Drive presenter Andrew Edwards will move to the lunch time programme on BBC Radio Leeds, replacing the recently departed Martin Kelner.
Andrew will host 12-3pm with a new phone-in focussing on local news and the ‘big talking points of the day’.
Andrew Edwards started working for BBC Radio Leeds in 1993, having joined the BBC as a news trainee in 1989. He began his career as a reporter for the Hull Daily Mail.
Meanwhile Minster FM breakfast co-host Gayle Lofthouse joins the station full time to present drive, providing music, chat and news. Gayle already works at the station presenting a Saturday morning programme and will leave Minster FM.
Minster FM Managing Director Bridget Davies added: “Gayle is a talented broadcaster who, alongside Ben Fry, has contributed greatly to the success of the Minster FM Breakfast show in the last 18 months. We would like to take this opportunity to thank her for the last 18 months here at Minster and we wish her all the very best in her new role.”
Sanjiv Buttoo, managing editor of BBC Radio Leeds, said: “Andrew is one of the most familiar voices on BBC Radio Leeds and a broadcaster and journalist of exceptional quality. Our aim is for the lunch time show to become a conversation with the whole of West Yorkshire.
“Yorkshire folk are known for their forthright views and for not being afraid to share them, so I’m looking forward to some lively discussions.
“Gayle is a great talent who has been around commercial radio in the region for years. She’s added wit and warmth to our Saturday breakfast programme and will bring those qualities to Drive Time. I’m sure our listeners will love ending the working day with her.”
Martin Kelner was told last Friday that he was no longer on the station, even though his contract does not end for another eight weeks. Instead, the station will still pay Martin till the end of his contact – around £7,000 over the next eight weeks for not actually hosting the show.
