Peace FM, a radio station committed to promoting peace and community cohesion in Manchester, has received one of a limited number of full-time community radio licences from the broadcasting regulator Ofcom.

Fighting off stiff competition from other community radio groups in the city, the station will be run by Peace Full Media Group, part of local community alliance CARISMA, and staffed by a team of enthusiastic volunteers from all walks of life.

Anthony Weekes, DJ, says: “We are absolutely over the moon - it's a triumph for the local community. However, this is just the beginning.

“The building of peace and respect requires the input of all parts of our community. DJs can raise a public debate on the issues people experience in their lives and get people talking.

“Through phone-ins we can grow understanding and give people a voice about how they feel, what they think, and what we see as part of the solution. Just acknowledging that we need to talk already grows a sense of community and respect.“