THE presenters are primed, the playlists are being prepared – and Liskeard's very own radio station will go live next week.

Broadcasting on 87.7FM and online, Liskeard FM is the brainchild of seasoned radio presenter and businessman Dean Petvin-Moore, and will go out 24 hours a day up to Christmas Day – with live shows from 7am to 10pm most days.

With a hyper-local focus on the people of Liskeard and the surrounding area – and letting them know what's on offer in the town – the not-for-profit station will have around nine regular presenters as well as some guest spots.

Dean wants to get as many local people as possible involved with interviews and phone-ins, and listeners will also be able to interact via Facebook, Twitter and texting.

Describing the station as 'professionally amateur', the former Atlantic FM presenter says he wants to combine 'the modern technology side of things' with the spontaneous, raw feel of the early days of summer surf radio Malibu FM. While first and foremost a fun station aimed at bringing people together, Liskeard FM won't shy away from dealing with more serious topics, he said.

'It's very open. We have to abide by Ofcom regulations and the law, but we will cover the issues that are important to people,' said Dean.

'We're looking to broadcast through Liskeard Lights Up as one of the first big things we do during the month.

'The whole purpose of this is to bring more people into the town – and not have so many disagreements between people as to how to promote the town.

'That's why we are completely independent.'

Liskeard businessman and comedian Nic Early will be a regular Liskeard FM presenter – as well as trader Ray Meadows and deputy mayor Phil Seeva.

Nic's show 'Later with Early' will go out in the evenings and he is planning a 'lighthearted, fun show all about people,' that could include phone-ins, dedications and competitions.

As for music, while Dean says 'there won't be a hip-hop hour', he is promising lots of local bands, and some specialist shows such as a club night and acoustic sessions, as well as general listening.