BBC Scotland presenter Janice Forsyth steps down following early onset Alzheimer's diagnosis

BBC presenter Janice Forsyth has revealed she is stepping down from her role after being diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease.

The arts and culture presenter, 65, who previously hosted The Afternoon Show and worked on Radio Scotland, Radio Four and Radio Three, has worked for the BBC for more than 30 years, as well as setting up a podcasting production firm, the Big Light.

In a statement released on Monday, she said she had hoped her symptoms were due to exhaustion, but that she had recently found out she is suffering from the illness.

“I’d hoped that I was simply worn out by my many years as a freelance broadcaster and perhaps exhausted following the loss of our dear Mother, Patricia, the previous Christmas, but sadly, I now have a firm diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s disease,” she said.

“It’s been a huge blow, but I’m also feeling some relief that I finally have an explanation for lapses I’d been experiencing, and I’m managing to remain buoyant most of the time.”

While she said she would be withdrawing from social media “for now”, Ms Forsyth plans to continue work for the podcasting firm she established with producer Fiona White, saying “I’m not done yet”.

In a message to listeners, she added: “I never took my role lightly and hope I always gave my best, both for your sake and that of my interviewees.

“It’s been a blast, and I send a high five to everyone who tuned in on Saturday mornings or on more recent weekday afternoons and heard something interesting.”

Louise Thornton, the head of commissioning at BBC Scotland, paid tribute to Ms Forsyth, saying: “Janice has been a hugely popular personality on our airwaves for many years.

“The many production teams she has collaborated with have appreciated her outstanding skill as a presenter on radio and television.

“Her warmth, relaxed interviewing style, and peerless knowledge of arts, music, and culture in Scotland and beyond, have made her a firm favourite with audiences over the decades.

“Everyone at BBC Scotland wishes Janice all the very best and we’ll be pleased to continue to explore suitable opportunities where we can work together.”

Dementia UK’s Chief Admiral Nurse and CEO Dr Hilda Hayo said: “We’re sorry to hear that Janice Forsyth has been diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer’s disease. A familiar face to many, Janice has shown bravery by announcing her diagnosis publicly and we hope she and her family are receiving the support they need at this time.

“By choosing to speak publicly about her diagnosis, Janet will raise vital awareness of young onset dementia and we hope this will encourage others to seek support if they are concerned about their brain health.

“There are estimated to be around 70,800 people living with young onset dementia in the UK – where symptoms occur before the age of 65. Obtaining a diagnosis of young onset dementia can be challenging, and it is often even harder to find age-appropriate support. But it is important to know that you are not alone and that expert care is available.

“We encourage anyone affected by dementia to visit dementiauk.org/get-support for information, resources and to find out how to access our national Helpline and Clinics services.”