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Page last updated at 15:40 GMT, Friday, 31 July 2009 16:40 UK
Presenter Profile: Ian Wyatt
Ian Wyatt
When he was younger Ian used to breed canaries

Whether you have to get up or you can afford the luxury of a lie-in, Ian will have the very best mix of music, chat and info to start those special days.

On Saturdays join Ian to discover what the weekend in Essex has in store for you and meet some of the characters making the week's news.

On Sunday join him for unique blend of faith and fun helping you to make sense of today's Essex.

All this plus the latest Essex news, sport, weather and travel.

Ian's big questions:

What was your first radio memory?

Listening to my Mum and Dad's very old and very large bedside radio. I was amazed that all these voices and songs could come out of a box in our house.

I always remember thinking all of the singers and groups were lined up in glass studios waiting to perform their music.

It was a disappointment to learn they were on records!

How did you first get into radio?

I tried to get into Hospital Radio but was told I was too young at the time, so eventually managed to get a work placement at BBC Essex.

I loved the buzz of the studios and the production areas.

I started helping out making the tea for the weekend team, and I've worked on just about every programme here since.

They haven't managed to get rid of me yet!

What is your favourite song ever?

Very tricky. I have a very broad musical taste so can I have a few?

I do love a song called "Angel" by Jon Secada (think I'll have that as a song at my funeral - great words).

I love Willie Nelson's version of "Always On My Mind" and REO Speedwagon's "Can't Fight This Feeling" is a favourite.

I may have discovered them 40 years after they came out, but Stone Poneys with "Different Drum" and Johnny Young "Craise Finton Kirk" are now definitely records I'd take to a desert island.

"Go West" by the Pet Shop Boys is fab, especially when the backing choir take over lead vocals.

I used to listen to Andy Williams singing "Moon River" to help me get to sleep as a kid, so hearing that is always a special treat too.

What one thing makes Essex so special?

Its variety. I can't think of any other county that has so many different aspects from coast to countryside, urban areas to quiet spots. It's got something for everyone.

Get in touch with Ian: wyatt@bbc.co.uk




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