BROADCASTER Paul Ross hailed the work of local media and spoke of his passion for radio as he backed fledgling station Marlow FM's bid for a licence.

Bisham resident Mr Ross, brother of television star Jonathan Ross, said he was “a radio junkie” at an event to promote the community station at the Crown Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow on Wednesday.

The BBC radio London presenter who began his career as a newspaper journalist in Exeter said: “My real passion, my love is for radio, it's that insidious medium.

"Most people have their radio on in their car, they can listen via the internet, it's always with us.

“Radio is on everywhere you go, a bit like dandruff,” he joked.

Paul, an avid reader of the Marlow Free Press, said there was a need for more localised news coverage on the airwaves because the town falls in between the numerous BBC regional stations and “can be a Bermuda triangle geographically”.

He said local newspapers and radio were important because they are trusted by the community.

Marlow FM is waiting to hear whether an application to regulator Ofcom for a five year community radio licence has been successful.

Directors hope to find out in September.

Speaking exclusively to the Marlow Free Press, Paul, who also appears on ITV's This Morning show as a film critic, said it would benefit aspiring radio talent.

“The great thing about it is it will open the door for young people to get involved at the ground level,” he said.

“There are 30,000 potential listeners, which is fantastic and it's non-profit making. I think that people care about where they live particularly Marlow.”

The station is also backed by Olympic rowing legend Sir Steve Redgrave – its patron and president.

It has previously broadcast using a temporary licence, covering event such as the Marlow Town Regatta and will begin another four week run from May 26.

Paul's younger brother Jonathan was embroiled in scandal last year after a prank call to Fawlty Towers actor Andrew Sachs on Russell Brand's radio show and he was suspended by the BBC for three months.

He was recently overlooked by Bafta for an award in its TV entertainment category, with comedian Harry Hill grabbing the prize, but Paul said he had overcome the episode and was simply glad to be in the running at all:

“Everybody thought that Harry Hill should get it. Jonathan was honoured to be nominated, it's great for the family. It's better to be nominated and not win than not to be nominated at all.

“He's a Marmite presenter, you either love him or hate him but he's my brother so I love him.”

Paul added: “He did his time and he's back with a bang.”