Paul Fairclough

Why/how did you become involved in radio?

My love of music came from my grandma, who bought me my first single and album, and from my mum and dad, who gave me a record player for Christmas. The radio was always on in our house, and at the age of 13 my local radio station wanted presenters for a children’s show. I applied and got on it. Many of the presenters I loved as a kid have since become great friends at stations I’ve worked at throughout my professional life.

What is your most memorable radio moment so far?

At the age of nine, having a record played on Junior Choice on Radio 2 by Ed Stewart was my first highlight. In my career, interviewing big names like Barry Manilow, The Osmonds and Take That has got to be up there, but talking to local people, such as those on the transplant register, has also been incredibly memorable.

What is the song that ‘lifts your day’?

I love so much music that choosing one song is really hard. Because of my mum and dad, What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong always brings a tear to my eye, as does I Made It Through the Rain by Barry Manilow.

How do you feel about being part of Blue Sky team?

I am incredibly lucky to be part of a fabulous team of people, many of whom I worked with at Signal or who were part of the Signal family. After 18 years in Staffordshire and Cheshire, I consider it home and am proud to still, to this day, be broadcasting to the area.

Playing songs to lift your day is so important — these are the tunes that form the soundtrack to our lives.

What is it you like about our local area (North Staffs and South Cheshire)?

Everything! I have always said that this area is full of people who love to help. At charity events, some people who only have two pennies to rub together will still give you one of them. It truly is an area that cares, and I’m so proud to call it home.

Fun fact!

Many years ago, I used to voice 0898 telephone services (don’t ask!), and I’ve been on stage with The Osmonds, as well as appearing in the opera Turandot. I was also the only non-cast member to appear in The Phantom of the Opera in Manchester, thanks to Cameron Mackintosh!