Keith Richards has donated $4,860 to help save a radio station struck by lightning.

The founding member of the Rolling Stones sent the check to the Isle of Wight's Angel Radio - which plays music from 1900 to 1969 - to help fund repairs to its transmitter, which was knocked out when it was hit in July, forcing the station to go off air for three days.

Director and program controller Bev Webster explained they had broadcast an urgent appeal for funds and "couldn't believe it" when the 67-year-old rocker came to the rescue.

She told the Isle of White County Press: "I don't know if Keith listens to us on the internet, or maybe he tuned in when the Rolling Stones played the Isle of Wight Festival a few years ago, but we couldn't believe it when we received his check in the post."

Bev admitted station staff thought the gesture was a "joke" at first, but Angel Radio accounts confirmed it was a genuine donation from the musician.

She added: "We thought the check was a joke. But accountants confirmed it was the real Keith Richards."

A spokesman for Keith confirmed he had made a donation but refused to comment further.