Gaytime radio

The new Cork radio station, RedFM, is claiming an Irish first with its gay-oriented show, Pink On Red.

Airing every Saturday from 10pm to 1am, it's presented by former Cork Campus Radio man Risteard Keating.

"In terms of licensed commercial radio, we're totally unique," Keating tells Hot Press. "This weekend's will be our fourth programme, and the response so far has been overwhelming.

"What sold me on the idea was that Red came to me – not vice versa – with the offer of pretty much full creative control.

"While we're not severely politically-driven, we won't shy away from covering issues that are effecting the gay citizens of Cork."

Keating hopes that, having proved successful in Cork, the concept will spread to other parts of the country - including Dublin.

"Given how large and active the gay community is there, I'm amazed that none of the Dublin stations have a programme like ours," he continues. "I'd like to think that, in our own small way, we're breaking down barriers."

Audible throughout the People's Republic on 104-106Mhz, Red is also big on dance with former pirate KC presenting DYP (Dance Your Pants) Off! every week night, and the syndicated Pete Tong's Essential Selection going out between 6 and 8pm on Fridays.

Another coup is their poaching of Charlie Wolfe from TalkSport UK to present a late night phone-in show which – saints be praised! – isn't only listened to by taxi drivers.