BLACK Country Radio broadcasters raised a glass this morning (Wednesday) to celebrate their first birthday - just days after a break-in took the station off the air.

Mixing desks, amplifiers and studio equipment worth around £10,000 was ripped from the studio - based in St John's Church - last Friday (September 9), leaving the dedicated community radio team in a state of shock.

Determined station volunteers, however, worked tirelessly to install replacement kit and ensure a speedy return to the airwaves.

The break-in, which happened while the studio was locked up and a pre-recorded programme was being broadcast overnight, took place just days before the team were due to mark their first anniversary.

But Alex Totney, CEO (operations), said: "The messages of support we've had have been absolutely amazing."

And today the broadcasters managed to raise a glass and a smile to mark 12 months since 102.5 FM The Bridge and Black Country Community Radio volunteers joined forces to form Black Country Radio.

The team - who handed over CCTV footage of the break-in to police - have already raised more than £600 on an online fundraising page which they launched immediately after the incident to help raise money for replacement kit.

In a bid to get back on the air quickly - they fitted a replacement mixing desk which they had on standby as the studio was due for a refit.

But they now need to raise £10,000 to buy additional related equipment to ensure the new desk functions optimally.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can go to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/blackcountryradio.

Alternatively people can email donate@blackcountryradio.co.uk or send cheques, payable to Stourbridge Radio Group, to Black Country Radio (donations), Itan House, Saltwells Road, Dudley DY2 9PE.

To listen to the station or find out more go to blackcountryradio.co.uk