FORMER staff of Southampton-based Radio Hampshire are hopeful of a deal to revive the off-air station.

The station, which broadcast from St Mary's Stadium, was abruptly shut down after the owners moved to put it into liquidation. It is understood to have debts of around £70,000.

The station's five staff were given just hours to leave after they were told it would cease broadcasting immediately.

Bids to buy the assets of Radio Hampshire Ltd - its equipment and 107.8 FM licence - are due to be submitted by 2pm today.

Former station director Claire Hatherall said she had been in talks with two potential investors although understood other bids had been submitted in the closed auction.

"We are very hopeful we will be able to get something back on air for our listeners. I would love to revive the station but any new owner will have to make that decision," she said.

She said while advertising revenues had been falling for some time the sudden closure came as a "shock".

"We were so passionate about what we did. There was a real sense of grief. It was more than just a job," she said.

The station - formerly known as The Saint and SouthCity FM - had a 1.3 per cent share of the local radio audience. It provided Southampton FC with online commentary of matches via the Saints TV website.

A creditors meeting will be held on June 24 to put the firm into liquidation. Sponsors are believed to have stumped up around £14,000 towards the station's Heroes 2009 awards, due to held later this year.