 other hopefuls to front his own show.

Vic Kidgell, of Little Lakes in Bewdley, took to the airwaves for the first time last Friday night with his new two-hour slot of music, chat and competitions on BBC Hereford and Worcester.

He was one of four national winners to be given six-month contracts following last year's BBC talent search.

"Once I get behind the microphone I lose all my nerves and have fun," Vic said.

"I hope all our listeners enjoy the programme as much as I do."

Station editor James Coghill said: "Vic's naturally funny and warm - very much on our listeners' wavelength."

Vic's slot runs from 7pm to 9pm every Friday.