RADIO DJ Lucy Jones has been celebrating after winning best newcomer at the Arqiva Commercial Radio Awards.

Miss Jones, who presents Let Loose Lunch on Banbury Sound, was one of three in the running, including former Spicegirl Emma Bunton.

The 24-year-old was presented with her award by TV and radio presenter Neil Fox at the Westminster Bridge Park Plaza Hotel, London.

She said: “I am totally over the moon.

“It’s great to be acknowledged for something I love doing.

“I’ve always admired Emma Bunton so to be up against her was an honour in itself.”

Banbury Sound managing director and breakfast presenter Dale Collins said: “I am very proud of Lucy.

“She works very hard and is very popular with our listeners so this award is richly deserved.

“We are very proud to be able to develop new, local talent at Banbury Sound and give young people a start in their broadcasting career.”

Miss Jones started her full-time radio career presenting on Banbury Sound last spring and in the past year has built up a strong loyal listenership.

Her lunchtime show is filled with topical chat, fun competitions and listener music requests.

After the ceremony Andrew Harrison, RadioCentre chief executive, said: “The Arqiva Commercial Radio Awards are a testament to the incredible hard work that our stations commit to producing the very best content for listeners across the country.

“With the standard of entrants higher than ever, and the introduction of new awards, they are a true reflection of the terrific service the commercial radio sector delivers.”

Earlier this year Miss Jones made it to the final of the Rising Star Sony Award and was up against Jarvis Cocker on BBC 6 music — who won the award — and Waqas Saeed, who presents the BBC Asian Network’s early morning show.