Terry Wogan quits breakfast show
Updated on 07 September 2009
Broadcaster and DJ Terry Wogan announces he is to quit his BBC Radio 2 breakfast show, saying his listeners had been a "beacon of love" in his life.
Chris Evans, who was sacked in 1997 as host of the Radio 1 breakfast show, will take over the reigns in the New Year. Evans has presented the radio station’s Drivetime show for the last three and a half years.
Sir Terry, 71, said he would be working on a new project when he leaves his long running and hugely popular Wake Up to Wogan show.
He said: "This is the hardest thing I have ever done in my broadcasting career, to say goodbye to you in the mornings."
Making the announcement live on air, Sir Terry explained: "Now, if you'll pardon me, I've a little bit of news of my own.
"If the mail is anything to go by, most of the listening population have spotted a report that next year I'm going to turn into Chris Evans.
He went on: "And I hate to tell you, but it's true. I was hoping to break it to you, my loyal listener, more gently.
"I wanted to be the first to tell you. It's the least I owe you, for endless years, countless hours of morning companionship, friendship, good humour, and laughter. Your loyalty and support has been a beacon of love in my life."
Sir Terry told listeners he wanted to leave "while we’re still in love" and "while we still delight in each other's company".
Speaking to Krishnan Guru-Murthy DJ Tony Blackburn said that although some of Wogan's older viewers, or 'togs', may find Chris Evans a shock it was the right decision at the right time.
"I think Terry is at the top of his game at the moment…he's still excellent at what he does," he said.
"He's been there a long time and gradually the audience builds and builds and builds and that is the great thing about Radio 2. They've kept him there and the audience increases but there comes a time where you say well, Terry at 71-years-old might have had enough.
"[Chris Evans] will be a bit of a shock for the 'togs' as he calls them and they'll be upset a little bit but I think they will warm to Chris because he is very good."
