Vernon Kay has confirmed that he is set to take over from legendary broadcaster Ken Bruce on BBC Radio 2’s mid-morning weekday show – the most listened to show in the UK.

Kay, who studied at St Joseph’s RC High School, is set to follow in the footsteps of fellow Boltonians  Mark Radcliffe, and Sara Cox to present a prime-time Radio 2 show when he takes the reins on April 3.

Kay said: “I’m absolutely over the moon to be handed the microphone to present the mid-morning show on Radio 2, and what an honour to follow in the footsteps of the mighty Ken Bruce.

READ MORE: Bolton's Vernon Kay to take Ken Bruce's Radio 2 show

“I look forward to playing some of the best music in the world whilst in the company of the Radio 2 listeners who I feel I’ve got to know over the last 18 months.

The Bolton News: Vernon KayVernon Kay (Image: Newsquest)

“It’s a dream come true to join the Radio 2 family and I can’t wait to start.”

Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, said: “Radio 2 is home to some of the UK’s best-loved presenters, and I’m thrilled to welcome Vernon to mid-mornings on Radio 2.

“He’s a hugely talented, warm, and witty host who has already proved himself to be a firm favourite with our listeners when he’s presented many and varied shows across the station.

“I can’t wait to hear his brilliant new show.”

READ MORE: Bolton's Vernon Kay reveals a drunken night started his TV career

 

The Bolton News: Tess Daly and Vernon KayTess Daly and Vernon Kay (Image: PA)

After starting his career in the limelight by being scouted by a modelling agency while on a drunken night out with friends, he has since become a familiar face and voice to the British public after fronting a variety of TV shows and radio programmes across his career.

Kay has been married to fellow TV personality and Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly, 53, since their 2003 wedding at St Mary’s Church, Horwich.

The couple have two daughters, Phoebe and Amber.

Bruce will present his final 9.30am to midday show on March 3, the BBC confirmed on Friday, after a 31-year stint.

READ MORE: Vernon Kay shows his support for Rugby League World Cup

The Bolton News: Ken BruceKen Bruce (Image: PA)

The radio DJ, who started at the BBC in his early 30s, said he would “always be proud” of his association with the BBC and Radio 2, but that he wanted to continue his career “in a slightly different way in the next few years”.

The 72-year-old will be moving to the Bauer station Greatest Hits Radio in April to present a brand-new mid-morning show from 10am to 1pm.