Broadcasting legend Ken Bruce announces departure from BBC Radio 2

Ken Bruce has announced he is leaving BBC Radio 2 after 31 years of presenting his weekday show.

The Glasgow-born broadcaster confirmed his departure at the end of this 9.30am to midday slot on Tuesday.

“I have a little bit of news to bring you today,” the 71-year-old said.

“It’s bittersweet; sad but also happy for me. I have now decided the time is right for me to move on from Radio 2.

“Nothing stays the same forever, it has been a tremendously happy time for me here. I’ve made many friends and worked with many wonderful colleagues.

“However, I feel that after 45 years of full-time broadcasting on BBC Radio it’s time for a change.

“I will always be very proud of my association with the BBC and Radio 2 in particular and I’d like to thank everyone who has helped to make the mid-morning show a success.”

The presenter said he must “stress” that the decision to leave was entirely his own and had come about due to “some new opportunities”.

Bruce is to join Greatest Hits Radio with a new mid-morning show from 10am – 1pm.

He joins a weekday line-up that includes former BBC presenters Simon Mayo at drivetime and Jackie Brambles in the early evening.  

Lorna Clarke, director of BBC Music, said: “Ken is an extraordinary broadcaster with an exceptional career over many decades. He has been part of every significant occasion marked by BBC Radio 2 and we, his faithful audience and the Radio 2 all-star line-up will miss his warm humour and wit.

“Congratulations on a brilliant career.”