Former 'Family Fortunes' host Vernon Kay is set to replace Ken Bruce on BBC Radio 2.
Former Family Fortunes host Vernon Kay is set to replace Ken Bruce on BBC Radio 2
The 48-year-old TV presenter and radio DJ is said to have put pen to paper on a two-year deal to take over from the veteran broadcaster - who is departing the radio station next month after 31 years - in April.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "This is the biggest, most coveted gig in radio.
"Ken's show is the most listened to in Europe so Vernon has massive shoes to fill. But he's such a warm, easy presenter and listeners have really taken to him.
"Vernon has a raft of fresh, new ideas and content, but will not be trying to reinvent the wheel here - he knows how important this show is to listeners, and wants them to feel welcome and safe.
"Everyone at the Beeb is hugely excited to have him on board."
Vernon - who is married to 'Strictly Come Dancing' presenter Tess Daly - is expected to start on April 3rd.
A spokesperson for the star, who has filled in for Radio 2 hosts Zoe Ball and Scott Mills in the past, declined to comment.
But a BBC spokesperson told the publication: "We've seen a lot of speculation about who will take over the much coveted mid-morning slot on Radio 2, and we'll confirm the new presenter in the near future."
Ken, 72, confirmed last month that he is to leave Radio 2.
He said in a statement: "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. It’s been a tremendously happy time for me: 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 would stress that this is entirely my decision but 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.
"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."
Ken will be starting a new show on Greatest Hits Radio from April 3.
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