BBC 6 Music wins prestigious Sony radio gong

By Mark Fordham

Digital radio station BBC 6 Music has been named UK station of the year at the Sony Radio Academy Awards - commonly dubbed the Oscars of radio.

This prestigious award comes just two years after the ailing station was saved from closure due to a campaign by its loyal listeners.

Other winners at the ceremony included football pundits Andy Gray and Richard Keys, who triumphed in the best sports programme category 18 months after being sacked by Sky Sports amid a sexism row.

Meanwhile, BBC Radio Humberside's Betty Smith, 90, and Beryl Renwick, 86, became the oldest ever winner of such an award, after landing the entertainment gong.

The BBC won 22 of 37 awards and the prize for 6 Music is the first time a digital-only service has triumphed in the main category.

Speaking of 6 Music's award, the judges said the station showed "a confidence across its schedule that not only reflects a real passion for music but also a firm understanding of the audience".

15 May 2012, 10:16

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