A hospital radio has appointed a 21-year-old presenter as its new chairman.

Iain Richards has been voted in as the station's youngest ever chairman of The Pulse Hospital Radio, which is based at Watford General Hospital.

The station has been keeping patients at Watford entertained with music and chat for more than 60 years and is run entirely by volunteers.

Iain first joined in 2015 presenting Evenings with Iain and at 18, he was appointed as a training manager. In 2018, he became vice chairman and has now taken the reigns at the top of the tree.

Mr Richards said: “I’ve got many fresh ideas to bring to the table. I may be young but I’m totally committed to the job of running The Pulse Hospital Radio.

“I’m rallying our members and we are going to turn our fortunes around. The station needs a big boost, and these young legs are fully prepared to take on the challenge.”

Last summer, the radio station reached out to the community for support in keeping them alive. The servers were close to collapse and studio equipment needed to be replaced. More than £2,500 has been raised since a fundraising appeal was launched - www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/savethepulse

The appointment of Mr Richards came at the station’s annual general meeting, where the opportunity was also taken to hand out a number of awards.

Mr Richards received the special merit award for his efforts as vice chairman while the following were also recognised.

Malcolm Wald won the Elaine Tompkins Award for ward visiting, James Howes won newcomer of the year, Murray Lee picked up the enthusiast of the year award, member of the year went to Richard Brade, and Kate & Sarah were announced as presenters of the year.

Watford Observer:

Malcolm Wald won the Elaine Tompkins Award for ward visiting

Watford Observer:

Murray Lee picked up the enthusiast of the year award

Watford Observer:

Member of the year went to Richard Brade

Watford Observer:

Kate(right) and Sarah were announced as presenters of the year for their show Kate & Sarah