Presenters Vernon Kay and Reggie Yates are to leave Radio 1 following the announcement of changes to its weekend schedule.
Kay leaves the station after nine-and-a-half years working the mid-morning slot to spend more time with his family, whilst Yates, who has presented Radio 1’s Official Chart for five years and been a Radio 1 and 1Xtra feature for a decade, has decided to concentrate on other projects including his presenting work for BBC Three and film projects.
Speaking about his decision to leave the station, Kay said: “I’ve had an incredible nine-and-a-half years at Radio 1 that has exceeded all of my expectations, it has been a fabulous experience and I’ve loved the weekends I have spent with my listeners.
“However, when I was offered a contract extension I thought long and hard, but after 12 years of working weekends with CBBC, T4 and Radio 1, I felt it was the right time to leave as the girls are now both in school so weekends are more precious than ever.”
Yates echoed Kay’s sentiments, adding: “I have absolutely loved my time hosting the Chart Show. It’s been a privilege to deliver to the nation the weekly No.1 song, but after 10 years at Radio 1/1Xtra I am looking forward to focusing on other projects and new challenges.”
Matt Edmondson will take over from Kay at the end of the year to present the 10am-1pm show. Edmondson, who currently hosts a Wednesday night show on the station, will also take over Sara Cox’s Sunday mid-morning show as she will be taking over Fearne Cotton’s weekday show when she goes on maternity leave at the end of the year.
Jameela Jamil will move from her current post hosting the Radio 1 Request show to become the first solo female presenter of the iconic Radio 1’s Official Chart.
Ben Cooper, controller BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 1Xtra, commented: “I’d like to thank Vernon and Reggie who have both been excellent ambassadors for Radio 1 and Radio 1Xtra during their ten years with us. I wish them all the very best.”