The BBC has announced that Ken Bruce is leaving Radio 2 after 29 years.
Bruce, 71, has presented on the station since 1984, but has now decided to step down. In total, he has spent 45 years working for the BBC.
The DJ, who has presented the 9:30am to 12pm weekday show since 1990, announced the news on Tuesday (17 January), stating: “After 45 years of broadcasting on BBC Radio, it’s time for a change.
“I would stress that this is entirely my decision. I will always be very proud of my association with the BBC and Radio 2.”
Bruce, who said “the time was right” to leave, has joined the team at Greatest Hits, where he will begin working in April.
“Nothing stays the same forever and I have decided the time is right for me to move on from Radio 2 when I reach the end of my current contract in March,” he announced.
“It’s been a tremendously happy time for me: I’ve made many friends and worked with many wonderful colleagues.
He continued: “Some new opportunities have come up and I would like to continue my career in a slightly different way in the next few years, the details of which will be revealed shortly.”
Bruce also thanked “everyone who has helped to make the mid-morning show a success”.
The host first joined the BBC in 1977, where he presented on BBC Radio Scotland. He joined Radio 2 in 1984, where he has remained ever since.
BBC Radio 2’s official Twitter account said of Bruce’s decision: “We have some news… After 31 years of presenting the 9:30am-midday weekday show Ken Bruce has decided to leave.
“We’re going to miss you lots Ken and want to congratulate you on a fantastic career at the BBC.”
It is unknown who will replace Bruce at this time, but the BBC said it will make an announcement “at a later date”.
More to follow
