Ofcom has upheld complaints made against Manchester-based radio station Key 103 over a phone-in competition dubbed ‘Heartless Hotline’.

During the segment listeners were invited to ring the station to present their case for why they deserved to win a particular prize. The prize could then be “stolen” by another listener if they felt they deserved it more – and if they called in within the 30 second window during which phone lines were opened

On 27 April this year one listener, Sarah, called in to request £2,000 prize to cover divorce costs and a court order that would let her keep her home. However, another caller, Leigh, who said she wanted a holiday, rang in and “stole” the money.