VIBE 101 is looking for the next generation of Alan Partridges and is launching a new series of radio training courses in Bristol.

The radio station for Wales and the South West has teamed up with the Mediafly Training Company to pass on the skills required for today's radio marketplace.

Students are prom-ised an insight into how commercial radio works in a "non-academic, prac--tical and vibrant environment".

The course was originally established in 1997 as the Galaxy Radio Academy by former Galaxy 101 news editor Mel Edmonds.

It was successfully rolled out to all the Galaxy stations two years later. Since that date, hundreds of students have taken part in the course and many are said to have gained full or part-time employment in the industry. There will be a three-week evening academy course starting on Monday, September 1, which covers all areas of commercial radio including presenting, news, mixing, marketing, sponsorship and promotions.

There will also be one-day masterclasses in presenting and news coverage on weekends throughout October.

Ms Edmonds is on holiday until August 12 but you can find out more about the courses online at www.mediafly.co.uk or info@mediafly.co.uk.

After August 12 you can reach Ms Edmonds on 0117 9738 478 or 0777 624 6866.

* Pictured: DJ Jean Jacques Smoothie instructs a radio hopeful at Vibe 101's studio