Selby War Memorial Hospital has benefited from a sound investment in more ways than one.

As part of its bid for the radio licence available in Yorkshire, the Guardian Media Group's Variety FM raised more than £2,000 from local businesses for the hospital.

The Group took advantage of a trial broadcast to appeal for cash and as a result a cheque was presented by Jon Hewson, managing director of Variety FM to John Froggatt, chairman of the hospital.

Mr Hewson said: "Our month-long broadcast have a great opportunity for the local community to get involved with the station. As a local charity, the Selby War Memorial Hospital was the ideal choice."

The radio station brought a mixture of chat, prizes, music throughout the trial broadcast in February.

It is part of a "Blah Wars" contest with other groups to control the airwaves over west and south Yorkshire.

Also pitching for the licence and a chance to start broadcasting on January 2001 is Yorkshire FM which underwent trials in the Leeds area until February, consisting of the combined forces of Minster Sound - which owns York-based Minster FM radio station, Chameleon Television and Regional Independent Media.

Border Radio Holdings also has its hat in the ring, having already tested its Century format in the county.