WOULD-be DJs can now log on to the web, thanks to community funding.

Youngsters who train with Youthcomm Radio, based with St John’s Youth Centre, are taking advantage of top speed broadband and brand new equipment after the charity was successful in the BT Community Connections scheme.

Thousands of good causes from all over Britain apply for grants through the scheme and two Worcester charities were chosen.

Both Youthcomm and the Visually Impaired People’s Group have been given a year’s free connection to broadband internet and new laptops.

Chris Fox, Youthcomm Radio’s co-ordinator, said: “The laptop is being used by youngsters on our training course that we run twice a year and helps young people create a portfolio of work whether they want to be a radio presenter or producer.

Youthcomm Radio is broadcast on an FM frequency and gives young people, aged 13 to 25, a voice. There is an emphasis on working disadvantaged groups.

“We’ve recently worked with young people who have autism who came into the studio and talked about the condition live on air, which was a really good step for them,” said Mr Fox. “We have about 40 active volunteers and 12 people in training. They often go into radio work. We have one guy working at Kerrang FM in Birmingham and another who is now a producer at Wyvern FM.”

The Visually Impaired People’s Group is a self-support group run by visually-impaired people. It aims to build the confidence of its members and help them to cope with their disabilities.

For information about future grant opportunities call 0845 2576792.