A NEW Internet radio station has launched, vowing to give a voice to charities and community groups as well as unsigned bands.

StudyVox FM is the brainchild of husband-and-wife Kevin and Sara Martin, of East Hendred, near Wantage, backed by Iain Rawlinson, a former merchant banker who is now chairman of Monarch Airlines.

The station’s £30,000 studio in a converted farm building at East Hendred was officially opened by Wantage MP Ed Vaizey.

Mr Martin, 51, pictured centre with station DJs Rob Taylor Hastings, left, and Rick Overton, said revenue would come from advertising and businesses.

They will offer training to individuals, companies and community groups – “a radio station in a box”, said Mr Martin – and are applying for funding to host a radio show produced by disabled people.

He said: “We’ve decided to offer charities their own radio show at cost, and we will also give a platform to musicians.

“We will provide an outlet for anyone who wants their own radio station.” He added: “StudyVox FM enables everyone to share live and fully interactive online radio, blending the online experience with phone-ins, text and email.”

They have already enlisted 1,000 bands by word of mouth and social networking sites, and up to 100 songs are being submitted each month.

“As long as the music is of broadcast standard, we don't cherry-pick. It all goes on our playlist,” he said.