Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

'Best job in the world' - Ian Cheeseman

I joined Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Manchester, (formerly GMR), in 1994 after going straight from education into a 'real job', as a bank clerk. My broadcasting career was born in Hospital Radio where I spent 10 years presenting a weekly magazine programme to patients in Oldham.

I made it my task to push back the boundaries, interviewing everyone from politicians to UFO experts, and from sports personalities to TV stars. I also recorded special programmes while running the London Marathon, flying in a light aircraft and doing a charity challenge of travelling by as many difference forms of transport as I could in one day.ΜύΜύΜύ

The beginnings of my professional career can be traced back to 27th September 1986, when City played at Luton Town, who'd introduced a membership card scheme that banned away fans.

To circumnavigate the ban, I applied for a press pass and did reports on the game for Radio Cavell and enjoyed it so much I started to do it regularly. One thing led to another, and after spells as City's own video commentator and stadium announcer at Maine Road, IΜύ became Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Manchester's City correspondent in October 2001.

Sport

There's nothing better than describing a great goal - and I do tend to get quite excited when the Blues bag a stunner. I have to admit to pre-planning the way I described Robinho's debut goal. A few people have asked to hear my Brazilian-style description again, so due to public demand you can hear it via the link below:

As well as commentating on all City's games, attending their press conference and reporting on the goings-on at Eastlands, I present and produce sports programmes throughout the year, read sports bulletins and write a column on the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ's 606 website.

Finished: after the run for Sport Relief

My passion for local sport is boundless, as well as seeing all City's games I average another 50 football matches a year, making an effort to see all nine of our clubs at least once each season.

I also love watching our local Rugby League teams, Belle Vue Speedway, Manchester Phoenix Ice Hockey, our local boxers, particularly my fellow blue Ricky Hatton and Lancashire CC. I've watched netball, hockey, badminton, cycling, athletics and many other sports I've forgotten.

I've written a book (Colin Bell's autobiography),Μύhave been involved in Children-in-Need every year since I joined the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ and been lucky enough to travel far and wide to report on sport - I even ran the 30 miles from Manchester City to Wigan Athletic via Old Trafford and the Reebok Stadium for Sport Relief during 2008. I believe I've got the best job in the world.