BUDDING journalists quizzed Dorset Echo editor Toby Granville on everything from the Olympics to how to break into the media industry.

The interview was part of the Spirit Live radio station coverage of the Spirit of the Sea festival of which the Dorset Echo is a major media sponsor.

Weymouth College students and staff have been running the radio station throughout the festival.

Students asked Mr Granville about the best routes into journalism, why the paper was backing the Spirit of the Sea festival and what he thought of the 2012 games next year.

Mr Granville said: “As a local paper we are at the heart of the community and we care about what’s going on in the town. We want to be a part of it and be supportive of what’s going on.”

He added: “The Olympics and Paralympics are a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s going to be something that people tell their grandchildren about.”

Film and television national diploma BTEC students and Spirit Live DJs Andrew Raines and Sam Baker said that despite some initial nerves they had really been enjoying getting some broadcasting experience.

Andrew, 18, said: “It’s been really fun and we have learned a lot about radio really quickly.

“After the first few days we got into it – and it’s an experience we can take on to other things.”

Mr Granville said that Spirit Live was a fantastic way for students to get a taste of life on air.

He said: “It is a great opportunity for students to get great experience on their own radio station. What a good opportunity this event and Weymouth College is giving them.”

Tune into Spirit Live on 87.7fm throughout the festival.