RADIO listeners handed a petition to station bosses during a protest against the axeing of popular Kerrang! DJ Emma Scott.

Fans of Emma’s show staged a peaceful demonstration outside the station’s studios in the Jewellery Quarter calling for her to stay.

Kerrang! announced sweeping changes to its presenter line-up after it emerged it was having to cut costs across several departments.

Emma, Christian Stevenson and Nick Margerrison will be leaving as part of a major reshuffle.

Almost 700 people have joined a Facebook group called ‘We cannot let Kerrang! Radio let Emma Scott Leave!’

Ross Lang, 29, who set up the group after listening to Emma’s show for two years, said: “The protest wasn’t to cause trouble, we just wanted to show our support for Emma. The programme director invited us into the station and answered questions. They explained the decision was made to cost cut and we understand this.

“But Emma going will be a huge loss. Kerrang! is like a family, Emma always replies to texts and calls from listeners.”

Barman Karl Scott, 31 said: “I have been listening to Emma since her first show. She is fantastic, it’s a real shame she is leaving.”

Apprentice Kirsty Reading added: “I’m gutted, I don’t want her to go.”

Luke Wilkins, who currently does the weekend show, is being promoted to the weekday show.

In a blog on her website Emma, who joined Kerrang! five years ago, said she would have liked to have stayed another year.

A spokesman for Kerrang! Radio said: “Recent changes have been made for the long-term future of Kerrang! Radio, given the current challenging commercial environment.”